North East Mayor Kim McGuinness has been promoting regional businesses during her first trade mission to Japan. The visit has involved meetings with major international companies including Hitachi and Nissan, as well as firms operating in green energy, shipping, solar technology, gaming and music.
She highlighted the role of North East organisations such as Power Roll and NorthStandard, which has offices in both Newcastle and Tokyo.
Kim McGuinness said: “We came to Japan to secure more good quality jobs for people in the North East and that’s exactly what we’ve done. Earlier this week we signed two new deals with Hitachi – one to help us make sure all local buses are zero-emission in the next decade and another to create a green energy hub with Port of Tyne.”
She said the mission has also focused on investment and trade. “But alongside creating more skilled jobs, we have been working hard to attract investment and showcase our fantastic export firms.”
The mayor referenced activity between Japanese and North East companies. “We’ve brought together one of the biggest energy companies in Japan, Tokyo Gas, with growing County Durham based start-up Power Roll who are building the next generation of solar technology that is lighter, more flexible and most cost effective.”
She added: “Tokyo Gas want to invest in tech just like this and we want to bring that investment back to the region. These opportunities will create more green jobs for our communities as we make the North East the home of the green energy revolution.”
McGuinness also noted the presence of NorthStandard in Japan. “I was also pleased to meet with the team at NorthStandard in Tokyo. The firm was founded on the banks of the Tyne and now plays a vital role in the thriving global maritime sector. I’ve met some incredible businesses during my time here and have been proud to shout about the amazing companies in our own region and the part they play in global exports.”
