Unlock the secrets of trade with Europe
REGISTRATION closes tomorrow for an exciting export event which is bringing international trade experts from across Europe to Manchester.
The event, ‘Export Challenge – The Next Steps’ at the Midland Hotel in Manchester, will provide North West businesses with a unique chance to hear first hand what is happening in the key markets of Europe.
International trade directors from over 10 European countries will give up to the minute market insights and advice at the event organised by UK Trade and Investment.
UKTI is aimin to increase the number of British companies who export from current levels of around 20% to 25% or more. Such an increase would add around £36bn to the economy.
The organisation is encouraging new exporters to look at countries within Europe as their extended home market.
The Republic of Ireland is a case in point. It is the UK’s fifth largest export market overall, and our largest export market in certain sectors such as food & drink and clothing, fashion and footwear.
The UK exports more to Ireland than to Brazil, Russia, India and China combined. £42bn worth of trade takes place between the two countries every year.
Simon McKeever, director of trade and investment at the British Embassy, Dublin, will be attending on Thursday, said: “Ireland is an ideal starter market for UK companies. The market is accessible for many reasons including the fact that the countries share the same language, have similar legal and regulatory frameworks and a similar business culture.
“Business opportunities exist in a range of sectors across Ireland, with growth areas includng the ICT, Pharma, Life Sciences and Agrifood industries. Ireland is also home to a large variety of multinationals many of whom have their European HQ in Ireland.”
Also attending the event is Michael Ward, International Trade Director for France, who will be sharing insights on business etiquette in France, and an overview of what the UKTI team can offer in terms of help in the French market.
He says: “The size and sophistication of the French market means that there are opportunities across pretty well all sectors.
“I will be sharing with information on some of our key sectors with North West audiences including aerospace, oil & gas, marine, building & construction, automotive, railways and process engineering, healthcare, environment, chemicals, IT, telecoms, electronics, biotech and pharmaceuticals, agri-food and fashion, as well as services such as the creative industries and financial and legal services.”
Vic Annells from Italy will also be outlining prospects for North West firms in a range of key sectors, including clothing, footwear and fashion, construction, creative and media, defence and security, and a range of opportunities including the World Expo in 2015.”
Clive Drinkwater, regional director of UKTI North West said: ““Export Challenge: The Next Steps will introduce North West companies to representatives from throughout Europe, including the Republic of Ireland as well as France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the Baltic and Nordic countries.
“Understanding opportunities is vital in selecting the best market entry strategy, and this is a unique chance to hear first hand what is happening in the key markets of Europe. I would urge firms to register for the event as soon as possible as places are limited.”
The North West Export Challenge: The Next Steps takes place on Thursday 8th March at the Midland Hotel, Manchester M60 2DS from 1.15pm to 5.00pm. To register for the event contact diane.smedley@ukti.gsi.gov.uk
