Small businesses dismissing export opportunities, says survey
Just 7 per cent of the Midlands’ non-exporting businesses are considering trading overseas in 2011. According to new research from Barclays Business, the main barrier preventing businesses from exporting were “time and effort”.
In addition, the study from Barclays - in association with Kingston University’s Small Business Research Centre, suggests as many as 25 per cent of businesses who export claim to have ‘fallen into it’ rather than it being a part of the strategic growth plan.
The findings of the study, titled 'The eXport Factor: British SMEs’ Approach to Doing Business Overseas', reveals that of the regional business surveyed, 543 were not engaged in exporting in 2010.
Jeremy Stockdale, head of local business in the central region, said: “An export boom in 2011 could present SMEs in this region with an enormous opportunity, and yet it’s surprising to learn so few who currently don’t export are planning to do so this year.
“Owner-managers are under extreme pressure, so spending time developing a detailed plan for exporting may not always be realistic. However, in taking a more passive approach, there is a risk that SMEs in this region are failing to make the most of the opportunities out there.
"Now is the time for SMEs to consider taking a more proactive approach, even if this is just to familiarise themselves with the information and advice available to them, so opportunities can be maximised when they arise.”
