SMALL businesses across Hounslow have clashed over which form of help is the most effective in helping them export, according to new research.
The research of more than 50 exporters across the borough by Parcelforce revealed Hounslow's small businesses are split over the relative merits of advice and financial assistance, in enabling companies to begin exporting their goods.
The results show that 48 per cent of small businesses favoured advice, compared to 38 per cent who think financial incentives are most useful.
In contrast, in the West Midlands, 56 per cent of small businesses favoured advice, compared to 42 per cent that are more in favour of financial incentives.
Nationally, 45 per cent of small businesses favour financial assistance, compared to 37 per cent that place a higher value on advice.
John Harrison, of the British Chambers of Commerce said: "On the one hand there is the opportunist' who will always be attracted by financial assistance.
"On the other, more "strategic thinking" businesses will always look to benefit from good quality advice.
"Our experience is that the second are always more successful."
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