Welcome to the UK

As forecast, the last week has not been grim at all! It has however been unbelievably busy!

Pingar has gone beyond 'market entry'. We now have budgets to work with that will see an acceleration in headcount and an expansion of our presence 'on the ground'.

What has been particularly satisfying is seeing how the ground work laid over the past two years has now come together. We have managed to establish an amazing network of people and companies who are working rapidly to assist the UK roll-out.

Over the past few days, I have had numerous meetings as we collectively finesse the team here. The names will be familiar: Microsoft UK, NZTE, UK T&I. The outcomes though are more advanced.

I am halfway through this particular market visit. Next week, the focus is on Wales and the progress we are making at the Technium in Swansea. Meetings with International Business Wales and other agencies will help consolidate and then expand our operations there.

We are preparing for 'the curve'. And it is not far off. The UK has an incredibly important role to play over the next few months. All the evidence so far is that the operational framework to enable that role to be effectively executed is almost in place.

Next week's meetings are designed to reinforce that position.