Region’s export success stories highlighted by ministerial visit

International Trade Secretary Liam Fox visited two thriving manufacturers in the West Midlands as he sought to highlight the export potential for businesses in the region.

His factory tours followed his appearance at the Qatar-UK business investment event in Birmingham, which brought a high-level delegation of politicians and investors to the West Midlands.

Fox said: “Here in the Midlands, the number of exporters is continuing to thrive, with almost 30,000 businesses taking advantage of the opportunities in overseas markets.

“The UK is open for business, and success stories like Swift Cut Automation in Burton-on-Trent and Norton Motorcycles in Donington are flying the flag for British quality and expertise, bringing a boost to their local economies.”

Fox toured Swift Cut Automation, a manufacturing leader throughout Europe, the Middle East and Australia, and learnt how the precision plasma cutting table designer and manufacturer has grown their exports, which now account for over 80% of their business.

The company has successfully entered into several new markets and, with the support of the Department for International Trade, has now expanded into American markets.

Fox then travelled to Norton Motorcycles where he met the newly-announced Midlands Engine Export Champion and chief executive, Stuart Garner.

The Trade Secretary saw how British motorcycles have been put firmly back on the international roadmap, with the firm making over 2,000 motorcycles delivered to customers across the world.

In eight years Norton Motorcycles has grown to export 80% of its bikes to over 20 territories and employs more than 100 people.