Why take this accelerated training on entering Europe via the Netherlands?
Expanding into Europe is a major opportunity—but also a complex challenge for many SMEs. Logistics, compliance, and financial considerations often slow down decision-making.
This training provides a clear and practical framework to help you structure your European market entry, using the Netherlands as a strategic gateway.
Designed for SMEs, it will help you:
- Understand entry options
- Prioritize key actions
- Reduce compliance and financial risks
Delivered in person with Europe-based experts, enabling direct interaction and tailored advice.
This training will enable you to:
- Identify and overcome key barriers to European expansion
- Assess whether the Netherlands is the right entry point
- Compare distribution models (direct shipping, 3PL, distribution center)
- Understand compliance requirements (CE, REACH, EPR) and prioritize actions
- Demystify VAT, Incoterms, and fiscal representation
- Build a concrete 90-day action plan
- Leave with actionable tools and checklists
- Engage directly with experts during Q&A
Who is this training for?
- SME leaders planning to enter Europe
- International business development managers
- Logistics, sales, or procurement managers
- Companies structuring or optimizing European distribution
- Professionals involved in international expansion
Key questions addressed
- What must be done before your first shipment to Europe?
- Should you choose direct shipping, 3PL, or a distribution center?
- What are the cash flow implications of import VAT?
- How to structure a secure and efficient European entry?
Main training session: 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Networking and Q&A session (optional): 10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
9:00 a.m. – 9:05 a.m. | Welcome and training objectives
- Overview of the framework and key learning outcomes
- A unique opportunity to meet Justin Groen, a Netherlands-based expert, in person during his visit to Montréal
9:05 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. | SME realities: why expansion into Europe gets delayed
- Common roadblocks faced by SMEs
- Practical approaches to effectively structure a European market entry strategy
9:15 a.m. – 9:45 a.m. | Decision-making framework: are the Netherlands the right entry point?
Practical tool to compare three European market entry models:
- Direct shipping
- 3PL logistics partner
- Distribution center
Analysis of the advantages, limitations, and operational impacts based on your company profile
9:45 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. | Compliance without overload: acting at the right time
Understanding key requirements before a first shipment:
- CE marking
- REACH
- EPR
- Compliance priorities to avoid costly mistakes
10:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. | Customs, VAT, and Incoterms
An SME-focused perspective on:
- Import VAT
- Fiscal representation
- Incoterms and responsibility management
- The role of the importer of record and cash flow implications
10:15 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. | SME case study: practical application
Applying concepts to a fictional company (B2B/B2C):
- Recommended market entry model
- Compliance priorities
- 90-day action roadmap
10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. (optional) | Q&A and networking
Open discussion with the trainer and participants:
- Specific business questions
- Strategic discussions
- Networking and experience sharing