Date: 18th August 2015 Press Release
Trade Mission to Slovakia and Czech Republic
13th-16th October 2015
Enterprise Europe Network and UK Trade and Investment are organising a trade mission to Slovakia and the Czech Republic on the 13th-16th October 2015 to help UK SMEs access business opportunities in the dynamic Central European economy.
Slovakia and the Czech Republic have a significant combined domestic market of 16 million consumers located in the geographical heart of Europe and the visit’s destinations Bratislava and Brno provide a convenient location for expansion into neighbouring high-growth regions.
The Central European states will receive EUR 36 billion in EU Structural and Cohesion funds for the current strategic period 2014-2020, with the Slovak economy forecast to grow by 3% in 2015 and a further 3.4% in 2016, the Czech economy is predicted to grow by 2.5% this year and 2.6% in 2016 (DG ECFIN).
Mark Hofman, a International Trade Adviser specialising in the Central Eastern European region at Enterprise Europe Network said the visit is an opportunity for East of England businesses to tap into the strong contacts the organisation has forged over recent years.
“Central Europe represents a dynamic market where British goods and expertise are held in high regard. The opportunity for market growth is real with EU funds paving the way for the continued development of regional economies.
“We have a strong relationship with our partners in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, October’s visit will be our third in recent years that have brought a number of new contracts for British businesses and we hope to assist further in 2015” he added.
EU funds will predominately be spent on modernising transport infrastructure, projects supporting R&D, the environmental sector, supporting SMEs, social inclusion, tourism and the reconstruction and expansion of the JANAF-Adria pipelines.
Over the last 10 years Slovakia and the Czech Republic have experienced massive trade growth with the UK; UK exports have more than doubled to £2.45 billion.
Major UK investors in Slovakia and the Czech Republic include Marks and Spencer, BAE Systems, Rolls Royce, GlaxoSmithKline and Amec, and a further 250-350 British businesses are estimated to be operating in the Central European republics.
British products and expertise are associated with reliability, quality and durability with English being widely spoken, particularly amongst the younger population and accepted as a business language in some areas.
What is on offer?
Gain access to major overseas business opportunities with like-minded companies and support from EEN and UKTI both locally and in Slovakia and the Czech Republic.
UK businesses will benefit from:
· Up to 15 pre-arranged meetings with prospective Slovak and Czech business partners in Bratislava and Brno.
· Networking receptions and dinners to which you can invite guests.
· In-country briefing from Slovak and Czech market experts.
· Your company's profile in the trade mission brochure.
· Free access to interpreters.
· Our support before, during and after the visit.
· Services of an experienced trade mission manager.
· Group discounts.
Please contact the event organiser for more information:
Mark Hofman, 01707 398069 -
Enterprise Europe Network is a key instrument in the EU's strategy to boost growth and jobs. Bringing together close to 600 business support organisations from more than 60 countries, the network helps European companies seize the unparalleled business opportunities in the EU Single Market and beyond.
For advice and support on helping your business find new partners in Slovakia and the Czech Republic or to arrange an appointment with an Enterprise Europe Network adviser call 0845 641 9955 (option 2) or email
-ENDS
Notes to editors
For media enquiries please contact:
Mark Hofman, Trade Adviser, Enterprise Europe Network; Tel: 01707 398069
Jenny Collins by emailing or call 01707 398081
About
Slovakia and Czech Republic Trade Mission - 13th-16th October 2015
Enterprise Europe Network helps ambitious businesses innovate and grow internationally. Jointly funded by the European Commission and Innovate UK, experts are available to advise and connect those looking to commercialise ideas and succeed in new markets. In the UK, Enterprise Europe Network is delivered by 24 organisations located across England, Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland. More information on our services can be found here:
www.enterprise-europe.co.uk
Call: 0845 641 9955 (option 2)
Email:
Twitter: @EENEAST
Image: Czech Republic and Slovakia with neighbouring countries
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Exemplas PR136 – Trade Mission to Slovakia and Czech Republic 2015