Bristol firms looking to use the strong ties between the UK and US to start or develop an export strategy will be able to tap into some top advice when a new international trade group launches tomorrow.
Bristol and Bath International Network will use its first meeting, which is being hosted by Bristol Airport, focus on the all-important US market. 
Speakers will look at the challenges that exist in the US – including cultural understanding, legal issues and marketing – to help local companies to get it right.
It will celebrate what is best about international trade in the region, while looking at new high-growth markets and the issues of importance that companies need to tackle.
While the lion’s share of exports from the region go to Europe, the US remains a hugely important market for Bristol companies. The UK and US are vitally important partners in science and innovation and continue to develop technologies in aerospace, defence, advanced engineering and healthcare. Bilateral trade is worth about £120bn a year.
Bristol and Bath International Network is run by Business West, the organisation behind Bristol Chamber of Commerce and the Bristol Initiative.
Business West managing director Phil Smith said: “We are delighted to be launching this all important network in Bristol and Bath. We want to encourage local companies to reap the benefits of international trade and Business West is taking a strong lead in supporting business’ overseas ambitions.
“As part of our #GetExporting campaign, we are ramping up support for local companies to enable them to understand the opportunities; find out how to access the right customers and to raise their game in exports.”
The inaugural Bristol and Bath International Network meeting takes place in The Old Terminal Building at Bristol Airport at 3.30pm. For more information go to www.busineswest.co.uk/events or http://www.businesswest.co.uk/events/2014/11/20/bristol-bath-international-network
