Exporting success brings murder mystery business back to life

A specialist murder mystery games and events provider, which just a few years ago was considering insolvency, is launching an office in Australia after seeing exports soar.

Red Herring Games has been working with advisers at the Department for International Trade (DIT) to transform into a global exporter.

As a result, overseas sales to markets as diverse as the US, Egypt and Ukraine accounted for almost 40% of the Grimsby company’s annual £185,000 sales total in 2017.

This year, targeting overseas markets via Amazon is forecast to bring in almost £70,000 alone.

The company moved to new premises in 2013 and has since boosted its two-strong team with three recruits to meet its export demand.

Red Herring now has plans to open an office in the United States.

Jo Smedley, managing director of Red Herring Games, said: “Our growth thanks to exporting has been unbelievable. A few years ago we were looking at insolvency but now we are finalising plans for our Australian office and implementing a strategy to crack the mystery game market in the Netherlands. It’s just fantastic.

“Before speaking to a DIT adviser, exporting wasn’t really on my radar if I’m honest. I didn’t know where to start but now I have discovered new markets and, more importantly, have the confidence to explore them.

“DIT helped me to overcome a host of barriers. From negotiating with overseas business customers, translating scripts or understanding business landscape of new countries, I’ve had support every step of the way. Cultural differences were also a real challenge, even in the US, but my adviser provided invaluable guidance to make the process much easier.

“Our latest challenge is establishing an office in Australia. It’s been a steep learning curve but, again, DIT has been close at hand to support us and provide crucial market insight and knowledge.

“Seeking expert guidance has been the best thing I’ve done for my business. If we can do it then many more can too. For anyone thinking about exploring the opportunities presented by exporting, I strongly recommend getting in touch with their local DIT adviser and tap into the support available.”

Mark Robson, regional director for Yorkshire and the Humber at the Department for International Trade, said: “In the 12 months to September 2017, businesses in Yorkshire and the Humber exported £16.4bn worth of goods, making up five per cent of the UK total. We want to continue this positive trend by helping more businesses explore new markets overseas.

“Red Herring Games is a fantastic example of why exporting can be such a positive step for businesses. Our DIT advisers worked closely with Jo and her team on their exporting journey, which has seen the firm go from strength to strength and boost local employment.

“Exporting to new and diverse markets isn’t without its complexities, but our team of over 20 of dedicated advisers in Yorkshire and the Humber is on hand to help firms navigate these challenges. We’re here to help businesses of all sizes, and would encourage any that have been inspired by Jo’s story to get in touch to see how we can help.”

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