Fishing rod maker hooks export orders

A NORTH West fishing rod manufacturer has seen a £50,000 increase in turnover after working with UK Trade and Investment.

Liverpool-basd Harrison Advanced Rods, is now trading in Poland Croatia, Greece and the US.

The company signed up for Passport to Export, UKTI’s flagship programme for new and inexperienced exporters, and worked closely with international trade adviser Margaret Bourke to establish contacts.

Founder Dr Steve Harrison believes the increase in exports is just the beginning, and states that the new international markets now established, combined with the weak pound, will lead to further export growth.

Exports have also been vital in buffering the company, which makes 15,000 fishing rods a year, against the recession.

He said: “December 2008 was our best ever December and this was mainly as a result of increased exports. We are better positioned to take the domestic dip because we have established new markets overseas. Being an exporter means no matter how depressed the home market, there is demand.”