January 31, 2025, marked five years since Brexit became official. For many UK businesses, international trade remains a challenge - complex, bureaucratic, and, in some cases, deeply frustrating.

A recent London School of Economics (LSE) study found that the UK lost £27 billion in trade during Brexit’s first two years, with British goods exports falling by 6.4% and total goods imports down by 3.1%. While some businesses have struggled with the shifting landscape, others have seized new opportunities beyond the EU and carved out a path to success.

One such business leader is Barry Leahey MBE, President of Playdale Playgrounds, a Made in Britain manufacturer specialising in educational play equipment. Under his leadership, the company has expanded into global markets, earning him the prestigious title of Export Leader of the Year 2024, alongside a Northern Leadership award.

With the UK government prioritising economic growth and international trade, Leahey has become a case study in how British businesses can thrive post-Brexit. Speaking to Northern Engineer, he shares five key strategies for success in the new trading environment.

1. Take Advantage of Tariff Reductions

Despite Brexit’s initial challenges, Leahey insists that the UK’s trade potential is as strong as ever.

“Thanks to the free trade agreements (FTAs) signed after Brexit, the UK’s trade potential is most definitely good - if not greater - than it was immediately after leaving the EU,” he says.

However, he acknowledges that Europe remains a crucial market, requiring patience and adaptation.

“A huge part of this potential still lies within Europe, and it will take time to maximise the new FTAs and establish successful partnerships with the EU. But perceptions are shifting: we’re finally moving beyond the transition phase, and businesses are adapting to the ‘new normal’.”

2. Expand Beyond Europe

Leahey believes businesses must be proactive in finding partners outside the EU, and he practises what he preaches.

“We take a very analytical approach at Playdale, and our decision to establish a partnership in Japan will, in time, be a major success for us,” he says.

The government has recognised Playdale’s strategic approach, using it as a model for how businesses can prepare for Brexit.

“I’m particularly proud that the Cabinet Office now uses us as a case study. Our international strategy has been key to our success, and it’s great to be in a position to help other businesses navigate post-Brexit trade.”

3. Use Every Resource to Stay Ahead

For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), one of the biggest post-Brexit hurdles is simply understanding the new regulations and logistics.

“The biggest challenge for SMEs is finding the resources to fully grasp what these changes mean for their industry,” Leahey explains.

Playdale has taken a proactive approach, tapping into government resources to ensure a smooth transition.

“We’ve made full use of the tools available to UK businesses. The biggest change has been the increased paperwork for European trade but because we were already exporting globally, we found it easier to adapt.

“We also work closely with the Department of Business and Trade and regularly attend webinars to stay informed about key developments.”

4. Maximise the Power of ‘Made in Britain’

Despite Brexit, the Made in Britain brand remains a powerful asset in international markets, and Leahey believes more businesses should leverage it.

“Great Britain has always been a strong historical brand, and that’s still true today,” he says.

“Being a Made in Britain business reassures international buyers that your products are high-quality, well-tested, and made by a skilled workforce. That reputation continues to open doors in global trade but ultimately, it’s a company’s values and business strategy that turn opportunities into success.”

5. Be Ready to Compete on a Global Scale

The international marketplace is more competitive than ever, especially after the pandemic accelerated digital transformation and manufacturing automation.

“The world is a very competitive place,” Leahey warns.

“During the Covid pandemic, many countries took a progressive approach, investing heavily in digital marketing and automation. This has made the global landscape even more competitive.

“To succeed beyond Europe, UK businesses must be ready to compete across different cultures and markets. That means having a strong brand identity and adapting to international customer needs.”

Leahey also stresses that while politicians may open trade doors, it is up to business leaders to make the most of these opportunities.

“At Playdale, we’ve shown that it is possible. But it comes down to making smart decisions, having a clear strategy, identifying lucrative international markets—and, most importantly, putting in the work to make it happen.”

The Future of UK Trade: Adapt or Struggle

By the end of this government’s first term, Britain will be marking ten years since the Brexit deal. Whether UK trade continues to evolve positively or stalls will depend on the businesses willing to embrace change, explore new markets, and innovate.

What is certain is that Britain’s trade pioneers will need boldness, adaptability, and resilience to thrive on the global stage.