REPORT: Prince of Wales to put spotlight on traditional businesses

On his visit to Jordans Mill in Biggleswade the Prince will meet six locally based companies including a 300 year old hat maker and a brewer with over 100 years experience. The firms export to countries both within Europe and further afield including USA, UAE, and Japan.

The East of England has seen an 8.7 per cent growth of exports to countries outside the European Union at £12.11 billion – accounting for 44 per cent of the region’s overall exports compared to 39 per cent a year ago.

The export section of the Prince’s visit to the region has been organised by UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) as part of efforts to promote exporting and help the government achieve its target of getting up to 100,000 more (SMEs) to export which would generate an extra £30 billion for the UK economy.

Liz Basing, regional director of East of England, said: “More and more companies are finding that there is a strong demand overseas for products that have both the heritage and badge of quality given by the ‘Made in Britain’ stamp.

“Today puts a group of top Bedfordshire exporters in the spotlight and I’m delighted we have the opportunity to showcase these companies as a sample of the best the county has to offer.

“Companies that seek out help from UKTI do better and I encourage businesses inspired by today’s visit to get in contact with us.”

Helen Nellis, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, said: “I am looking forward to welcoming the Prince of Wales to our county and introducing him to the range of excellent businesses which thrive in our community.

“Jordans provides a wonderful setting in which to showcase the best of Bedfordshire.”