Export clinic aims to help firms go global

OLDHAM College launches business lounge for Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce members

OLDHAM firms interested in finding out more about the benefits of exporting can receive expert advice at an event held at Oldham College next month.

Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce and the Department of International Trade are holding advice clinics on Tuesday, February 7, between 10am and 3pm.

Individual businesses are being encouraged to book a 30-minute session with an international trade adviser. Priority will be given to companies looking to begin exporting their products and services.

Reports

The clinic will be held in Oldham College's new Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce members' lounge, which was opened at the Middleton Road campus in November.

Event organisers say recent reports from the British Chambers of Commerce and CBI indicate that only one in five UK companies are currently exporting, which is below the EU average. For a nation that once was the biggest exporter in the world, the UK is now said to be lagging behind some other European countries regarding world trade.

The Government estimates that £36 billion could be added to the UK economy if the number of exporters was increased from current levels of 20 per cent to 25 per cent.

David Wright, an Oldham-based adviser with the Department of International Trade, is one of the advice clinic organisers. He has helped a number of Oldham firms, such as Tunnel Engineering Services (UK), to explore new overseas markets, make international contacts and win new contracts.

Mr Wright said: "There are a lot of reasons why UK companies should be looking to export. Getting involved with international trade allows firms to become more innovative, achieve economies of scale and greater margins. and to cope better with domestic recessions."

In addition to the one-to-one advice meetings with international trade advisers, guests at the event can meet Emma Parr, Oldham and Rochdale regional manager for GM Chamber.

For bookings, search for 'Export Advice Clinic Oldham' at eventbrite.co.uk. For more details, email: exportbritain@gmchamber.co.uk.

Oldham College opened the business lounge in November, in partnership with the chamber.

Some car parking is available at Oldham College for people using the new lounge. To request a space, contact the reception on 0161 785 4000 in advance, explaining the date and time of your visit. Alternatively, King Street Metrolink tram stop is nearby.