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Benefits of new Dubai route are clear to glassmakers

North East businesses are looking forward to new trade links opened up by the region’s first ever long haul flight to Dubai which launched at the weekend. Direct flights from Newcastle to Dubai began on 1 September operated by Emirates Airlines. The service will allow passengers to travel onwards direct to destinations in Asia and Australasia.

Businesses in the region are already hoping to maximise their trading links through the route. Cohesion, a business network for glassmakers in the North East, could be one of the first to export North East talent. Network members are already involved in three exhibitions in Dubai and a showcase of architectural and sculptural work at the Crowne Plaza taking place this October, as well as an interior design network, after visits to gallery owners and architects in Dubai.

The aim of Cohesion is to assist and support glass businesses and artists to develop their skills, to create new opportunities and to promote the quality and diversity of their work to wider markets.

Anne Tye, regional glass cluster development manager, said: “Before we went, we were told it would be a very hard market to break into but, on the contrary, we had a very positive reception. People were impressed we’d taken the time and trouble to go out there. “We are going back out to the Emirates later this month and I’m taking another group out there in October when, amongst other activities, the businesses will mount a showcase of their work at the British Embassy.”

Councillor Bob Symonds, Leader of Sunderland City Council, said: “Glass making is not only part of Sunderland’s rich heritage, but it is an important part of the city’s future. The new Emirates route from Newcastle to Dubai, offers excellent opportunities for local businesses and commerce to access new and exciting markets.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .