Member Article

North East businesses urged to take part in international business festival

North East businesses are being urged to get involved in the biennial International Festival for Business 2016 (IFB2016), which saw the completion of more than £280m of export and investment deals two years ago.

The festival takes place over three weeks from 13 June to 1 July at Exhibition Centre Liverpool, when tens of thousands of companies will take up the chance of meeting buyers, investors, suppliers and technology partners.

David Coppock, Regional Director of UK Trade & Investment North East, who is also attending the event, said more than 100 international delegations are attending.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for North East businesses to see the world of export opportunities that are available to them from a single venue, just a few hours travel away in Liverpool”, explained David.

“Interest in the three-week festival has been strong from companies in the North East area so we are hoping for a very good turn-out because it offers the chance for them to connect with buyers from key markets across the globe, including India, China, and South East Asia, and to kickstart their exporting dreams.”

IFB 2016 has three themes: the first week will focus on manufacturing; the second will have an energy and environment theme, while creative and digital industries will be a key focus in the final week.

David added: “The North East has successful businesses in all these sectors that have the skills, capacity and energy to maximise overseas opportunities.

“I would urge any company that is planning to grow, take their first steps on an export journey, or expanding its global reach further to head to this global market place.”

IFB2016 takes place at the Liverpool Exhibition Centre and will include guest speakers, including former South African president FW de Klerk, North East LEP member Andrew Hodgson alongside business sessions, expert-matching advice from UKTI advisers, seminars and workshops.