North East Mayor Kim McGuinness is backing regional businesses as she continues her first trade mission in Japan.
The region’s trade mission has seen the Mayor meet with well-known names like Hitachi and Nissan, but also companies spanning green energy, shipping, solar technology, gaming and the music industry.
The Mayor has been championing North East firms including Seaham-based solar technology company Power Roll and marine insurance company NorthStandard which has offices in Newcastle and Toyko.
North East Mayor 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.
“But alongside creating more skilled jobs, we have been working hard to attract investment and showcase our fantastic export firms.
“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. 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.
“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.”
Neil Spann, CEO of Power Roll, said: "We are delighted to see Mayor Kim McGuinness championing green innovation from the North East of England during her visit to Japan. This is an important step as Japan aims to lead the world in next-generation solar technologies, targeting 20 GW of perovskite solar by 2040. At Power Roll, we are proud to be at the forefront of solar innovation with our patented, lightweight, and flexible solar film, and we are committed to expanding our partnerships in Japan.
“We were pleased to virtually join a meeting with the Mayor and Tokyo Gas to discuss how our breakthrough technology can be scaled to meet Japan’s ambitious goals. Tokyo Gas clearly recognises the huge potential of low-cost solar solutions, and we look forward to continuing this collaboration. This partnership not only accelerates the adoption of green technology in Japan, but also demonstrates how innovation from the North East can drive global progress toward net zero."
Paul Jennings, Managing Director, NorthStandard, said: “NorthStandard’s Tokyo team were delighted to host Kim McGuinness, the North East mayor, at our office earlier this week.
“The visit was a fantastic opportunity to discuss the global shipping industry and the important role that North East businesses play in international trade. At NorthStandard, we’re proud to represent the region on a global stage and continue driving conversations that shape the future of maritime.”
Earlier this week the Mayor announced she has signed two new deals with Hitachi, one to support the transformation of the region’s transport network as the region as she looks to make all buses zero emission over the next decade and another to create a green energy hub alongside Port of Tyne which will boost jobs.
Matt Beeton, CEO of the Port of Tyne, said: "Being part of the North East's first trade mission to Japan was a real privilege.
“Our region has huge potential and, whether it’s smart ports, energy transition or low-carbon logistics, the Port of Tyne will help spearhead developments in these key areas in the years ahead.
“Harnessing Hitachi's world-class expertise to create a future fuels hub is tremendously exciting for the region, as we strengthen our thriving North Sea freight and passenger connections."
John McCabe, chief executive of the North East Chamber of Commerce added: “Mayor McGuinness’s mission to Japan powerfully reinforces the ambition at the heart of our policy plan 'Unlocking the North East Economy'.
“By showcasing world-class companies like Port of Tyne, Hitachi, NorthStandard and Power Roll from the North East, the Mayor is helping to open new markets, attract long-term investment and strengthen the global profile of our region’s innovation economy. This is exactly the kind of place-based, outward-looking leadership that will accelerate growth, create quality jobs and ensure the North East is recognised internationally as a hub for green energy, advanced manufacturing and maritime expertise.
“The Chamber strongly welcomes this work and continues to back efforts helping our businesses thrive and sustainably and inclusively grow on the global stage.”