A KITCHEN and bathroom components company has received financial help to obtain new overseas partners and export markets.

PWS Distribution, of Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, has signed up to the UK Trade and Investment Your Passport to Export Success project.

One of the first benefits PWS received was a subsidy to help produce introductory leaflets for the company.

International sales co-ordinator Karen Wilson said: "Previously we had heavy catalogues which cost a lot to send overseas. Now we can send a leaflet first to see if our products suit the customer."

PWS also received financial assistance to create display masts that can be taken to overseas trade fairs and exhibitions.

One such event in South Africa led to two new customers with several others looking at the company and its products.

The company is also in talks with customers in Poland and Bahrain.

The company's next goal is to export throughout Africa.

* More information about the Passport programme is available from the international trade team at Business Link offices