Exporting UK SMEs outperform European rivals – Kevin Beare & Co
UK SMEs have seen bigger increases in their export turnover than their European counterparts, a survey by UPS has found.
The survey of more than 8,000 SMEs across 7 European countries found that an average 43% of European exporting SMEs have increased turnover exporting within and outside the EU.
However, UK SMEs were 26% more successful at increasing export turnover than the European average when exporting inside the EU. UK SMEs were 29% more successful when exporting to the rest of the world.
The research found:
- 39% of UK SMEs that sent shipments exported to countries in the EU
- 31% have exported outside of the EU
- 54% of UK SMEs exporting outside the EU shipped goods to the US72% of UK SMEs exporting outside the EU increased turnover between 2010 and 2012, the highest figure among surveyed European countries.
George Willis, UK, Ireland and the Nordics managing director at UPS, said:
“The business climate is competitive, and there are extensive market opportunities beyond the EU.
“UK exporting SMEs have to strike out beyond the island to expand their customer base and grow their businesses.”