Leicestershire companies are to be given a helping hand to break into overseas markets thanks to an event being run by UK Trade  & Investment East Midlands and the Leicestershire Chamber of Commerce.

Leicestershire Chamber, which represents about 1200 firms across the county, has teamed up with UK Trade and Investment, the Government's exporting body, to host a networking breakfast on Thursday 13 October from 8.30am to 10.30am at Leicestershire County Cricket Club, Leicester.

The two organisations are working together to ensure local firms get all the support they need to export.

UKTI International Trade Director for the East Midlands, Peter Hogarth said:

"Leicestershire firms need to export to profit and grow in difficult times.  We are working closely with all our partners across the local area to ensure firms are taking advantage of the massive opportunities out there. The latest trade statistics show that as a region we are on track to hit £16 billion exports by December, and we are keen to ensure Leicestershire companies get a slice of the action." 

Martin Traynor, OBE, Group Chief Executive of Leicestershire Chamber said:

"As the Government moves towards rebalancing our economy, coupled with some very favourable exchange rates, now more than ever is the time for local companies to consider exporting their goods and services. Often companies don't consider themselves as potential exporters, however we have some excellent examples here in Leicestershire of where local companies have successfully broken into the export market -Long Clawson Dairies are a prime example - they now export cheeses to over 38 different countries.

"If you are considering exporting then help is at hand from both the Leicestershire Chamber of Commerce and UKTI."  

To find out more about the event or book a place contact Kam Atker on 0116 204 6614 or email atker.k@chamberofcommerce.co.uk

To speak to a local UK Trade & Investment advisor about getting started in exporting or exploring a new market call the East Midlands International Trade Hotline on 0845 052 4001.