Exporting programme launched

A new fast-track programme has been officially launched to help Shropshire food and drink manufacturers to sell their goods overseas. 

The Department for International Trade West Midlands is redoubling its efforts to encourage inexperienced or new exporters across the region to expand their global reach with a one-stop shop for advice and support.

Christine Hamilton, interim regional director of the Department for International Trade West Midlands, described the programme as a structured, flexible plan to provide help and training. 

She says: “There are already hundreds of very successful businesses in the region who export their food and drink goods across the globe, yet we know there are hundreds more whose businesses have the potential to grow if they took the next step and began exporting. This service is for them. 

“The programme is designed specifically to provide food and drink producers with one point of access to expert assistance for all export-related issues and a fast track to sales opportunities and buyers from around the globe. 

“Anyone who signs up will be assigned a dedicated international trade adviser, who will provide as much support as is needed to help make their export venture a success.” 

International trade advisers will be on hand to highlight the best opportunities to pursue and introduce businesses to the right contacts; help plan marketing activity; and provide advice on intellectual property, import tariffs, documentation and trading regulations. 

Businesses will also have the opportunity to participate in masterclasses and have access to online training tools that will all support them in their exporting ambitions. 

Christine adds: “We recently took a group of international buyers to the Ludlow Food Festival and organised a special food and drink event in Staffordshire and they were impressed by the range of products on offer.

“It’s clear that British goods are sought after and these events confirmed that even the smallest producers can look to exporting opportunities.”