If you are a British expat, do you really want the rest of the world to see you portrayed as a hooray Henry or Henrietta knocking back the Pimms at polo matches?
Instead of presenting Britain and the British as modern, sophisticated techno-savvy individuals ready to do business with the rest of the world, some firms are taking a step back.
The latest marketing tool is polo.
British Polo Day is promoted by entrepreneur Ed Olver, who networks British businesses while hosting polo matches.
Big brands back the venture – especially those with a luxury element, like property firm Savills, car maker Land Rover and whisky distiller Johnnie Walker Blue Label.
Chukkas go global
Playing a chukka went global last year, with a dozen events around the world, including India, China, Singapore and the USA.
Olver said: “Sitting in a hotel lobby or bar over a drink and some nuts is no longer the best way to network. Times have moved on and business people want trust and reliable relationships. Our aim is to promote the innate integrity and honesty which are top qualities overseas business leaders see and expect from Britain.”
“The world wants to know about British heritage. As a nation, there are many institutions, companies and brands which we should be holding up as fine examples of business. I started this company with a computer in my bedroom a few years back. Now, I have 20 people working for me in 12 different countries and speak to 70 billionaires.”
Olver is not the only polo promoter. The Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club regularly hold events, including an annual championship.
Sport at Windsor
However, to many Brits who are not members of the aristocracy or former attendees of expensive private schools, few have seen or taken part in the sport.
One of the most famous venues in the UK is Windsor – which is like playing the game in the Queen’s back garden and shows how select and unrepresentative of the British polo is.
Olver is now seeking backing from the government for his business serving up a slice of British culture to the equally rich and select abroad.
The Department of UK Trade and Investment promotes British business overseas and works to pair up overseas firms with suitable partners in Britain.
The DTI has helped a wide range of businesses; from musicians to technology companies expand their markets overseas in recent months.
Dear Lisa, clearly you are an idiot and have based your article on no clear facts whatsoever. Please, PLEASE do some research before you write this tripe. Either that or actually attend a polo match or better yet go to one of the many BPD’s thankfully you have plenty of locations to choose from.
Edit: Additionally, the venue is NOT “Windsor” its Guards, which is located within Great Windsor Park. Again, Fact check and a little research would have made you look less of a fool here.