Below some case studies of current & recent projects.
Case Study 1 – Flair Showers
Background
Flair Showers are based in Co. Cavan, Ireland and have been exporting to France for over 10 years. We are currently assisting with spreading and building the Agent network in different regions. Working through Agents doesn’t suit all situations but is a cost-effective way of selling whereby you don’t set up in France per say. You work through Distributors and Independent Agents.
Summary
Our job is to find and set up independent agents in Regions not already covered. This assignment started at the end of 2018, so we are in the early stages. The market for bathroom sanitary is quite crowded, nonetheless we have made some early progress and are in discussions already with some agents and a mid-size distributor.
Case Study 2 – Colortrend
Background
The client is an Irish manufacturer of premium quality paints, with a range of over 1,300 colours. Its products are available nationwide in its own stores and independent paint retailers. Now, the company wishes to export to France.
Summary
In phase 1, we carried out research into the French decorative paint market. This included desk research and visiting stores, distributors, commercial users, etc. to assess the competitors (quality, prices, etc.).
The research identified a real opportunity in the French market for this company and we proposed a market entry strategy, distribution strategy and the region of France where we would launch
Testimonial
“We engaged with Uexport to explore opportunities for [our company] in the French decorative market. Over a period of 3 months Uexport helped us identify the size of the market opportunity, competitive positions, channels of distribution and potential market entry strategies. We are now in a position to progress to Phase II and develop/implement a market entry strategy and plan, budget and approach identified target customers and negotiate terms.” – Managing Director, Colortrend.
Case Study 3 – Fíor Uisce
Background
The Irish company produces a high quality (0% Nitrates) mineral water in beautifully presented glass bottles. Despite winning prestigious UK awards and clients among top Irish hotels and restaurants, they had not been able to reach break even. What’s more their own attempts to break into the US and UK markets did not come good.
Summary
As a first step we made an assessment of the current operational & financial situation of the Irish company. We looked at the appropriateness of the market positioning in Ireland and how that might translate elsewhere.
Then we carried out pilot tasting and pre-launch research with the French public in Paris and through our network were able to make direct contact with drinks distributors to assess the appetite for a new product from abroad.
This led us to develop with the company management the best likely scenarios for launch with a programme of re-branding, schedule of activities and costings.
They were keen but needed a best value approach so we made a proposal to take on full responsibility for the management of the preparation and launch. The lead-in included the negotiation of a pilot launch with a drinks distributor in Paris, translation and adaptation of marketing materiel, website into French, etc.
We now are managing this business for our Irish client with a part time team in place including a territory sales development manager and marketing assistants.
You can contact John with any questions you may have on john@ueport.ie