Home / Success stories / Ritchey PLC
Project part-financed by the European Union
In what are arguably some of the toughest times the agricultural sector has faced in recent years, a North Yorkshire manufacturing firm is planning for significant future growth.
From pigs to oilrigs and horses to helicopters - the identification products manufactured by Ritchey plc at its Masham factory have a diverse range of agricultural and industrial applications. The firm has built an enviable reputation in the UK and, in recent months, has made significant strides into international markets with support from UK Trade & Investment (UKTI).
Sales and marketing director Gordon Fabretti attributes the firm’s success to its positive mindset and quality products, but also acknowledges the role UK Trade & Investment has played, over the last 18 months in particular:
“We’ve been exporting for more than 20 years, but 18 months ago decided it was time to take a more focused approach to international trade,” says Gordon. “That’s when I contacted UKTI to talk about taking things forward”.
“We’re a busy company and it’s very easy to get caught up in the day-to-day running of the business. It was great to have someone objective who could help us stop, take a step back and really focus on what we wanted to achieve.
“UKTI - and Malcolm Blackwell in particular - have given us some terrific support and advice. Malcolm put us in touch with a dedicated export adviser and, with his help, we pulled together a business plan, set objectives and a twelve-month programme of activity. Through UKTI’s Passport to Export scheme he also helped us access financial support that enabled us to visit target markets - a tremendously valuable exercise.”
The export plan was finalised in July and already it is paying dividends. Says Malcolm Blackwell, International Trade Team Leader: “In July, Ritchey identified Spain, France, Italy and Hungary as primary targets. Already the first new orders have come in from Spain and Hungary; they’re expecting a significant order from France early in the New Year and have generated great leads from a major dairy show in Italy. It’s all looking very positive, and I’m delighted their hard work is paying off”.
