Cas d'èxit de l'empresa AEInnova

Oleum Naturale, a family-owned business rooted in Terres de l’Ebre, has achieved remarkable success in the local market with its premium organic olive oils. However, as the company set its sights on international expansion, it encountered significant challenges. These included limited knowledge of foreign market regulations—particularly in complex markets like Russia—and a lack of strategic connections with international distributors. Moreover, establishing a clear positioning strategy for highly competitive markets such as the United Kingdom, while managing the financial demands of expansion, became critical to the company’s growth ambitions.

The company’s engagement with the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) began during their participation in the “Go Export” event. During this session, the Oleum Naturale team recognized the potential of collaborating with internationalization experts to overcome these challenges and realize their global expansion ambitions. The strategy designed to support Oleum Naturale focused on a comprehensive approach to addressing key internationalization challenges and adapting to the specific requirements of target markets.

The process began with an initial diagnostic conducted during the "Go Export" event, where the company’s export potential was thoroughly analyzed. This analysis identified priority markets, including the United Kingdom and Russia, based on the increasing demand for high-quality, sustainably produced olive oils in these regions.

Following this, a tailored internationalization plan was developed. The plan encompassed market studies, the identification of relevant trade regulations, and a positioning strategy to distinguish Oleum Naturale in competitive markets. A critical step involved facilitating the integration of an export specialist with expertise in the British market, providing practical knowledge and establishing strategic connections with local distributors.

Additionally, essential regulatory support was offered to help navigate commercial regulations and sanctions in more complex markets, such as Russia. In collaboration with the EEN network, technical and documentary adjustments were implemented to ensure compliance with international standards, reducing the risks associated with expansion.

To enhance commercial connections, a reverse trade mission was organized, enabling direct interaction with international distributors. Participation in prestigious trade fairs was also encouraged, creating opportunities to establish strong business relationships.

"The EEN network has been key to our growth. Their support has enabled us to overcome challenges that we would not have been able to face on our own."

Despite challenges, such as adapting to complex regulatory environments, the coordinated efforts of the company, EEN advisors, and other network partners were pivotal in overcoming these obstacles. This dynamic and continuous collaboration ensured that the action plan was effective and adaptable to emerging needs, resulting in tangible and sustainable outcomes.

With the support of the Enterprise Europe Network, Oleum Naturale achieved significant milestones, including successful entry into the UK market, securing a contract with Selfridges—a retailer known for its stringent quality standards—and a 25% increase in sales.

Future goals include expansion into additional European markets, such as Germany and Scandinavia, while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability and quality.

This project highlights the impact of personalized support and collaboration in driving business growth. The Enterprise Europe Network continues to foster partnerships that deliver meaningful results, exemplified by the achievements of Oleum Naturale.