A NORTHLEW company which supplies ?Mule?-style footwear has completed a new passport award scheme which will allow it to take steps towards growing its international trade. The Mule Company has been presented with a certificate in an award ceremony to mark its successful completion of the UK Trade and Investment Passport to Export scheme. The Mule Company supplies hand-finished, own-branded ?Mule?-style footwear, and during its time with Passport to Export received training in international trade skills and funding towards the redesign of its marketing materials and website. The company is now exporting to new overseas markets, including Lithuania, Latvia and Barbados. Owner Morwenna Hortop said: ?It?s thanks to the Passport Scheme that we have been able to expand our international trade so that exports are increasing. ?It was a great opportunity to learn more from the experts which meant we feel much more confident at dealing with international sales, with the possibilities for expansion that this provides.? Karine Davies, international trade adviser based at Business Link Devon and Cornwall said: ?The awards are a new scheme for us and are designed to congratulate companies? success on completing their Passport to Export schemes.? She said the Mule Company?s hard work and dedication showed, with support from the scheme, how ?Devon companies can reach out successfully into the global market place?. Further information on Passport, a tailor-made package of training and support for small and medium businesses, is available from Business Link Devon and Cornwall 0845 600 9966.