The Australian International Marine Export Group (AIMEX) recently held their first mentoring seminar for the year at the Aqualuma offices in Helensvale, Queensland. Open to both members and prospective members, the event brought together both new up-and-coming marine export businesses looking for more export opportunities and experienced representatives from companies who have been in the game for many years.
AIMEX CEO David Good, alongside the AIMEX Board of Directors, provided quality advice and guidance on a number of topics businesses face as they enter the global exporting market, as well as information about the different opportunities AIMEX offers their members to ensure their businesses succeed.
Stephen Vincent, Director of Austral Propellers shared first hand experiences regarding securing a distributor and the importance of building relationships with these international agents. Peter Dowdney, Australasian Sales Manager of Ronstan followed presenting on patent protection and how to establish your patent in order to ensure innovative Australian made products and services are protected.
Carl Amor, Director of Aqualuma LED Lighting then shared his company’s success story and encouraged attendance at key international tradeshows to help grow business. Sean Griffin, Consultant for GME Standard Communications discussed foreign exchange management and the risk of fluctuation in currency exchange rates and how to overcome them. David Good concluded by covering topics including marketing, leveraging FTA opportunities, optimizing grants and talked about the key international shows that AIMEX attends with Australian delegations.
Tommy Ericson, Director of Aus Ships Group, commented on the mentoring seminar stating that, “The event was an excellent opportunity for AIMEX members to catch up in a relaxed and informal setting to discuss the opportunities and challenges we all face in our respective marine businesses. It was great to see new members engaging with and learning from the experienced members who have learnt the hard way.”
Once the sessions concluded, attendees were able to stay on and enjoy drinks and a BBQ whilst having the opportunity to network with industry peers and chat to the AIMEX Board of Directors and staff about any issues or questions that weren’t already covered.
John Canaris, Director of Jacob’s Ladder Boating said “The recent AIMEX mentoring session was informative and helpful in terms of the extensive business experiences shared by the speakers. Just as helpful was the coming together of local AIMEX members giving me the opportunity to ‘connect’ and ask other members for further advice. The informal and relaxed gathering was welcoming and encouraged further relationship building. I hope these sessions will continue.”
The next export mentoring seminar is set to take place on Tuesday 13 August 2019 at the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron in Sydney.
