East Midlands Businesses Reap the Benefits

With trade at the heart of Britain’s foreign policy and key to economic recovery in the UK, businesses in the East Midlands are being invited to take advantage of the extensive support UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) can offer to develop overseas trade through their exclusive Gateway to Global Growth Programme.

The free service offers businesses that are already trading abroad a dedicated, local point of contact in the East Midlands to guide and support them as they develop their business further, enter new markets and seek new opportunities.

Leicester based, international moulding manufacturer, Agentdraw is already reaping the benefits of their links with UKTI having progressed from the Passport to Export programme then onto Gateway to Global Growth.

Darren Parsons, Managing Director at Agentdraw explains: “In 2009 we made the decision to focus on the European market, specifically Germany, as we had identified a definite gap in the market.  I contacted UKTI for advice as there was a key exhibition happening in Frankfurt at the end of that year and I wanted to get it right first time and make the most of the opportunities it presented.  Our success resulted in a number of strong leads and new contracts and established Agentdraw’s name in the European market.” 

Now employing 28 people in Leicester and a further 4 agents overseas, Agentdraw has its sights set firmly on expansion, with plans to double the size of their existing premises in Leicester, creating 8 new jobs.   In addition, Agentdraw is looking to new markets for opportunities and focusing on strengthening its presence in the European and Asian market.

Tim Jelley, UKTI International Trade Adviser said: “Businesses in the East Midlands are flying the flag for UK trade and creating jobs in the local area as a direct result.  Agentdraw have embraced the opportunities and are reaping the rewards.  UKTI offers businesses trading overseas a dedicated, local adviser with access to a team of experts based in nearly 100 different countries, helping businesses to understand and penetrate new markets, cut through red tape, make introductions and provide access to a wide range of services to guide and support a business as it expands.”

Darren Parsons of Agentdraw added: “UKTI provided vital support, advice, funding and training.  We’ve had a busy year off the back of our success at the Frankfurt exhibition, investing in new machinery, building Agentdraw’s reputation overseas and growing the business both here and abroad.”

For further information, please contact:

Gemma Wright: [email protected]