BETA-led trade mission puts export in the picture

April 21 2010

Eight companies have returned home from a successful, BETA-led export mission to the Dubai International Horse Fair, which took place from 18 to 20 March.

"British equestrian products enjoy a keen reputation for innovation, high standards and traditional value,” said British Equestrian Trade Association executive director Claire Williams. “Being part of a BETA export group brings positive recognition and strong credibility."

Atila Beyaz, managing director of Olympic Horse Feeds, was so thrilled with an order taken at last year’s show that he decided to thank the fair’s patron, Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, by presenting him with a painting of his favourite racehorse, Nashwan. "I commissioned a portrait of the horse, a twice Derby winner and an all-time favourite of Sheikh Hamdan,” said Atila. “The gift was greatly appreciated by him."

The Sheikh also featured highly in another company’s export experience when he ordered a solarium for his endurance yard from Essex-based Kylix UK. “It is being trialled at the moment, but there is talk that the Sheikh may take another dozen,” said managing director Giles Palmer. “We may also have found a dealer for our patented, plastic, safety wall, so the fair could not have turned out better for us.” 

Other companies taking part in the BETA-led trade mission were Equine Products UK, Watt to Wear, Emma Wyatt Gifts, Point Two, Racewood and HorseSource.

BETA is a UKTI-approved trade organisation. Access to funding is open to eligible BETA member and non-member companies of any size and to manufacturers, distributors and retailers.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Giles Palmer from Kylix UK

Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Michael Rae from Equine Products UK

Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Atila Beyaz from Olympic Horse Feeds