Benoy, the international, award-winning firm of Architects, Masterplanners, Interior and Graphic Designers, today announced that its Chairman, Graham Cartledge CBE DL, is currently accompanying the British Prime Minister, the Rt Hon David Cameron MP, as part of the high profile trade mission to Indonesia, Singapore, Vietnam and Malaysia.
The aim of the delegation is to promote international trade and prosperity. There will be an emphasis on Small and Medium-sized Enterprises and regional businesses and include some of the elite in British commerce and industry; just 31 businesses are represented.
During the visit, Graham has added his support to the launch of a new initiative from the UK-ASEAN Business Council (UKABC), of which he is a Board Advisory Member. ‘ASEAN Insight’ will focus on companies of all sizes, right across the UK, and the importance of Southeast Asia’s fast growing markets.
Benoy has been working in ASEAN for almost ten years, enjoying success in new sectors, diversifying its global portfolio and significantly extending its presence in the region.
“Our studios in Singapore and Malaysia are experiencing an increase in the number of enquiries and indeed new contracts. The offer of British design and heritage intertwined with local culture has been a compelling offer for almost 70 years and we are proud to see it received so well throughout ASEAN.” Graham said.
“We would like to see more British companies join us here and I look forward to working with businesses and governments across ASEAN to achieve the ambitious goals set out by UKABC – introducing the enormous mutual opportunities presented by ASEAN and helping UK companies form positive and enduring partnerships in Southeast Asia.” He added.
This exciting new programme from UKABC was launched yesterday in Jakarta during a busy day with the government’s trade mission. Along with promoting stronger UK-ASEAN business ties, the trip offers a chance to highlight the achievements Benoy has enjoyed in the region recently. Throughout the four markets being visited, as well as other Southeast Asian countries, the company’s offer of inspiring, intelligent and considerate design, supported by the unique ‘One Benoy’ ethos, continues to not merely meet clients’ expectations but exceed them.
Prime Minister David Cameron said, “Companies like Benoy are flying the flag and unlocking the economic potential of the fast growing economies of Southeast Asia for the UK. I’m delighted that they have joined me on my first trade mission of this government and I hope that we can work together to create jobs and growth.”
Whether it is working with Singapore’s Changi Airport, supporting its ambition to retain its title as ‘Number One in the World’ with the new Terminal 4, or improving Indonesia’s international cultural scene with the Ciputra Artpreneur arts complex in Jakarta, Benoy’s Team is extending its portfolio and its client base with creative design and commercially viable solutions. Most recently the firm has been appointed on a further two high-profile assignments in Vietnam and confirmed it is working on over 4 million m2 of development across Malaysia.
“We have been fortunate to be invited on several senior delegations over the years and it is clear how very valuable they are in helping a company reach potential new clients, renew relationships with previous and catch up with current,” Graham commented.
He continued, “This Southeast Asia delegation comes at a time when the region is not only a market for great design but also experiencing incredible economic growth. It is an exciting combination.”