Beyond Borders: Northern Entrepreneurs Expanding into Europe

From the textile mills of Lancashire to the digital hubs of Manchester and Leeds, northern England has long been home to enterprising minds and innovative businesses. Now, a growing number of these entrepreneurs are looking beyond the UK’s borders, seizing fresh opportunities across the European continent. Whether in manufacturing, engineering, retail or the arts, businesses based in the North are proving that distance is no barrier to success.

Embracing Europe’s Opportunities

Post-Brexit challenges have not deterred northern firms from looking outward. In fact, for many, the shake-up has encouraged a new wave of international ambition. European countries like Germany, the Netherlands, France and Switzerland offer vibrant markets, established infrastructure and a strong appetite for British goods and services.

Businesses are finding that expanding into Europe helps to diversify their client base, improve resilience and increase revenue. With demand for quality British manufacturing, specialist engineering, and artisan products still strong, the continent presents fertile ground for northern brands with something fresh to offer.

Real Growth, Real Benefits

Businesses across the north are already feeling the benefits of European expansion. Exporting to the continent can lead to greater economies of scale, better margins, and stronger brand recognition beyond the UK. In some cases, having a presence in Europe even supports investment and recruitment, opening the door to new partnerships and skills.

A clear example of the strong trading relationship between the UK and Europe is Switzerland, one of the continent’s most stable and prosperous economies. In the four quarters to the end of Q3 2024, total trade in goods and services between the United Kingdom and Switzerland reached £45.5 billion, underlining the depth of commercial ties. One example is a Sheffield-based precision engineering company that recently began supplying custom components to firms in Switzerland’s thriving manufacturing sector. By partnering with trusted logistics providers specialising in freight to Switzerland, the company has been able to ensure reliable delivery times and maintain high service standards for its European clients. Another is a Yorkshire homeware brand that has successfully expanded its sustainable kitchenware products into markets in Germany and the Netherlands, responding to growing European demand for eco-conscious goods.

Meanwhile, independent art galleries in Manchester and Leeds are increasingly selling pieces to collectors and exhibiting in France and Italy. Specialist freight solutions, tailored to the delicate handling of art and antiques, have enabled these cultural exports to flourish.

These success stories highlight the broad range of northern enterprises that are making their mark across Europe and the real-world impact that expansion can bring.

The Role of Reliable Freight Services

Expansion into Europe would not be possible without efficient logistics and specialist freight services. Northern businesses rely on trusted partners to transport goods safely and quickly across borders, ensuring a smooth supply chain from production to customer delivery.

For instance, freight solutions to Switzerland, though outside the EU, remain seamless thanks to expert management of customs documentation and procedures. Whether transporting precision-engineered parts, fashion items, or fine art, tailored freight options help businesses minimise delays and maintain service quality abroad.

In particular, art freight services are seeing growing demand. Fine art, antiques and sculptures created by northern artists are being shipped to European exhibitions with the highest standards of care. From climate-controlled transport to bespoke crating and white-glove delivery, specialist freight ensures that valuable pieces arrive safely and securely, helping northern creativity reach new international audiences.

Inspiring Confidence Post-Brexit

While Brexit introduced new administrative steps for exporters, it has not diminished the appetite among northern entrepreneurs to reach new customers. Instead, businesses are adapting. Many have built partnerships with EU-based distributors, invested in multilingual teams, and participated in European trade fairs to raise their visibility.

Support services such as customs brokerage, freight consultancy, and trade advice have made it easier for SMEs to enter European markets confidently. As a result, a growing number of northern businesses are finding that the rewards of international expansion far outweigh the challenges.

Looking Ahead

As global trade continues to evolve, northern entrepreneurs are showing resilience, ambition and vision. They are expanding their horizons, strengthening ties with European customers and helping to raise the profile of northern England on the international stage.

From Sheffield to Stuttgart, Blackburn to Brussels, and Newcastle to Nice, the North is going places. And Europe is ready to welcome it.