Export Strategy & Implementation
Case Study: Whitworths
Whitworths is one of our long standing clients who we have helped to become more strategic and proactive in their approach to exporting goods overseas. We continue to work with their team to ensure they have the knowledge, access to new markets and infrastructure in place to support with exporting.
Below outlines the various elements of training and support we provide on a continuous basis to help them secure international supply contracts.
July 2019
Internationalisation Strategy
Through referral, Senior management at Whitworths requested support from our Founder Victoria Boldison on an initial internationalisation strategy for the business. Following discussions around the areas of the world they were looking to export to, we worked alongside the team to develop a plan.
Whitworths were specifically looking to expand their brand into several new export markets and thanks to our market knowledge and experience with strategic planning, we were confident that with the right infrastructure in place, we could help their brand succeed.
August 2019
Global ‘Got To’ Market Plan
Following multiple strategic internationalisation meetings, we set out the market plan. This included the target global markets, the route to market and the international product mix plus much more.
“Over the years, we’ve been the first to give you access to a wide range of new, unusual and exotic fare from all over the world. Today, we’re using that expertise to provide innovative, tasty, healthy products that help you create delicious recipes at home, as well as conveniently fill your body with goodness while on the move through our wide snacking range.”
November 2019
Netherlands Visit
The first international market visit by Whitworths and Bolst Global to assess business opportunities with a Dutch partner.
Top Tip
It’s important to understand all of the different elements of product information needed to supply to international retailers and/or distributors as a part of the product evaluation stage.
This should include export specific details that your overseas buyer would require over and above domestic consignments.
January 2020
Regional Gulf Visit
A month long visit, taking Whitworths products out to market within our Bolst Global brand portfolio. This was to gain ‘on the ground’ market insights and data to help make informed decisions. In addition, we attended Gulfood and set up introductory meetings with our network.
It’s important to be flexible when arranging meetings with buyers, things can change at the last minute in the Middle East and their culture is one that is much more about building personal relationships than purely business agreements alone.
Typical Middle Eastern Working week
January 2020
The Coronavirus Pandemic Hits
We are grounded like the rest of the world due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Despite the lack of international travel, we leverage our connections and continue to push forward using digital means and video technology.
This resulted in securing new business in Qatar, The UAE, Jordan, Oman, Bahrain and Canada.
New Business Secured in 2020
November 2020
Protein by Nature Product Launch
Protein by Nature range launches into UK retail and we add to the export portfolio due to differentiation and long shelf life
December 2020
Export Plan 2021
Working again with Senior Management we develop a new 2021 export plan with ambitious targets for entering new markets and growing revenue.
Shelf life extensions
Shelf life extensions on core export products implemented, allowing new access to further afield global markets.
January 2021
New Kuwait Partner on Board
January 2021
Export Training
February 2021
In Market China Support
Following further investigation into the market opportunities in China, we enlist support on the ground to explore and grow Whitworths business in this market
A Bright Future Ahead
Continuing to build on its 130 year+ heritage, a successful start to 2021 has begun internationally with several opportunities in the pipeline and growing.
Testimonial
Phil Gowland
Commercial Director
If you would like more information on export advice or training or if you are a retailer or distributor looking to list Whitworths products, please complete our contact form and one of our team will come back to you.
