PES Performance has been invited to join the Northern Powerhouse Export Champions 2019 initiative, recently launched by the Department for International Trade (DIT).
Part of a wider national DIT Export Champions programme, the chosen businesses will help promote the importance of exporting to their industry and get other UK businesses thinking globally. This network of UK companies will act as ambassadors for exporting, sharing success stories, offering practical advice and leading by example.
Performance Engineered Solutions Ltd, (PES Performance) based at the Advanced Manufacturing Park (AMP) is a high-performance engineering design business, delivering technologically advanced design solutions to clients both in the UK and internationally.
Mike Maddock, managing director of PES Performance explained the reasons for supporting the Export Champions initiative:
“Given the nature of our business, some people may be surprised that we are involved in exporting. Although we do not manufacture conventional products, we export examples of our expertise, often in the form of design and engineering solutions, and research & development partnerships, which is then used by our clients overseas to produce their final product.
“We have been exporting since the business began in 2011, and currently around 50% of the company’s turnover is from international clients. Our main export markets are in the US, Canada, and Europe, and our aim going forward is to further strengthen our presence with clients in North America & Europe, whilst exploring further global export markets.
“In the current business climate, I feel it is crucial that UK companies look to promote their offer, product, and services outside of the UK and identify new markets to drive market diversity, reducing exposure to any one market. Working with new global clients can open other opportunities for collaboration and developing new business together.
“At PES Performance, we don’t look at ourselves as exporters, but a team and business open to doing business globally. Working with new international clients can open other opportunities for collaboration and developing new business together.”
Launching the Export Champion initiative in Durham, International Trade Secretary and President of the Board of Trade Dr. Liam Fox MP said:
“The Export Champion community is an important initiative and its members will play a vital role in creating the culture of exporting in Britain. By raising the profile of exporters in this way, we will help to normalise exporting across the country, expand horizons, remove barriers to market access and facilitate businesses to expand here in the UK.”
For those UK companies considering exporting for the first time Mr. Maddock added:
“It’s important to have an international mentality and a willingness to drive your offer and products onto the international stage. Don’t inhibit yourself, your business or your team, as you promote your business your brand and by extension UK Plc.
“Many companies, both those currently exporting and non-exporters, are not aware of the support and advice that is available from the DIT and also from the network of businesses already supported and working in partnership with the DIT.
“It is sometimes assumed that it is too difficult to export, or break into new markets, however, it is not, and if you ask for help the potential ‘size of the prize’ is certainly worth the effort. I believe export is just a change of attitude.”