Why the Netherlands deserves a place in your growth plan
A compact, international and digital market that rewards brands who prepare well. Here is what makes it attractive, and what to keep in mind before you start.
Six reasons international companies choose the Netherlands
A wealthy, compact market
Around 18 million people with high purchasing power, living close together. You can reach the whole country from one warehouse with next day delivery.
The gateway to Europe
Rotterdam is the largest port in Europe and Schiphol is one of its main air hubs. Many companies use the Netherlands as their base for the rest of the EU.
English is widely spoken
The Dutch are among the best non native English speakers in the world, which makes business conversations easy from day one.
Digital first buyers
Dutch consumers shop online a lot, pay with iDEAL and expect fast, free delivery. B2B buyers research online long before they talk to sales.
A test market for the Benelux
Flanders shares the Dutch language, so what works in the Netherlands can often be extended to Belgium with little extra effort.
Open to new brands
Dutch customers are curious and willing to switch, as long as the price is fair and the promise is clear.
The Netherlands is small on the map and big in what it can do for your brand.
What to know before you start
- Be direct
- Dutch buyers appreciate plain language. Superlatives and vague claims cost you trust.
- Speak Dutch to consumers
- Even though most people speak English, they buy in Dutch. Localized websites and ads convert noticeably better.
- Expect comparison
- Prices, reviews and terms are checked on comparison sites and marketplaces before people buy.
- Decisions are made together
- In B2B, decisions often involve several people and a search for consensus. Plan for a longer, more inclusive sales cycle.
Where we can help
- Marketing Online and offline campaigns built by native Dutch marketers.
- Strategic advice A clear market entry plan before you spend a single euro.
- Market research and insights Know the size, the competition and the customer before you launch.
- Recruitment Find and hire your first or next Dutch employees.
- Incorporation and localization Set up your Dutch company and make it feel local.
- Contract management Distributor, agent and supplier agreements that hold up in the Netherlands.
- Trade fairs and exhibitions Show up at the right Dutch fairs and leave with real leads.
- Marketplaces and e-commerce Sell on bol and Amazon.nl and run a Dutch webshop that converts.
Do you also want to grow in the Netherlands?
Book a free intake call. We listen to your plans and tell you honestly where we see the opportunities, and where we do not.