DIT’s business match-making presents global opportunities for exporters and consultants
The Department for International Trade (DIT) provides Yorkshire and Humber companies with key knowledge and skills to develop their exports, but for some businesses, involving a consultant is a great way to establish a team of experts. When Quality Bearings Online were looking to develop their e-commerce sales, they were introduced to Biskit, a marketing company who was able to identify strategy and action plans from DIT’s involvement. We met with Simon Riley, Director of Quality Bearings Online, and Edward Ryder, Managing Director of Biskit; to find out how this relationship has benefitted both companies.
Quality Bearings Online specialise in ball bearings and engineering spares. Selling worldwide through qualitybearingsonline.com, they found there were opportunities to develop their international orders. After working with closely with DIT through their International Trade Adviser (ITA) Melanie Potts, they participated in a workshop programme that led them to Biskit. “DIT allowed us to really understand aspects of the business that we knew about, but we didn’t really have the skills or the time to give them the work they needed,” says Simon. “We were too busy doing the day job!”
By bringing Biskit onboard, they were able to focus on the day-to-day business while Edward explored their international opportunities. For Edward, having a company referred by DIT meant he knew they were committed to putting in the effort. For Edward, this is imperative for his client-base. “The good thing about DIT referrals was that it brought somebody to me that was not only exporting but was also growth-ready.”
“You didn’t have to get over that initial hurdle as you didn’t have to sell anything to anybody.”
Together, the new-found team analysed where their international sales were coming from and developed a long-term strategy to see them achieve their growth ambitions. Over three years later, it has more than met their expectations. “From a turnover point-of-view, we are ten times the business we were. We are better in every department,” says Simon.
For Quality Bearings Online, it’s important that they can access higher-level support through DIT. “I see DIT as a relationship-building platform,” says Simon. “DIT will help us where they can, but we would never expect them to do the huge detail delivery. That has to refer to the private sector.”
Edward agrees that DIT’s involvement has played a vital role in developing their strategy. “DIT’s impact overall on Quality Bearings Online has helped revolutionise the business.”
He adds, “I find working with the DIT trade advisers excellent. I find them super positive, engaging and driven. There is always more they are willing to do.” With positive experiences like this, Edward is keen to work with more of DIT’s businesses and recommends other private-sector companies do the same.
“Whether it’s translation work, website building, consultancy or country-specific projects, there are an awful lot of opportunities for businesses, without a doubt.”
If your company provides a service that can help businesses in Yorkshire & the Humber to go global, speak to DIT: T: +44 (0) 300 365 1000 E: yorkshire@mobile.trade.gov.uk
