Are you ready to move from “should we export?” to actually winning customers overseas?
According to official government statistics, in 2023 there were over 2.7 million registered small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the UK, of which around 314,000 (around 11.6%) were exporters of goods or services.
Further to this, the most recent Santander Trade Barometer states that nearly half of businesses (47%) are now considering international expansion over the next 3 years — up from just 33% in Spring 2025. This appetite for overseas growth is being driven by weaker domestic growth and cost pressures (labour, energy, tax), alongside new trade opportunities in markets like the US.
But for many, expanding into the export market is a step into the unknown, with language barriers, cultural differences, local laws and taxes, exchange rates, as well as global tariffs all proving overwhelming.
But with the potential of higher growth, lower costs and stronger markets overseas, for many taking the plunge is worth navigating to reap the rewards that come with international expansion.
Tune into Series 4, Episode 2 of our podcast, OxTalks, to hear how Lis Lewis-Jones of PR agency Liquid successfully expanded the business and now boasts 30 members of staff working across 25 jurisdictions and 19 time zones.
The discussion highlights the current business environment, where a significant majority of UK private businesses (92%) are confident of growth - with over nine in ten planning on diversifying and expanding their businesses by creating new service lines or products, or entering new markets, including overseas (as reported by KPMG).
In response to this current appetite – partnered with SMEs unsure as to whether they are ready to take their business overseas – on Wednesday 7th October, Strategic International Growth Specialist Norma Foster will share what “export ready” really looks like for Oxfordshire businesses. Join us for ‘Is Your Business Ready To Go Global?’, where Norma shares the common pitfalls that hold businesses back, and some quick wins that can be put into action immediately.
You will also hear how our new International Growth & Market Entry Programme will help a small cohort of 12 committed local businesses to choose the right market, build a focused pilot project and start generating real international opportunities – over just three months.
The event is for established Oxfordshire businesses with ambitions to grow beyond the UK, but who may not be sure how ready they are for exporting, who want a clear, structured route into international markets.
By the end of the webinar, you will:
- Understand what makes a business ready for successful international growth
- Have a simple self-assessment you can use in your business straight away
- Know whether the International Growth & Market Entry Programme is a good fit for you
Places are free but limited and the webinar will also include information on how to apply for one of only 12 places on the programme.
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