This in from Andrew Turner’s office, in their own words. Ed
Around 40 delegates attended a seminar – ‘Helping your Business Export’ – last week at the Riverside Centre in Newport.
The event was organised by the Island’s MP, Andrew Turner working with UK Trade and Industry (UKTI), to give Island businesses the opportunity to find out more about how to start exporting or how to move into new markets and where to go to get advice and help.
Feedback on the event was very positive
Mr Turner said: “It was good to see representatives of so many Island businesses at the seminar. The presentations were extremely informative and the feedback on the event was very positive. A number of delegates commented on how useful they found it and many stayed behind after the event had finished to ask questions of the presenters.
“The support that UKTI can provide is closely tailored to specific requirements so can be particularly useful. I hope that at least some of those attending will now be inspired to look at opportunities beyond the UK.”
“Impressed with the quality of companies attending”
Rob Lewtas, Strategic Partner Manager of UKTI, spoke about the comprehensive services they have to offer businesses either thinking about exporting or expanding into new markets, including organised fact finding missions, led and subsidised by UKTI and advisors experienced in specific countries and industries.
Mr Lewtas commented: “We were very impressed with the quality of companies attending the event and their ambitions to develop their business opportunities overseas. I am always encouraged by the positive and innovative approach of Isle of Wight companies. Our job at UKTI is to help our clients to identify and win business in overseas markets. The great thing about Island based companies is that if they have ever sold products or services onto the mainland, then they have a head start on selling internationally!”
Following presentations from Anne-Marie Mountified of the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership and Zoe Stroud of the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce, Tourism and Industry; James Hall from Spinlock talked about his experiences in the export market. 90% of Spinlock’s business is now export and Mr Hall was able to highlight the highs and lows of exporting and give advice based on his experiences to delegates considering getting into the export market for the first time.
If anyone was unable to attend the event but would like contact details for UKTI, please contact Mr Turner’s office on 01983 530808 or [email protected]
