Success stories of past participants
Company: NJ Studija
The SIA “NJ Studija” fashion design shop from Latvia, has a women’s prêt-à-porter collections, a
"de luxe" prêt-à-porter collection and a children’s wear collection. NJ Studija participated in the EU Gateway Programme in 2005, 2006 and 2007.
Managing Director, Ms. Natalija Jansone, spoke about her experience with the WEAREUROPE business mission in Japan.
What were the results of your participation in the WEAREUROPE business mission to Japan?
We took part in the EU Gateway Programme for the first time in 2005, and subsequently received orders from four Japanese companies: the ODAKYU Department Store, two private boutiques and a TV shopping channel! Thanks to our involvement in two more business missions, we further developed our business and cooperation with the Japanese companies. Since then, the ODAKYU Department Store has become our regular partner.
How do you see the Japanese market in your sector? In your opinion, what are the most important aspects of doing business in Japan?
The Japanese market is huge and there is still a large part of it that we have yet to discover. In my opinion, the most important aspects of doing business in Japan are ensuring a high quality finish and punctuality in completion and delivery of your product.
What do you consider are the main benefits of participating in the EU Gtaeway Programme?
One challenge in Japan is finding clients that are interested in your specific market sector and arranging meetings with them. The EU Gateway Programme provided a great deal of support as they ensured that the appropriate conditions were in place for meetings with potential clients, while also providing us with the possibility of learning more about the Japanese market.
What is your advice for companies who wish to penetrate the Japanese market?
- Define your target market and who your product is made for
- Be sure to understand the business culture as well as the local market
- Be flexible with the volume and timing of your deliveries
- Provide quality, quality and quality
- Love and respect your clients
