Improvments in trade finance, the internet and trade agreements all mean that Staffordshire businesses have more access than ever to overseas markets. There's never been a better time to export. And those businesses that do take the plunge can increase profits and the likelihood of staying in business. But Karen knows that exporting to foreign markets can seem daunting - and she wanted to do what she can to help. So, in conjunction with UKTI and SCC, she hosted a Staffordshire Moorlands export support event, 'New Markets: New Horizons', at Westwood Golf Club on Friday, 26 April.
Over 30 people from many local businesses joined Karen for breakfast to hear from UK Trade & Investment and Staffordshire County Council about the help they can offer to local businesses looking to export. David Hibbert from F Ball and Co. in Cheddleton also shared his experience of exporting and gave tips on how to avoid common pitfalls when entering new markets. The feedback from the businesses there was excellent and Karen was pleased to see such a positive outlook from so many local companies. The Moorlands produces some fantastic, diverse products, from agricultural machinery to retro arcade games, and Karen wants to see even more Moorlands’ outputs available across the world to help our local companies grow.