The UK government is urging small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to apply for the Made in the UK, Sold to the World awards, a program designed to celebrate the success of UK businesses in international trade. Launched in 2021 by the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), the awards have become a significant platform for companies looking to expand their reach abroad, with previous winners citing the accolades as key in helping them secure overseas deals.
This year’s awards feature new categories, including ‘digital and technology’ and ‘export services’, in addition to established categories such as food and drink, education and edtech, and low-carbon energy. Winners will receive a free business membership to the Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade and an invitation to a parliamentary reception, offering valuable networking opportunities.
Tom Warner, co-founder of Warner’s Distillery, which won in the food and drink category in 2024, believes the recognition played a role in expanding the company’s distribution to Italy and New Zealand. “Distributors don’t say ‘we’re working with you because you won that award,’ but it’s part of your pedigree and due diligence… It gives distributors the confidence to have a go,” Warner said.
Poonam Gupta, founder of PG Paper, another winner from 2024, emphasized the credibility the award brought to her business. “It makes it easier for us to open new markets and sell to new customers,” she explained. PG Paper now exports to over 60 countries, with exports accounting for the majority of its sales.
Other winners, like Anna White, founder of Scotlandshop, have used the awards to expand further. After winning in 2023, Scotlandshop, which has been exporting tartan goods since 2002, opened a shop in Albany, New York. “The awards are a great way to meet other exporters, learn from each other, and showcase what your business does,” White said.
The 2024 award for electric vehicle manufacturer Munro Vehicles also helped the company start conversations about international distribution. CEO Russ Peterson noted that the win “kickstarted several conversations with businesses outside of the UK for vehicle supply.”
The UK’s push to encourage more SMEs to explore global markets comes as a report from the Centre for Economic Performance revealed a £27 billion drop in goods exports to the EU following Brexit. Gareth Thomas, Minister for Services, Small Businesses and Exports, believes the awards will inspire small firms to pursue export opportunities, highlighting the significant potential of international trade. “When small businesses export, it opens a wealth of incredible opportunities,” Thomas said.
Successful applicants receive more than just recognition. The DBT provides support for first-time exporters, offering guidance on the paperwork and requirements for entering overseas markets. Many past winners have shared that the experience not only validated their business credentials but also opened doors to new customers and increased their global sales.
