fbe Guest Speakers Debate Local Construction vs Going Global

Lance Taylor the CEO of Rider Levett Bucknall (RLB) and Brian Johnson the Chairman of Aedas Architects discussed the state of the global Market place and what the opportunities are for UK firms looking overseas at this morning's fbe breakfast event.
Approximately 70 delegates attended to listen to the speech which focused on Global opportunities within the built environment and where North West companies should focus moving forwards.

Lance Taylor Commented: "Going global is a great way for businesses to re-focus in the current economic climate and there are plenty of opportunities for UK companies to expand into emerging markets such as China, India and the US. By 2020, emerging markets will account for 55% of global construction and each of these markets need expertise from UK companies in order to progress.
This being said, it is important to note that any business expanding overseas should still keep a focus on their local business as the foundation of any successful company is their home brand."

The recent global situations in Libya and Japan were discussed by the fbe attendees, querying if going global was truly a stable environment to be in and what risks could be associated with it. In the following Q & A session, queries over how to get involved in global business, what it required and hints on how to work within different business cultures whilst maintaining a strong UK brand were discussed, with positive but realistic feedback given from the speakers.
The presentation was well received by the fbe delegates, who were inspired by hearing from the 2 companies who have managed to remain solid throughout the recession by being creative in their business planning and global expansion model.
fbe Guest Speakers Debate
Local Construction vs Going Global
Phil Laycock, fbe president said: "There are lots of exciting opportunities for North West companies to work overseas, but we must not forget that the Manchester region still has lots of exciting projects happening and our members are winning business, even if on a smaller scale than they were used to in the boom. With the support of Manchester City Council, developments are starting up again in the region after this stagnant period and I am optimistic that there will be plenty more going on here in 2011."