CZ : SK : EN : DE : FR : ES : RU

Consumer & retail market research (non-food)

U.S. producer of plastic tools and toys eyeing Poland
Completion: 2010 - 06
Target markets:
Objective: The company manufactures over 12 product lines (Snow Sleds, Snow Boards, Snow Shovels, Snow Toys, Ice Scrapers, Lawn & Garden Tools, Lawn & Garden Décor, Janitorial & Cleaning Products, Kayaks and Summer Toys) and is looking to expand its activities in Central Europe and appoint a proactive distribution partner in Poland.
Results: EasyLink's consultant approached 43 pre-selected targets (significantly exceeding the number of prospects usually contacted in similar projects) to present our client's products and discuss business opportunities. During his visit to Poland in June 2010, the client held 3 meetings; one of the meetings took place with a sourcing manager for Central and Eastern Europe of one of the leading international retail businesses in Europe with over 830 stores in 8 countries.
   

EasyLink explores market potential for a supplier of yoga products
Completion: 2010 - 04
Target markets: CZ&PL
Objective: EasyLink was requested to carry matchmaking projects in the Czech Republic and Poland to identify prospective distribution partners.
Results: The consultants conducted market research into companies involved in three sectors: distribution of yoga products (yoga studios, yoga schools and association), eco/health shops (BIO stores, stores with mats, healthy products, etc) and sport equipment distributors to create initial lists of targets for direct communication and evaluation. In the Czech Republic and Poland, 9 and 4 companies respectively expressed interest in meeting the client to discuss possible co-operation. In Poland, 4 more companies asked to be provided price lists before making a final decision. The client was presented with detailed profiles of all prospective partners as well as short summaries of their responses.
   

Due diligence on a potential distributor in Romania for a U.S. producer of skincare products
Completion: 2010 - 03
Target markets: RO
Objective: Our client has been communicating with a potential distributor in Romania and would like to have a due diligence report prepared on the company. Their prospective partner would like to obtain exclusive distributor rights in Romania.
Results: Our report included all information EasyLink's consultant in Romania could find about the company. The consultant carried research of official reports and publications as well as studied their financial information (balance sheet and income statement data) and made contact with a former employee.
   

Irish supplier of energy saving bulbs targeting Slovakia
Completion: 2009 - 11
Target markets: SK
Objective: EasyLink was asked to identify qualified partners amongst distributors and wholesalers of lights, LED lights and electricity fittings.
Results: In the course of work, 31 companies were approached to present our client's business proposal and discuss potential partnership as well as their interest in meeting the client. Companies with less than four employees and those where managers were not able to communicate in English were considered "not sufficiently qualified". Face-to-face meetings were arranged for 3 qualified companies whose managers expressed interest in discussing possible cooperation.
   

U.K. producer of replacement parts for road and mountain bikes wishes to strengthen distribution in the Czech Republic
Completion: 2009 - 07
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Identify, interview and evaluate prospective distribution partners
Results: The consultant pre-selected and approached 22 importers and distributors of cycles as well as cycle parts and accessories to evaluate their interest and qualification for becoming a distribution partner.
   

U.K. supplier of products for pets targets Poland
Completion: 2009 - 07
Target markets: PL
Objective: EasyLink was requested to evaluate market opportunities for a supplier of heat pads for dogs, cats and other animals.
Results: EasyLink's consultant in Poland conducted market research into companies involved in the distribution and wholesale of products for pets and identified 21 relevant companies. During the initial phone conversation 17 managers expressed interest in receiving additional information. When their responses and feedback were collected, we prepared detailed profiles of 7 companies open for further contact - the companies requested samples and price lists. Managers contacted during the course of the project stressed that due to the high price of GBP and USD against the Polish zloty, imports of products from these regions was not as profitable as it was one to two years ago. Added to this is the fact that pets' products are taxed at the VAT rate of 22%, which makes them even more expensive. Thus, Asian manufacturers, which are able to provide price competitive products, are gaining their market share on the Polish market.
   

Identifying potential partners
Completion: 2009 - 06
Target markets: SK
Objective: An importer and distributor of car and bicycle accessories as well as sport and fitness equipment sought to enter the Slovak market via approaching prospective customers directly.
Results: EasyLink identified prospective customers and presented their profiles.
   

Major Italian supplier of sporting goods seeking distributors in the Czech Republic and Slovakia
Completion: 2009 - 06
Target markets: CZ&SK
Objective: The company wished to expand in the CEE region, and requested EasyLink to identify and recommend prospective distributors and retailers for its sporting goods, bicycle equipment and automotive accessories.
Results: EasyLink's consultants assessed over 60 companies in the Czech Republic and Slovakia and set up meetings with 15 companies with confirmed interest in cooperation.
   

Designer and supplier of unique hotel bedroom amenity equipment targets Romania
Completion: 2008 - 10
Target markets: RO
Objective: Our task was to recommend exclusive distribution partner candidates to cover the Romanian market.
Results: After a thorough investigation of companies active in distribution of professional equipment and consumables for the hotel industry, the consultant compiled a list 18 prospects that were then interviewed and their interest and qualification for partnership were assessed. The client was presented a pool of 5 qualified & keen candidates.
   

British producer of Christmas decoration products targeting Latvia
Completion: 2008 - 08
Target markets: LV
Objective: EasyLink was commissioned to research and contact prospective buyers - i.e. decision makers in suitable retail groups in order to present the client and its range of decorations, and ascertain their potential for doing business.
Results: The client was presented with detailed profiles of 6 qualified and interested prospects; altogether 22 companies were approached.
   

U.S. manufacturer and distributor of jewellery looking for a distributor in Russia
Completion: 2008 - 07
Target markets: RU
Objective: EasyLink services were used by a leading producer and distributor of jewellery to identify and evaluate prospective distribution partners with experience in the sales of jewellery to retail outlets interested in extending their portfolio.
Results: The consultant presented the client with an initial list of 28 pre-selected companies, and upon receiving his comments, the most appropriate prospects were approached and their interest and potential were evaluated. The client was recommended to contact a total of 11 companies with confirmed interest in further talks.
   

Review of import regulations on cosmetic products in Slovakia
Completion: 2008 - 05
Target markets: SK
Objective: A Slovak-Russian cosmetic producer contracted our services to provide detailed information on key legislation, import control rules and market duties & obligations pertaining to producers and importers of cosmetic products to Slovakia. The client also wished to analyze certification requirements and prices.
Results: The consultant provided a detailed report outlining the key information requested together with all the steps necessary for entering the Slovak cosmetic products market.
   

Leading U.K. producer of office seating looking for production partners in Poland
Completion: 2008 - 05
Target markets: PL
Objective: A U.K. market leader in design, development and manufacture of seating for the commercial environment wished to identify Polish manufacturers of office chairs as potential partners for subcontracting of the manufacture of seating at the bottom end of its range.
Results: EasyLink's consultant reviewed over 15 companies during initial market screening and short-listed a total of 12 companies that were interviewed regarding their qualification for and interest in becoming a manufacturing partner. The client was provided detailed profiles of 7 companies interested in partnership and meeting the criteria, out of which he selected 4 companies with whom meetings were arranged.
   

In-depth distributor and end-user survey for a U.S. producer of portable generator sets
Completion: 2007 - 11
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink was requested to carry 50 structured telephone interviews based on a detailed questionnaire pre-approved by the client.
Results: EasyLink, within a CEE regional team, conducted structured interviews with 30 distributors and 20 end-users of portable diesel- and gasoline-powered generators in the Czech Republic.
   

Designer and producer of ladies' clothing looking for sales outlets in Lithuania
Completion: 2007 - 10
Target markets: LT
Objective: A design and production company with 5 established 'own label' women's wear ranges aimed at the 35+ market enlisted EasyLink to locate prospective partners amongst department stores and other retail chains and major clothing outlets in Lithuania.
Results: The consultant pre-selected and approached 17 department stores as well as clothing retail chains and outlets in Lithuania and ascertained their level of interest in distributing ladies' clothing designed and produced by the client.
   

Producer of insect and rodent control products seeking distribution partners in Ukraine, Poland and Russia
Completion: 2007 - 10
Target markets: PL&UA&RU
Objective: Identify and evaluate prospective distributors and prepare short profiles of local manufacturers of wooden mousetraps and fly ribbons as well as companies offering product registration services
Results: Our initial list of prospective partners consisted of 18 companies in Ukraine, 20 in Russia and 14 in Poland. After contacting and evaluating the entities, we recommended the client to proceed with in-market visits to meet the qualified prospects with confirmed interest in becoming a distribution partner. EasyLink was also requested to prepare detailed meeting itineraries and provide market support during the client's trips to meet the prospects.
   

Maltese exporter of hand-painted ceramics exploring export opportunities in Poland and Russia
Completion: 2007 - 09
Target markets: PL&RU
Objective: Our client, a small-specialized producer of ceramics for home use and of design volcanic tables for gardens and homes, requested an arrangement of meetings with garden and kitchen product distributors and interior designers.
Results: EasyLink provided the client with comprehensive market research that identified potential buyers and partners; it resulted in 4 full days of meetings with customers in Poland and Russia.
   

Asian producer of facial masks evaluating the Czech market
Completion: 2007 - 02
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Our task was to assist a new-to-market supplier in evaluating market opportunities by providing a study outlining legal regulations, key market players (brands), existing distribution structure, market size and segmentation, customer behaviour (buying preferences, brand loyalty) and trends as well as providing recommendation.
Results: EasyLink developed an in-depth market research report based on personal and telephone interviews with market experts and key players, multiple store checks, quantitative end-customer survey and research of secondary resources such as publications and media. The report was delivered in printed and electronic format, and the key findings were discussed in detail during project presentation to the client.
   

U.K. supplier of sandals and slippers targeting the Czech market
Completion: 2006 - 12
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Identify and approach prospective wholesale partners
Results: EasyLink's consultant initially compiled a list of over 50 companies active in the shoe wholesale and distribution, of which 19 pre-selected companies, primarily those involved at least partially in the distribution of slippers, were contacted in order to ascertain whether they constitute potential business partners for our client.
   

Analyzing the toothpaste market
Completion: 2006 - 12
Target markets: HU
Objective: Our task was to research and analyze the toothpaste market in Hungary.
Results: Through desk research, multiple store checks and license registrations check, the consultant in Hungary obtained detailed information on the 2.4 million-litter Hungarian toothpaste market and its key players - producers and distributors. The consultant also prepared an overview and profiles of all toothpaste suppliers with local manufacturing factories together with contact information of managers in marketing/production and exports.
   

Traditional U.K. manufacturer of household cleaning and hygiene products seeks partners in Hungary
Completion: 2006 - 10
Target markets: HU
Objective: Our task was to identify and interview potential distribution partners with a proven track record of selling major brand products to large supermarkets and hypermarkets including out-of-town retail parks as well as stores in downtown prominent locations.
Results: 18 companies were approached and evaluated.
   

Leading U.K. producer of steel office furniture and premium filing and storage products targets Ukraine
Completion: 2006 - 10
Target markets: UA
Objective: We were requested to ascertain market potential and identify suitable stock-holding distribution partners in Ukraine.
Results: EasyLink researched entities active in distribution, wholesale and manufacturing of office furniture in Ukraine and interviewed and evaluated a pool of 12 prospects. Four companies expressed interest in one-on-one appointments with the client.
   

Russia: Face-to-face appointments arranged
Completion: 2006 - 09
Target markets: RU
Objective: Following previous work done for this client the company provided the consultant in Russia with a list of 12 prospect retailers they wished to contact, qualify and arrange appointments with.
Results: Meetings were set up and arrangements for an interpreter made for our client's three-day visit to Moscow and St. Petersburg in September 2006.
   

Identifying top 5 players in selected segments in the Czech Republic and Slovakia
Completion: 2006 - 08
Target markets: CZ&SK
Objective: EasyLink was contracted to deliver a list of 5 key players in 5 selected sectors and provide their financial data and estimated production shares.
Results: EasyLink identified 5 key players each in the electronics, copy paper, confectionery, games and toys, and alcoholic/soft drinks sectors and compiled and estimated data for each of the players on share of production, annual growth, and company revenues. This was done separately for the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
   

Designer of steam models seeking a partner in the Czech Republic
Completion: 2006 - 08
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Identify and approach prospective distribution partners for a U.K. supplier of steam and vintage models of locomotives, coaches and vans
Results: The consultant approached 18 companies involved in distribution/sale of train models and evaluated their interest in becoming an exclusive distributor in the Czech Republic. After presenting our findings, the client proceeded with a market visit. EasyLink prepared a detailed itinerary including meetings as well as logistics arrangements. In addition, the client was accompanied to the meetings to provide market support and interpretation assistance.
   

Garment manufacturer targets the Czech Republic and Hungary
Completion: 2006 - 07
Target markets: CZ,HU
Objective: Our client, a manufacturer of infants wear, toddlers and kids t-shirts and nightwear, ladies t-shirts and nightwear, required 2-stage assistance from EasyLink's team. Initially, we were requested to prepare detailed profiles of garment importers/distributors including their procurement managers' contact details and divide the companies into three separate categories specified by the client. Stage Two was dedicated to arranging business appointments with the companies' heads of buying teams or people in charge of procurement.
Results: In Stage One report, the client was provided detailed profiles of over 40 Czech and 20 Hungarian criteria-meeting companies. The client then short-listed the companies which he liked the most. The consultants then contacted them to evaluate their interest and set up meetings with the interested and qualified parties. The client visited the CEE market in August 2006; in the Czech Republic alone, he met with 11 prospective partners.
   

Manufacturer of laminates seeks assistance in the Czech Republic
Completion: 2006 - 05
Target markets: CZ
Objective: This project was designed as building up databases of 3 groups of partners - direct customers (large furniture manufacturers), distributors/wholesalers (supplying the product to smaller and medium-sized furniture makers), and architects/designers. The companies were to be identified and information obtained through desk research plus multiple interviews with branch experts, without contacting potential targets directly. In Stage Two, our task was to establish needs that the potential targets may have regarding client's products - based on desk research and contacting the companies. We were asked to also advise the client how to best approach the top large accounts, how to get their attention and what to offer to them etc. Last but not least we were requested to analyze the distribution network of laminates and develop a database of potential partners.
Results: The client was very happy with our stage one results and immediately continued to stage two during which three key companies were interviewed in order to gather very detailed information on particular issues specified by the client.
   

Supplier of soft, washable slippers and suede moccasins targets Poland
Completion: 2006 - 02
Target markets: PL
Objective: Our U.K. client asked for assistance to identify Polish wholesalers already dealing in slippers and supplying major multiples. The company envisaged establishing a network of regional wholesalers, and wanted, as a first step, to concentrate on two major areas, i.e. Warsaw and Poznan (where the freight forwarder has depots).
Results: The consultant in Poland introduced the client and its line of slippers to 18 companies and evaluated their level of interest in direct negotiations. The client was presented with detailed profiles of all the prospective partners with confirmed interest.
   

Czech Republic: Compiling a database of pre-qualified prospects
Completion: 2006 - 02
Target markets: CZ
Objective: A producer of different wellness and relaxation music CDs that it delivers together with aromatherapy products wished EasyLink to compile a database of importers and distributors of CDs, aromatherapy, wellness, relaxation and yoga products.
Results: Altogether we profiled 18 companies (distributors of CD/MC/DVD, music media e-shops, yoga products and cosmetics, herbs and spices, scented sticks and books) we identified during desk research and telephone calls with retail chains, CD publishers and other companies as well as a visit to a specialized store.
   

Designer of unique hotel bedroom amenity equipment targets the Czech Republic
Completion: 2005 - 12
Target markets: CZ
Objective: As part of its worldwide market development efforts, our client would like to identify a distribution partner to cover the Czech market, with small to medium sized distributors being the primary targets.
Results: The consultant surveyed companies involved in distribution of hotel and gastronomic equipment and approached a total of 24 companies. EasyLink then scheduled meetings with 6 qualified partners interested and ready to discuss partnership.
   

In-depth analysis of sourcing opportunities in the Czech Republic and Slovakia
Completion: 2005 - 12
Target markets: CZ&SK
Objective: Our client (engaged in sales, marketing, manufacturing and sourcing of consumer products such as power tool accessories & hand tools, home décor products, kids outdoor products as well as kitchen, cleaning and storage items) wishes to analyze opportunities that exist for sourcing in Central and Eastern Europe and understand the trends at work in the region, how to succeed or what to avoid. The company believes that it can optimize its supply chain by engaging suppliers in both Asia and Central and Eastern Europe. Our main task was to provide clear answers and recommendation to the key questions: Is there an opportunity to source more in CEE? And why did the client's competitors and clients go to CEE?
Results: The thorough reports we provided (close to a 100-page report in the Czech Republic and 70-page text for Slovakia) were based on an analysis of information from publicly available sources, press and branch catalogues and websites, public institutions and checks in stores of various format - from DIY to small retailers as well as interviews with market experts. The reports addressed a large number of issues, including an overview of the targeted industries and main market players, which companies have ventured into the given country and withdrawn and for what reasons, an overview of distribution channels and major distributors, joint-ventures, design and development capabilities of companies in the targeted industries. We then recommended particular branches for sourcing from the Czech Republic and Slovakia and identified particular partner companies.
   

Leading Czech producer of labels and labelling machines travels to Bulgaria to build partnerships
Completion: 2005 - 10
Target markets: BG
Objective: EasyLink was commissioned to schedule meetings with prospective partners, i.e. wholesalers of stationary and office supplies (price labels, print labels, thermo labels, thermo transfer labels), dairies (soft and hard cheese), producers of chemicals such as car cosmetics, shampoos, detergents and motor oils, retail chains and producers of pharmaceuticals and alcoholic beverages. The client travelled to Varna as part of the business development mission led by the Region of South Moravia.
Results: The client's regional manager was prepared a detailed meeting itinerary, which also included profiles of prospective partners keen to discuss specific opportunities for collaboration. Among other partners the client met with the largest retailer of electronics, office and telecommunication goods in the country.
   

Identifying and qualifying prospective distributors for an Irish supplier of souvenirs
Completion: 2005 - 10
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Our client, a specialised provider of global souvenir, gift and novelty solutions to retailers, wholesale distributors, importers and leading parks & attractions around the world, wished to identify potential business partners in the Czech Republic.
Results: Despite strong local production of gifts and souvenirs and resulting availability of very high quality products, EasyLink managed to identify 6 companies with expressed interest in meeting the client to discuss specific partnership opportunities and requirements. The client was also briefed about the souvenirs market - i.e. retailers focus on price rather than quality, high retail margin (100-250%!), limited space of gift shops in downtown Prague as well as foreign ownership of souvenir shops.
   

Preparing a list of companies to be invited to our client's stand at a major exhibition in Moscow
Completion: 2005 - 07
Target markets: RU
Objective: Our task was to compile a list of prospective invitees and prepare their profiles.
Results: The report we prepared for the client included profiles of over 30 pre-qualified invitees active in distribution, wholesale and retail of festive decorations. The Russian Christmas/Festive decoration market has adopted a new tradition of celebrating Catholic Christmas in addition to its "old" feast-days (such as Orthodox Christmas and New Year). As a result, the holiday period in Russia now lasts much longer than in Europe - from mid-December up to mid-January.
   

Cosmetics producer from Poland targets the Czech market
Completion: 2005 - 06
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink was requested, after getting to know the company and its products, to prepare an initial list of potential partners to be contacted over the phone and visited on-site and report to the client on the consultant's choice of 3 to 5 best companies (seriously interested in cooperation and meeting the client's criteria).
Results: 27 companies were identified and approached (3 site visits were undertaken) by the consultant. Meetings were arranged with the top 3 prospects. The client was provided with their profiles that included history and scope of their activities, size and geographical coverage, clients, producers/brands represented, history of their cooperation with foreign producers (experience in import/distribution), description of their attitude towards potential cooperation and the consultant's assessment as to their strengths and weaknesses as a potential partner and financial information. The client was very happy with the meetings, and there was quite a big potential of starting cooperation with one of the companies.
   

U.K. company seeking to outsource production to the Czech Republic
Completion: 2005 - 06
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink's assistance was sought to identify suitable companies in the Czech Republic, interested in manufacturing the client's product (multimedia loss prevention package) under licence.
Results: EasyLink selected and approached pre-qualified companies involved in injection moulding of plastic products with a partnership offer and evaluated their qualification and interest. The client was provided detailed profiles of seven prospects who were then requested to provide an RFQ based on drawings and samples provided by the client.
   

Manufacturer of an extensive range of feminine disposable hygiene products seeks partners in Russia
Completion: 2005 - 01
Target markets: RU
Objective: EasyLink was commissioned to ascertain market opportunities for its client's line of disposable maternity products and identify potential distribution partners in Russia with focus on partners located in/around Moscow.
Results: 17 companies were short-listed and 13 companies were contacted by phone for an interview with their managers regarding their qualification for and interest in partnership. The consultant provided them with a brief company description in Russian, also sending client's product list. 7 companies expressed interest in further talks with the client.
   

Mediating cooperation between a German furniture specialist and a local company
Completion: 2005 -
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Our task was to identify major office furniture suppliers and mediate collaboration with a German partner on participation in tenders for purchases of furniture by the leading large organizations in Germany. We were asked to negotiate with the companies up to a phase when the German client could close an agreement with selected partners in regards to commission for managing successful participation in the tenders.
Results: We identified a qualified partner and prepared the commission-based contract.
   

Should a designer of unique hotel bedroom amenity equipment strive for finding a distribution partner in Russia?
Completion: 2005 -
Target markets: RU
Objective: Our first task was to find out whether there is legislation in place that requires product approvals in addition to the CE approvals. If this was the case, we needed to find out the likely cost of the approval process. In case additional approvals were necessary and costly, the client would look at other CEE markets. Based on the findings, we would proceed to identification of suitable distribution partners, concentrating our contact campaign in the greater Moscow area.
Results: The consultant carried out thorough desk research as well as interviews with market experts to outline the legislation and certification procedures.
   

Czech Republic: Selecting prospective distribution partners and providing company information and contact details
Completion: 2005 -
Target markets: CZ
Objective: A foreign manufacturer of specialist sound and music products commissioned EasyLink to identify prospective distribution partners and verify their contact information. The client sought a national distributor looking to develop and possibly invest in a new brand, selling complimentary professional sound brands and with capabilities to provide after sales service and warehousing facilities to stock a minimum quantity of products and with English-speaking staff.
Results: Altogether the consultant identified 28 prospective partners and provided their profiles including verified contact details.
   

Producer of upscale fragrance products targets Poland
Completion: 2004 - 04
Target markets: PL
Objective: Our task was to identify and establish communication with potential representatives/customers in Poland, ideally specialized distributors (i.e. perfume distributors carrying complementary brands, not wholesalers of general cosmetic products) and/or companies with their own retail network (perfume shops).
Results: EasyLink's consultant in Poland identified and approached all key retailers and retail chains of perfumeries selling luxury cosmetics. For this project, we focused on "opening doors for further contact", rather than obtaining decisions regarding possible distributorship. The client was provided with detailed profiles and contact details of prospects interested in receiving a detailed offer (incl. price lists, marketing plan, capital expenditures required and samples).
   

U.K. producer of steel office furniture seeking distributors in Hungary
Completion: 2004 - 03
Target markets: HU
Objective: Easylink was asked to assist in our client's efforts to expand operations through market specific distributors.
Results: The consultant pre-selected and approached 20 relevant players - importers, distributors and wholesalers as well as catalogue companies, office furniture manufacturers and a furniture retail chain. The companies were presented with an offer and their qualification and interest in partnership were evaluated.
   

Identifying local producers of sleds
Completion: 2004 - 03
Target markets: CZ + SK
Objective: Identify Czech and Slovak producers of sleds
Results: We presented detailed profiles of 2 Czech and Slovak producers including their contact information, turnover and employment data as well as certificates.
   

Diamond producer eyes the Czech market
Completion: 2004 -
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink was assisting a producer of loose diamonds who wished to identify keen and qualified wholesalers, producers and retailers of diamonds.
Results: We interviewed 33 pre-selected partners and provided the client with detailed company information and contact details of key managers.
   

Leading U.K. manufacturer of bristle dartboards, steel-tip and soft-tip darts and components expanding into Russia
Completion: 2004 -
Target markets: RU
Objective: EasyLink was to ascertain the level of opportunity for client's range of bristle boards and accessories as well as soft tip darts in Russia and identify potential partners.
Results: Altogether 12 prospective partners were approached and closely evaluated. 8 qualified and interested companies were recommended as prospective targets. In addition, contact was established with the National darts federation.
   

Joint venture partner - background check
Completion: 2004 -
Target markets: SK
Objective: A U.K. supplier of indoor play areas for children asked EasyLink to carry out a background check of a prospective Slovak joint venture partner that would manufacture the low-tech components that the client could no longer produce competitively in its U.K. facility.
Results: The consultant in Slovakia searched the tax office, police and insurance registers as well as lists of bad payers. Moreover, the consultant identified two additional joint venture prospects meeting the client's criteria.
   

Leading global manufacturer of gift wrap paper seeking customers in the Czech Republic
Completion: 2003 - 10
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Identify and approach potential customers
Results: EasyLink pre-selected and approached 12 prospective buyers to assess their interest in sourcing from the client.
   

UK producer of Fine Bone China and Tableware seeks partners in Romania
Completion: 2003 - 05
Target markets: RO
Objective: EasyLink was enlisted to identify relevant distributors/stockists in Romania that supply high-end retail with premium china, tableware or glassware and verify their interest in working with the client.
Results: We completed the assignment by presenting detailed profiles with verified contact details of 14 prospective partners. Romania is a well-known manufacturer and exporter of earthware & chinaware.
   

U.K. manufacturer of stationery targeting the Czech market
Completion: 2003 - 04
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Our client was looking at three potential customer sectors in the Czech Republic, thus bringing up the need to identify different distributors to cover these areas of interest, i.e. distributors to magazine publishers, distributors or wholesalers to the general office supplies sector and distributors to manufacturers of stationery items.
Results: We contacted 18 short-listed companies and identified 6 prospective distribution partners with confirmed qualification and interest in meeting the client to discuss specific partnership terms and conditions.
   

Czech Republic: Identifying and approaching distributors of fitness equipment
Completion: 2002 - 10
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Identify additional distribution partners for a leading manufacturer of fitness equipment
Results: EasyLink identified, evaluated and approached relevant partners experienced in distribution of equipment and products to the fitness and leisure market to confirm their interest in working with the client.
   

Project #2 for an Irish producer of stoves and street furniture
Completion: 2001 - 09
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink was asked to identify sourcing partners. Our steps included approaching the prospects to identify appropriate managers, providing technical specification and requesting RFQs as well as to evaluating the quotes.
Results: Out of 9 contacted companies, EasyLink confirmed 3 companies capable of delivering the required volume either ex-stock or at least within a reasonable period. The client was provided with report as well as quotes and brochures of the qualified sourcing prospects.
   

Assisting an Irish producer of stoves and street furniture
Completion: 2001 - 04
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Our client designs and manufactures state-of-the-art cast iron range cookers and stoves for both the Irish and export markets from its foundry in Ireland, and would like to identify new market opportunities for their product range in the Central and East European markets. EasyLink was requested to conduct market research to assess the market potential and market entry options for their stoves and cookers in the Czech Republic and identify prospective partners. Furthermore, we were requested to identify a sourcing and/or joint venture partner for their line of street furniture.
Results: The in-depth market study discussed issues such as market size, local production and foreign trade volumes, distribution channels, retail prices as well as promotional activities and identified the key players in the market of stoves as well as furniture. We further identified and interviewed 19 Czech manufacturers and 15 importers of stoves to evaluate their interest in co-operation with the client, via licence manufacturing or some other trade co-operation, including export representation through the client. We scheduled meetings with a total of 8 companies, a mixture of manufacturers and dealers.
   

Follow up work for a producer of canning jars
Completion: 2000 - 08
Target markets: CZ
Objective: In the spring of 2000 we were asked for a follow-up work to assist the client in closing a partnership deal.
Results: The consultant visited 11 stores and recorded findings related to ball jars as well as competitive products. We further carried out a detail background check of selected prospective partners that the client has selected; we used the services of a professional due diligence agency to provide some of the information requested. We further assisted the client in preparing a distributorship agreement. And already in November 2000, the client reported that their distributor has taken several truckloads of jars!
   

Identifying and approaching major wholesalers and distributors of glass products in the Czech Republic
Completion: 2000 - 02
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink's task was to identify major importers/distributors of glass products and assess their interest in talking to a new supplier of canning jars.
Results: After carrying out the project in December 1999 and obtaining positive response we suggested to our client, a producer of jars, to proceed to a second stage and contact the companies and provide them with detailed information and arrange a visit to the Czech Republic to talk to selected prospective partners. The client took the market visit in January 2000 and met with 5 companies.
   

Analysis of the Czech market of work safety products for protection of respiratory systém
Completion: 1999 - 12
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink was requested to carry a thorough research and analysis of the Czech market.
Results: Our report addressed local production including profiles of key players, foreign trade, market size and distribution channels together with profiles of large, medium and small players. Further, we explored the end-user sectors that generate the most demand for respiratory system protection products.
   

Czech producer of glass nail files enters the markets in South Africa and USA, with major assistance by EasyLink
Completion: -
Target markets: USA+RSA
Objective: Our task was to identify exclusive distributors in USA and South Africa for patented glass nail products, already enjoying major sales success in other world markets.
Results: Together with the client we identified 2 key overseas markets with significant potential, yet not a well-established distribution structure that needed strengthening. We identified and approached relevant partners. Our effort resulted in actual first shipment of 1,000 nail files to South Africa within approximately three months and start of business negotiations with a distributor based in California.
   


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Consumer goods & retail market research in Central & Eastern Europe
Would you like to understand and estimate the market potential for FMCG products in retail in the CEE region? EasyLink provides professional expertise in strategic market research, market intelligence, competitive intelligence, market size analysis and market potential evaluation, competitive landscape and distribution structure study, identification of new customers and potential partners etc. Please contact us to discuss how we can assist your business objectives in export, marketing or sourcing.


Customer Search & Partner Search in Central & Eastern Europe
Are you seeking FMCG distributors, agents or buyers in Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Russia? We are experienced experts in search, identification, screening and pre-selection of business partners in Central & Eastern Europe, ranging from distributor search to profiling of prospective customers and identifying specific business opportunities; we assist our clients with sourcing in emerging markets and low-cost markets in the CEE region.