"For businesses not already in the Fortune 100, going global remains a daunting process," wrote John Rosenthal in Crain's Chicago Business. "First you need to research overseas markets; then you must line up the capital to finance an expansion; then you can tap the U.S. Small Business Administration or other governmental agencies to get the ball rolling.
 
95% of the world's population and 70% of its purchasing power is outside the United States. Yet, even in an era in which we commonly talk about a global economy, fewer than 1% of U.S. businesses export their goods or services.
 
Exports by Illinois businesses accounted for only 8.5% of gross state product in 2008, with large manufacturers like Caterpillar Inc. and Deere & Co. representing nearly half that total."
 
You are most likely familiar with the larger companies in our region which contribute to national exports. However, there is one much smaller local company that has entered the world of exports and already reaping the benefits.
 
Quincy-based Spin Screed, Inc. manufactures the world's lightest weight power roller screed used in a variety of concrete applications. The company was recently presented with an Export Achievement Certificate from the U.S. Commercial Service - Peoria office. Spin Screed now serves customers in more than 11 countries including Australia, Canada, Croatia, France, Mexico and South Africa.
 
One of their latest projects is part of a $1.9 billion, 10-lane bridge in Vancouver, B.C. The development company selected Spin Screed to level the top of the precast bridge deck sections that they are using to build the bridge.
 
"We feel honored and proud that this group has selected Spin Screed for their big job," said Marlene Churchill co-owner/founder of the company.
 
Spin Screed's entry into the new markets was a direct result of assistance provided by two of GREDF's partners, the U.S. Commercial Service Export Assistance Center and the Illinois Trade Center, both located at Bradley University in Peoria.
 
Since 1989, the programs have helped hundreds of Illinois companies take advantage of the potential of the international marketplace. Working together, more than 500 companies have expanded their export sales by more than $400 million.

 

GREDF looks forward to continuing to partner with the Export Assistance Center and Illinois Trade Center at Bradley University in order to assist our regional businesses with their international growth.