On 8 July 2025, the final session of the International Trade Skills Bootcamp delivered a powerful close to what has been a transformative journey for participating businesses.

With expert insights, real-world success stories, and a deep dive into essential export resources, delegates left equipped and inspired to take their international trade ambitions to the next level.

Mandy Lockett, International Business Director at East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, led a compelling session that showcased the real impact exporting can have on business growth, drawing on years of hands-on experience.

Delving into the critical elements that businesses must account for when preparing export quotations, Mandy emphasised that factors such as packaging, transportation, documentation, financing charges, and agent commissions are often underestimated or overlooked entirely. According to Mandy, failing to calculate these costs accurately can significantly undermine profit margins and jeopardise the competitiveness of export offers. By thoroughly addressing each component, companies can better protect their profitability and ensure sustainable growth in international markets.

Her message was clear: exporting isn’t just for large corporations—small employers have every opportunity to thrive internationally with the right knowledge and network behind them. Mandy also shared practical examples of local businesses that have succeeded globally, proving that international trade is not only achievable but essential for long-term growth in a competitive world.

Mandy Lockett, International Business Director,

“This final session was all about putting the pieces together. We wanted every business to leave with not just ideas, but a plan—and the confidence to act on it.”

A highlight of the day was a case study presented by Andrew Turner, Managing Director of Langtec, Accrington-based manufacturer that has successfully expanded into international markets. Andrew’s story resonated with delegates, as he shared taking a traditional UK manufacturing business onto the global stage.

From building strong overseas relationships, Langtec’s journey illustrated the practical steps needed to make exporting work for them. Andrew emphasised the importance of persistence, market research, and trusted guidance from trade support organisations like the Chamber.

Andrew spoke about the importance of communicating your Unique Selling Point when approaching overseas markets.

Andrew Turner, Managing Director, Langtec, commented:

“To succeed internationally, businesses must be clear on what sets them apart. Your USP is what grabs attention, it’s what makes buyers choose you over someone else. For us, it’s the quality, reliability, and innovation behind a British-made product. We’re proud to fly the flag for UK manufacturing because, quite frankly, buying British often means better standards, better service, and more sustainable practices than importing from markets further afield. That’s the message global buyers are starting to value more and more.”

His insights encouraged delegates to embrace the fun of exporting and to lead with quality and trust when building international relationships.
Delegates were encouraged to make use of this rich network to continue their international growth beyond the Bootcamp.

One delegate, Francine Jennings from Lorama UK, a leading manufacturer and distributor of colourants & additives in the Paints and Coatings Industry, commented,

“Thanks for such a good experience and the excellent training. I am disappointed today that the whole course is over, as I have really enjoyed it”.

So much so that Lorama UK, who are based in Rossendale, Lancashire, have been so impressed by the impact of this valuable training that they’ve eagerly enrolled another colleague onto the Skills Bootcamp starting this September!

We extend our congratulations to all delegates for successfully completing the International Trade Skills Bootcamp. Over the course of the programme, they have gained practical insights, expert guidance, and the confidence to pursue new global opportunities. Now, it’s time to apply that knowledge and take bold steps into international markets.

A special thank you to our partners, Forbes Solicitors and PM+M, for their expert contributions, along with Langtec, VAT IT, Sentinel, Accentus Language, ChamberFX, Innovate and Seriun.

If you’re passionate about supporting export growth or want to explore how your business can start or expand its international journey, get in touch now contact Stef Heywood on 01254 356454 or email s.heywood@chamberelancs.co.uk.