UKTI announces additional help for small businesses keen to export

UK Trade & Investment has recently announced new funding rules that will help small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) to take part in more overseas trade fairs. Gareth Thomas, Minister for Trade and Investment, said: “Small and medium-sized enterprises are the lifeblood of any economy. In difficult times, businesses need to be flexible and innovative and seek out opportunities where they exist. I’m delighted that UK Trade & Investment is backing SMEs by allowing them to explore more markets abroad.”

Under current rules, SMEs have been able to apply for a maximum of three Tradeshow Access Programme (TAP) grants to participate in trade fairs in their company’s lifetime. The rule change doubles this to a maximum of six grants, with the proviso that the company takes part in trade shows in more than one market.

Grants are aimed at SMEs that are relatively inexperienced exporters and the definition of ‘new to export’ is being revised to broaden the offer of support. The new rule will come into force on 1 April 2009. There is also good news for businesses that have already benefited from this programme, as from this date, the clock will be reset, and previous grants will not be taken into account.

Petquip is organising a British Pavilion at Zoomark International 2009

Thursday 7 – Sunday 10 May, Bologna

Zoomark International trade fair is held in alternate years to Interzoo. 604 firms from 35 countries around the world exhibited at Zoomark International 2007, which attracted 20,000 trade buyers from 73 markets.

PetQuip has an exciting offer for British firms at next year’s show including:

• A prime location for the British pavilion in Hall 22

• A comprehensive stand package designed so that you can just turn up and display your products.

• Shell scheme stands within the British pavilion include floor space, walls, carpet, lighting, fascia board, table, chairs, counter, electricity connection and consumption, daily stand cleaning, local taxes, etc for about £220 per square metre (based on an exchange rate of €1.24 : £1)

• Government grants of £1,000 to help offset the cost of stand space and construction

• Help with freight and other logistics from PetQuip’s dedicated event organisers

• Advice and information about how to make the most of your presence at the event

• The support at the show of a pet equipment industry information stand, organised by PetQuip and manned by an experienced team, including interpreters

• A schedule of press releases before, during and after the show, to publicise the goods and services of the British group

• A preview sent out to named buyers in advance of the show to generate advance publicity for the group

• Preferential management fee for members of PetQuip

Finland market report

A detailed report on the garden, leisure and pet care sectors in Finland is now available to members of PetQuip. Finland is not only an attractive market in its own right; it can also be a gateway for British suppliers looking for routes to the Baltic states and Russia.

Drawing on personal interviews with leading Finnish players, research manager Charlie Parker’s report contains masses of market information, the contact details of key trade buyers, details of relevant associations, consumer shows, tips on exporting and more. The report, which is exclusive to members of Gardenex and PetQuip costs £95 + VAT.

To order a copy, please email info@petquip.com

New format and venue for Expozoo

Show organiser Comexposium has unveiled a revamped look for the French pet care trade show Expozoo. Previously held over three days in March at Paris-Nord Villepinte, the biennial Expozoo moves to Porte de Versailles next year. On Thursday 11 and Friday 12 June, it will comprise the first half of the new, four day show Animal Family, which opens its doors to the general public the following weekend.