African Supplies Ltd [ASL] was set up in 2000 to establish distribution networks in Africa for quality building materials, primarily roofing systems, manufactured by Fletcher Building Ltd, one of New Zealand's largest companies.
UKTI’s Regional Director for East of England Liz Basing said: "UKTI is here to help, which is why we are hosting Export Week, from 13 -17 May, dedicated to High Growth Markets. Export Week boasts a programme of events and activities taking place across the region - from seminars and master-classes to networking events - offering something for both the novice and experienced exporter. We are seeking to inspire business in our region to export to countries including Brazil, China, India, Turkey and Nigeria and Angola by providing critical advice from a range of experts and hearing from businesses who are already trading successfully in these markets such as African Supplies Ltd."
UKTI’s International Trade Adviser Simon Crosland has been helping the company since 2011. Following an initial approach for UKTI assistance with events in both Nigeria and Ghana, ASL has now signed up to the UKTI’s ‘Gateway for Global Growth' initiative – a UKTI service which helps exporters diversify into new markets. ASL is planning another event in Nigeria’s capital Abuja in June this year, hosted by the British High Commission.
Simon Crosland said: "Exports from the East of England to Nigeria more than doubled during 2012 to over £300m and Nigeria is now one of the top 20 destinations for exports from this region. UKTI East has brought together a number of experts to help local businesses learn more about this rapidly emerging market.
"Nigeria is a huge market of 170 million people that is seeing growth of 7-8% annually. There are excellent opportunities in a number of key sectors including Oil & Gas, security, infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare and transport.
"Angola is also a challenging market with plenty of opportunities and is one of Africa‟s fastest growing economies. It is also a market with significant opportunities for UK companies across a range of sectors."
ASL now supply products and service across the Construction sector and has built a strong presence in 21 countries in sub-Saharan Africa over the last 13 years.
Joe Collins the firm’s MD who will be speaking at Monday’s event said: "In 2000, sub Saharan Africa was opening up to export though very much at the green shoots stage. Despite most economic and political pundits writing Africa off as a lost cause at that time, ASL had confidence in this developing market and established strong distribution channels through partnerships with local companies. With their support we began to build awareness of our products and lay strong foundations which allowed us to significantly increase our exports as the countries became more ready to do business."
You can find more details on the UKTI Masterclass on Nigeria and Angola at:
http://www.ukti.gov.uk/pt_pt/export/unitedkingdom/eastofengland/event/479120.html?null
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