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Poland and Ukraine have spent an estimated €25bn preparing for Euro 2012, and the markets

COUNTRY FOCUS are set for UK exporters to strike ahead contributors LAWRIE HOLMES

Leading the UK’s global business plan, page 16

“It was good to talk with Nick Baird. He has had a chance to assess the size of the challenge, but also recognises the huge strengths of Britain’s unique position. Although it looks diffi cult, uncertain and dangerous out there globally, in fact this is absolutely doable, he says.”

ANDREW STONE

Exporting for growth, page 22

“In a report last month, the Confederation of British Industry said £20bn could be generated for the British economy if British SMEs built up their presence outside Europe. That’s astonishing growth that we must pursue.”

JANET TIBBLE Field of dreams, page 28 “World class sporting events have a major effect in generating business opportunities and with the Olympics and EURO 2012, this promises to be a bumper year. The international football tournament will raise the profi le of host nations Poland and Ukraine like never before.”

04 | springboard | www.ukti.gov.uk

IMAGES: GETTY IMAGES| MARK JOHNSSON | JP FROGET