In the wake of Brexit and COVID-19, a new and vibrant business landscape has emerged, brimming with hope and opportunities for growth and innovation. The UK has swiftly transformed into an attractive hub for businesses looking to broaden their reach and leave a lasting impact.

Are you excited to make your move into the UK? Entering with a great business plan is only the beginning. The key to long-term success is to win over the hearts and minds of British consumers. 

We have six tips to help you warm them up to your business.

1. Understand the British consumers

The first step is to find out what the British want and how you can appeal to them. While the British consumers are pessimistic about the economic outlook and rising costs, brand loyalty is on the upward trend¹. They will continue to buy good quality products and services.

Among them:

The British consumers are cautious, but there’s room to splash out². Offer high-quality goods consistently and turn happy customers into loyal ones.

2. Focus on their buying habits

To succeed in the British market, you must have a deep understanding of their buying habits. It's no secret that British consumers now prioritize experiences, ethical products, and health and wellness items over big-ticket purchases³.

Some trends you should know:

Positioning your business as ethical and eco-friendly will help you win over the British market.

3. See where they’re shopping

The UK is now among the world's largest e-commerce markets, thanks to the increasing number of people who prefer online shopping. The emergence of mobile shopping and online marketplaces has created exciting new ways for businesses to connect with customers. 

Focus on building a positive online presence and using the right strategies to reach a broader audience.

4. Survey the business environment

5. What delivery options are available in these markets?

The UK is highly competitive but friendly to businesses looking to establish themselves there. One key advantage is the clear tax system⁸, which provides transparency and predictability for companies operating within its borders.

These factors create a secure and ideal environment for your business to start, grow, and succeed.

What to expect:

UK tax systems may be alien and complex to you, so it’s best to familiarize yourself with it before you go. 

*The Group of Seven (G7) is an intergovernmental organization comprising the world's largest developed economies: France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.

6. Expand into the UK with confidence

When it comes to shipping to the UK, we’re on top of it. We have the people, infrastructure, and network to deliver what you need in good time.

We’ll also help to complete critical documents and cross-border requirements so your goods can clear UK customs smoothly. If you have an urgent delivery, we’ll deliver it within two business days, from door to door.

Find out more about shipping costs, services, and customs clearance here.
Check the procedures for importing goods into the UK here.

The UK offers your business abundant growth opportunities. Let us help you to connect your business to countless customers. Find out more about shipping to Europe.

Sources

¹ DMA, The Trends Shaping Consumer Behaviour in the UK, March 28, 2023

² Mintel, UK Economy Falls Into Recession: What Does It Mean For Consumer Spending?, Feb 16, 2024

³ Mintel, British Lifestyles Market Report2023

⁴ Mintel, Healthy, ethical and experiential: the Holy Trinity of British Consumer SpendingJuly 12, 2019

⁵ Statista, Furniture: Consumer Spending 2023

⁶ Statista, Top online stores in the UK, 2023

⁷ Department of Business and Trade, Why choose the UK, 2024

⁸ Department of Business and Trade, UK Tax and Incentives, 2024