South East: Export chief welcomes report praising UKTI help in the South East

Use UK Trade & Investment to venture abroad - that’s the top tip from successful exporters from across the South East that has been shared in a report published by leading mid-market law firm DMH Stallard.

The firm, which advises manufacturers across the South East, produces reports to help businesses understand a range of issues. Venturing Abroad, provides insight for organisations considering their first steps into overseas markets following in-depth interviews with enterprising British SMEs.

Throughout the report there was almost universal praise from interviewees who export across the globe, about how government export body UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) helps businesses to make the first steps to international sales.

Lewis Scott, South East regional director for UKTI, said: “There was almost universal praise about the value of UKTI to help businesses make in-roads to overseas markets. The firms praised our ‘helpful’ and expert advisers, the market intelligence we provide and our help with market visits and access to overseas trade shows.

“It’s excellent to get this feedback in a formalised report from some successful regional exporters.”

The report also states the advice of UKTI is particularly important when moving outside the EU and to help businesses find agents or distributors overseas. It was also widely agreed there was little alternative to getting out and seeing people in the markets, and there was no substitute for face-to-face meetings with clients.

Some of the practical tips from experienced exporters were: Do web research about possible target markets, get a sensible budget and stick with it, use UKTI as much as you can, try to combine a visit with a trade event, use British Embassies and Consulates to entertain foreign dignitaries, and be persistent.

Scott added: “Exporting is vital if we are to boost the fortunes of our firms and our economy. As these firms have discovered, a wide range of help and support is available from UKTI and other organisations and I hope the excellent feedback from these firms will encourage other businesses to take up the opportunities overseas.”