As Swindon firms prepare for what is expected to be another challenging year in 2012, business organisation GWE Business West is urging them to actively consider exporting as an effective way of attracting much-needed new customers.
Ian Larrard, director of the GWE Initiative In Swindon & Wiltshire, said: “The beginning of a New Year is a great time for any business to take stock, to review what is going well, to analyse things that could be improved and probably above all, to assess where new customers are to be found. One of the answers to the last question could well be overseas.”
“I really would encourage any business, no matter what goods or services they provide, to at least consider the international market.”
He said almost three quarters of businesses do not export with many claiming there would be no demand for their products in other countries.
“But I think many people would be pleasantly surprised if they looked into the possibilities. For a start they will find plenty of support,” added Mr Larrard.
The Government is committed to doubling the number of small and medium-sized exporters assisted by UKTI – the Government’s overseas trade body – to 50,000 by 2015 and the Prime Minister has personally supported new measures to help SMEs export to new markets.
Trade and investment minister Lord Green, who has stressed the vital role that exports play in securing economic growth, visits Bristol on January 16 to re-affirm the clear message that the UK must excel in international trade.
“In early 2012 we will be making it easier to export by launching our new online interactive website – Acorn Interactive – which will provide a full range of international trade solutions at your fingertips, saving you time and money,” said Mr Larrard.
“International trade has always been vital to the UK and our status as a leading industrial nation was built on the strength of our ability to export.
“In these days of global uncertainty it has never been more important for us to regain that reputation and virtually all of our Initiative in Swindon members could play a part in that process.
“Why not make it your New Year resolution to support our export drive and give doing business overseas some serious thought?”
