UK Businesses Accelerate Global Expansion Amid Rising Challenges, Santander Reports
UK businesses are increasingly turning to international markets as a primary engine for growth, with nearly half now actively considering global expansion, according to Santander's most recent Trade Barometer 2025 research. This marks a significant increase from just a third in the previous wave and more than double the number recorded in 2023, highlighting a dramatic shift in corporate strategy.
Navigating Complex Barriers to International Growth
However, this surge in overseas ambition is accompanied by substantial challenges. Santander's research reveals that nearly half of businesses identify political uncertainty and navigating new regulatory regimes as their top barriers to expansion. These concerns reflect ongoing global tensions, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict and strained US-China relations, which complicate international trade landscapes.
Beyond geopolitical factors, businesses face a myriad of operational hurdles when expanding abroad. High costs, labour shortages, and inherent operational risks are frequently cited obstacles. Additionally, a significant blocker to growth is the lack of reliable market intelligence, leaving many companies ill-equipped to make informed decisions in unfamiliar territories.
Santander's Navigator Global Platform: A Solution for Simplified Trade
In response to these challenges, Santander has introduced Navigator Global, a unique growth platform launched in November 2025. Designed to address the precise pain points businesses encounter during international expansion, this platform aims to simplify global trade and foster confident growth.
Navigator Global streamlines decision-making and reduces costs by connecting businesses with verified support at every stage of their expansion journey. Upon signing up, companies gain access to tailored Action Plans that help translate big ideas into daily execution. These plans provide clear instructions, practical resources, and progress tracking, ensuring businesses always know their next steps or where to seek advice.
Real-World Impact and Success Stories
The platform has already demonstrated tangible benefits for businesses. For instance, a drinks company faced a costly crisis when a shipment was blocked at the Spanish border due to documentation discrepancies, resulting in the destruction of the load and thousands of pounds in losses. Navigator Global intervened by connecting the business with a key provider on the platform, who quickly identified an issue with the commodity code, allowing all subsequent shipments to proceed smoothly.
Furthermore, Navigator Global facilitates valuable introductions between businesses and potential new buyers. Recent examples include linking a large beauty company with buyers in India, where negotiations are now underway, and helping a fashion company initiate conversations with a buyer in Mexico. These cases illustrate the platform's role in accelerating global market entry.
A Comprehensive Ecosystem for Tailored Support
What sets Navigator Global apart is its ecosystem approach, comprising a global network of in-market trade experts, over 250 verified providers, and a robust insights and intelligence hub. Recognizing that no two businesses are identical, the platform takes the time to understand each company's unique needs, leveraging connections and expertise to deliver tailored solutions.
In addition to expert articles and timely market intelligence derived from direct interactions with buyers and providers on the ground, Navigator Global offers an extensive schedule of events and webinars. These resources educate businesses on key sectors and trade corridors, empowering them to make faster, smarter, and more confident trade decisions while accessing cost savings and exclusive member incentives.
As global trade dynamics evolve rapidly, Santander emphasizes that businesses must secure the support necessary to navigate emerging challenges and opportunities. By joining the Navigator Global club, companies can transform their international ambitions into reality, supported by value-driving tools and trusted expert access.
