Go Global with Your Services
“The export market for service-based businesses is huge... so make the most of the free help on offer and get in touch.”
– Keely Hancox, Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce
What is Service Export?
Service export means selling your expertise to clients beyond UK borders. Unlike physical products, services are often delivered digitally, making them an ideal fit for international trade in today’s connected world.
It’s a growing opportunity and one the UK is already excelling in. According to the UK Trade Strategy, the country exported £508 billion worth of services in 2024, outpacing even its goods exports. Yet many service-led SMEs are still unsure how to get started.
“Sometimes, when we think of exports, we think of containers being shipped around the world,” adds Keely Hancox.
“But here in the UK, and especially in the West Midlands, we’ve got an incredible service sector, from digital & creative through to legal and professional.”
What Kinds of Services Can Be Exported?
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IT and Software Development
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Financial and Legal Consulting
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Education and Training
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Architecture and Engineering
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Creative Services (Design, Marketing, Media)
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Tourism and Hospitality
Whether you’re a solo consultant or a scaling firm, if your service can be delivered remotely or adapted to a new market, it has export potential.
Why Export Services?
Exporting isn’t just for products. The service sector plays a critical role in the UK’s economy and offers major opportunities for businesses of all sizes to grow.
Financial Benefits
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Increased Revenue: Tap into global markets for more clients and higher income.
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Foreign Exchange Earnings: Earn in foreign currency, boosting national economic strength.
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Scalability: Digital delivery allows fast growth without heavy infrastructure.
Trade & Economic Advantages
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Diversification: Reduce dependence on domestic demand.
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Global Competitiveness: Drive innovation and quality.
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Job Creation: Generate employment in high-skill industries.
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Trade Relations: Strengthen international partnerships and reputation.
Top 5 Benefits of Exporting Services
| Benefit | What It Means |
|---|---|
| 💰 Boost Revenue | Tap into international markets with high demand. |
| 🌍 Expand Reach | Serve clients from across the globe, 24/7. |
| 📈 Scale Easily | Digital services can grow quickly with low overhead. |
| 🤝 Build Partnerships | Forge strong global business connections. |
| 🧠 Stay Competitive | Keep innovating and improving to meet global standards. |
Success Stories: Local Talent, Global Reach
From local start-ups to established consultancies, West Midlands businesses are proving that service exports work.
Take SLT Media Limited, a Coventry-based marketing consultancy now thriving overseas thanks to the support of Exporting Starts Here.
“Exporting services is like future-proofing your business. You're no longer limited to a single market—you're opening the door to global opportunity,” says Paulina Patrykowska, SLT Media Founder and CEO.
“Thanks to Exporting Starts Here, I gained the confidence, knowledge, and structure I needed to take that leap. Now I’m building international connections that will grow our business for years to come.”
You Don’t Have to Go It Alone: Expert Support is Available
Exporting Starts Here is a fully funded export support programme tailored for West Midlands businesses.
Whether you’re exploring new markets or exporting for the first time, this initiative delivers:
- 1-to-1 expert guidance
- Workshops and training
- Peer networking opportunities
- Market intelligence and strategy
*Provided by Business Growth West Midlands (BGWM), the project is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), and delivered by Coventry & Warwickshire, Black Country, and Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.
