Chris Street, chair of Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce’s newest forum – the International Trade Forum – shares an update on the forum, and his feelings on why businesses should get involved.
“I’m frequently asked, why should I bother to Export?…. and it’s a good question.
It initially can be seen as expensive, difficult and complicated for those that have never done it before.
In reality, many organisations start exporting by accident. A customer asks you to supply to an overseas location instead of locally, you are approached by an overseas company who has seen your product or service online or you just put your toe in the water and go to an international trade fair. However it happens, it is often the starting point to an exciting, new adventure for your organisation which in turn can often be very lucrative.
If you or your organisation is exporting for the first time or is a seasoned exporter please join us to share your experiences and ideas at the International Trade Forum so we can together learn from each other and build stronger businesses.
The Forum consists of a diverse range of businesses and organisations who are looking to grow their business overseas and want to share their experiences whilst learning from those that have done it.
The aim of the Forum is to help support local businesses to export more by providing specific advice and ideas. This can involve supporting businesses with issues such as recruitment, language support, visas and legal advice. We also promote Trade Missions and can provide assistance in finding funding support.
In addition the ITF will look to raise issues impacting barriers to export with relevant strands of local and national government to ensure we give our businesses and organisations in our region every chance to succeed and prosper.
If you are interested in Exporting or just want to know more then please join us at the next International Trade Forum Meeting to be held at Commerce House, Stoke on Monday 26th Feb 2024 at 9am.
Please contact Maxine Darrock at maxine.darrock@staffordshirechambers.co.uk to book a place. It’s free and it may be the best investment you can make this year.
