US2U Consulting Celebrates 19th Birthday: Achieving Success Together

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Published: Tuesday, 01 April 2025 12:21

US2U Consulting celebrated its 19th birthday on 1st April 2025, having started trading on this date in 2006.

This also makes for a double celebration this year, as this date comes just four days after Rachel received her MBE for services to Business & Exports at Buckingham Palace from Anne, The Princess Royal, in recognition for the achievement and contributions made through her journey with US2U Consulting. Read the full story of Rachel's MBE investiture ceremony here.

A big thank you to all of our clients, suppliers, team members, and everyone else who has been a part of our journey during the last nineteen years.

Achieving Success Together

We have only achieved 19 years in business and Rachel's MBE recognition with the support of our great team who are all passionate about what they do, our clients and our suppliers. In fact, US2U Consulting's first company strapline was 'Achieving Success Together', recognising this ethos which remains at the heart of all we do.

We are pleased to share a couple of examples of this from our UK-based exporting clients below.

Boniface Engineering was US2U Consulting's first ever client, and Rachel visited their premises in Thetford, Norfolk this week with her MBE medal to reflect on many years of working together.

Mike Boniface, Managing Director of Boniface Engineering, said, "Congratulations to US2U Consulting on their 19th anniversary and to Rachel for being awarded an MBE. As a leading recovery vehicle manufacturer and part of US-based Miller Industries, we were US2U Consulting's first client back in 2006 and they continue to support our business with a variety of services. Exporting is a critical part of our business growth plans. Our key export markets include Germany and Scandinavian countries. Exporting has enabled us to expand our business, increase turnover, create more good jobs and increase our profitability."

Rachel then visited ETA Green Power in Hethel, Norfolk, who US2U Consulting have supported on their growth plans over a number of years.

ETA was founded to fill the gap in the market for high-performance electric drive systems, breaking away from standard "off-the-shelf" products that often compromise on performance; leading market transformation, and delivering unmatched eco-efficiency and cost advantages with their patented technology.

David Morgan, CEO of ETA Green Power, said "Congratulations to US2U Consulting and to Rachel on receiving the MBE. US2U Consulting have been assisting our Management Team to advance their effective leadership skills to support our commercial objectives. We have developed a game-changing high density Electric Drive System to support the Off Highway sector in accelerating electrification and support emission reductions. The US2U team have understood our needs and responded well to our priorities."

David and Rachel attended the CBI trade mission to India in 2023 to explore market opportunities, visiting Delhi and Mumbai.

Contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to find our how US2U Consulting can make a positive difference to your organisation and help you achieve success in 2025 and beyond.

Abseiling Down to Bring Smiles Back Up with Nelson's Journey

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Published: Saturday, 15 March 2025 15:21

Rachel Blackburn, US2U Consulting Founder and CEO, donned the lycra, hard hat and harness to take part in the Nelson's Journey abseil at The Forum in Norwich on Saturday 15 March 2025.

Since 1997 Nelson's Journey has been supporting children and young people in Norfolk with their bereavement needs, helping them to understand and cope with their feelings. US2U Consulting has supported the charity for many years but this was the first time they had organised an abseil to raise funds.

Rachel said, "It was a very chilly start to the day, especially waiting to descend on top of The Forum building. Thank you to all our family, friends, clients & suppliers who have donated money via my Just Giving page for this great cause."

Artistic Support for the Natasha Allergy Research Foundation

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Published: Friday, 14 March 2025 16:24

Back in 2016 Natasha Ednan-Laperouse, 15, tragically died on a plane from an allergic reaction to eating sesame seeds that were baked into the dough of a baguette. The label on the packaging didn't include this ingredient on the packaging and they were invisible to the naked eye.

Subsequent to this, her family campaigned for better food labelling across the UK via Natasha's Law which came into effect in October 2021. The vision of the Natasha Allergy Research Foundation is to make allergy history. They want to prevent and eradicate allergic disease, starting with food allergy, and create a world that is safe for all individuals.

US2U Consulting Consultant and Artist, Kerwin Blackburn, has a severe peanut allergy and therefore we were pleased to have the opportunity to support the Foundation's work by donating a framed piece of Kerwin's artwork - a canvas print of Kerwin's original pop art painting - to the auction at the Broadland District Council Civic Reception in Norwich on Friday 14 March.

It was a lovely evening and the event raised £3800 for the Foundation.

"We really love our new piece of Beatles art" said Danny Snelling of Cloud Communications and IT provider, MT Comms.

US2U Consulting Lands in Auckland: Tea, Talks & Taking Business to the Next Level!

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Published: Wednesday, 19 February 2025 15:51

As part of early 2025 Antipodean travels, CEO of US2U Consulting, Rachel Blackburn, visited the British Consulate office in Auckland, New Zealand with Sharron Drew, Director Trade and Investment New Zealand - Trade.

As a proud Kiwi with an extensive international commercial and government work background, Sharron was pleased to discuss her advice for businesses planning to sell to the New Zealand market:

1. As with most business development, taking time to invest in building proper, genuine business relationships is important. It can take time to build up trust so that potential customers feel they can trust you, your good and services.

2. When building relationships, it is important emphasise the shared values that you have in common. Prospective exporters should reference their organisation’s values; why these are important; and find common ground with their potential new customer.

3. Generally speaking, people in New Zealand genuinely care about their environment - the beautiful countryside, preserving it and keeping it clean. Therefore it is helpful to emphasise environmentally-friendly values and deliverables when building relationships.

4. Rather than focusing on British expertise, it can be more helpful to focus on relevant global experience of supplying goods and services; use these key messages verbally and on marketing assets to explain the proposition and differentia in the market place.

5. Always emphasise the value that your capability can bring; often there are opportunities for British businesses to be more direct and clearer about the added value their business can bring to New Zealand.

6. Fintech, Agritech and renewable energy solutions are all priority areas for New Zealand.

7. It is often helpful to recruit a local partner to help with the tendering process for key projects. The local Trade and Investment Team can assist with finding suitable connections.

8. Being aware of New Zealand cultural and market differences from the UK (and even Australia) will be very well received. Visit the market and invest time in getting to know the unique dynamics.

9. Be aware of localisation within New Zealand; for instance, the needs in Christchurch on the South Island may be very different from those in Auckland on the North Island.

10. Generally speaking, people are very helpful and friendly and will take time out to have a coffee, listen to your proposition and try and help you with your business development ideas.

Rachel said, "As an Export Champion I have learnt so much about New Zealand in the last couple of weeks travelling through the Sounds and visiting destinations on both islands including Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington, Napier, Picton and Tauranga on Waitangi Day. Prior to the trip I didn't realise that documents, business cards, signs and announcements are made in Māori as well as English - this is a key consideration for businesses planning to export to the region."

Thank you to Kate Pinkerton, International Trade Advisor, Department for Business and Trade for Southern England, for arranging the meeting.

For businesses considering exporting their products or services for the first time, the UK government's Export Support Service, available at www.great.gov.uk, is a great starting place. Finding a local international trade advisor can also be an effective way to begin your exporting journey.

Please contact Rachel to discuss your international busines development strategies in more detail at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

US2U Down Under: Rachel Blackburn MBE Meets With UK Government in Sydney

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Published: Friday, 31 January 2025 18:48

As an Export Champion, Rachel Blackburn met with Ceri Morgan, Director - Investment, Energy and Infrastructure at the Department for Business & Trade in the British Consulate office in Sydney, Australia this week. This meeting was arranged by Kate Pinkerton, International Trade Advisor, DBT for Southern England.

The aim was to discuss top tips for UK businesses planning to export products and/or services to Australia during 2025.

Ceri, pictured with Rachel, offered the following advice:

1. Australia is generally pleased to learn how to adapt and adopt technologies from overseas if they will strengthen their services, capabilities and infrastructure.

2. As with many other territories, priority areas for collaboration appear to be around energy transition, fintech and lawtech.

3. When developing relationships and understanding of the market opportunities, it is best to take a state-by-state approach. For example, the needs in Queensland could be different from those in Western Australia. Also, it is best to travel to various states to meet with key people rather than assume everyone will meet in Sydney.

4. Remember to take a collaborative approach rather than assume that you will have something obviously brilliant that Australian buyers will automatically wish to buy.

5. Be mindful of potential political changes as Australia has a federal election coming up over the next few months.

6. When referencing the Department for Business and Trade, it tends to be known as the UK Government in Australia to develop a clear brand and avoid confusion.

Rachel said, "It's great to be back in Sydney to discuss with Ceri and other business people how warmly new business ideas are welcomed in Australia so long as the right approach is taken."

Ceri also highlighted the UK government's Export Support Service, available at www.great.gov.uk, as a great starting place for companies considering exporting for the first time, or expanding into new markets. Finding a local international trade advisor can also be an effective way to begin your exporting journey.

Please contact Rachel to discuss your international business development strategies in more detail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Lift-Off for Change: US2U Consulting's Helicopter Adventure to Support The Feed

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Published: Wednesday, 15 January 2025 15:14

Norwich-based US2U Consulting recently completed a helicopter ride over Norwich courtesy of Saxon Air, as part of a fundraising event to support The Feed.

The Feed is an organisation that uses the power of food to empower communities in Norwich, ensuring that each and every person has the support to eat well, live well and feel connected. By providing safe spaces at the heart of the community and a holistic programme of projects and 1:1 support, they can reduce inequalities, raise aspirations and create a shared culture of strength and kindness.

From its base at Norwich International Airport, Saxon Air provides integrated aviation services, flying clients worldwide with its versatile fleet of helicopters and business jets.

CEO of US2U Consulting, Rachel Blackburn MBE (pictured) said, "It was fantastic to see Norwich and the surrounding area from the comfort of one of Saxon Air's helicopters. With the clear skies we could see as far as Great Yarmouth and King's Lynn. A great opportunity to have an overview of the very flat Nelson's County whilst supporting a good cause which links to our company value of encouraging diversity."

Rachel Blackburn Awarded MBE in King's New Year Honours for Outstanding Contributions to the Business Community and to Exports

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Published: Monday, 30 December 2024 22:30

Rachel Blackburn MBA, CEO of Norwich-based US2U Consulting Ltd, has been awarded the prestigious MBE in the King's New Year's Honours List for her exceptional contributions and services to the Business Community and to Exports.

This recognition highlights Rachel's tireless dedication to advancing local, national and international business success whilst supporting a range of community organisations. She has also supported the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion agenda in business and the community.

In response to the announcement Rachel stated, "I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition from His Majesty the King. This award is a reflection of the incredible support I have received from my team, my family, clients, suppliers, my friends and the broader community. Together we've made significant strides and this honour will inspire us to continue pushing boundaries and making a positive difference".

Rachel's contributions include:

• Working with local, national and international businesses in various parts of the world over many years to support their growth strategies.

• Developing opportunities for exporting for US2U Consulting and for clients.

• Promoting equality, diversity and inclusion via client and community projects with a view to encouraging more opportunities, particularly for those requiring specific support.

"We are very pleased that Rachel's determined efforts, working for the common good of our business community have been so deservedly acknowledged in this way." - Leszek Wysocki, recently retired International Trade Advisor, Department of Business and Trade.

An MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) is a UK honour awarded for significant achievement or outstanding service to the community, typically in fields such as the arts, sciences, charity, public service or industry.

For more information, interviews or media enquiries please contact:

Rachel Blackburn

US2U Consulting Ltd

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

+44 (0) 7786 263610

Attending The GEM Appeal Charity Ball in Manchester

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Published: Wednesday, 04 December 2024 10:07

Rachel Blackburn and Kerwin Blackburn from US2U Consulting were pleased to attend the GEM Appeal Ball in Manchester for the third consecutive year. This year it had an ABBA 'Thank You For The Music' theme.

Now 30 years old having been set up in 1994, The GEM Appeal is a charity that fundraises for genetic diseases, raising money for research for the Willink Unit based at the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital. The charity was established by Karen Johnson with the aim to fund research into the disorder that her two sons were suffering and later died from. Several millions of pounds have been raised by The GEM Appeal since.

Rachel Blackburn said, "It was great to catch up with some of the people who support the charity, including some of those from the entertainment world, whilst raising funds for further research which could benefit so many people."

Supporting the NSPCC at their Manchester Gala Christmas Lunch

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Published: Tuesday, 03 December 2024 22:28

Kerwin Blackburn from US2U Consulting was pleased to donate a piece of his art for the NSPCC at their Gala Christmas Lunch in Manchester on Friday 29 November. A framed print of his hand-drawn and hand-painted pop art portrait of Elvis Presley raised funds in the auction to enable 100 phonecalls to the Childline charity.

The event was hosted by TV presenter Danielle Nicholls. Kerwin said "It's great to be able to support the NSPCC again and raise money for a good cause, especially at an important time of year which a lot of children find particularly stressful and need the support of the Childline services."

The original painted is available available for sale on Kerwin's website here.

US2U Consulting CEO Rachel Blackburn also attended the event and is pictured with Danielle.

US2U Attends The Royal Variety Performance 2024

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Published: Monday, 02 December 2024 13:09

US2U Consulting are pleased to again be able to support the Royal Variety Performance, held at the Royal Albert Hall in London, as part of our Sustainability strategy.

The Royal Variety Performance is a televised variety show held annually in the United Kingdom to raise money for the Royal Variety Charity (of which King Charles III is life-patron). It is attended by senior members of the British Royal Family and this year was attended by King Charles. It is a mix of family entertainment and includes comedy, music, dance and magic.

The Royal Variety Charity is dedicated to giving support to those who have professionally served the entertainment industry and find themselves sick, impoverished or elderly.

Rachel Blackburn, CEO of US2U Consulting, said "It was a spectacular evening and it was great to see acts perform in advance of the televised screening in December, whilst raising money for a well-respected charity at the same time. It was good to catch up with one of our clients who has now retired - Trish McCarron, former HR Director of Worldwide Fruit."

Rachel and Trish are pictured at the after party at the Natural History Museum with television presenter Lorraine Kelly CBE (right) and professional dancer Amy Dowden MBE (left), best know for her appearances on Strictly Come Dancing.