Dudley businesses discover secrets of international success at export event

Advisers from the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) were on hand with a series of insightful presentations about the support they can provide for businesses in the borough looking to export or sell more overseas.

Entrepreneurs from industry-leading businesses based in Dudley borough also shared their experiences of working with DBT to transform their companies into exporting powerhouses.

Chris Emes, chairman of Kingswinford-based industrial furnace suppliers Mechatherm International Ltd, discussed the support that his firm had received from UK Export Finance, who helped them to secure vital bank guarantees when exporting into new markets across the globe.

Orthopaedic surgeon Mark Herron, the managing editor of Dudley-based surgical e-learning platform OrthOracle, gave an insight into his business’s route into export and how the guidance of DBT’s advisers had helped them to break out into new markets.

Andrew and Jean Eardley, directors of cybersecurity business MSP Easy Tools, detailed their firm’s journey from ‘accidental exporters’ to DBT Export Champions. They now sell 90% of their services internationally.

DBT’s international trade experts also explored topics like market research and selection and adapting to different business cultures across the globe, with an emphasis on avoiding common pitfalls and getting it right the first time.

The ‘Made in Dudley Borough, Sold to the World’ event was held at the Very Light Rail National Innovation Centre, home of BCIMO, with funding provided by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley Council, said:

It was fantastic to see so many businesspeople from the borough coming along to this event. Export has grown considerably in Dudley during the last few years and we want to make it easier for our firms to get into growing markets across the globe.

We have some brilliant local businesses in sectors like advanced manufacturing and professional services and it was a pleasure to hear about their journeys into selling their products around the world, making use of the expert support provided by the trade advisers.

I hope those who attended went away with the confidence and connections they need to follow in the footsteps of these inspiring local export champions.

The roadshow concluded with the announcement of another high-profile event for businesses in the borough on 11 March 2025.

The Innovate Dudley Expo will feature exhibitions from innovative local businesses, panel discussions and the opportunity to connect with local and national innovation support services. The event is part of the West Midlands Business Festival.

Expressions of interest for attending or exhibiting at the Innovate Dudley Expo can be made on the Dudley Business First website.