Last October I accompanied a group of 12 Cumbrian business-people on an 'Export Explorer' Trade Mission to Dusseldorf in Germany.

This event, which was supported by Trade Partners UK, the overseas trade division of the Department of Trade and Industry, proved to be of enormous value to the companies involved.

All participants made valuable overseas contacts, and in one case, orders were received during the visit.

Business Link for Cumbria is now looking for a group of companies to join another 'Explorer' mission to Germany, this time to Munich, in the wealthy and economically important region of Bavaria.

Several local companies have already indicated an interest in this mission, which takes place between October 27 and 30 this year.

Having worked extensively in Munich, and other parts of southern Germany, I can vouch for the high regard which the people of the region have for Britain, and British-made products.

Quality is especially important to Bavarians; they have high disposable income, and like well-made goods.

Real opportunities exist for Cumbrian companies which can supply, for example, high quality giftware and premium food products.

The region is a world-famous engineering power-house (BMW, for example, have their main plant near Munich).

But, despite the proliferation of local engineering companies, British firms which can deliver innovative, well-produced and reliable products will find a ready market.

As Export Director of a British materials-handling company, I saw the successful supply, installation and commissioning of a large conveyor system to Mercedes - Benz, based in the adjacent region to Bavaria, Baden-Wuerttemburg.

We had the product and the expertise, and won the business, despite fierce international and local competition.

Why should you consider joining this mission?

l Market Information.

Business Link, together with commercial staff at the Consulate in Munich, will provide a detailed report outlining the market for the participating company's product or service.

In addition, a quantity of 'warmed' leads will be provided, enabling the company to arrange a programme of meetings ahead of the visit dates.

l Support from experts who have direct experience of doing business in Munich, and who can provide advice on how best to approach the market.

l A cost effective travel package of approximately £480, including fights, hotel and transfers.

For more information about how your company could join the list of successful Cumbrian organizations enjoying success in Germany, call me, Andrew Fawcett at Business Link on 07764-635356.