Exporting is a hot topic featuring in September’s In-Cumbria. For those who missed the article written by Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, you can read it below.
Boosting export growth – From baby formula to machinery, Cumbria’s exporters are breaking barriers, navigating turbulence, and seizing global opportunities with Chamber expertise
These are challenging times for trading internationally. Chamber research shows exporting is an uphill grind for many, especially SMEs, with the smallest finding it toughest.
Smaller, innovative, agile businesses should be able to export in a streamlined way, especially by taking advantage of e-commerce platforms. But larger businesses are often able to navigate the challenges and complexities of international trade more easily – and to employ specialists. But even then it’s not necessarily plain sailing, not least with the current constantly changing situation on tariffs and trade deals.
Whatever your size, and whether you’re an established or new exporter, Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, with the backing of a fabulous team of international trade specialists within British Chambers of Commerce and the strength of the international Chamber network spanning 75 markets is here to help.
As an accredited issuer of export documentation, the Chamber plays a vital role in helping businesses trade internationally. We’re continuing to see a significant increase in demand for our export documentation service, both in the volume and value of exports.
In 2024-25, Cumbria Chamber processed exports worth £281.6million, up from £247.2million in 2023-24, an increase of £34.4million, handling around 3,000 documents.
This documentation covers goods produced in Cumbria and exported across the globe, with the highest value of goods going to Turkey, followed by Chile, South Africa and the United States. Other key markets include Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, the UAE and Morocco.
Firing this growth are a number of clients whose exports have growth significantly, such as Stolle Europe (beverage can manufacturing machinery, conveying and spare parts), Kendal Nutricare (baby formula milk) and Omega Proteins (animal protein products).
Our International trade support offer also includes our export consultancy service, designed to help businesses of all sizes navigate the challenges and opportunities. Led by Martyn Staveley of Three Peaks Consulting, our service offers tailored support to new, scaling and established exporters.
Martyn brings 15 years of experience across a range of sectors, and is supported by food & drink specialist Rose Moraiti. Areas of support include diagnostic assessments and market research for new exporters, growth strategies for scaling businesses and targeted problem solving for established exporters.
Also on offer is export and import training for businesses and connection to other relevant support and services.
To access export documentation services email info@cumbriachamber.co.uk
To access export consultancy support and/or training email info@cumbriagrowthhub.co.uk
