Hove retailer flies high after securing place on New York trade mission

A Hove based retailer is hoping to take its business sky high after securing a place on the prestigious ‘Great British Design in New York’ market visit to New York (30 Jan – 3 Feb).

Jin Designs, which designs and produces high quality home and giftware, will participate in the apprentice-style market visit this week arranged by low-cost airline Norwegian and UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) South East.

Under the theme ‘Great British Design in New York’ Jin Designs will join nine other leading small businesses as they travel to New York to exhibit at ‘NY NOW’– the leading trade show for home, gift and lifestyle retailers. During the five-day trip the businesses will also meet leading retail buyers and attend a briefing at the British Consulate to gain insight into the competitive market.

The U.S. is already one of the South East’s top exporting market, having expanded by a massive 55% to £8.1 billion in the year ending September 2015 – and Jin Designs is hoping to become part of that success story with its unique British designs.

Jinny Ursell said:

“We are really excited at the opportunities this trip can deliver for our business and by the support provided by UKTI to understand the market. It’s going to be a real voyage of discovery in many ways – investigating routes to market, meeting US retailers and having the chance to promote Jin Designs, a British Brand in New York. It’s always been a dream to reach more global customers and now we’re presented with a massive opportunity.”

Jin Designs was established by Graphic Designer, Jinny Ursell, who launched her own designs on a range of products including fine bone china mugs, tea towels, coasters and purses. The business has grown rapidly over the last 2 and a half years since launch through hard work, determination and of course, a beautifully clean and simple product range. These designs are different. They feature simple objects and plenty of space.

Lewis Scott, Regional Director for the South East at UK Trade & Investment (UKTI), said:

“As well as invaluable exposure to the South East’s top exporting market the winning companies will receive intensive support, guidance and contacts from UKTI South East International Trade Advisers and commercial staff from UKTI’s New York Trade Office.

“Economic research consistently shows companies who export perform better than those who don’t. The ease of international travel, to meet overseas partners and customers face to face, is a key ingredient for South East businesses to fulfil their potential. My message to other companies who are already exporting, want to expand into new markets, or those that are completely new to exporting, is loud and clear: UKTI can help, wants to help and is ready and waiting to set you on your way.”