The Art of Scaling: Real Conversations
Why the Netherlands?
In the 3rd Art of Scaling: Real Conversations webinar we explored why innovative companies around the world choose the Dutch market to expand their business. We invited 3 speakers to share their expertise from different perspectives – both as scale-up CEOs, and as the local partner:
- Brad Vanstone, founder and CEO of Willicroft
- Charles Ojei, director of Farmforte
- Hilco Beeks, Food&Health advisor at OostNL
We moderated a discussion on the specific challenges that new entrants to the Netherlands face, how to navigate cultural differences, and what advice they have to offer to others considering entering the Dutch market. There were some great questions from the audience, which gave room to an exciting conversation on the struggles (and successes) of internationalization.
The speakers
About Willicroft
When Brad shifted to a plant-based diet a few years ago, he saw one big opportunity – creating cheese that would be on par with the existing meat and milk replacements. Combining age old techniques with a more planet-friendly ingredient base, Willicroft’s plant-based product line can be found at Albert Heijn stores across the Netherlands.
About Farmforte
Farmforte is a Nigerian company that grows and sources a wide range of fruits, vegetables, and grains across Africa to customers in Europe. Founded in 2012, it now employs 300+ people in international locations. The team strategically selected the Netherlands to expand its operations and get a foothold in European markets.
About OostNL
Oost NL is the regional business development and investment agency in the eastern region of the Netherlands. It helps foreign companies setting up their European activities in the region, by connecting them to relevant networks and business partners, and facilitating investment opportunities. As advisor in the fields of Food & Health, Hilco supports international companies in those sectors establish/expand their business in Europe.
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