UKTI launches mid-sized businesses initiative in West Mids

UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) is offering mid-sized businesses (MSBs) the chance to capitalise on their strengths and find out how to exploit global export opportunities at a free UKTI event.

Being held on March 6 at the ICC in Birmingham, the seminar launches UKTI West Midlands’ new MSB service aimed at firms with a turnover of between £25m and £500m.

The service includes helping with complex routes to market, international property rights and cyber security issues as well as providing training modules, on-going client account management and support.

In the West Midlands, three specialist international trade advisers have been appointed to the new service which aims to provide MSBs with the guidance and support they need when exporting.

The event will provide firms with information on how to find overseas partners and customers. Speakers will address key subjects including market research, high value opportunities and the best methods of securing payment. There will also be an opportunity for one-to-one discussions with the specialist advisers to talk through individual concerns and plans.

Steve Cunane, MSB international trade adviser, said: “Evidence suggests that exports from West Midlands MSBs, in line with the rest of the UK, have not grown as strongly over the past ten years as we might have hoped.

“In addition, any exports that currently take place tend to be focused on the EU rather than higher growth markets.

“This event is designed to address these issues and launch UKTI’s new MSB initiative.”