Businesses across Warwickshire are finding new opportunities in international markets, demonstrating the strength and diversity of the county’s economy as International Trade Week gets underway.
Taking place from 9-13 November, International Trade Week provides an opportunity to celebrate businesses that are trading or exploring opportunities overseas, while encouraging others to consider how international trade could support their future growth.
Warwickshire businesses across a range of sectors are looking beyond the UK to reach new customers, develop new markets and pursue opportunities for growth.
Among them is AM Foods International, a Nuneaton-based food and fast-moving consumer goods supplier which has been pursuing international sales opportunities since 2024.
The company has received export support through the Department for Business and Trade, including help to take part in an international buyer opportunity involving Ghana. Managing Director Ali Sayed was supported with preparations for the buyer meeting, including advice around samples and company marketing materials. The business has also received support in exploring opportunities in the Middle East.
Ali Sayed, Managing Director at AM Foods International, said:
“Exploring international markets is an important part of our plans for growth. The support we have received has helped us better understand the opportunities available and prepare for conversations with potential overseas buyers. Taking part in the Ghana buyer opportunity was a valuable experience and we are keen to continue building connections and exploring where international trade could take the business.
“I would encourage other businesses considering international trade to explore the opportunities available in Warwickshire and make use of the support on offer. Having the right advice and connections can help businesses take those first steps into new markets with greater confidence.”
Another Warwickshire business achieving international growth is RYSE 3D, an additive manufacturing company based in Shipston-on-Stour. Founded in 2017, the company manufactures high-performance 3D-printed production parts for industries including automotive, aerospace, defence, and energy.
Nearly half of the company’s annual turnover of almost £5 million now comes from international orders, with its Warwickshire-made components supplied to customers in markets including the United States, Denmark, France and Latvia. Its export growth has recently helped RYSE 3D to secure The King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade, which is the business’ second royal award following The King’s Award for Enterprise in Innovation in 2024.
Mitchell Barnes, Founder of RYSE 3D, said:
“Building an international customer base has been an important part of RYSE 3D’s growth. From our facility in Shipston-on-Stour, we are producing complex components that are being used by leading businesses around the world, demonstrating that advanced manufacturing technology developed here in Warwickshire can compete successfully on a global stage.
“International trade has enabled us to reach new customers, invest in our technology and create further opportunities for the business and our team. I would encourage other Warwickshire businesses considering overseas markets to be ambitious, understand where their products or expertise can add value and make use of the support available to help them take the next step.”
Also developing their presence in international markets are sister companies Carian Wines Ltd and Whisky Chasers Ltd based in Warwick, which specialise in wines and spirits, with a particular focus on whisky, including bottled, bulk and cask products, as well as private-label and bottling opportunities.
Already an experienced exporter, with previous activity in Hong Kong, South Korea and Japan, the businesses are now exploring further opportunities across markets including the USA, Canada, Argentina, Brazil, France, Australia and the Middle East. Working with the Department for Business and Trade, Whisky Chasers has received support with its international growth and export strategy, including market and route-to-market advice, introductions to overseas teams and potential distributors and buyers, and support to explore private-label opportunities.
Ian Tamplin, Founder of Carian Wines Ltd, said:
“International trade has always been about building the right relationships and understanding each market. Every country presents different opportunities and challenges, so having access to local knowledge, contacts and specialist advice can make a real difference when deciding where to focus our efforts.
“The support we have received has helped us explore a wide range of markets and make valuable connections overseas. For businesses considering exporting, I would say do your research, be prepared to adapt and take advantage of the expertise and networks available. International growth takes time, but finding the right partners can open some very exciting opportunities.”
Councillor Rob Howard, Warwickshire County Council Portfolio Holder for Economy and Rural Development, said:
“Warwickshire is home to an incredibly diverse business community, with companies of all sizes developing products, services and expertise that have the potential to succeed on an international stage.
“International Trade Week is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate those Warwickshire businesses that are already reaching customers around the world, whilst encouraging others to consider where international trade could take them.
“For businesses with ambitions to grow, I encourage you to explore the support available through Warwickshire Business Growth Service, which can help with identifying new opportunities, overcoming challenges, and taking the next important steps in the development of your business.”
For Warwickshire businesses inspired to pursue international opportunities and take the next step in their growth journey, support is available through the Warwickshire Business Growth Service (WBGS). The service acts as a gateway to business support across the county, helping businesses to make the right connections and access support appropriate to their growth ambitions.
The support available through WBGS, Warwickshire County Council and its partners include one-to-one advice and mentoring, workshops and events, finance and grant opportunities, skills and training, specialist growth programmes and support with commercial property.
To find out more, businesses can email business@warwickshire.gov.uk or call 01926 412 709.