adminLeicestershire firms have learnt of ways to break into the Japanese export market and discover Olympic business opportunities, thanks to the help and support of UK Trade & Investment (UKTI).
Working in conjunction with Business Link Japan, UKTI held a high demand event called Japan Day, where delegates were treated to an exclusive visit and expert advice from Japanese Ambassador to the UK, Shin Ebihara and British Ambassador to Japan, David Warren.
The rare opportunity came amid Loughborough’s successful bid to house the Japanese 2012 Olympic team who will take advantage of the first class training facilities the East Midlands town has to offer.
Workshops held throughout the day gave businesses the opportunity to hone in on specific business sectors and identify how their UK products and services could succeed in a Japanese market, while Ambassadors conducted a tree planting ceremony to mark the two countries flourishing opportunities in business and tourism.
Japan Day also demonstrated how business and sport share a common link when preparing for success in Japan, as delegates were treated to a guest presentation from British double Olympic javelin thrower, Goldie Sayers who highlighted the need for passion and commitment before showing footage of her performance at the Beijing Olympics and concluded by saying: “I am sure the Japanese team will be very happy in Loughborough and I am sure you will be able to develop your businesses further.”
Businesses also enjoyed a performance from students at South Wolds School in Keyworth, about business etiquette in Japan and how to correctly meet and greet Japanese partners.
Andy Jones, Export Manager at Fosters Traditional Foods said:
“Doing business in another country can be a challenge, so it is great to know that UKTI and Business Link Japan are there to help.
“We have recently started exporting our products into Japan and are already seeing evidence of a return on our investment.”
Steve Crane, Founder & Director of Business Link Japan said: “I am delighted to see so many businesses from across the East Midlands attend today.
“I am very excited that Loughborough won the bid to play host to the Japanese Olympic team, which will mean that hundreds of athletes and support staff will come to the East Midlands over the next three years.
“There is huge potential for East Midlands businesses to work very closely with Japan, so we are developing a programme of events to build overseas relationships which start with Japan Day.”
