Norton plays host to Govt minister

A CASTLE Doningtonbased motorcycle company has recently been visited by the international trade secretary.

Dr Liam Fox visited Norton Motorcycles to see how his department has helped unlock new export opportunities for firms in the Midlands and outlined the further support and expertise available to help them expand into markets right across the world.

Dr Fox travelled to Donington Hall, where the company is based, and met the newly announced Midlands Engine Export Champion and chief executive officer Stuart Garner.

The trade secretary saw how British motorcycles have been put firmly back on the international road map, with the firm making over 2,000 motorcycles delivered to customers across the world.

Supported through grant funding from government backed British Business Bank and Advanced Manufacturing Supply Chain Initiative, Norton Motorcycles has developed new models starting negotiations and securing agreements with Chinese and Indian manufacturers.

Dr Fox also toured Burton-on-Trent’s Swift Cut Automation, a manufacturing leader throughout Europe, the Middle East and Australia.

He said: “We want to support UK businesses large and small as they grow, and help them connect with global demand.

“Here in the Midlands, the number of exporters is continuing to thrive, with almost 30,000 businesses taking advantage of the opportunities in overseas markets.

“The UK is open for business, and success stories like Swift Cut Automation in Burton-on-Trent and Norton Motorcycles in Donington are flying the flag for British quality and expertise, bringing a boost to their local economies.”