In the countdown to the IOE’s third Queen’s Award for Enterprise International Trade Gala dinner on September 24, it’s tremendous to hear about the powerful success stories of the winning companies.

One such example is procurement and export specialist Gapuma which operates out of offices across four continents and secured the esteemed Queen’s Award for Enterprise in 2013 for its outstanding achievement in International Trade.

Employing 100 staff worldwide, Gapuma sources and delivers speciality chemicals, pharmaceuticals, polymers and steel to 30 countries in the Sub Sahara and Africa. Procuring for the government, non-government and voluntary sectors, the company is also seeking to penetrate new markets including oil and gas.

The business, which received the IOE’s corporate membership as a prize for achieving the Queen’s Award, has benefited immensely from the IOE’s expertise.

Shahab Mossavat, head of MarComms at Gapuma, says: “The IOE plays a critical role in equipping companies with the skills and qualifications to broaden their export horizons and we’ve take on an apprentice who is currently undertaking the Institute’s Certificate in International Trade. We’d highly recommend that more companies harness the wealth of support and opportunities provided by the Institute.”

Scooping the Queen’s Award, has had a substantial impact on Gapuma’s growth and reputation.

Adds Shahab: “What is most noticeable is how we are received. Winning a Queen’s Award has been a wonderful calling card. The award has catapulted our business to unprecedented levels as we’ve developed from a small to a medium sized business. Gapuma enjoys significant commercial success and is perceived and received in a different way.

“We pride ourselves on our quality driven ethos and integrity – treating our customers and suppliers ethically. Working in Ghana and Nigeria is challenging but we have succeeded and been there for 20 years providing employment, financial and moral support as well as helping our teams to raise their aspirations.”

Since winning the award, Gapuma’s representatives are regularly invited to participate in overseas government led trips, meeting with London Mayor Boris Johnson and being featured in the national and international press.

For more information about the IOE’s courses please visit www.export.org.uk

Also please visit our website for more information on the IOE’s business membership, training and qualifications or contact us if you have any questions.