Electrical and Electronics market research

Market research report on the Slovak electrical industry

Completion: 2010 - 03
Target markets: SK
Objective: EasyLink's consultant in Slovakia was requested to undertake in-depth study of the Slovak electrical market with focus on electric motors as well as to compile a database of all producers of speakers, woofers, pumps and ventilation systems as well as distributors of electric motors.
Results: Our market report was based on desk research of secondary sources as well as in-person and telephone interviews with many market experts. The database included profiles of close to 80 companies.
   

Identifying and profiling prospective partners in Poland

Completion: 2009 - 10
Target markets: PL
Objective: Our client develops, designs and manufactures custom and standard state-of-the-art radio frequency components for the commercial, satellite communications, space and military markets. The company requested EasyLink to identify prospective distributors in Poland.
Results: EasyLink's local consultant concentrated on identifying potential distribution partners - technically qualified and carrying complimentary products such as mixers, filters and other sub-system components. Our initial list of targets included 21 companies; we provided information such as company name, website, location and extended description of activities and other company data.
   

Irish provider of on-line solutions commissions EasyLink for another project, this time in Slovakia

Completion: 2009 - 06
Target markets: SK
Objective: Based on positive results of a project done for this client in the Czech market in March 2009, EasyLink was requested to carry a project in Slovakia.
Results: The consultant approached 4 companies pre-selected and approved by the client as potential partners and presented them with a proposal for a teleconference and/or meeting to discuss mutual cooperation. 3 companies welcomed the opportunity and agreed to direct talks. The final report also included detailed profiles of the companies.
   

Irish provider of on-line solutions for liquidation of excess and at-risk inventory explores the Czech market

Completion: 2009 - 04
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink was asked to approach key managers of 6 leading producers and distributors of TVs and computers (pre-selected by the client as potential partners), present them with a proposal for cooperation and evaluate their interest.
Results: Three companies expressed interest in meeting the client to discuss potential cooperation.
   

Supplier of electrical laminates and heat activated adhesive tapes targets prospective Czech distributors/agents

Completion: 2009 - 03
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Our client wished to find a commission agent already selling materials, chemicals or components to manufacturers of printed circuit boards.
Results: EasyLink researched entities active in distribution of chemicals, materials and components for the PCB industry and short-listed and approached 14 prospects with client's proposal. The client was recommended to schedule an in-market visit to meet 4 companies deemed most qualified and interested.
   

Analysing customer buying behaviour and key purchasing criteria influencing sales of electric motors in Hungary

Completion: 2009 - 03
Target markets: HU
Objective: A foreign company involved in the development and production of system solutions for electrical engineering, electronics, automotive, telecommunication, medical engineering and tool-building wished to intensify its marketing or sales activities in Europe. EasyLink was a part of a research team carrying the project in several markets in Europe. The client still needed to get a better understanding regarding customers' buying behaviour in these regions, especially their key purchasing criteria, potentially affected by local standards and special circumstances and business practices. Moreover, the client was missing sufficient information on the sizes of all markets and realistic sales potentials.
Results: Our analysis of the Hungarian market provided the client with all required data and offered insight helping the client better assess the local market and decide on adequate growth strategies and marketing & sales activities. It outlined customer buying behaviour and key purchasing criteria, e.g. extent of technical competence needed for sales staff and possible segments requiring a specific marketing approach, delivery speed, customers' expectations regarding service level, customers' mindset regarding buying decisions, and local mentality. It also helped the client understand special local demand and market requirements, assessed market shares of competitors and identified unknown competitors and their business practices, strengths and weaknesses and sales structure. Last but not least, we estimated the market size in Hungary. EasyLink conducted semi-structured interviews with 30 potential customers - management or department heads from units like purchasing, marketing/product management, sales, strategy, business development, research & development or Intellectual Property (IP)/Patents etc. We delivered the client our interview notes (all entries recorded in Excel) as well as a full interviewees' list.
   

Leading Czech producer of transformers and chokes visits Estonia and Latvia

Completion: 2008 - 11
Target markets: EE&LV
Objective: EasyLink was asked to introduce the client to potential distributors and end customers active in the energy sector as well as distributors of electrical engineering products.
Results: EasyLink's consultants in Estonia and Latvia identified and approached 55 potential partners including subsidiaries of the local monopolistic producers of electricity and presented them with a partnership opportunity with the Czech company. EasyLink then arranged 9 appointments with managers of companies who expressed interest in meeting our client.
   

Specialized manufacturer of personal and automobile access control equipment targeting the Baltic states

Completion: 2008 - 11
Target markets: EE&LV
Objective: EasyLink's task was to identify qualified business partners keen to distribute and install client's products in Estonia and Latvia.
Results: EasyLink's consultants identified 36 potential partners meeting our client's requirements and approached their decision makers present the client and its equipment as well as to provide catalogues. Face-to-face appointments were arranged with 13 Latvian and Estonian companies whose managers confirmed readiness for direct negotiation with the client.
   

Manufacturer of filters seeking local presence

Completion: 2008 - 10
Target markets: CZ
Objective: A U.S. producer of filters requested our assistance in recommending the most fit route to market and identifying potential sales representatives and distribution partners (delivering to original equipment manufacturers across the sectors of interest). We were asked to contact the pre-selected suppliers and evaluate their interest and readiness in meeting the client.
Results: We provided the client with an unqualified list of prospective partners involved in distribution of electronic parts and components for industrial use. After the client's detailed review, we contacted the best prospects to introduce the client and their line of EMI filters and evaluate their interest and readiness in direct talks. After several rounds of talks via phone and email with the targets we recommended, our client decided on his top choice and travelled to the Czech Republic to meet the "future" exclusive distributor. Soon after the client's return to the U.S. a distributorship contract was signed, and the first shipment of EMI filters followed shortly!
   

Market research into radio remote control equipment and the key areas of its use in CZ, SK and HU

Completion: 2008 - 09
Target markets: CZ+SK+HU
Objective: We were asked to carry out in-depth market research into radio remote control equipment as well as the key areas of its use (i.e. electric overhead travelling cranes, mining equipment and locomotives) in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary for a leading global producer of wireless remote control equipment.
Results: Three key sectors specified by the client were closely examined to evaluate market potential in each of the three countries of interest. Further, we provided information on local presence of our client's competitors as well as evaluated activities of client's current partners.
   

Leading Czech producer of transformers and chokes targets Slovenia

Completion: 2008 - 06
Target markets: SI
Objective: EasyLink was asked to introduce the client to potential distributors and end customers in the energy sector as well as distributors of electrical engineering products.
Results: EasyLink's consultant in Slovenia identified and approached 23 potential partners including the local producer of electricity to present the client and its transformers and chokes. EasyLink arranged a total of 4 meetings.
   

Irish manufacturer of wiring and harnesses targeting the Czech market

Completion: 2008 - 04
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Our client wished to expand its presence as a supplier to electronics manufacturers for various industries such as automotive or consumer goods.
Results: EasyLink's consultant submitted a long-list of 83 companies involved in electronics manufacturing. The client selected 18 companies for direct contact. We introduced the client to their managers and provided them with detailed information. For the client's visit to the Czech Republic, EasyLink arranged 5 meetings with potential customers.
   

Irish manufacturer of grinders, abrasives and burrs explores the Czech market

Completion: 2008 - 04
Target markets: CZ
Objective: The company wished to identify an experienced partner among companies involved in distribution of grinders, abrasives and burrs who could also handle service for the company's products.
Results: EasyLink identified nearly 40 companies as potential partners, out of which 34 were contacted and provided information about the client's offer for cooperation. Detailed profiles of 8 companies with confirmed interest in meeting the client were submitted.
   

Czech manufacturer of personal and automobile access control equipment seeks foreign partners

Completion: 2007 - 11
Target markets: RO
Objective: EasyLink's task was to identify partners for the distribution and installation of our client's products in the Romanian market.
Results: EasyLink identified 22 potential partners meeting our client's requirements, and introduced the client and its products to their decision makers in charge of selecting new partners and supplied them with promotional materials. Eight companies expressed their interest in meeting the client. EasyLink was then put in charge of preparing a 2-day itinerary.
   

U.K. supplier targets Russia's telecommunications and computer networks markets

Completion: 2007 - 07
Target markets: RU
Objective: Our client, a U.K. company involved in design and development of innovative interface solutions for the global telecommunications and computer networking markets, wished to expand exports into Russia, a market with an underdeveloped telecommunications network that should offer the company an excellent opportunity. The company would like to find an exclusive, stock-holding distribution partner to cover the Russian market.
Results: After careful pre-selection of prospective partners and assessment of their qualification and interest in partnership, EasyLink scheduled 4 meetings for the client's in-market visit.
   

Research of the LCD monitor and component production and trade in the Czech Republic and Slovakia

Completion: 2007 - 07
Target markets: CZ&SK
Objective: The objective of the study was to map existing producers of components for LCD systems as well as final LCD monitors. We were asked to carry an analysis of competitive landscape, explore prospective end customers, and cover all relevant legal issues and government bodies.
Results: EasyLink thoroughly analysed the LCD sector in the Czech Republic and Slovakia as well as logistics and services support available. The final report covered existing LCD component suppliers, information on all logistics parks currently available, labour, land, and energy costs, analysis of all LCD producers currently located in the two countries as well as legal and support services available through government bodies.
   

Assisting a Czech producer entering the U.K. market

Completion: 2007 - 06
Target markets: UK
Objective: A Czech specialist in development, production and distribution of high quality electrical installation devices would like to find business partners in the U.K. and determine potential for exports of particular components to producers of low-voltage switchboards. The goal is to ascertain the level of interest amongst suitable producers of switchboards.
Results: We confirmed that both routes to market - via a producer of low voltage switchboard or distributor/wholesaler - are feasible. The consultant in the U.K. compiled an initial list of 33 companies; it was subsequently narrowed down to 19 producers and 4 distributors as the top prospective partners. Their managers were approached over the phone to evaluate their qualification for and interest in collaboration with the client as well as assess their readiness for a face-to-face meeting.
   

LCD TV and module distribution in Slovakia

Completion: 2007 - 03
Target markets: SK
Objective: EasyLink was asked to analyze the LCD sector in Slovakia by providing key data and information on LCD TV manufacture, general economic environment, distribution structure, dealers and distributors with shares of all LCD brands, penetration rates and shares of AV and IT resellers and system integrators.
Results: Our structured market analysis of the LCD TV's and modules sector in Slovakia also include information on the market size, development and segmentation. We gathered information during interviews with the biggest AV and IT resellers. We also created a matrix of dealers/distributors with shares of brands represented. Our client also received information on market concentration of top distributors/dealers and manufacturers of LCD panels in Slovakia and information about upcoming investments into the LCD sector. We then provided a brand satisfaction/importance portfolio of the most wanted LCD brands in Slovakia.
   

Research into LCD TV manufacture in Slovakia

Completion: 2006 - 12
Target markets: SK
Objective: As part of the in-depth study of LCD TV manufacture EasyLink was asked to provide detailed information on general economic environment.
Results: The consultant in Slovakia was provided with a long list of items the report had to cover, which included information on LCD TV related infrastructure in Slovakia and its peripheral support - materials/modules, suppliers, marketing channels and other resources available to a foreign investor interested in manufacturing. We also provided an overview of producers of LCD TVs and panels that were investing/had invested in Slovakia. We also provided data on government incentive programs for investments by foreign companies such as tax exemptions, industrial park programs, labour related regulations, labour capabilities - availability of skilled labour force, demographic trends, social insurance program - costs for the employer and employee, labour union operation and salary levels (broken into administrative regions). Our findings were presented in over a 40-page report as well as we prepared a supplement with detailed description of all Slovak industrial parks. The report also included maps showing locations of existing/planned LCD panels/TVs plants, major suppliers, infrastructure network (main transportation routes, logistic centres) and industrial parks.
   

Two market support tasks requested by a German producer of household appliances wishing to open a factory in Slovakia

Completion: 2006 - 07
Target markets: SK
Objective: EasyLink's consultant in Slovakia was asked to update company information (turnover, number of employees and certificates) on local galvanising companies (a list of targets was submitted by the client) as well as to prepare a study of the Slovak electronic industry.
Results: To successfully accomplish Task 1, EasyLink after researching data in a number of secondary resources conducted phone interviews with the companies to obtain/confirm the data requested by the client. When going through the list supplied by the client, EasyLink's consultant noticed (and notified the client) the list included irrelevant companies while was missing a number of key players. The study of the electronic market Easylink addressed its past development, current size - sales and foreign trade, regional structure and development as well as location of universities offering degrees in IT, electronics and electric technology plus areas with abundant qualified labour. EasyLink then recommended the client two particular locations suitable for construction of the client's plant for production of electronic appliances.
   

Leading supplier to the European and North American microwave markets targets new EU members: step 2 - Poland

Completion: 2006 - 05
Target markets: PL
Objective: Our client continues with market entry into new EU accession states and wants to identify suitable agents in Poland.
Results: The consultant identified 21 companies in the preliminary search; they were all contacted by phone to find out more about their operations and were presented with client's products and offer. 5 companies were recommended to the client as qualified and interested candidates.
   

Leading supplier to the European and North American microwave markets targets new EU members: step 1 - Czech Republic

Completion: 2006 - 05
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Our client, a U.K. supplier of microwave boards, circuits, systems and assemblies, identified the new EU accession states as being markets that it needs to develop further and would initially like to identify suitable agents in the Czech Republic, as the company already has a customer in the country. The client requires a commission-only agent selling similar products such as microwave components, amplifiers and switches.
Results: In total, 12 companies were contacted by phone for an interview with their managers regarding their qualification for and interest in partnership. 4 companies were recommended as prospective partners. The client was also recommended to target 5 potential direct customers - manufacturers and developers of technologies where client's components might find use. Detailed meeting itinerary was arranged for the client's in-market visit during which he was also provided with interpretation and market support services.
   

Supplier of electronic design services for 32-bit embedded systems seeks Czech partners

Completion: 2005 - 11
Target markets: CZ
Objective: In the Czech Republic, our client focused on finding a distribution partner for its range of low-cost development platforms and embedded modules for processors.
Results: In total, 15 pre-screened companies were contacted by phone for an interview with their managers regarding their qualification for and interest in partnership. Our final report provided detailed profiles of the parties with confirmed interest in personal negotiation with the client as well as short overviews and responses of the negatively responding companies.
   

Czech producer of small and large transformers explores business potential in Bulgaria

Completion: 2005 - 10
Target markets: BG
Objective: Our client, travelling to Varna, Bulgaria as part of a trade mission led by the Region of South Moravia, wished to discuss opportunities for their distribution, ractifier and welding transformers with direct customers - i.e. power companies and suppliers of machinery and welding machinery.
Results: EasyLink's consultant scheduled 6 meetings with managers of qualified companies keen to discuss particular business opportunities with the client. When EasyLink contacted the client for post-mission feedback, the client expressed the outcome could not be more positive as the company started extremely fruitful cooperation with the leading supplier of electric materials and equipment in Bulgaria.
   

Arranging meetings with prospective partners

Completion: 2005 - 05
Target markets: CZ&SK
Objective: EasyLink was commissioned by a Czech supplier of electronic components to set up meetings for several managers.
Results: Our collaboration with the client started by supplying the client with our existing database of electronic companies in the Czech Republic and preparing a similar database for the Slovak market. We were subsequently asked to arrange one-to-one appointments with the top prospects - multinational companies - selected by the client. Two itineraries were arranged for a manager of the Czech company who was accompanied, depending on the type of meeting, by a manager from the Analog devices division or Catalyst division.
   

Identifying local suppliers of photovoltaic cells and modules

Completion: 2005 - 03
Target markets: CZ
Objective: During the worldwide boom for photovoltaic cells, EasyLink was asked to find suppliers in the Czech Republic for a client from Germany.
Results: We identified and approached prospective suppliers and obtained a specific offer and price quote for mono Si cells from a highly qualified local company.
   

Czech Republic: Compiling a list of electronic companies and overview of the electronic sector

Completion: 2005 -
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink was asked to provide in-market support for an Irish company involved in supply chain management (SCM) wishing to build on their success in Hungary by establishing themselves in the Czech Republic.
Results: EasyLink compiled a list of local electronic manufacturing companies including an overview on what they produce and where, contact address and names and contact details of their managing directors. We also provided background information on the structure and history of the Czech electronic sector. Upon submitting our findings to the client, we were asked for additional assistance - compiling a database of logistics and supply chain management companies, which included a total of 70 entries.
   

Manufacturer of optical monitoring packages for measuring the growth of thin films requests partner search in Russia

Completion: 2004 - 12
Target markets: RU
Objective: EasyLink was requested to identify and approach prospective partners/agents already supplying the semiconductor and optical coating sectors with advanced technology equipment. The potential partner of our U.K. client needed to have expertise and technical knowledge of the requirements and needs of university, government sponsored institutions and commercial R & D departments and organisations.
Results: Results and findings obtained by EasyLink's consultant in Moscow in the course of the project (20 relevant companies and organisations were targeted) indicated that the Russian market offers interesting and promising potential. The client was provided with detailed profiles of interested & qualified prospects. EasyLink also prepared a detailed meeting and travel itinerary for the client's in-market visit.
   

Identifying potential distributors of electronic testing equipment

Completion: 2004 - 04
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Our client, seeking to enter the Czech market via partnership with a distributor, provides test, inspection, programming and handling solutions to the electronics industry through an extensive array of equipment and subcontract services. The client's products range contains a solution for every board test scenario - from conveyor line high volume production test to one-off verification.
Results: Our MS Access database of prospective trade partners included 24 entries with verified company information and contact details.
   

Multiple projects for an Irish producer of automotive security electronics & GPS positioning systems

Completion: 2004 - 03
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink was initially asked to prepare a detailed travel itinerary including meetings with the key potential customers. The following year, after our client opened its own manufacturing plant in the Czech Republic, we were asked for subsequent assistance with scheduling additional appointments.
Results: We first identified the key areas that the client should approach and pre-selected 2 OEM automotive manufacturers and 12 Tier 1 automotive suppliers, out of which the client narrowed the list down to 9 top candidates. We then approached their managers to evaluate their interest and readiness in partnership with the client. Altogether, five meetings were arranged, amongst them with e.g. TRW, ArvinMeritor and Magna. In the second stage, after opening their plant, EasyLink in order to open the door to selected key potential customers, arranged two very successful series of visits (8 meetings) for February and March 2005.
   

Czech Republic: U.K. manufacturer searches for a suitable joint venture partner

Completion: 2004 -
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Our client offers manufacturing sub contract service to provide wiring harnesses, neon lamp assemblies, electrical sub assemblies and electrical components to various OEMs. EasyLink was commissioned to find suitable potential joint venture partners in the Czech Republic, with better access to manufacturers of small domestic appliances in the high volume sector of the market.
Results: The consultant approached 16 pre-selected prospective partners amongst companies involved in the production of electrical cable as well as small domestic appliances. The companies were approached with client's proposal and their response was requested. Finally, meetings were scheduled with top 7 qualified prospects with confirmed interest in the proposed joint venture project.
   

Czech Republic: U.K. manufacturer searches for a suitable joint venture partner

Completion: 2003 - 11
Target markets: RO
Objective: Our client offers manufacturing sub contract service to provide wiring harnesses, neon lamp assemblies, electrical sub assemblies and electrical components to various OEMs. EasyLink was commissioned to find suitable potential joint venture partners in the Czech Republic, with better access to manufacturers of small domestic appliances in the high volume sector of the market.
Results: The consultant approached 16 pre-selected prospective partners amongst companies involved in the production of electrical cable as well as small domestic appliances. The companies were approached with client's proposal and their response was requested. Finally, meetings were scheduled with top 7 qualified prospects with confirmed interest in the proposed joint venture project.
   

Follow up project: Visiting with companies previously met at a fair in Germany

Completion: 2003 - 06
Target markets: CZ
Objective: A U.K. manufacturer of electronic variable speed controllers requested EasyLink to schedule another round of meetings with selected companies the client already met at the Drives and Controls Exhibition in Hanover several weeks back.
Results: The consultant followed up with the managers to assess their readiness in meeting the client again, this time at their premises.
   

Czech Republic: Identifying key customers in selected sectors

Completion: 2003 - 04
Target markets: CZ
Objective: A U.K. manufacturer of contactors and switchgear components for defence, telecommunications equipment, Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) and other high dependency applications wished to identify potential customers in the telecommunications and moving equipment sectors.
Results: The consultant carried out research into the two segments of interest and compiled an overview of key players by segment.
   

U.K. manufacturer meets prospective Czech distribution partners at the premier drives-related fair in Hanover, Germany

Completion: 2003 - 04
Target markets: CZ
Objective: A company involved in design and manufacture of electronic variable speed controllers for electric motors asked EasyLink to identify and approach prospective distribution partners and schedule meetings with qualified and interested parties for the Drives and Controls Exhibition in Hanover. The company was already exporting to over 30 countries and was aggressively growing its business in export markets. The client wished to enter the Czech market through specialist distributors supplying the electric motor market or through direct deliveries to OEMs.
Results: The consultant interviewed 20 pre-selected companies. Meetings were arranged with 8 qualified partners ready to start direct negotiation with the client.
   

Screening suitable freight forwarders for shipping from Brno to Manchester

Completion: 2002 - 05
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink was asked to recommend its U.K. client suitable freight forwarders located around Brno, the second largest city in the Czech Republic.
Results: We identified and contacted 23 forwarding companies to screen their capabilities in meeting our client's requirements and request quotations. In order to receive comparable quotes, we requested pricing for transportation of a single 40 kg package to Manchester (land or air), customs clearance in the Czech Republic, customs clearance in the U.K. and delivery in Manchester (if available), also providing details on the expected frequency and nature of shipments. A request for quote was sent to 16 companies; 11 companies submitted a quotation. We then analysed the quotes before making our recommendations.
   

Distributor search project

Completion: 2002 - 02
Target markets: CZ
Objective: A U.K. producer of pressure transducers for a wide range of industrial processes, not yet represented in the Czech Republic, requested EasyLink to identify a pro-active distributor already providing instrumentation equipment to the process industries. The most suitable candidates were distributors capable to supply the standard range, but alert to the fact the client can also provide bespoke solutions.
Results: The consultant identified and contacted 20 relevant distributors of pressure gage and test equipment to introduce the client and their products and inquire about the prospects' interest in considering distributorship. 6 companies were selected as qualified and interested candidates for direct talks.
   

Czech electronics sector - customer survey

Completion: 2002 - 01
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink was initially asked to compile a full list of companies in the electronics sector, so the client can select a priority list of potential customers from whom he would like to gain feedback. In the next stage, EasyLink was asked to set up meetings with potential customers - MNCs.
Results: We surveyed 13 potential customers (all multinational companies) on the client's priority list. Among other meetings, an appointment was also set up at Celestica; an interview with their management indicated particularly strong direct interest and sales potential. We also reviewed other companies from the broader list and conducted limited additional research to identify other potential customers. However, this extra effort did not yield additional prospects for the client, thus confirming that the number of potential clients is limited in the Czech Republic.
   

Czech Republic: Identifying potential partners for an Irish producer of electronic fasteners

Completion: 2002 -
Target markets: CZ
Objective: After emerging as the first company to engage in supporting a major OEM computer company in 1990, this Irish manufacturer of a wide range of fasteners requested EasyLink to identify (based on research of secondary resources only) and provide key company information on prospective partners across three particular groups.
Results: We profiled 38 major foreign companies active in the Czech electronics sector (OEMs), 215 companies active in the electronics industry (Czech and foreign-owned) and 22 relevant manufacturers of fasteners (not including companies that we deemed inappropriate as potential partners for various reasons; these manufacturers should ideally be able to act as assembly partners and distributors for the client and/or could have available manufacturing facilities suitable for contract production/assembly of metal/plastic fasteners).
   

Three-country market study and statistical analysis of production, import/export and sale of cables and conductors

Completion: 2001 - 12
Target markets: AT, HU, PL
Objective: Our task was to carry out in-depth analysis across three different markets for a Czech producer of cables and conductors.
Results: Final reports prepared by EasyLink's consultants in Austria, Hungary and Poland provided hard data in graphs and tables as well as detailed analytical information on their respective markets - e.g. market size and structure, domestic production and foreign trade, competitive analysis of key players: manufacturers, importers, distributors and wholesalers as well as market access and tariff and non-tariff barriers.
   

Irish supplier of connectors looks for contract manufacturing partners in the Czech Republic

Completion: 2001 - 09
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Our Irish client, a producer of connectors, wished to reduce costs by outsourcing production of moulds for its connectors to a Czech high precision tool shop capable of building 15 moulds annually and equipped with CNC milling machines, expert form grinders, spark eroders and wire eroders.
Results: Based on our internal database of Czech industrial manufacturers, including all specialized tool shops, we contacted approximately 30 injection mould manufacturers and provided them with technical specifications and drawings. Altogether we identified six companies capable to manufacture the required items and interested in direct contact with the client.
   

Embedded systems - Distributor search

Completion: 2001 - 09
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink was asked to carry a distributor search and arrange targeted one-to-one meetings for an Irish designer and manufacturer of microprocessor development, source level debug, software quality assurance and smart card systems seeking to expand on the Czech market.
Results: Our initial list of prospects for direct contact included close to 30 companies involved in the business of embedded systems. Their managers were approached over the phone to introduce the client and its systems and assess whether they match the ideal distributor profile. In September 2001, the client travelled to the market to meet the top 6 candidates with confirmed interest in partnership.
   

Successful introduction of a U.K. producer of cables to the leading Czech automotive and white goods producers

Completion: 1999 - 10
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink was commissioned by a manufacturer of high temperature cable and insulating products for the automotive and electrical industries to confirm whether the route to market the client should take is direct to OEMs or via distributors and then identify prospective partners.
Results: EasyLink successfully introduced the client to Skoda, then the sole manufacturer of personal vehicles, a manufacturer of trucks (Daewoo-Avia) and the two largest manufacturers of household appliances - ETA and Isolit-BRAVO.
   

Evaluating market potential for a U.K. producer of capacitors

Completion: 1999 - 10
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Our task was to confirm market opportunities exist and establish the correct route to market for a U.K. manufacturer of metallised film capacitors for industrial and professional applications, e.g. audio grade capacitors. The client was new to the CEE region; elsewhere their usual approach is direct to OEMs as it is essential to have direct contact in order to design the product correctly for production. EasyLink was asked to approach buyers/design engineers in the electronics industry, particularly audio electronics.
Results: EasyLink, based on interviews with close to ten distributors of electronic components and producers of electronics, concurred that only limited opportunities exist for the client on the Czech market as there were no local producers of hi-fi equipment and just one producer of loudspeakers plus a traditional local producer of capacitors offering price competitive products (TESLA - former monopoly on production of electronics/electronic components).
   

Market entry assistance

Completion: 1999 - 10
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Our U.K. client designs and manufactures electro-optical systems, modules and components for the defence industry; it is one of the world's leading suppliers of this equipment. EasyLink was asked to explore the route to market for defence components as well as distribution options for electro-optical parts for industrial end users.
Results: EasyLink conducted market research to determine general sales potential of electro-optical systems in the Czech Republic. Based on the client's request the research was anonymous and no specific information was disclosed to any of the companies contacted. EasyLink provided the client with detailed information on procurement procedures in the defence sector. EasyLink recommended the client to proceed further with contacts we established with local trading companies as they could constitute partners for smaller contracts and business outside of the government as well as for major government procurement. EasyLink also identified and recommended contacting several importers of medical instrumentation for ophthalmologic medicine.
   

U.K. producer of high-technology microwave PCBs targets the Czech market

Completion: 1999 - 08
Target markets: CZ
Objective: EasyLink was commissioned to identify and approach prospective direct customers and evaluate their interest in sourcing from the client.
Results: EasyLink identified four companies with confirmed interest in receiving detailed information from a new potential supplier. All the prospective customers had strong ties to both the defence and civil sectors. Our research showed that the devices where PCBs are used are not manufactured locally but have to be imported (e.g. from Germany and Sweden). The prospective customers confirmed that although they would most probably not buy big volumes at first, they constituted promising partners for the future.
   

U.K. producer of electronic components seeks Czech partners

Completion: 1999 - 08
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Our client, a global supplier of high quality interconnection devices and hardware to OEM customers in the military, computer, aerospace and telecommunication industries, wished to assess potential for exports to Central and Eastern European countries. EasyLink's Prague office was asked to establish the correct route to market for their products which are often sold by catalogue in other European markets and identify local distributors willing to explore potential for a franchise.
Results: We identified and recommended the client to contact 7 prospective distribution partners.
   

Exploring market potential for a producer of contactors and solenoids

Completion: 1999 - 08
Target markets: CZ
Objective: Our client has over 40 years of experience in manufacturing switchgear and contactors that it sells on a global basis. However, the company is new to the Central and Eastern European market and would like to explore the potential here, starting with the Czech Republic. Our task was to establish the correct route to market for their products; the client was seeking new customers or joint ventures related to the manufacture, service and use of materials handling equipment, battery powered vehicles, special purpose vehicles and power backup devices for the telecommunications industry.
Results: EasyLink identified 7 prospective partners in the Czech Republic, of which some were interested in distributing products while others in a joint venture project or sourcing contactors and solenoids directly (including the largest manufacturer of handling equipment in the country).
   


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