HMG Paints

John Falder is the Managing Director of HMG Paints, a paint manufacturer based in Manchester. A family business, HMG Paints supplies paints, specialist coatings and powder coatings to businesses in a variety of different sectors. HMG Paints has been around for 80 years and John is supporting the Get Britain Trading campaign because he believes that small businesses can beat the recession by working together. We asked John some questions about how he thinks firms can achieve this.

Why have you joined the Get Britain Trading campaign?
"I believe that that the UK has some of the best talent, brains and ability in the world and many of the talented people work within small and medium-sized businesses. HMG isn't a large firm but, despite this fact, we punch above our weight and constantly win contracts against big multinational firms. I believe that by working together small and medium-sized businesses can beat the recession, resulting in a benefit for both business and consumers. I hope that the Get Britain Trading campaign will help to galvanise the country and its small businesses".

What is your key message to the Government?
"I would like the Government to realise the potential of SMEs and, in particular, family businesses. They are vital to this country. I want the Government to offer incentives, including tax incentives, and more funding to help small businesses and the economy grow".

Do you have any Get Britain Trading advice for other businesses?
"I would strongly advise firms to look overseas and consider the potential benefits of exporting. You may think that your business model isn't suited to exporting on an international scale but remember, it's not just the physical product you can export, services can be exported too. HMG Paints has recently created a joint venture in India which is aiming for a sales turnover of £13.4 million over the next five years. There's definitely potential for growth out there!"

How is your business helping to Get Britain Trading?
"We're working with the UK India Business Council to help guide other companies in dealing with the Indian market and we're also helping some small businesses to start up".