Business international success story still has 'room to improve'

Despite being one of the West Midlands ' biggest business success stories, Gymshark chief executive, Steve Hewitt (pictured), says that the multinational fitness apparel brand still has room to improve.

During a panel discussion, hosted by Professor Simon Collinson, deputy pro-vice-chancellor for regional engagement at University of Birmingham, Steve told Global Trade Conference delegates that in order to better understand the US market, the firm has found success in setting up a hub in Colorado.

He explained that setting up the US base meant that the business could intimately get to know the North American market better, instead of gazing at the market with a British lens.

Steve was one of six business leaders and owners, which provided snapshots of their exporting and international success during the discussion, closing the conference.

The business experts provided their top tips for businesses looking to expand their international horizons, including Paul Faulkner, chief of staff and operations at Richardsons, and former Chamber chief executive, who advised firms to utilise local support networks and resources.

Nasir Awan, CEO of Awan Marketing, urged firms to know their customers and suppliers and Warwick Wakefield, customer experience director of Chamber patron Flexeserve, encouraged businesses to stay innovative.

Janie Frampton, director of Sports Official Consultancy, looked ahead, describing potential exchange programmes on the horizon between the West Midlands and the Caribbean.