Exporting brings new revenue, spreads your risk and makes your business stronger. It also comes with new challenges — and with the right preparation, they are all manageable.
Five reasons to export
More revenue
Open new sources of income beyond your home market.
Less risk
Spread sales across several markets so one downturn doesn’t stop you.
Stronger competitiveness
Competing abroad sharpens your products and processes.
Economies of scale
Use spare capacity and lower your cost per unit.
Beyond a saturated market
When the home market is full, new markets keep you growing.
The challenges
If you have only worked in your local supply chain, a foreign one can feel very different. To export well you need to understand local customs, adapt your branding and marketing, and deal with language barriers, fees, tariffs and paperwork.
That is exactly what an export management company like SMC handles for you.
From local to global: five steps
- Research your markets Check demand and competition, how the market works, and the local culture, customs and values — they shape how you present your product.
- Build your network Visit trade fairs and business events to meet buyers, distributors and agents. Contacts on the ground give you an insider’s view.
- Plan your finances Make sure you have the capital you need. Include transport, storage, staff and regulatory costs in your plan.
- Start small Begin with one or two markets and grow steadily, rather than one approach for every country. Trade fairs, social media and online marketplaces are good first steps.
- Protect against non-payment Check each buyer’s creditworthiness, and use safeguards such as credit insurance and letters of credit.
Start with a free assessment
We’ll tell you which markets suit your product — and what it takes to get there.