Recap
Lille, the capital of Nord and Hauts-de-France department, Northern France. The city has a central location: cities such as London, Amsterdam and Paris can be reached within a few hours. Located close to large ports which play an important role in export and imports.
In the presentation held, Ms. Laurie Grzechnik Director of WTC Lille and Luc Doublet, President of WTC Lille and Chairman of Nord France Invest gave a detailed description of promising sectors combined with entrepreneurship in Lille.
Lille is one of the cities that has been given the opportunity by World Trade Center Leeuwarden to present its city as a promising city for international business.
Lille is a fast-growing region and this is reflected in various figures. Lille is in fact number 3 of the fastest growing cities when it comes to ”new business”. In addition, large international companies are located in the region such as Bonduelle, Decathlon and Le Creuset.
A number of large and important sectors are also mentioned: railroad industry, automotive industry, agrifood, logistics, healthcare and the French are very progressive when it comes to clean technology. The Lille region is also very popular for international investors; there are 2040 foreign companies based in the region.
Luc Doublet shares his story about the Nord France Invest, which advises and guides entrepreneurs in setting up or expanding their business in Lille.
There are, however, a number of differences to take into account when doing business in Lille, France. A recurring thing is the hierarchy, make sure you get in touch with the right people within the organization and do not tutoyeer too quickly. Also the bond you create with your future business partner is important, talk about general topics and show interest in your business partner.
Want to know more about doing business in Lillle? Take a look at the webinar or contact us.
World Trade Center Leeuwarden supports companies with international ambitions and helps to professionalize export and import by offering knowledge and opening new markets by connecting with potential business partners through its global network.
- Short introduction by Mr Evert Jan Schouwstra, WTC Leeuwarden
- Presentation of the video of Lille
- Presentation on WTC Lille, cultural aspects and Dutch presence in Lille by Mr. Luc Doublet, Chairman of WTC Lille and Ms. Laurie Grzechnik, Director of WTC Lille.
- Q&A