Free events at Trade Week (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Free events at Trade Week

INTERNATIONAL Trade Week takes place from March 8-12 and businesses in Hampshire, Dorset and the Isle of Wight wanting to get involved in exporting can take advantage of a series of free events.

The events, being held at various venues in the region, will provide expert advice, information, contacts and ideas.

Maggie Wareham, international trade manager for Business Link Wessex, said: "Following last year's success, we are absolutely delighted to be able to announce the 2004 International Trade Week.

"We would strongly encourage all local businesses considering or already trading internationally, no matter what their exporting experience, market sector or size to get involved."

In 2003, the total value of goods and services exported from the UK to countries across the world rose a half per cent from the 2002 figure to £187.8 billion.

This, says Business Link Wessex, demonstrates that for small- and medium-sized businesses thinking about expansion, developing international trade can be an important and profitable option.

A free half-day showcase event will be repeated daily in locations across the region throughout the week.

Over breakfast, attendees will hear from a speaker about experiences of trading around the world, and after this they will have the opportunity to attend four out of six Hotspot sessions, from a programme running throughout the morning.

All six Hotspots are on topics crucial to successful international trade - working with agents, distributors and resellers and top tips for marketing over the web, for example.

In addition to the showcase event and exhibition there will be an accompanying range of specialist events and training courses, aimed at all levels of experience.

For more information or to book a place, phone 08454 58 85 57 or log onto www.busi

nesslinkwessex.co.uk/itw