A NEW North Manchester Export Network is to be launched this Autumn to help local companies develop their international trade.

It is being formed by the four North Manchester Chambers of Commerce -- Bolton and Bury, Oldham, Rochdale and Wigan -- and Business Link North Manchester.

The Export Network will succeed Bolton Bury Export Club, which was set up in 1993 by the former Bolton and Bury training and Enterprise Council following a fruitful conversation between Chairman Peter Weidenbaum of Bury based Trumeter and the former Employment Minister Michael Howard, during a visit to the area.

It will be modelled on the successful Bolton Bury organisation, which offered local businesses an opportunity to exchange ideas, opinions and best practice, and to learn from experts at a series of seminars and clinics. By extending the focus to the whole North Manchester region, the new organisation will boost networking opportunities and will increase the possibilities for companies wishing to create specialist interest groups within the network.

A range of topical events will be supported by a dedicated website, which members can use to keep up to date on the latest news, advice, business opportunities and training programmes.

A Network Coordinator will be appointed to manage the new club, which will be led by a steering group comprising local businesses and representatives from the four Chambers and Business Link.

Further details of the inaugural Autumn events will be published soon.

For further information contact Kay Gregson on 01204 374668 or Charles Jacobson on 0161-615 5019.