Bartercard franchise gets a helping hand from Austrade

The Bartercard franchise , the world’s largest trade exchange, has forged a relationship with the Australian Trade Commission (Austrade ) which, it claims, will further help make exporting to Britain a real possibility for SMEs.

“Exporting is often difficult because of cost and language barriers, but the fact that Australians and Britons both speak English simplifies the process. Acute cultural differences, however, mean that trading between the countries is typically problematic,” says Bartercard International executive chairman, Wayne Sharpe. “Teaming up with Austrade has allowed Bartercard to access thriving SMEs in Australia which are looking to expand their businesses abroad.

“In return, as these businesses become Bartercard members, they will have access to a database of more than 4,000 UK businesses with which they will be able to trade. In addition, they will be able to enjoy all the usual benefits associated with being a Bartercard member.

“Austrade’s raison d’etre is to assist Australian companies to trade successfully with overseas companies by reducing the time, cost and risk involved in selecting and entering new markets. By working with Bartercard, the element of risk is taken away as they will be able to contact thousands of respected businesses in the UK as soon as they join. They will also be able to reduce cash expenses, effectively trade spare capacity or unused goods, thereby increasing their profit margins.”

In another development, the financial services franchise managing director, Andrew Federowsky, has been inducted into the International Reciprocal Trade Association (RTA) Hall of Fame. He is the Hall of Fame’s youngest inductee.