North West firms offered Russian trade mission

North West businesses are being encouraged to take advantage of a trade mission to Moscow, lead by easyJet.

UKTI are taking a delegation of regional firms in November to what they say is the UK’s fastest-growing major export market.

The trip will include market and sector briefings, and will aid businesses in identifying potential customers and partners.

EasyJet are supporting the delegation to promote their hour weekly Manchester-Moscow flights.

Clive Drinkwater, Regional Director, UKTI North West says: “The drive to increase exports is something that we in the North West are very serious about, and I am challenging the region’s businesses to help me find 1000 new exporters this year – not just companies exporting for the first time but also SMEs looking to expand from the traditional starter markets of Western Europe to more adventurous markets such as Russia.

“Russia is one of the world’s emerging economies, fuelled by investments in financial services and manufacturing and bolstered by a growing middle class with increased spending power, and is an attractive market for North West exporters with the right product or service.

“In addition, the market is extremely accessible, with four easyJet flights a week between Moscow and Manchester.

“We are delighted to be working with easyJet to arrange this trade mission, providing North West companies with an ideal opportunity for companies to harness the experience of a knowledgeable and skilled international trade team and make the most of the commercial opportunities available.”

UK exports to Russia increased 15% in 2012 and equated to £5.5bn. UKTI say modernisation and infrastructure projects have created more export opportunities.

The trip runs between November 24-28 and for further information, interested parties are encouraged to contact Jackie Nolan on 0161 875 2234 or emailevents@uktinorthwest.co.uk.