Midland businesses urged to go global

Businesses encouraged to sign up for overseas selling event.

Midlands businesses are being urged to register for the 2020 Go Global digital event organised by the Department for International Trade and Midlands Engine to explore exporting opportunities online.

Go Global will be held at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham on Thursday 13th February 2020. Businesses can register to attend via https://www.events.great.gov.uk/ehome/index.php?eventid=200196613&

The event will connect local businesses with e-commerce experts and international trade advisers from DIT to explore how they can expand their global reach through online marketplaces.

Jatin Bhurabhai, E-commerce & Marketplaces Consultant at DIT, said: “Go Global will be an unmissable event for any business that is looking to grow. Attendees will be alongside the best and brightest companies from the Midlands, hear from inspirational speakers, and get practical insight into making 2020 a year for export success.”

On the day, attendees can hear first-hand from a range of global online marketplaces and industry leaders including Fruugo, OnBuy, Simply VAT and Hermes.

Executives from Ohh Deer, Candy Kittens and BrewDog will join a panel discussion, sharing top tips for building a successful global brand via international online marketplaces and e-commerce websites.

Jamie Laing and Ed Williams, Founder and Managing Director at Candy Kittens, said: “We are delighted to be on the panel at Go Global. Now is an exciting time for us as we expand our reach across Europe with our partnership with Katjes.

“Our authentic flavours and e-commerce strategy have led to huge international growth for us and we look forward to sharing our top tips about growing a successful brand online with other businesses at Go Global.”

Laura Philbin, Sales Manager at Ohh Deer (pictured), commented: “I am really excited to be part of the panel. As a small business who has gone through a period of rapid growth, we understand how challenging it can be to navigate through all the nuances of exporting and keeping your e-commerce presence relevant with the changing needs of customers.”

Businesses in the Midlands are already capitalising on this expanding market, with statistics revealing that in the 12 months to September 2019 the Midlands Engine exported nearly £60 billion worth of goods.