- Bootle based branded clothing, mechandise & print experts have grown their business through international expansion
- Sarah Howarth, Customer Success and Commercial Director explains how they have successfully developed their export service
Bootle based Wild Thang are taking their services global thanks to expert export support. Founded in 1996 by Andrew Dwerryhouse, Wild Thang are passionate about delivering world class creative branded clothing, merchandise and print to help promote, market and create the right image for companies, organisations, teams and campaigns.
Starting as a small business with a minimal Princes Trust Loan, Wild Thang grew to a recognised brand both in the Liverpool City Region and across the UK. To continue their growth Wild Thang knew they would have to look to exporting. After a successful expansion into the Republic of Ireland which provided a gateway into Europe, they were quickly approached for more of the same in the US.
Sarah Howarth, Customer Success and Commercial Director explains:
“Having the EU expansion under our belt we moved forward with confidence establishing ourselves in the US we now have Wild Thang International LLC registered and operating in New Jersey.
“Our primary aim for this expansion is to serve our existing client base who have a global demand and need an experienced one solution provider in the field of branded clothing and merchandise.”
Throughout their export journey Wild Thang have accessed support form expert advisers at their local Chamber of Commerce and international trade advisers. They have used these contacts and networks to establish with key international contacts and further expand their export journey.
Despite their already impressive export record Wild Thang still have ambitions to grow and have plans to increase their export service over the next 12 months enabling them to produce some products in their UK manufacturing base for shipping into Europe and the US, when viable.
As a successful exporter, Sarah has advice for Liverpool City Region businesses on what is important when looking to start or grow your exporting saying:
“The key points to consider when looking to export is to listen to advice from the experts, it can be a minefield so always call on those with knowledge to help, this may cost money to do but will be money well spent. Invest in training and create shipping experts within your business. Also be aware you will make mistakes but this is all part and parcel of becoming a competent export company.
“Finally, always give yourself more time than you think you will need, exporting goods can be time consuming from an export side so be ready for the inevitable delays.”
Are you looking to start or grow your export activities?
Liverpool City Region businesses looking to start or expand their export journey can access fully funded support through our UKSPF funded export programme. Benefit from a free business diagnostic tool which will result in an export action plan, this will identify barriers, market opportunities, research needs and export funding requirements. Companies with funding requirements will be referred to the Business Growth Team for consideration for export grants that might be available up to January 2025.