LONDON (May 18, 2007) - Governor Mitch Daniels closed a week of job-hunting for Hoosiers in Germany and the United Kingdom today, emphasizing Indiana's welcoming climate for investment and thanking customers for their existing business.

Daniels wrapped up the weeklong trip by meeting with executives of Oxford BioSignals and its subsidiary, Oxford BioSignals Medical, a company that recently announced it would establish its global life sciences corporate headquarters in Carmel, and with senior executives of Tate & Lyle, a global manufacturer of renewable food and industrial ingredients with a facility that employs several hundred Hoosiers in West Lafayette.

While part of the governor's mission was to extend and build relationships with companies that already have business interests in Indiana, he found that companies likewise thanked Hoosiers for their business.

"Many companies we visited said they were struck that we came here to see them, and they did more than they needed to welcome us. That tells me this approach is working," said Daniels.

The governor said the direct contact gave him and staff at the Indiana Economic Development Corporation better understanding of each company's business environment and created better ties for the future. He said he expects to continue the strategy of trade missions abroad to targeted countries rather than casting a wide net.

"We have more opportunity for better return in jobs and growth for Hoosiers by deepening relations in several places we know where jobs are to be found. Indiana must continue to be seen as different and more attractive," he said.

In addition to calling on companies, Daniels said the state made good inroads by spending time with powerful associations, such as the German Association of the Automotive Industry and Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders Limited, which have thousands of business members.

"There are many opportunities for IEDC to follow up when we return home," said Daniels. "Already next week, the IEDC will host members of the automotive industry and the U.K. Motorsports Association, who will be in Indianapolis for the Indianapolis 500."

Daniels started his day Friday by making opening remarks at The Society for Motor Manufacturers conference on "Business Opportunities in the Americas," attended by automotive, engineering and aerospace companies, among others. There he relayed how Indiana is improving its infrastructure and business climate to make the state a welcoming place for growth.

Daniels and the state delegation traveling with him in Germany and the United Kingdom return to Indiana on Saturday.

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