Fugenex

Italian Job for Hull Firm

Hull-based Fugenex is about to move into the Italian market after visiting Italy and shortlisting a number of Milan-based distributors to take their products further.

International Trade Adviser Mike Hayes suggested that Fugenex undertook UKTI’s Overseas Market Introduction Service (OMIS) with the aim of identifying potential Agents in Italy.

OMIS puts companies directly in touch with staff in overseas offices, giving access to the best country-specific business advice, as well as support during visits overseas.

Fugenex offers a range of innovative sensors which react to (negative) environmental and material alterations by a change in colour, thereby pointing out likely problems. This could be the presence of Dry Rot in timber and masonry, high humidity in the wall, or too high relative humidity in a room where expensive artifacts are kept.

Richard Stott, Managing Director of Fugenex said: “We knew our products had pan-European interest, but realised there were huge barriers in certain markets such as Italy and we had no idea how to enter the Italian market.

“Our first point of contact was Mike Hayes, who has great industry experience and he has mentored us through the process. The British Consulate General in Milan was very helpful from start to finish, arranging everything from hotels to translation at meetings. The service we received, including translating during the meetings and rescheduling appointments at short notice was superb and our experience of UK Trade & Investment has been excellent!”.

Trade Assistant Rosy Alesi at the British Consulate General in Milan says: “It is always encouraging to work with UK companies who understand that our role is to offer independent assistance and advice on the local market and it was a real pleasure to see Fugenex take action so quickly and effectively. Their attitude right from the start proved to be positive and constructive and facilitated progress in the market.”

Mike Hayes adds: “Good communication and close working between the company and the overseas Post is the secret to success in the OMIS process, and as a result Fugenex hope to appoint an Italian distributor in the very near future.”