World Trade Centre’s waterfront home is open for business

World Trade Centre Hull & Humber opens its new waterfront home today and is set to play a leading role in the region’s economic future.

Although the emphasis will be on international trade, the centre’s services and facilities can also benefit businesses not involved in overseas markets.

The business community is being invited to find out what is on offer by contacting staff at the centre and taking part in tours.

Since gaining a licence from the World Trade Centre Association, partners of World Trade Centre Hull & Humber have been working together to offer the region an exemplary facility, bringing the best of international trade services under one roof.

The decision to run the centre from One Humber Quays, has enabled it to become part of the city’s award winning new waterfront business district. The meeting and conference space has been designed to provide an unrivalled resource for local companies.

The centre boasts an executive business lounge with Wi-fi internet access, contemporary waterfront meeting rooms with access to the latest technology, video and telephone conferencing facilities, hot desks for hire, and an international business library.

Services by partners in the project, Hull and Humber Chamber of Commerce, University of Hull Knowledge Exchange and UK Trade and Investment, include free and impartial advice on exporting, logistics, access to financial assistance, academic expertise and technology, consultancy and language translation. Secretarial services are also available.

Tony Howard, chair of World Trade Centre Hull & Humber and economic development director of Hull Forward, welcomed the opening and said that the importance of international trade to the region was widely recognised. “It says a lot about the area’s potential and drive for economic growth that so many organisations have united and achieved this for the city and Humber region.

“Accessing the global network of more than 300 World Trade Centres, Hull and Humber will be in a much better position to compete. As well as raising our international profile, the region will be seen as a place that is ambitious and well coordinated to attract new business.”

Andy Mowbray, World Trade Centre manager, said: “We are here to assist our region in trading overseas and to promote the region to international companies, building on our existing strengths and creating new opportunities.

“This world class facility, however, should be seen as a resource for all local and regional businesses, even those not involved in overseas trade. The meeting and conference spaces are available for hire for the benefit of all.”

Mr Mowbray said that membership of the centre would provide many additional advantages, including access to the 750,000 companies that are members of the World Trade Centre Association network, exclusive and discounted access to a number of the facilities as well.

Local and regional business people who would like to be view World Trade Centre Hull & Humber are being asked to contact World Trade Centre team on 01482 485200, racheal.damen@wtchumber.com