The Institute of Export’s series of events celebrating its 80th anniversary culminated in a glittering drinks reception and dinner at The Royal Horseguards Hotel in London.
The sell-out evening was sponsored by global information services company Wolters Kluwer (UK) Ltd, Lloyds Bank and cloud based global trade management solutions provider, Amber Road.
IOE Chairman Ian Taylor looked back on how the IOE was founded in 1935, at a time when the world was emerging from a great depression – and how it has evolved into the leading authority in international trade. He highlighted the challenges facing companies who are seeking to start exporting and to export more professionally – along with the vital role the IOE will continue to play in the coming decades.
Said Ian: ‘We know that it will take time to change the business psyche of the UK to thinking that it’s natural to export and, importantly, to build international markets into the first business plan, however without that change we will be left behind. We must start with the young people who do not know where things come from in the shops! ‘
IOE Director General, Lesley Batchelor OBE, outlined how, in the last eight years, the IOE has modernised and transformed itself into a more viable professional body that is proud of its place in the business community and ready for the next 80 years. Every guest was also given a special commemorative booklet relating the story of the decades.
Lesley also relayed the following quote from Lord Maude, Minister of Trade & Investment, who was unable to attend the event:
“For the past 80 years, the IOE has worked tirelessly to support UK businesses to export, and to raise UK performance and professionalism in overseas trade. And today the work of IOE is more important than ever. I wish to congratulate the IOE on their 80th anniversary, and look forward to working with them as important partners on our Exporting is GREAT campaign.”
Said Arne Mielken, Senior Trade Specialist, Content (European Union), Amber Road: “As a leading provider of cloud based global trade management solutions operating across every continent, we are proud to be a long- standing supporter of the Institute of Export.
“The Institute is highly respected at home and overseas as the only professional body in the UK providing recognised, formal qualifications in International Trade and its career enhancing educational courses are more vital than ever in helping exporters to maximise the multitude of opportunities in international trade”.
Julie Weller, Development Editor – International Trade portfolio Wolters Kluwer (UK) Ltd, added: “Our products help with the questions and challenges faced by exporters and importers. Working with the Institute, who offer such a wide variety of support, education and professional qualifications to those involved in international trade, means it’s an honour for us to sponsor this event.”
Paul Smith, Head of Trade Finance for SME businesses at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, commented: “As well as needing financial support, what we find customers often lack when first trying to export are the skills and expertise to trade internationally.
“That’s why we are proud to work with the Institute of Export, together with UK Trade and Investments, to ensure that businesses get the support they need to succeed.
“We can help businesses with many of the financial challenges faced when exporting, or trying to grow in any way, but that is only part of the equation. Working with the IOE is essential to us in ensuring that businesses not only have the means to embrace new ventures, but the skills and expertise to do so successfully.”
Highlights of the evening saw David Millet, after stepping down as Vice Chair of the IOE after time fully served on the board; Director and trainer Sue Wright and Chairman Ian Taylor become Fellows of the Institute.
Concluded Lesley Batchelor: “Over the last eight decades trading conditions have presented us with many challenges but as an organisation we have risen to these and flourished. The services we provide have evolved over the years to reflect the changing needs of UK exporters.
“We are proud to be the leading authority in best practice and competence for businesses trading globally and it has been wonderful to host events to honour our corporate, business and individual members along with friends and colleagues. “
Visit the IOE website for more information about our training, qualifications and business membership, or contact us if you have any questions.
