I'm very proud of all the great companies we have locally in Fareham - many of which are already successfully exporting all around the world. The ‘Exporting is GREAT’ campaign aims to provide support and encouragement to many other firms who could also be taking advantage of the chance to sell their goods and services overseas. The website has a lot of resources and details of specific opportunities, and I would recommend businesses take a look at it. Or get in touch with me if they require more information about exporting.
Thousands of businesses based in the South East and Solent are building on the long, proud industrial history of the region. For centuries, high-quality products and services produced in our region, from food to chemicals and, more recently, automobiles to electronics, have sold around the world. Today is no different. The demand for the kind of work at which the region excels – advanced engineering, hi-tech manufacturing, professional services and more – is huge in rapidly growing markets like Brazil, India and China. Innovative businesses like Polycasr, SMR, Eaton Aerospace and many others based on Fareham have the skills and expertise to provide the world-class infrastructure, goods and services that these countries’ growing populations and economies demand. Closer to home,the EU remains the capital’s top export destination, with export opportunities emerging in Central European markets for the South East’s leading sectors.
South East Success Stories
Right now, there are small businesses from the South East out in the world selling circuit boards to Australia, audio-visual solutions to the UAE and torque wrenches to South Korea. The benefits for their business are clear.
Take Brighton-based Elmeridge Cables. After attending a trade exhibition in China with a grant from UKTI, the company not only secured a large new contract but also found a local agent. They are now well placed to pursue other opportunities across the region.
With 99% of Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd’s revenues generated from exporting, exploring new overseas markets is vital to their success. The Guildford-based company has built and launched 41 satellites for 16 countries since 1981 and is currently pursuing opportunities in new markets such as South America.
Companies that export are more profitable, productive and innovative*
85% said exporting led to a level of growth not otherwise possible
87% said exporting had significantly improved their profile or credibility
78% said exporting had given them exposure to new ideas
73% said exporting had increased the commercial lifespan of products or services
70% said exporting had led them to develop or modify a product or service
*Figures from a recent UKTI survey of trade clients
Support for first-time exporters
Of course, making the move into any new market – especially when you’re dealing with a different language, culture or regulations - can feel like a leap into the unknown. Exporting is GREAT exists to support first-time British exporters like you, offering expert advice and guidance at every step of your exporting journey. Visit www.exportingisgreat.gov.uk now to access live business opportunities around the world, training sessions, business seminars and other events, as well as specialist trading services and support. The global demand for UK goods and services is out there. Fareham could be there too!
For more information, register to attend the Exporting is Great event on Wednesday 25th May at the Historic Dockyard in Portsmouth. an array of workshops, one-to-one meetings and networking opportunities with UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) International Trade Advisers, E-Commerce Digital Advisers, UK Export Finance (UKEF), local support services as well as offerings from private industry leaders in business support.
To register to attend these free events through www.exportingisgreat.gov.uk or through the UKTI South East Events & Missions Team on [email protected] or on 0330 300 013.
The South East’s top 5 export markets
1. USA
2. Germany
3. France
4. Irish Republic
5. Netherlands
The South East’s top 5 export commodities
1. Machinery and Transport
2. Chemicals
3. Manufactured articles
4. Mineral fuels
5. Food and live animals