UPS survey reveals exporter confidence

A UPS-commissioned survey has revealed that SME exporters are confident about their companies’ futures, especially when it comes to international sales. In the Business Monitor United States survey, 85% of those interviewed said the economy was their top concern, far exceeding their worries about any other issue. However, most respondents indicated they remained positive about their businesses and their international sales opportunities. More than three-quarters (78%) said they were confident international sales leads would materialise.

“Entrepreneurs who export are self-assured, adaptable and resilient so it doesn’t surprise me that the survey shows exporters are confident about meeting their business goals,” said Laurel Delaney, owner of small-business consulting firm Global Trade Source.

The survey found that most SME businesses (61%) that had expanded into foreign markets did so with a sound plan. And, exporters are quick to learn about the in’s and out’s of exporting; more than half (53%) said they do not find the process of exporting frustrating. However, those who were newer to exporting said documentation and customs requirements were the biggest barriers to expansion.

“Talking to current exporters reveals that for many small businesses, the most difficult thing about exporting is just getting started,” said Dan Brutto, president, UPS International. “But with the administration’s new export initiative, there’s never been a better time for small businesses to give exporting a try. The right partner can serve as a bridge to help businesses ease into global trade and, in turn, find new revenue streams.”