Internationalization

EMD, your internationalization consultancy in Sant Just Desvern, Esplugues and Barcelona

EMD, your internationalization consultancy in Sant Just Desvern, Esplugues and Barcelona 1266 756 Equipo EMD

Internationalization has become a decisive factor for many companies to grow. Having a consultancy specialized in international digital marketing and strategy provides clarity, reduces risks and allows to move forward with a solid roadmap.

If you are looking for an agency … in Baix Llobregat, EMD is your partner.


Internationalization as a strategic project

Expanding into other countries requires planning, analysis and a global vision of the market. Companies can no longer base their entry abroad solely on trade fairs or distributors, but need a strategy that integrates foreign market research, analysis of international competition, validation of real demand, definition of priorities by country and adaptation of content to each cultural and linguistic context. This must be supported by multilingual digital campaigns and continuous performance measurement to make data-driven decisions.

This structured approach is the one developed by EMD – Digital Marketing Strategy, combining business strategy and implementation in digital channels.


Our work methodology


The projects are divided into three blocks:

  1. Internationalization diagnosis

The starting point of any internationalization project at EMD is a rigorous diagnosis. This analysis allows us to understand the real situation of the company before making decisions. We study the state of the digital presence, the current channels of attraction, the positioning against competitors and the existing commercial approach, both nationally and internationally.

On this basis, the real potential for internationalization of the business is evaluated, identifying whether there are markets with sufficient demand, acceptable entry barriers and specific customer acquisition opportunities. This work is completed with a comparative evaluation of priority markets, based on objective data such as market size, level of competition, digital behavior, advertising costs and fit with the company’s value proposition.

2. International strategy by country

Once the diagnosis has been defined, we develop a specific strategy for each selected country. The idea is not to replicate a single strategy, but to define the most appropriate entry route based on the market, the sector and the client’s objectives. In this phase we determine the most effective digital channels in each country, combining SEO, search engine campaigns, LinkedIn Ads and content strategies according to the profile of the target customer.

Messages are localized, adapting the language, commercial approach and arguments to each cultural and linguistic context. The strategy takes the form of a structured action plan, with defined timetables, clear priorities and KPIs that allow us to measure the evolution of the project from the very beginning.

3. Implementation and execution of the international plan

One of EMD ‘s differentiating elements is that the strategy does not remain on paper. The team directly executes the defined actions, coordinating international campaigns in Google Ads, Meta Ads and LinkedIn, as well as the creation of localized content and multilingual web pages oriented to recruitment. At the same time, we work on organic positioning through international SEO, adapting the web architecture and contents to each market. The process is completed with the implementation of marketing automations for the acquisition and management of B2B leads, together with an advanced analytics system that allows continuous monitoring, optimizing actions and making decisions based on real data. This integrated approach allows companies to work with a single team that analyzes, plans, executes and measures the entire internationalization process.


Real international experience and multilingual work

Internationalization requires understanding languages, markets, culture and digital behavior.

EMD ‘s team works regularly in Spanish, French, English and German, and has experience in projects developed in different countries. When the market requires it, EMD collaborates with accredited professionals to guarantee a precise linguistic and cultural adaptation in each language, which facilitates:

  • Read and analyze sources in the original language.
  • Create content tailored to each market.
  • Manage error-free multilingual campaigns.
  • Communicate with international partners and customers.
  • Interpret local regulations and trends.

EMD has developed projects in numerous markets:

  • In a large number of European countries, in particular France, Portugal, Italy, Germany, Eastern European countries, the United Kingdom and the United States.
  • In Africa (Morocco, Algeria), Asia (Vietnam, Thailand) and the Americas (Canada, USA, Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, Chile, Cuba, …).

Grants for the internationalization of ACCIÓ

Many companies rely on the programs of ACCIÓ, the agency for business competitiveness of the Generalitat de Catalunya, to structure and accelerate their internationalization process. These programs, available through the official portal of the Generalitat de Catalunya, require a rigorous approach based on market analysis, strategic definition and clearly defined action plans.

In this context, as an accredited consultant, Eric Onidi assists companies in the preparation and implementation of projects linked to “export strategy” programs.

The experience of EMD – Digital Marketing Strategy in subsidized projects allows companies to approach these programs with greater security, methodological rigor and results orientation, facilitating the proper implementation of the project and its subsequent monitoring. Since 2021, EMD has obtained more than €500,000 in coupons and grants for internationalization projects, supporting more than 30 companies from different economic sectors in the definition and implementation of their international growth plans.


Proximity

Our proximity to companies in Baix Llobregat (Esplugues, Sant Just Desvern, San Feliu, Sant Joan Despí…) and Barcelona allows us to work more directly, meet face-to-face when necessary and understand in greater depth the reality of each business. This close contact translates into a more agile, precise and effective accompaniment throughout the project.

A practical guide to creating an effective international promotion plan

A practical guide to creating an effective international promotion plan 1266 756 Equipo EMD

In a global context marked by geopolitical instability, variable tariffs and the accelerated digitalization of markets, Spanish SMEs face the challenge of internationalizing with strategy.


The International Promotion Plan (IPP) is the key tool for planning this expansion, defining priority markets, entry channels and specific actions -online and offline- that connect the company’s offer with the real demand in each country.

According to ICEX Spain Export and Investment, 75% of SMEs that structure their internationalization with a formal plan manage to maintain stable operations in foreign markets for more than three consecutive years(ICEX, 2024).


1. Market selection: analysis and technical criteria

The first step in any IPP is to determine the target markets based on objective criteria:

  • Market size and potential demand (see World Bank Data).
  • Trade and tariff accessibility, according to the World Trade Organization (WTO) database(WTO Tariff Data).
  • Cultural affinity and language, determinant for commercial communication and negotiation.
  • Competition and channel saturation, using tools such as ITC’s Market Access Map or sector reports from CBI Netherlands(CBI Market Information).
  • Cost of digital marketing, which varies by country: the average CPC of Google Ads ranges from 0.35 € in Spain to more than 1.20 € in Germany(WordStream 2025 Benchmarks).

2. Analysis of entry barriers

The main barriers to entry faced by advanced industrial and service companies in their internationalization process include cultural factors, local competition, technical and logistical requirements.

  • Cultural factors and language: differences in communication and negotiation style require adapting to the local language and cultural codes.
  • Consolidated competition: presence of local and multinational players with strong positioning.
  • Distribution and logistics: difficulty in finding reliable partners and costs related to transportation, customs and after-sales service.
  • Approvals and technical regulations: standards may vary and may require additional certifications.
  • Economic risks: exchange rate fluctuations and tax burden.

Practical example: a Spanish company exporting machinery to Germany must comply with the Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and the CE marking, non-compliance with which may block the import(EUR-Lex, Directive 2006/42/EC).


3. Definition of promotion objectives

The objectives of the plan should be divided into online and offline actions, measurable and linked to business results:

Online objectives

  • Increase brand visibility through multilingual website and international SEO.
  • Increase qualified traffic to the website through paid campaigns (Google Ads, LinkedIn Ads).
  • Generate business contacts (forms, downloads, chats or virtual meetings).
  • Reinforce brand positioning and technical authority.

Offline objectives

  • Establish relationships with distributors and buyers at key trade fairs(updated list of international trade fairs by ICEX).
  • Conduct B2B meetings to detect opportunities for collaboration.
  • Physically display products to reinforce confidence and professional notoriety.

4. Inbound channels: synergy between digital and face-to-face

A balanced strategy combines both worlds.

Online channels

  • Multilingual website with technical SEO and localized content.
  • SEM and display campaigns segmented by sector and country.
  • Professional social media: LinkedIn and YouTube are priorities in B2B(LinkedIn Ads Guide 2025).
  • Automated email marketing (HubSpot, Brevo) with nurturing according to buyer journey stage.
  • Collaborations with sectorial digital media to generate authority backlinks.
  • Webinars or explanatory videos to reinforce the technical and commercial part.

Offline channels

  • Participation in specialized fairs and congresses.
  • Alliances with local distributors or representatives.
  • Advertising in trade magazines and face-to-face actions with prescribers.

5. Legal, fiscal and logistical aspects

Before starting the promotion, the company must:


Conclusion

An International Promotion Plan is not only a requirement to apply for ACCIÓ or ICEX subsidies; it is an essential roadmap to minimize risks and maximize results.

SMEs that plan with a digital vision – integrating international SEO, localized content and constant measurement (KPIs, leads, ROI) – are able to accelerate their entry into new markets and build sustainable business relationships.

Do you want to develop yours?
At EMD – Digital Marketing Strategy we help industrial and service SMEs to define, execute and measure real international promotion plans, combining strategy, digital marketing and export consulting.

👉 More information at: https://estrategiamarketing.digital

tendencias geopolíticas y digitalización in

Geopolitical trends and industrial digitization: how Spanish SMEs can protect their internationalization

Geopolitical trends and industrial digitization: how Spanish SMEs can protect their internationalization 1266 756 Equipo EMD

Global tensions are transforming European industrial trade. Discover how Spanish SMEs can strengthen their internationalization with digital strategies adapted to each market, based on real industrial data and affinities.


1. The geopolitical impact is no longer macro: it affects industrial SMEs.

Industrial SMEs in Catalonia and Spain are living today in an unstable global environment: trade tensions, logistical increases, new European requirements and fluctuations in international demand.
It is no longer enough to “wait for the market to recover”. The difference between resisting or retreating lies in how the digital structure is managed.

An industrial company with a prepared website, localized communication and adaptable campaigns can react in weeks, not years.
At EMD we see it every day: companies that combine international digital visibility, active channels (SEO, SEM, LinkedIn) and messages tailored to each country maintain their export capacity even in periods of instability.

Practical keys:

  • Multilingual website and digital catalog, connected with CRM such as HubSpot or Zoho to manage international leads.
  • Digital campaigns configured by market (not generic), with the possibility of reorienting investment if costs or demand change.
  • Contents localized according to the industrial and economic structure of the country of destination.

2. Prioritize European markets with lower exposure

According to the European Investment Bank‘s Shock Waves from Turbulent Times report (EIB, 2025), European companies that concentrate their activity within the EU suffer less logistical disruption (14%) than those that rely on supplies from outside the EU (22%).

Intra-EU trade already represents 61% of the European total, confirming that proximity remains a competitive advantage(EIB Report 2025).

For a Spanish industrial SME, this translates into a clear strategy: start with compatible and stable markets within Europe, where costs and response times are better controlled.

Examples of industrial affinity:

  • Germany: strong specialization in automotive, mechanical engineering and metal components. Communication should highlight precision, certifications (ISO, TÜV) and energy efficiency.
  • France: dominant sectors in agri-food, packaging, cosmetics and mass distribution. Here, messages focused on sustainability, traceability and product design are at work.
  • Italy and Portugal: adaptability and proximity stand out. Emphasis should be placed on production flexibility, customized design and fast delivery times.

These markets, which account for more than 50% of intra-EU industrial trade (source: Eurostat, 2024), make it possible to diversify risks without dispersing resources.


3. Localize your digital strategy according to the industrial reality of each country.

Effective localization is not about translating, but about aligning your content with the driving sectors and economic priorities of the target market.

Each European country has its own industrial specialization and its own technical language. Therefore, a generic page in English loses weight compared to a communication that speaks the economic language of the customer.

How to adapt your strategy:

  • In Germany, publish technical content on automation, industrial processes and control standards.
  • In France, focus communication on sustainability, eco-design and innovative packaging, connecting with the values of local industry.
  • In Northern Europe, offer verifiable data and open technical documentation (downloadable datasheets, carbon footprint, certifications).
  • In Southern Europe, we emphasize production flexibility, proximity and personalized collaboration.

At the digital level, this means creating country- and industry-specific landing pages, with tailored messaging and visuals. In LinkedIn Ads or Google Ads campaigns, segment not only by country, but also by industry and buyer function (e.g. maintenance managers in Germany, packaging buyers in France, etc.).

Industrial localization turns digital marketing into a technical positioning tool, not just a commercial one.


4. Conclusion: industrial resilience through digital marketing.

Spanish industrial SMEs cannot control tariffs or international policy, but they can control their digital responsiveness.
And that is a real competitive advantage today.

Three essential steps:

  1. Create an agile digital export infrastructure with multilingual presence.
  2. Prioritize European markets with industrial compatibility and lower logistical risk.
  3. Localize content and campaigns according to the economic and sectorial structure of each country.

These decisions, based on data and executed judiciously, strengthen internationalization without increasing fixed costs.

Contact EMD to design a digital internationalization strategy adapted to your industrial reality and to the new global challenges.

Keywords: industrial internationalization, B2B digital marketing, export strategy, european markets, content localization

El método de EMD para internacionalizar tu empresa

The EMD – Digital Marketing Strategy method to internationalize your company

The EMD – Digital Marketing Strategy method to internationalize your company 1536 1024 Equipo EMD

In an increasingly competitive market, internationalization is no longer an option: it is a necessity for companies seeking to diversify their income, reduce risks, and expand their growth. Companies that decide to internationalize face a common challenge: where to start, how to ensure results, and what resources to use to carry it out.

At EMD – Digital Marketing Strategy, we have been supporting companies in their internationalization process for years, combining strategy, digital marketing, and access to public funding programs. Our methodology is designed to guide you throughout the entire process, from the initial diagnosis to execution in international markets. That is why we have prepared this article to learn more about internationalization and how EMD – Digital Marketing Strategy can help you.

1. Why is internationalization important in today’s world?

In a globalized environment, internationalization allows companies to:

  • Greater resilience to local crises for companies that export or open subsidiaries.
  • Access to new customers and strategic partners.
  • Promotes cost optimization and revenue diversification, mitigating risks.
  • Improve operational efficiency, diversify risks, and strengthen brand image.

2. What are the advantages of internationalization?

  • Diversification: Reduces dependence on a single market and stabilizes income.
  • Accelerated growth: Access to markets with higher demand and purchasing power.
  • Global competitiveness: Improves processes and standards to compete internationally.
  • Innovation: Contact with new technologies, trends, and partners.
  • Long-term profitability: Optimizes margins and generates economies of scale

Internationalizing your company is a very important strategic decision, and the data confirms this. According to the World Bank, companies operating in international markets grow up to 60% faster than those limited to their domestic market. This significant difference in growth rate is not accidental: it responds to several key factors

First, accessing new markets allows companies to diversify their sources of income and reduce their dependence on the local market, which protects them from national economic crises or unexpected regulatory changes. In addition, internationalization opens up opportunities to scale operations, take advantage of economies of scale, and access a much broader customer base.

On the other hand, when competing in global markets, companies tend to accelerate their learning curve, adopting best practices, innovating more quickly, and raising their quality standards to remain competitive. All of this translates into a more dynamic, resilient organization that is better prepared for the long term.

3. What is the methodology for defining and implementing the internationalization strategy that we offer at EMD?

At EMD – Digital Marketing Strategy, we guide companies through four essential phases for successful internationalization:

Phase 1. Internal analysis

Before looking outward, it is essential to understand the current situation of the company from within.

In this first phase:

  • We review your products and services to determine which ones are suitable for internationalization and whether they require adaptation (language, certifications, packaging, support, etc.).
  • We evaluate your current sales channels, both digital and physical, to see if they are scalable or need to be redesigned to work in other markets
  • We analyze your value proposition, identifying what makes you different and how to communicate it effectively to international audiences.
  • We study your internal capabilities: team, resources, digital knowledge, logistics, and operations to identify strengths and areas for improvement.

👉 Result: You get a clear picture of your starting point and what you need to strengthen before going abroad.

Phase 2. External analysis

Now we analyze the target markets and the competitive environment in which you will be operating.

Here we work on:

  • Identifying sector trends, key regulations, and purchasing behaviors in target countries.
  • Detailed study of key international competitors: what they do, how they communicate, what channels they use, and what market share they have.
  • Identifying markets with the greatest potential, using clear criteria (demand, ease of entry, buyer digitization, culture, logistics, etc.).
  • Detecting online and offline opportunities: relevant marketplaces, trade shows, distribution networks, local partners, etc.
  • Preparing an international SWOT and CAME analysis, cross-referencing your internal capabilities with the environment to define a robust strategy.

👉 Result: You understand where it makes sense to compete, with whom, and how to do so intelligently.

Phase 3. International strategy and action plan

This is where we define the how: we translate the analyses into a clear, viable, and effective roadmap.

We work on:

  • Design of the international business model and possible adaptations of the product/service.
  • Definition of the marketing model: entry channels (distributors, direct sales, e-commerce, joint ventures), combining online and face-to-face actions.
  • Identification of your international buyer person: profile of the ideal customer in each market, their habits, needs, fears, and motivations.
  • Establishment of SMART objectives and KPIs by country and channel.
  • Allocation of internal and external resources, calendar, tools, and budget.
  • Development of an action plan for each market, with specific milestones, responsible parties, and implementation sequence.

👉 Result: you have a viable and actionable strategy, with a defined focus and resources

Phase 4. Implementation

The greatest value of the EMD method is that we don’t just stick to theory: we accompany the actual execution.

In this phase:

  • We coordinate and/or execute defined actions: multilingual web design, Google/LinkedIn Ads campaigns, localized content, automation, contact with partners, etc.
  • We establish a continuous measurement system: KPI dashboard, periodic reports, and progress evaluation by country and channel.
  • We apply constant improvements: we optimize campaigns, adapt messages, redirect resources, and correct strategic or tactical deviations.
  • We accompany you at all times, acting as a strategic partner in your international expansion.

👉 Result: a strategy that is executed, measured, and improved, with a focus on real results.

4. How can we help you?

At EMD – Digital Marketing Strategy, we help you with:

  • Identifying business opportunities in international markets: We analyze trends, industry data, and growth projections to identify countries and niche markets with high demand potential for your products or services.
  • Developing a customized international promotion plan: We draw up a detailed plan that includes analysis of the competitive environment, consumer trends, legal and regulatory framework, possible barriers to entry, appropriate distribution channels, and investment and return estimates.
  • Tailor-made strategy for each country: We design and execute specific strategies, adapted to the cultural, commercial, and logistical particularities of each target market, ensuring effective and sustainable positioning
  • Access to financing and support programs: We help you identify and access public subsidies, internationalization programs, and other financing instruments available nationally and in Catalonia..
  • Advice to avoid strategic mistakes: We accompany you at every stage of the process to minimize risks and avoid common mistakes that can result in cost overruns, delays, or lost key opportunities.

Conclusion

Internationalization is an essential lever for growth for any company with ambitions for the future. With a structured methodology and expert support, it is not only viable, but also profitable and sustainable.

At EMD – Digital Marketing Strategy, we not only design the strategy, but we also execute it with you, taking advantage of aid such as consulting vouchers and subsidies for the implementation of international projects from ACCIÓ.

📩 Let’s connect and talk about how to (re)define your international strategy.