In November 2018, World Trade Center Savannah (WTCSav) led a delegation of businesses from the Coastal Georgia region to Southeast Ireland to explore business development and trade opportunities as part of the Wex-Sav TradeBridge program. Representatives from Georgia Southern University, Ghost Coast Distillery, Savannah Bee Company and Wet Willie’s traveled to Wexford County, Ireland in the next step of the TradeBridge initiative.
“These Georgia companies found a warm reception and Irish businesses motivated to pursue mutually beneficial business,” remarked Trey Rossiter, TradeBridge Business and Trade Development Advisor. “The commitment to economic development from both regions was beginning to bear fruit in the deals that are underway as a result of this trade mission and last month’s inbound mission from County Wexford to Savannah.”
The participating companies gained a better understanding of the Irish markets and in some cases, a pathway to Europe through Ireland. The potential suppliers, customers, investors and partner companies were individually matched to ensure a high likelihood for compatibility and success. Actual sales were closed and distribution or partnership deals were made.
Largely spurred by the efforts of Dr. Howard Keeley, Director of The Center for Irish Research and Teaching at Georgia Southern University, connection with Wexford over the 3-5 years prior to the trip fostered a deeper understanding of the substantial historical links as well as the economic opportunities between the regions at the time.
As a result, the TradeBridge program was announced in March 2018 with the overall goal of developing a trade corridor between the Savannah region and Wexford County, Ireland and advancing the long-standing relationship between the areas.
During the trade and business development mission, the case for “Why Savannah?” was presented to almost 50 Irish business leaders and influencers. Companies in Ireland were invited to apply to join the 2019 Savannah Gateway Regional Showcase delegation in Savannah, GA, April 1-4, 2019.
Companies located in Coastal Georgia with interest in expanding their business to and through Ireland, should contact World Trade Center Savannah at info@wtcsavannah.org or by calling 912.447.9707.