UKTI puts American dreams in spotlight

THE US is the North West’s most important trading partner and an event on Thursday, will look at how businesses can grow there.

Conquering  US can be seen as mission impossible and when the market consists of 50 different states, uses nine different time zones and has 35 million people who speak Spanish as their first language –  it can appear daunting.

As part of the International Festival of Business in Liverpool, UK Trade & Investment is hosting a free event to help companies explore the opportunities there.
 
The event, taking place at the IFB Hub in Liverpool from 9am on Thursday 26 June, will include expert speakers, panel discussions and case studies of companies who have found success in the US.
 
Speakers include Michelle Davies of international digital marketing company Bright Blue Day, who will examine cultural and commercial differences in the US ; Phil Carroll from LPW Technology, which has recently established a subsidiary in America, and expert advisers Spencer Mahoney and David Booth, who will outline the help and support UKTI can offer to companies looking to establish a foothold in the USA.
 
Also speaking at the event is Paul Grover of Arup, one of the most recognisable names in architecture.
 
Clive Drinkwater, regional director, UKTI North West said: “America is the biggest export market for the North West, yet many companies can find it difficult to know where to start.
 
“The US is the world’s largest market and, while presenting great opportunities, this can also lead to unique challenges, including different approaches and attitudes between the 50 market states and strong competition. Just because we have a common language it does not mean that we have the same approach to business.
 
“The US can be an expensive market to trade in initially, and it is essential that businesses make sure they are fully prepared and carry out thorough research into their own sectors to find out exactly where there products or services will fit.
 
“UKTI is able to help with research, tailored one to one advice and trade visits, and I would urge businesses to come to the USA day this week to find out more.”
 
The International Festival for Business  is part of the government’s ambition to promote growth, rebalance the economy and double exports by 2020. UKTI is holding 16 major events during the showcase.