Business leaders, policymakers and industry representatives were recently hosted by Keele University for discussions on opportunities and challenges for trade across the UK.

The event, Growing Your Business Across the UK, was co-hosted by Adam Jogee MP for Newcastle-under-Lyme, and Intertrade UK, a non-statutory advisory body established by the UK government to advise on and promote trade within the United Kingdom.

The Rt Hon. the Baroness Foster of Aghadrumsee DBE, Chair of Intertrade UK, joined representatives from businesses and organisations across Staffordshire and beyond to explore barriers to trade and opportunities for growth.

Baroness Foster said: "I was delighted to work with Adam Jogee MP to bring together business leaders and stakeholders at Keele University for our Intertrade UK event.

"We're gathering evidence directly from businesses about the real-world challenges and opportunities for Great Britain-Northern Ireland trade which will inform our ongoing advice to the UK Government."

Held at Keele Business School, a roundtable examined practical challenges facing companies trading between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, including costs, delays and administrative burdens.

Participants also discussed opportunities to strengthen supply-chain relationships, develop new markets and identify changes that could support businesses trading across the UK.

The discussions will help inform Intertrade UK's ongoing advice to the UK Government, drawing on direct feedback from businesses about their experiences and the changes that could unlock further growth.

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Krysia Dziedzic, Associate Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Impact at Keele University, said: "It was great to welcome business leaders and policymakers to Keele University for these important discussions on trade and economic growth.

"As a university with strong connections to businesses across Staffordshire and beyond, we recognise the importance of bringing people together to share expertise, explore opportunities and address challenges.

"Our role as a host for this event reflects Keele's wider contribution to the regional economy and our commitment to supporting collaboration, innovation and sustainable growth."

The roundtable was followed by a networking lunch, giving attendees further opportunities to build connections and discuss shared interests.

The event brought together representatives from a wide range of sectors, including manufacturing, ceramics, research, local government and education, alongside regional stakeholders and businesses based at Keele University Science and Innovation Park.

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