Business editor Robin Johnson profiles some of the companies that have so far registered for the International Trade Award category, sponsored by PKF Cooper Parry.

PERHAPS some of our strongest companies are those that are not just successful in the UK but also overseas.

During the recession, many companies turned to overseas markets as a way of increasing sales - and for some it has reaped dividends.

Getting started in exports can be a complex process but many companies have found that, in the long run, it can be worth the effort.

Derby is home to a number of companies whose products and expertise are in demand the world over - and as a result, we have a number of exporting success stories, which the International Trade Award aims to celebrate.

This award will reward an organisation that has generated substantial and sustained increases in export activity.

The judges will be tasked with considering all aspects of the company, looking at their unique offering and business approach, as well as the level of international trade achieved and the measurable financial results of this.

British brands are respected throughout the world - none more so than Norton Motorcycles.

But not so long ago, Norton was a name that had virtually disappeared, despite a long and distinguished history.

It was businessman Stuart Garner who reinvented this famous brand, bringing it back from the US to the UK.

Under his stewardship, Norton bikes started to be made in a factory at Donington Park. The popularity of Norton grew and sales soared - not just in the UK, but around the world, where the company has developed a network of dealers.

Such has been its growth, last year the company took over Donington Hall - the former home of the airline BMI - where it makes bikes for export.

Another firm whose machines have a global reputation is Dennis Mowers, based at Kirk Langley.

This summer, the results of its handiwork will be witnessed by a television audience of billions as it has supplied machines to cut the grass on pitches that will be used at the World Cup in Brazil.

The contract with FIFA will see the company's mowers used not only at the 12 stadiums that will host the matches but also on the training pitches.

The company has also provided mowers for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and European Championships held in Austria and Switzerland in 2008 and in Ukraine and Poland last year.

Other companies that have registered to enter the International Trade Award category include Tecquipment, Silver Pride Software, CS Regulatory, Labosport, Bretby Gammatech, MasterMover and Cullum Detuners.

The finalists and winner for this award will be decided by the category sponsor - PKF Cooper Parry.

Peter Sterling, partner at the firm, said: "We felt it was very relevant for us to be backing the international trade award as we are firmly committed to supporting our clients as they expand overseas.

"As a business which prides itself on its global capability as well as its presence in the Midlands, we were very keen to get involved in this exciting initiative.

"We are proud to be part of an event which will celebrate Derby businesses which have achieved international success and wish all involved the very best of luck."

Do you think your business has what it takes to win the International Trade Award? Visit www.derbytelegraph businessawards.co.uk to enter. The closing date for entries is Friday.