Small businesses in the North East of England are gearing up to display their products and services to a global audience as the government’s “Made in the UK, Sold to the World” export roadshow kicks off in Blyth, Northumberland this week.
The event, the first of eight scheduled across the UK, will bring together nearly 100 buyers from 19 international markets, including South Korea, Mexico, India, Poland, and Germany. The focus will be on clean energy firms, though the roadshow series will also visit Belfast, Edinburgh, Birmingham, and Cardiff. Its goal is to connect small businesses with global markets quickly and effectively.
Gareth Thomas, Minister for Services, Small Businesses, and Exports, expressed the government’s commitment to supporting key growth sectors. “Through these roadshows, the government is focusing on helping smaller businesses connect with markets, seize export opportunities, and expand,” he said.
Each roadshow will focus on a different sector, with future events dedicated to advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and financial services. In Blyth, in addition to international buyers, 30 commercial officers from UK embassies and consulates will be available to offer advice and facilitate connections at no cost to businesses.
Among the participants is Alex Marshall, Group Business Development Director at Clarke Energy, a manufacturer of gas-powered power generators. Marshall, who also serves as an export champion for the government, praised the event. “The roadshow is an excellent opportunity to discuss the latest international trends and explore export opportunities for UK businesses in the clean energy sector,” he said.
In addition to direct meetings, the roadshow will feature workshops and seminars led by the UK Export Academy, providing practical guidance on market research and routes to market.
Despite strong government backing, small businesses still face hurdles when it comes to exporting. A 2024 study by the Department for Business & Trade found that only 18% of businesses with revenues over £500,000 considered themselves experts in exporting, a decline from 24% the previous year.
Businesses interested in attending future roadshows can register through the Department for Business & Trade’s website.
