UK firms shunning overseas business

Just go online, see who your competitors use, see who has complementary product lines, email the Sales Directors of suitable firms. Pick one that fits IF interested. Send data sheets and price list with discounts offered. Maybe send samples. Cost? Not a great deal. Make sure they are non exclusive, so if someone better comes along, you can hire them without hassle.
I traded with many countries - never went there, just concentrated on the big markets like USA, Japan, Germany, but 25% came from places like Oz, each being what I called a 2% territory.
Exports in 3 companies I worked for were, 65% - 80% You gave away gross margin but profit made contributed handsomely to bottom line, because home sales had already covered overhead.
At £50k more sales, that's another job in some companies, others might be £100k. Well worth the effort to help reduce unemployment. And to hell with the banks. Never borrowed. Just won the orders and got paid. All self financing. Simples!

Yes, but when did you do it Terry? Was it during the last lot's time when it appeared they were printing money in the living room of No. 10 not caring about the consequences? You are right, of course, but when most businesses are faced with banks who will not entertain even the slightest risk (try getting a mortgage, even with savings!) you cannot blame businesses for being afraid.

This is absolutely crazy. There is plenty of experience and talent out there to set up an export sales dept. Unemployed could set up as agents, go find overseas reps and get paid commission on billings.
It's far easier than you think. AND for the firm, it's almost free to do!
A few billion more export sales will transform our economy. Media and opposition whinge on, wringing their hands with nothing practical being said. Pick up this banner and run with it. I know it works. I have done it.