As part of its ambition to grow internationally, the business was selected to attend a prestigious jewellery showcase by Precious Room in Paris at Palais Vivienne. While this presented a valuable opportunity to raise brand awareness and connect with new audiences, the business recognised that it required specialist support to prepare for international activity. In particular, Harle Paris needed guidance on intellectual property protection when operating overseas, support with an ATA Carnet to transport jewellery samples, and trusted in-market connections to provide local insight and on-the-ground assistance during the two-day showcase.
Harle Paris joined the Business Growth West Midlands (BGWM) Exporting Starts Here programme to access tailored, one-to-one export advice. Their dedicated advisor, Avalon Maison, worked closely with the business to address these challenges and ensure they were well prepared to engage internationally.
A key area of support focused on intellectual property, specifically trademark protection. The advisor provided guidance on the European trademark system, explaining how trademark classifications work, which classes were relevant to Harle Paris, and the costs associated with registering a European trademark. International trademark checks were conducted across Europe to identify any potential conflicts, resulting in one possible clash being flagged. To ensure the business could take informed next steps, Harle Paris was introduced to a specialist trademark attorney for further advice.
In addition, the advisor supported Harle Paris with ATA Carnet considerations, enabling the business to temporarily export jewellery samples for the Paris showcase. To strengthen their presence on the ground, the advisor also connected Harle Paris with a representative from the Paris Chamber of Commerce. This local support proved invaluable during the event, assisting with communication with attendees, facilitating introductions, and providing insight into the French jewellery sector from a locally based perspective.
As a result of the support received, Harle Paris now has a clear understanding of the European trademark registration process and associated cost considerations. The business successfully showcased its jewellery in Paris, developed new international contacts, and gained credible insight into the French market. Through the extended Chamber network, Harle Paris has also established ongoing overseas connections that will support future international activity.
Reflecting on the experience, Anson Law, Director of Harle Paris Ltd, said:
“Exhibiting in Paris as an export-ready British jewellery maison was a defining moment for me as a new-generation designer who began her journey in Great Britain. Representing the craftsmanship of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter with integrity on an international stage was both an honour and a responsibility.
“The Exporting Starts Here Programme provided the strategic guidance and reassurance needed to ensure every detail, from compliance to presentation, reflected the level of craftsmanship, professionalism, and innovation that we stand for as a modern British maison.
“By leveraging specialist export support, the maison strengthened its operational framework and confidently represented Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter craftsmanship in Paris. Exhibiting as an export-ready British jewellery maison was a defining moment in my journey as a new-generation designer, both an honour and a responsibility.”
David Zell, WMCA’s Assistant Delivery Manager – Business Programmes, added: “The Export Support Programme, run by Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, on behalf of BGWM and WMCA, is a fantastic programme offering free, in-depth, subject-specific expertise support to businesses within the West Midlands, enabling them to grow their potential through international exporting channels.
“The team are incredibly supportive, knowledgeable and driven to ensure that businesses can thrive and grow off the support that is on offer. The programme is 100 per cent committed to achieving success – and is one not to be missed.”
Harle Paris’s story highlights the impact of the Exporting Starts Here programme by demonstrating how tailored advice, practical support, and access to a trusted international network can help businesses take confident steps into overseas markets.
Ready to take your business global? With expert guidance, resources, and a supportive network, the Exporting Starts Here programme is your opportunity to expand internationally. Resister your interest today at Exporting Starts Here | Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and start your export journey.
*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.
