UK Trade and Investment has joined forces with Hartlepool Borough Council to organise the "Export? What's in it for me?" event at Hartlepool Historic Quay on Wednesday, 26 March 2008.
Simon Crosby, one of UK Trade & Investment's International Trade Advisers, explained:
"The rewards of international trade should not be underestimated. Research carried out by UK Trade & Investment has shown that firms involved in overseas trade were on average larger, more productive, paid higher wages and used more capital-intensive production methods than non-exporting rivals.
"Through international trade companies can increase turnover and profitability, utilise spare capacity and spread business risk.
"Our performance in the North East is good, with more than £10.5 billion worth of goods and services exported from the region every year. And yet only a relatively small percentage of the region's companies are involved in international trade.
"This event aims to show new or inexperienced exporters that they can succeed overseas and that there is a wide range of support on offer to help them achieve their export goals."
Hartlepool Mayor Stuart Drummond, added:
"Hartlepool Council is delighted to be teaming up again with UK Trade & Investment to highlight the opportunities for businesses trading overseas. While there are advantages to Hartlepool being a close-knit community, it is important to encourage businesses to look beyond the town and region to secure business opportunities.
"For some companies the thought of doing business abroad can be quite daunting, but there is a wide range of help available to ease the process and help companies succeed.
"I would encourage any business with a product or service with potential export possibilities to attend this event. There will also be an opportunity to listen to other businesses who are already benefiting from international trade."
The "Export? What's in it for me?" event will run from 11.30am until 2pm on Wednesday, 26 March 2008, at Hartlepool Historic Quay.
Speakers will include Akhilesh Mahurkar, UK Trade & Investment's Senior Trade and Investment Adviser in Hyderabad, India, who will talk about the opportunities in India and Mick Emerson, of Hartlepool Borough Council who will highlight the support available through the local authority. Simon Crosby will also provide an overview of the wide range of support services available through UK Trade & Investment.
There will also be representatives from two local companies - AES and KC Engineering - to share their own experiences of international trade.
The event is free but the number of places available is limited. To book your place or to find out more about the wide range of services available through UK Trade & Investment contact the North East Regional International Trade Hotline on 0845 05 05 054 or email enquiries@ukti.rito.co.uk
