Call for more companies in Gwent Valleys to discover the benefits of exporting

The Welsh Government is encouraging more companies in the Gwent Valleys to discover the benefits of exporting in 2019.

Over 4,015 companies are registered in the Gwent Valleys, however it is only a relatively small proportion of these businesses that are part of the wider export community. Indeed, not all of these businesses would be appropriate to export, however the Welsh Government believes there are many which could start their export journey.

With this in mind Business Wales, the Welsh Government’s advisory service for businesses, believes there is plenty of scope for decision makers in companies across the region to explore the potential that exporting has to transform their business.

While many businesses across Wales have increased their sales, growth and stability by exporting to overseas markets following Welsh Government support, many don’t know where to start. And even for those that export regularly, there’s always more to know.

Welsh Government’s specialist export team work with companies on a one-to-one basis, assisting in the identification of market opportunities and actually getting to market.

SteriTouch is a Rassau based business which specialises in the development of innovative antimicrobial additives for plastics. Established in 2003, the company’s products are designed to reduce the growth of bacteria and mould on products ranging from swimming pool matting, remote control handsets to medical keyboards.

With China, Australia, Canada, Russia, South Korea and the United States making up its largest markets, SteriTouch’s export sales account for more than half of its business.

Nick Corlett, director at SteriTouch, said: “Exporting has transformed the way we do business. We were originally drawn into exporting in 2003 by our customers, largely UK based companies licensing the SteriTouch brand and using sub-contract manufacturers in the Far East. Now we export our products to over 25 countries.

“Exporting can be a little daunting but for the right products or services, it’s a great time to be selling overseas. Exports will undoubtedly play a key role in our growth as a business in the coming years.”

Eluned Morgan AM, Minister for International Relations and the Welsh Language with a responsibility for international trade, said: “Most businesses with ambitions to grow would love to export. But we know that business owners are busy, with a long list of things to do, and perhaps a lack of practical knowledge about how to export.

“However, given the right information and advice these businesses can be set on their export journey and it is the goal of Welsh Government to encourage, inspire and nurture businesses that fall into this category, companies that are awash with international potential and who are ready to take the next step onto the international stage.”

Welsh Government has a comprehensive range of support mechanisms to help you on your export journey. For information on how to get started contact Business Wales on 03000 6 03000 or visit www.businesswales.gov.wales/zones/export.