In an on-line survey of Borders exporters the USA topped the list of countries we export to. Always a popular choice, this is an opportunity for us to examine how our exorts are holding up following the credit crunch and what new opportunites might exist. The sponsor for this meeting is UPS.

Scottish Borders Exporters Association
 
Thursday, 29th April 2010 - 6.15 for 6.30 p.m.
Venue: The George & Abbotsford Hotel, Melrose

Country Profile - USA

This meeting is sponsored by UPS

For our April meeting we take a look at one of our most important and popular export markets - the United States of America. With a population getting on close to 300 million here is a country which is easily accessible and where doing business can be very rewarding. There has always been a demand in the States for products and services from the Scottish Borders and, with the value of the pound down by about 25% against the dollar the cost of our products must currently be more attractive to the American consumer.

Our first speaker is Michael Koetsier, who is Head of Scottish Development International at Highlands & Islands Enterprise. Michael's started his career with Kellogg's. He has also worked with Ferrero UK and Merrydown. Along with two partners, Michael started his own business and built a £38m drinks business which has subsequently been sold. Michael moved to the States where he has worked for SDI and where he maintains a strong core of contacts with the leaders of many Fortune 500 companies. It will be interesting hear about Michael's experiences whilst living and working in the States, and to listen to his advice on how to approach the market.

For our second presentation we have a case study from an Association member company - Lochcarron of Scotland. Sales Director, Paul Sharp will tell us all about Lochcarron's products and their set-up in the USA. The States has proved to be be a very successful market for the company and it will be interesting to hear about their past and present sales activities in the US market and what the company is doing to maintain sales during the downturn. 

At this point in the evening we will be inviting those present to tell us about their experiences of exporting to the States. There must surely be many valuable tips to be passed on, and some good news stories to tell.

To close we will have a short presentation by David Kinney from our sponsor for this evening, United Parcel Services (UPS). 

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.

AGENDA

Time (p.m.)              Topic                                                              Speaker

6.15 for 6.30 p.m.    Arrival - tea & Coffee

6.30                          Welcome and Introductions                     Mike Wilson, Club Captain
 
                                  Exporting to the USA                               Michael Koetsier, SDI - HIE

                                  Case Study                                              Paul Sharp, Lochcarron of Scotland

                                  A word from our sponsor                         David Kinney, UPS

                                  Vote of thanks                                             

8.30 - 9.30                  Buffet Supper and networking

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.

Reply form

                                                a) I shall/shall not attend the Club meeting, 29th April 2010

                                                      Name ________________________

                                                     Company ________________________

                                                b) I shall send ________________________ in my place

                                                c) I/he/she will be accompanied by:

                                                     Name ________________________

                                                     Company ________________________

 
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