After months of learning, networking and developing international business expertise, East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce’s Summer Skills Bootcamp has officially come to an end.

From May to July, delegates have taken part in a comprehensive programme designed to equip businesses with the knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in international markets.

The Bootcamp began by laying the foundations of international business, with sessions covering Incoterms® 2020, Understanding Exporting, Understanding Commodity Codes and Methods of Payment. These introductory topics provided delegates with a strong understanding of the key principles required when trading overseas.

Building on this knowledge, our delegates then explored Import Procedures, Export Documentation, Customs Procedures and Documentation, Rules of Origin, and Agents and Distributors, gaining valuable insight into the practical and regulatory aspects of international business.

The programme concluded with a dedicated Support with Growth for Exporters session, bringing together a range of industry experts who shared their knowledge, experience and advice.

Throughout the Bootcamp, businesses from across Lancashire have had the opportunity to develop their understanding of overseas trade requirements, build confidence and connect with fellow professionals facing similar opportunities and challenges.

Here’s what our recent delegates had to say about their experience:

Lucy-Blue Walsh, Isentra Ltd, Chorley said:

“I have learnt so much on this bootcamp, and it has given me a broader understanding of importing from the EU and allowed me to identify opportunities to enhance our processes and knowledge within the business. I would highly recommend attending a bootcamp like this and hope I can attend more in the future to further my career.”

Tom Davies, Dynamic Safety, Colne said:

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time on the course, it has been engaging and really boosted my confidence to push our business products overseas.”

Amy Hart, Haimer UK Ltd, Burnley said:

“I would recommend the bootcamp to anyone/company.”

Katie Owens, NovaDura Ltd, Nelson said:

“I would absolutely recommend the Skills Bootcamp to anybody. It has been a fantastic experience from start to finish. I’ve built a wealth of knowledge that I can take away, use, and share with others”

Sam Johnson, FloControl, Burnley said:

“To gain this breadth of  information would have been impossible if it wasn’t for the Bootcamp. Mandy and Stef were engaging, knowledgeable, approachable and friendly. I would 100% recommend the bootcamp to any colleagues and friends.”

Carly Fullard, FloControl, Burnley said:

“Completing this course has given me some excellent new skills and greater confidence in applying them in the workplace.”

Stephen Wilding, Ferguson Engineering (Northern), Nelson said:

“Very useful and informative, the workshop presentations have created a useful reference library open to all at work. The knowledge gained has placed me at the centre of Export Management.”

A note from one of our trainers, who worked closely with the delegates throughout the bootcamp:

Stef Heywood, International Business Manager, East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, said:

“It has been fantastic to see delegates engage with the programme. We’ve been able to provide them with the knowledge, resources and practical guidance needed to support their journey, and we’re excited to see how they put that learning into practice within their businesses.”

As this year’s Summer Export Bootcamp ends, the Chamber would like to thank all delegates, speakers and partners who contributed to its success and helped make the programme a valuable learning experience for everyone involved.

For businesses looking to continue their international trade development, the Chamber’s Autumn Skills Bootcamp will launch in September, offering another opportunity to gain practical export knowledge, learn from industry experts and connect with other businesses. Dates and booking details can be found below:

Download the 10 Import and Export Courses Here

Register your interest with Stef Heywood at s.heywood@chamberelancs.co.uk or call on 01254 356454 or Hannah Ford at h.ford@chamberelancs.co.uk or call on 01254945869