A SPECIALIST networking organisation devoted exclusively to exporting is to be launched in Cambridgeshire later this month. The Global Trade Network, whose vice-chairman is Stuart Gibbons, managing director of St Ives-based exporter Le Mark Adhesives Limi

A SPECIALIST networking organisation devoted exclusively to exporting is to be launched in Cambridgeshire later this month.

The Global Trade Network, whose vice-chairman is Stuart Gibbons, managing director of St Ives-based exporter Le Mark Adhesives Limited and former chairman of Huntingdonshire Chamber of Commerce, will be launched - along with a brand-new website - at the Imperial War Museum at Duxford on September 18.

Its aim is to share experience of working with overseas customers and agents, not only between seasoned international traders but with companies new to overseas sales.

The emerging organisation's chairman, Keith Lambourne, said: "Many of the people I met and who gave me the benefit of their experience probably never realised the difference it made and the valuable time it saved in research.

"Their knowledge and know how was never lost on me and I became a willing learner. I still learn and take advice from people working in regions where my experience is limited.

"Some companies now become involved in export by default through internet enquiries via their web pages but tend not to form any operating strategy or structure to allow them to develop their international business beyond a reactive approach," he added.

"Some companies wish to expand into regions where they have little or no experience and virtually no reliable contacts.

"The one single constant since my early days as an exporter and now today as a relatively experienced exporter is the knowledge I gained and still gain from the people I meet personally and the advice and contacts they share with me in network forums. In these days of impersonal electronic communication I sometimes think the importance of a hand-shake and a face-to-face meeting is all but forgotten."

Mr Gibbons said the Global Trade Network was a forum for companies aspiring to become involved or those already involved in exporting across all sectors of industry.

It is supported by UKTI and the Chamber of Commerce.

INFORMATION: To book a place at the launch event on November 18 (price £29.95 including buffet lunch) contact the secretary, Paula Devine on 01582 522316 or

e-mail paula.devine@chamber-business.com.