When questioned about overseas growth potential, SMEs consistently cite the need for specialist, targeted support in customs and regulatory navigation in addition to strategic guidance.

Small business owners recognise that revenue stream diversification is an integral part of business resilience, and that expansion overseas is an excellent means of achieving this as it reduces the company’s dependence on its domestic market. However, despite this, millions will never dip their toes in international trade as the perceived complexity, investment, and risk is just too overwhelming for them.

Within the UK there is an incredible amount of untapped potential within our SME community; and whilst we are not empowering our SMEs to take their products and services to new markets, other countries’ SMEs are fulfilling that demand. As a country we need to do more and at greater pace to support these businesses to expand internationally.

Seeing SMEs thrive outside of their domestic markets is GTD’s overriding passion. We break down the perceived barriers to them doing this, be they operational at the customs and regulation level, or strategic. We focus not so much on the ‘whys’ but instead on the ‘hows’, especially when it comes to regulatory compliance. SMEs are time constrained and value concise ‘how-to’ guidance; they also value blended teams where employees can actively learn from specialists. These priorities have been at the forefront of our minds when designing support for these businesses.

GTD’s support encompasses free webinars and 15-min virtual clinics; fully funded regional support programmes; dedicated 1:1 support from specialist consultants; and a rich technology solution facilitating cost effective customs and regulatory compliance. There truly is something to meet every support requirement, experience level, and budget.