Germany is the largest country in the EU and one of our biggest export markets. This meeting will review the opportunities that exist for Borders exporters in the various regions of Germany. Our speakers will include Wolfgang Mössinger, Consul General of the Federal Republic of Germany, and Paul Flynn from SDI's office in Germany.

Scottish Borders Exporters Association
 
Thursday, 25th February 2010 - 6.15 for 6.30 p.m.

Venue: The George & Abbotsford Hotel, Melrose

Germany - A Country Profile

With a population of 82 million Germany has long been a key international marketplace for Scotland. Despite the global downturn consumer spending in Germany has defied expectations exceeding the European average. Opportunities definitely exist for our exports to Germany across the whole spectrum of industry and service sectors. Surely this is a market place we should all be active in, and it is only an hour away by air.

We are very fortunate to have as our first speaker Wolfgang Mössinger, Consul General of the Federal Republic of Germany. Wolfgang, who is based in Edinburgh, will lead us through the demographics of his country, the economic data, the differences we can expect to find between the regions and, he will explore the opportunities he believes exist for our exports and services to Germany.

For our second presentation we welcome Paul Flynn of Scottish Development International. Paul, from the SDI office in Germany, is extremely knowledgeable about the country and the people. He will lead us through and encourage us to use the support services available through SDI and he will tell us about a number of the recent export successes achieved by Scottish companies in Germany.

To close the evening we will have a case study from an Association member company. Robin Deas of The House of Cheviot will tell us how, just a year ago, they set about entering the German market. Robin will take us through the decision making process, market research, the initial steps, how successful their efforts have been so far and, his expectations for the future.

Ever since our 2009-10 programme was published there has been a great deal of interest expressed in this meeting.  With the help of these three excellent speakers we will seek to establish what opportunities exist for exports and services to Germany from the Scottish Borders.

As usual, this Scottish Borders Exporters Association event is open to anyone whether they are involved in international trade or not. Manufacturers, IT, designers, service providers, everyone is welcome. There is no charge for attending. The presentations will be followed by a finger buffet giving the opportunity to exchange views and news with the speakers, members and guests. We look forward to welcoming you.

Please let us know if you plan on attending this meeting by sending an e-mail to admin@borders-export.co.uk or call 01 896 830 505.

Do not miss an excellent opportunity - Many of the benefits to be gained from attending an Export Club meeting come through the networking opportunities that present themselves after the meeting. Plan your evening such that you can stay until around 9.30 p.m., enjoy the excellent buffet provided at the G&A, and meet your fellow exporters.

Club contacts:

Captain & Executive Co-ordinator : Mike Wilson,
Tel: (01 896) 830 505   admin@borders-export.co.uk
 
Vice Captain: Sally Scott Aiton
Tel: 01 573 410 607      e-mail:  cobwebdesigns@lineone.net