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Global Expansion Simplified: The ultimate guide for SMEs

Roy Broersma & Hannah Wiemer
Maastricht University
4 mins
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This article covers:
How to develop a structured pathway for business growth
Nine key building blocks for international expansion
Free whitepaper: Global Expansion Simplified: The Ultimate Guide for SMEs

Have you considered international shipping? In an increasingly interconnected world, the allure of global markets presents exciting opportunities (and a few daunting challenges) for small and medium-sized enterprises like yours.

“Internationalization” can seem an overwhelming concept for SMEs, but the relationship between the two has never been so significant. In the face of worldwide economic disruptions, SMEs’ role in the global trade ecosystem has remained resilient, contributing significantly to economic growth, innovation, and job creation.

Contrary to some predictions, globalization has not given way to regionalization; most international trade flows are still happening over longer distances, meaning cross-border opportunities for SMEs are plentiful – providing they have the necessary insights.

Our new whitepaper, Global Expansion Simplified: The Ultimate Guide for SMEs, aims to demystify the complexities of growing your business internationally, and provide a structured pathway for you, as a small business owner, to navigate that journey.

Written in partnership with DHL Express by Roy Broersma and Hannah Wiemer of the world-renowned University of Maastricht, it provides unrivaled, in-depth insights to help your business expand into new international markets, reach larger customer bases, and diversify its revenue streams.

Download the white paper now

Download the white paper now

Learn the key principles that will help you successfully plan your international business growth strategy and reach new markets.

Download
"With our contribution to this white paper, we aim to support SMEs in realizing their international ambitions. Starting with a solid strategy, expanding globally can offer great opportunities for SMEs seeking to explore new markets. We hope the insights provided in this white paper will enrich their knowledge base and bring them one step closer to successful international growth." - Roy Broersma, University of Maastricht

 

Your checklist for international business expansion

By adhering to the nine core principles – or Building Blocks – set out in the whitepaper, you can chart a course to successful global expansion, unlocking new potential and achieving continuous growth in the international arena. Together the following Building Blocks create an essential business growth checklist to guide you to global success:

Learn from real-world case studies

In the whitepaper, you'll also find real-world case studies of SME owners who are reaping the rewards of internationalization. Each one features a detailed breakdown of the actions they took to create something bigger and more successful than they ever would have imagined - and how the Building Blocks outlined in our white paper can be followed to replicate that success.

an array of watch straps made by manufacturer Delugs

DELUGS

How did a fledgling watch strap business with no prior experience or contacts within the industry grow into an international success story? By understanding the target market and speaking the customer's language.

Read the Delugs case study here

A group of sailing enthusiasts standing on a dock

CODE-ZERO

What’s the secret to building a globally revered lifestyle brand? For Marc Blees, founder of CODE-ZERO, it’s all about people – hiring fellow entrepreneurs with an “international mindset” to ensure his business grows without limits.

Read the CODE-ZERO case study here

“One of the primary benefits of internationalization for SMEs is the access it provides to new markets. By expanding beyond domestic borders, you can tap into larger customer bases and diversify your revenue streams”, says Michiel Greeven, EVP Global Commercial at DHL Express. “With this whitepaper, we offer SMEs a toolset to prepare for global expansion and to make their business both more profitable and resilient.”

Download the white paper now

Download the white paper now

This fascinating read offers an amazing insight into the benefits of globalization – and plenty of practical tips to guide you. Download it now for free. Who knows where it could take your business?

Download