Following the second successful year of the FedEx Small Business Grant competition, at Sp!der we were tasked with organising an exclusive event for successful entrepreneurs at an iconic London location. Having managed the competition for two consecutive years in the UK and across Europe in 2017, we were thrilled to help!
To mark the occasion, we hosted a special panel networking and workshop session for FedEx Express at The Gherkin, aiming to discuss SME strategies for international success.
The afternoon began with networking on level 38 of the Gherkin, overlooking the London skyline. Providing an overview of the UK SME landscape, emerging trends and opportunities, David Prosser, the leading national business journalist, was the voice of the SME community, looking at the qualities of successful entrepreneurs and current market trends.
At the same time, Martin Davidian, Managing Director Sales, UK West & Ireland, FedEx Express, spoke about the logistical side of every successful business and new opportunities with the rise of ecommerce and m-commerce.
Successful entrepreneur Paul Jobin, delved deeper into his business journey and lessons learned along the way. In fact, it was while he was working for one of Britain’s oldest audiology companies that the idea for Snugs was born. Paul realised the huge market of 3bn smartphone users which he could tap into, with these users often demanding a listening experience as they go about their busy lives. The company’s non-invasive, biometric 3D scans have crafted a completely personalised product and it now has a foothold in many international markets, including the USA and Singapore.
The event provided a platform for discussion, inspiring competition entrants to strengthen their international presence and explore global opportunities. Everyone had a great time and it was interesting to find out more about each business in attendance.
All too often access to vital funding can be a stumbling block for ambitious entrepreneurs, so it is great to see how large organisations such as FedEx Express are continually supporting smaller players in an evolving landscape.
