WIREDGOV

A number of Welsh companies have won new export business to one of the biggest fashion capitals in the world, New York, following a Welsh Government led trade mission to the city last week [20-26 March].

One of the companies is Vicky Rowe which designs and produces bridal wear including vintage inspired dresses and bohemian style gowns. Since launching the company from her studio in north Wales in 2013, Vicky has seen the business go from strength to strength.  

With her lines already stocked at retailers in key fashion cities including London, Paris and Madrid and at other destinations in Ireland and the USA, Vicky sees exporting as an important part of her business model.

She decided to expand her presence in the United States following an increase in the number of enquiries from the US market and saw the Welsh Government’s trade mission as an ideal opportunity to try and secure new contracts.

Vicky explains:

"Exporting is key to growing my business and the US offers huge opportunities for my business. With help from the Welsh government I have been able to identify potential business contacts and visit the market through a trade mission to New York."

Another company to benefit from increased businesses following the New York trade mission is Corgi Hosiery.

The Ammanford based company is already an experienced exporter to the United States and existing customers of its high-end knitwear include Ralph Lauren, Burberry and major high street store J Crew.

Corgi Hosiery’s Managing Director, Lisa Wood explains

"The US is one of our largest markets. We started exporting here a number of years ago and since then our business has grown and grown. These trade missions enable us to visit new customers and also meet existing clients to maintain the relationship and introduce new product lines to them."

During the trade mission Corgi Hosiery secured business with new and existing clients.  

In addition to receiving support to visit the US market-place, companies participating in the Welsh Government led trade mission were also invited to special networking events and briefings to ensure they kept up to date on the latest market information.

Welcoming the news, Economy Science and Transport Minister, Edwina Hart said:

"The United States is by far Wales’ largest export market and is worth over £2.7billion to the Welsh Economy. The opportunities for companies to expand and increase their profitability by exporting are significant and our extensive programme of overseas trade missions aim to help business do just that.

“I am very pleased Vicky Rowe and Corgi Hosiery have been able to secure new business contracts as a direct result of our support.”