SMALL and medium-sized businesses have been offered a lift by British Airways.

The airline has teamed up with the Guernsey Enterprise Agency and Commerce and Employment to offer Guernsey firms 10 return flights to any of its 155 domestic, short haul or long haul destinations.

The idea is to help the firms win new overseas business and give them the chance to promote and sell their products in different markets, according to Karen Duffy, BA manager of sales and marketing in the Channel Islands.

‘Small and medium businesses are an absolutely essential part of the Guernsey economy and, like lots of businesses across the UK, many are facing big challenges as part of the global economic downturn.

‘We are working with the Guernsey Enterprise Agency to provide flights that will support Guernsey business as it tries to spearhead the island economy’s recovery. We live in a globalised economy so business opportunities don’t always live on your doorstep.’

The airline is also calling on other big local companies to give their support to SMEs by offering their products, services or expertise to the GEA, which it can then offer to firms it works with in addition to services already provided.

• Read the full story in the Guernsey Press. See below for subscription details.