Small UK exporters struggle as large firms see export growth: BCC

Looking at export sales – only 18 per cent of micro-exporters saw a rise in Q3 (20 per cent in Q2), 26 per cent saw a fall, while 56 per cent reported no change. By comparison, 42 per cent of large exporters reported increased sales, with 11 per cent reporting a fall, and 47 per cent seeing no change. 

This latest data was gathered by the BCC Insights Unit and the UK-wide Chamber network with the fieldwork conducted between August 18 and September 15. Over 4,600 businesses across the UK (91 per cent of whom are SMEs) responded online.

“The growing disparity between the experience of the UK’s largest and smallest exporters is deeply concerning.  It underlines our call for urgent government action, in partnership with business, to help smaller firms reap the benefits of trade.  Boosting exports is the quickest way to grow our economy, and our data should be a wake-up call for policymakers.  Business welcomes the real progress made on trade deals with the US, EU and India in recent months – and the Trade Strategy, launched at the BCC’s Global Annual Conference in June.  As these deals and strategies are implemented, new smaller exporters need greater help to fully reap the benefits,” William Bain, head of trade policy at the BCC, said.

The research shows sentiment among all exporters remains weak, with most struggling to see improved sales or orders. Only 24 per cent of all exporters reported increased overseas sales, while 22 per cent of all businesses saw a boost in export orders in the third quarter.

“Next month’s budget is also an opportunity for the chancellor to take decisive action to boost exports. The BCC is looking to work directly with the government on trade accelerator programmes. We’re also calling for reformed customs systems, and full consultation on a UK carbon border adjustment mechanism,” Bain added.

ALCHEMPro News Desk (RR)