A delegation of regional union officers from Rhienland Phalz in Germany took a three-day visit to region five this month.
Germany is an important trading partner and this visit was an opportunity to forge a relationship and discuss issues facing trade unions.
Terry Meakin, senior organiser, hosted the visit to the area, which included an overnight stay at the famous Swan Hotel in Wells.
Terry said: 'The delegates were given a brief history of the city together with a visit to the cathedral, which they enjoyed very much. On the Friday morning they visited the Clarks distribution centre in Street where they were given a full tour and shown the various procedures.
'At the end of the visit they asked many questions about globalisation, the decline in manufacturing and associated job losses and the sourcing of products.'