Fresh from winning the 2026 Manufacturing – Trade Impact Award at the House of Lords in June, John Pipe International is inviting UK manufacturers and customers to Exporting Made Simple – an afternoon of practical export insight, expert guidance and genuinely useful connections at St Mary’s Stadium, Southampton, on Tuesday 13 October 2026.

The premise of the afternoon is straightforward: exporting need not be a barrier to growth. For many manufacturers, overseas sales stall not through a lack of demand, but because documentation requirements, packing standards and compliance obligations appear disproportionate to the opportunity. This event sets out how manageable the process becomes with the right specialist support in place – and where that support can be found.

The afternoon brings UK manufacturers together with international trade experts, offering practical advice and inspiration whether you’re already shipping worldwide or weighing up your first overseas order. It’s also our 65th anniversary year, and we’d be delighted if you’d help us mark it.

Who you’ll hear from

Lord Mayor, Councillor Patricia Evemy Southampton’s 804th Mayor and fifth Lord Mayor, appointed on 20 May 2026 and also serving as Honorary Admiral of the Port. The Lord Mayor’s presence reflects how central international trade is to Southampton’s business community, and the Council’s ambition to grow exports and strengthen the city’s standing as a leading global trading port.

Marco Forgione MCIEx, Director General, The Chartered Institute of Export & International Trade Marco leads the Chartered Institute, supporting businesses with trade knowledge, customs expertise and practical export guidance. He is widely recognised for his insight into global trade, supply chains and the opportunities that exporting opens up for UK businesses. The Chartered Institute is also the body behind the House of Lords award John Pipe International received in June.

Representatives from the Armed Forces will join us on the day, alongside other dignitaries and special guests.

How to book

Spaces are limited and booking is by email. Email sales@johnpipe.co.uk with your name, company and the number of places you’d like, and we’ll confirm your booking.

Places are limited and RSVP is required.

Exporting Made Simple

• Date: Tuesday 13 October 2026
• Time: 2:00pm – 4:00pm
• Venue: St Mary’s Stadium, Britannia Road, Southampton SO14 5FP
• Cost: Free to attend – spaces are limited
• Hosted by: John Pipe International

Email us to book your place