New research reveals language capabilities are a key driver for
UK SME export success
SMEs play a critical role in the UK economy, and previous research has shown a strong link between exporting and growth. For UK SMEs, a key way to generate growth is through exporting products and services to international markets.
Aston Business School researcher Ankita Tiberwal's LO-C 30 Report is the first comprehensive, UK-wide quantitative
research study investigating how language capabilities at
an organisational level can facilitate the internationalisation of UK SMEs.
The results reveal that SMEs can significantly increase their export sales, growth and profits by investing in language capabilities: by hiring people with language skills and high cultural intelligence, providing language training to existing staff and investing in professional translation services using sophisticated language technology.
SMEs making use of language capabilities are 30% more successful in exporting than those who do not.
LO-C 30 Report Summary
LO-C 30 Management Report
Aston Means Business Podcast
Listen to Dr Geoff Parkes discussing this new research by Aston Business School that proves how SMEs embracing language capabilities are 30% more successful at exporting. Also featured is Rob Mannion, founder of e-commerce platform B2B.Store, who says his business is now reaping benefits of languages investment, starting with its first overseas client in Mexico.
