Q: I run a small pottery business and think there could be a market for my products abroad. Where can I find advice on exporting?
Aug 17 2005
Answered by: Jackie Jarvis Ask a question
Exporting is an extra risk but if planned correctly could open up a whole new market for you. Before taking on that extra risk, work and commitment, it's just worth exploring the idea that you might be able to sell more products to the UK if you approach your marketing in a different way. To discuss this I would find your nearest Business Link and review your marketing approach. You can contact Business Link on 0845 600 9 006 or www.businesslink.org.
If you are confident that exporting is the answer for you, there are a number of places you can start. Business Links may have specialist export advice. They have an information factsheet on exporting which you might find useful. European Information Centres (EICS) provide local access to a range of specialist information and advisory services to help companies develop their business in Europe. You can find your nearest one by checking out www.euro-info.org.uk.
The DTI runs the Trade Partners UK Information Centre, Kingsgate House, 66-74 Victoria Street, London SW1E 6SW. This is a publicly accessible library of overseas market intelligence, open 9am to 8pm, Mondays to Thursdays and 9am to 5.30pm on Friday. The phone number is 020-7215 5444.
Once you have decided which countries you are interested in, phone the Trade Partners enquiry desk on 020-7215 8885.
The British Exporters Association, www.bexa.co.uk(020-7222 5419) may also have information you will find useful. HM Customs and Excise has developed a website, www.tradeinfo.com, to help you identify new trade opportunities for your products across the world, measure market share to identify growth areas, forecast trends and analyse patterns.
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