There was a true sense of collaboration, positivity and a genuine desire to connect, network and look hard for ways in which we could all do business with each other.
Encouragingly, there was a keen focus on all things renewable, with significant representation on the trip from leading clean energy and sustainability focused businesses in the Northwest.
The trip was superbly well organised by the Department for International Trade (DIT) – we were warmly welcomed and hosted by the generous people at Tourism Ireland on the first evening at the Guinness Storehouse (fascinating history!).
We moved on to the main event on Day Two, being joined by UK Export Minister, Mike Freer MP, Mayor of Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Steve Rotherham and Mayor of Greater Manchester Combined Authority Andy Burnham. So encouraging to hear of the collaborative and connected efforts to grow trade across our three cities.
The next port of call was an evening reception being hosted by the British and Irish Trading Alliance, taking place at Harris Group where we had the opportunity to view their latest fleet of 100% electric vehicles.
Day Three was hosted by John Sisk & Son Ltd and was wrapped up with a fascinating visit to the Wilton Park site, soon to be the European Headquarters to LinkedIn and home to 5,000 of their team – an impressive campus!
The trade mission was a resounding success – none of which could have been possible without the sterling efforts of the DIT. A huge thanks to you all – until the next time…