Despite exporting regularly to Japan, Taiwan and Hong Kong Tony and Branka Barnes were always keen to develop new markets.
They turned to Trade Partners UK for help in exploring European markets for their companies, Penny Farthing and Razzmatazz International.
Based at Liverton Mines, near Loftus, they specialise in natural products from organic back pain pillows to zinc bracelets, aromatherapy oils, bath bombs, incense, funky soaps and scented candles.
"We felt the time was right to concentrate more on Europe," said Branka.
"We signed up for the Export Explorer to Brussels as Belgium was the ideal place to start because it is a good stepping stone into the rest of Europe."
Andrew Tanner, TPUK's senior international trade advisor at Business Link Tees Valley worked closely with them to ensure they made the most of their four-day trip, organising a comprehensive market report prepared by commercial officers at the British Embassy in Brussels.
The couple also took part in a workshop covering all aspects of doing business in Belgium and were given the chance to discuss their needs with the commercial officers during a special video conference.
"It was hard work but the officers provided us with some good contacts and we're confident orders will follow," says Tony.
"We have done similar trips on our own before and while we still got the business being part of a group was wonderful - the camaraderie was great and the feedback from the others very useful," he added.
Carol Hodgson, of Eaglescliffe-based CEM Event Management, shared this view following her first trip with TPUK.
She said: "Travelling with a group really does help - you have the feedback from the others and it certainly gives you more confidence."
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