Five reasons for French businesses to be optimistic
22 Nov 2021
Businesses around the world are still in a precarious situation, and France is no exception. A series of abrupt lockdowns struck a blow for the tourist-driven economy, and put the kibosh on a big summer revival. While the hope is that the lessening of restrictions will prove a major boost for retail ...
The advantages of opening a company in Israel
16 Nov 2021
Israel is not the first country you would think of when considering basing a startup, but if you look into the figures, it ranks as having one of the largest startup populations in the world – so much so, it has been dubbed ‘Startup Nation’ by the business community.
Many foreign entrepreneurs had ...
Five Frustrating Myths About French Business Culture
25 Oct 2021
For years now, France has been stereotyped as a bad place for businesses. Despite being one of the world’s largest economies, French culture is seen as antithetical to successful enterprise, with workers and authorities conspiring to make business owners’ lives as difficult as possible.
While there ...
How to start a cosmetic business in France
04 Oct 2021
France has many specialities, but beauty ranks highly among them. The inventors of high fashion and master perfumers also boast a thriving cosmetics industry, with French makeup brands producing the most beloved and sought-after products around the world.
While this is a competitive industry, it's ...
What are the tax benefits for businesses in Ireland?
27 Sep 2021
Where Luxembourg once ruled the roost, Ireland has become an increasingly attractive option for businesses looking to gain a foothold in Europe. From startups to major international corporations, companies are benefiting from a wealth of business-positive policies, as well as Ireland’s strong infras ...
How Germany plans to move on from Merkel
06 Sep 2021
The next set of national elections could be a serious test for countries which have struggled to contain the coronavirus pandemic. For Germany, this test is now just days away. A general election is coming this month - and it's the first that Angela Merkel won't be standing in since 2002.
Germany h ...
Protect your business ideas from intellectual property theft
31 Aug 2021
If you’re an entrepreneur and you’ve come up with a fresh take on a startup or a revolutionary new product, you need to make sure no one steals your innovative ideas. If you’re worried that your new concept might get pinched at the pitching stage, or a shady colleague might lift your idea from under ...
The best cities for tech startups in France
23 Aug 2021
Once seen as a place for startups to escape from, France has established itself as a hothouse of startup talent. The La French Tech initiative has seen funding and support for startups skyrocket, thanks in large part to the creation of tech hubs in 13 cities and four regions around the country.
All ...
French entrepreneurs benefit from 'second chance' rule
10 Aug 2021
Prior to the pandemic, French businesses were reaping the rewards of several years of reforms. A combination of changes to labour laws and a wealth of funding had led to a new wave of startups, and a clearer path to growth within France.
As the pandemic recedes, a change made back in 2013 is helpin ...
The easy way to open a company in Belgium
28 Jul 2021
Belgium is a great location for foreign entrepreneurs to start a business. The capital Brussels is beating heart of the European Union and the country is hugely committed to attracting overseas investment. There are however a few administrative hoops to jump through before you can open a company, bu ...
Brexit 5 years on - where do businesses stand?
20 Jul 2021
Believe it or not, it's been five years since the Brexit referendum. For many people, this has felt like a particularly long five years, as wrangling over the deal and its outcomes has continued to dominate the news. But it’s only since the end of the transition period, we're coming to realise the r ...
Limoges – the French city that loves entrepreneurs
07 Jul 2021
If you’re thinking of opening a company in France, then Limoges is a city that is making life increasingly attractive to foreign entrepreneurs, especially English-speaking business people.
The city is best known for its porcelain industry but is also one of the world leaders in building electrical ...
UK expats in France given post-Brexit hope
29 Jun 2021
UK expats living in France have been given a glimmer of hope that they will be able to still live, work and drive in France after the British and French governments have come to post-Brexit agreements which safeguards UK citizens’ rights.
UK expats who hadn’t yet sorted out their post-Brexit reside ...
Starting a Business in Portugal – Everything You Need to Know
22 Jun 2021
Since the pandemic, many entrepreneurs have decided to base their businesses in places that give them the benefit of a sunnier climate. Let’s face it, if you can’t go on holiday due to Covid restrictions, then it’s wise to set yourself up in a place that can provide that sunny work/life balance with ...
Bulgaria – the upcoming country for imports & exports
15 Jun 2021
Bulgaria - a country best known for its tourism with its hot spring spas and Black Sea beaches - has flown under the radar when it comes to links to the trade business. But this small country, which is almost half the size of the UK, is beginning to forge its own strong reputation in the import and ...
Should your business accept cryptocurrency payments?
08 Jun 2021
A few years on from Bitcoin hitting the mainstream, cryptocurrencies are back in the news. Dogecoin, a meme-inspired currency promoter by Elon Musk, has made the headlines (not always for the right reasons), whilst a wide array of online retailers have begun to accept it as a form of payment.
Accep ...
How will the new global corporation tax affect business?
02 Jun 2021
International business is bracing itself for a new global corporation tax that will see companies being taxed at the same minimum flat-rate wherever they’re based.
The idea will be floated by US president Joe Biden at the next G7 meeting and has the backing of some European leaders such as Germany’ ...
How to start a recruitment agency in Poland in 3 steps
25 May 2021
Poland is one of the easiest places to set up a recruitment agency in Europe. If you’re an entrepreneur who wants to bring foreign labour into the EU, then the quick and efficient Polish system allows you to set up a company and start your recruitment business in a relatively short time compared wit ...
UK business - how to hire workers from the EU post-Brexit
18 May 2021
After Brexit, freedom of movement between the UK and Europe officially ended, which has taken a big toll on UK businesses that previously hired staff from the EU. Bar and restaurant workers, fruit pickers, care home workers, cleaners, tech workers, and even massive British institutions like the NHS ...
Delaware – the US state that welcomes foreign entrepreneurs
11 May 2021
Working and setting up a business in the USA can be an arduous business for entrepreneurs who are not US citizens, but the state of Delaware is not only making life easier for international business people, they’re actually welcoming foreign investment with open arms.
Delaware has always been known ...
How to get an entrepreneur visa in Europe
04 May 2021
Working abroad can be a complicated process for foreign entrepreneurs. Making sure you have all the legal requirements to live and work in a country is a high priority, and visas are usually top of that list.
Luckily, France – usually seen as a bureaucrat’s dream - is actually making the process sl ...
Why entrepreneurs are choosing Lille for European business
27 Apr 2021
Lille is no longer flying under the business radar as just a pleasant tourist town. Thanks to a wealth of tech, export and industrial business, the city of Lille is emerging as the fresh face of European startups.
Slap-bang in the fortuitous location of Northern France that has fast rail and road l ...
How to start a business in Vietnam
20 Apr 2021
Due to the overwhelming power of China in business, some of the smaller neighbouring countries have been overlooked by foreign entrepreneurs wanting to invest in Asian markets. However, one country is beginning to emerge as a rival to China’s stronghold – Vietnam.
Vietnam is now being seen as a mor ...
How European businesses can break into the UK market
13 Apr 2021
Much has been written about the effects of Brexit on the UK, and how UK businesses have been hampered in their efforts to reach the EU market. However, less has been said about the reverse situation. While the EU is large enough to manage the loss of the UK economy, it is nonetheless a world leader ...
Expat tax exemptions attract entrepreneurs to France
08 Apr 2021
Good news for international entrepreneurs wanting to start their business in France - the French government has a special expatriate exemption scheme to attract company directors and employees to France by providing partial income tax exemption.
The exemptions, which are valid for up to eight years ...
How to open a company in the Netherlands
09 Feb 2021
With Brexit causing a multitude of problems for UK companies wishing to trade in the EU, one way round the issue is opening a country abroad. Even the UK government are suggesting British businesses move operations to neighbouring EU countries to avoid the hold-ups, and one country that is ...
How French software businesses are making it big
09 Feb 2021
While many businesses have suffered in the past year or so, one sector that has profited is that of software. Software as a service (SaaS) companies such as Zoom and Slack have benefitted from a large contingent of remote workers, and this trend looks set to continue, as many companies embrace the b ...
Guide to importing & exporting goods in and out of the UK after Brexit
09 Feb 2021
If you own a UK company and need to trade to the EU, you could be going through some difficulties with the new rules since the Brexit transition ended. Even big companies such as John Lewis and Marks and Spencer are suspending certain services to the EU due to problems with customs and some EU custo ...
The best startup & home business ideas for 2021
09 Feb 2021
It may seem risky to make assumptions after the year we've had, but with the arrival of the vaccines we can hopefully see an end to the coronavirus pandemic. This will mean a return to normality for most of us, at least in terms relative to the previous year. However, it's also likely to produce a s ...
How will Brexit affect your business VAT payments?
09 Feb 2021
Most business owners with EU links know only too well the upheaval that Brexit will cause their companies. Those who trade with the EU have to make sure their EORI numbers and documents are in order before the transition date ends, and most entrepreneurs are also getting their heads around how VAT r ...
How UK business can still trade after Brexit
09 Feb 2021
Negotiations by the British government for a trade deal with the EU have finally finished, but UK companies that need to trade goods and services with the EU are still worried that their businesses will be adversely affected.
Not only is the fishing industry concerned that their income is likely to ...
Why opening a company in Germany is a smart idea during tough times
09 Feb 2021
Germany is one of the most popular places for foreign entrepreneurs to open a company. Not only is it a European economic powerhouse, but the efficient, level-headed systems in the country make it a great place to base a business or to set up a branch. Here’s a guide through the company formation st ...
Advantages to Setting Up a UK Company in a Post-Brexit World
25 Sep 2020
The end of the transition period for the UK in the Brexit process finishes on December 31st and 2021 hails the start of change for both the EU and the UK. In the light of all this uncertainty, many foreign entrepreneurs are now asking: why should I set up in the UK post-Brexit? What are the ad ...
Slovakia – how to open a business in the trade jewel of Europe
07 Sep 2020
Slovakia is not the first place that springs to mind when you think of international business but although this country runs under the radar of most other European capitals with their branded business hubs, Slovakia is fast becoming a place where entrepreneurs are drawn to open their trade businesse ...
Could France’s green surge herald a business revolution?
31 Jul 2020
Despite Coronavirus and the fact that turnout was down by over 10%, France’s recent local elections could still mark a seismic shift for France. The two rounds of elections have seen a wave of support for the green party Europe Ecologie Les Verts (EELV) and other eco-candidates, turfing out man ...
How to start an online business using Etsy
03 Jul 2020
If online shopping was doing well before the coronavirus pandemic, it’s certainly thriving now. Online-only businesses like BooHoo have reported massive spikes in profits, with people buying more online even as physical shops reopen. Meanwhile, many people who have been furloughed or lost their jobs ...
5 Ways the Tourism Industry Can Recover After Coronavirus
12 Jun 2020
Few industries have been hit as hard during the coronavirus pandemic as tourism. The total lockdown enacted in many areas and the risk of catching the virus on public transport have decimated flights, and seen many holidays cancelled as a safety precaution. With the lockdown being eased in many coun ...
Restarting A Holiday Rentals Business After Coronavirus
04 Jun 2020
One of the hardest hit industries during the coronavirus pandemic has been tourism and travel. The absence of flights and strict lockdown criteria have meant that holidays have come to a complete standstill, leaving hotels and rental properties empty, and businesses who are reliant on tourism strugg ...
Six Home Business Ideas for a Self-Isolating Future
11 May 2020
While we’re not out of the woods in regards to the coronavirus, it seems that the situation is improving. Several countries which had been badly affected by the virus have begun to ease restrictions slightly, allowing some people to leave their homes for brief periods, and considering how to ease ot ...
4 self-help tips for the self-employed in France during the Covid Crisis
01 May 2020
The French government has put in place various schemes to help small businesses and the self-employed in France that have been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. Here’s a useful list of things you can do to help your business while lockdown is in place.
1. Assistance from Action Sanitaire et Social ...
How to prepare your business for the end of Coronavirus
22 Apr 2020
With all the difficulties being faced by businesses at the moment, it can be hard to look beyond the current crisis. Yet there will come a point in the near future where things return more or less to normal, and business starts to ramp back up. When that time comes, it will pay to be prepared - and ...
Best business apps for remote working during Coronavirus
30 Mar 2020
So you’ve decided to switch to remote working - or more likely, the coronavirus has forced your hand. You’re probably familiar with Skype and you can still use email, but that’s no replacement for being able to pop over to someone’s desk and hash something out. SO what can you do to improve the expe ...
How to adapt your business to cope with Coronavirus
23 Mar 2020
The spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) has already had a major effect on businesses around the world. While many governments have announced measures to ease the burden, most businesses simply cannot go on as normal, and will have to adapt to the change in circumstances.
While this will be a diffi ...
Coronavirus – Solutions for Business in France
16 Mar 2020
If you were hoping to open a business in France before the pandemic struck and are now worried that logistically it all looks unlikely, or if you’ve already opened a French business and you’re worried about how the Coronavirus is going to affect it, there’s a glimmer of hope on the horizon.
Since P ...
5 Tips to Help You Get to Grips with French Working Culture
05 Mar 2020
France is a wonderful place to live and work, but it can also be quite particular. The French business world is renowned for being accommodating to workers, but not all of those stereotypes hold true. In reality, conducting business and working in France can be more strict than other places in some ...
Why Now is the Time to Realise Your French Business Dream
10 Feb 2020
France is the world’s favourite tourist destination, but for many people, a short break isn’t enough. Sampling the food, culture and scenery is often enough to make you want to pack your bags permanently, and begin a new life in France. By starting a business in the country, this dream could be much ...
How young scientists can create successful startups
21 Jan 2020
A dynamic team of young scientists who won the Euro Start Entreprises startup competition back in 2016 are going from strength to strength with their new company and new products to help solve the world’s energy storage problem.
We caught up with the team – Lukas Lutz, Luca Scherrer and Daniel Cort ...
The Euro Start Guide to French Pension Reforms
07 Jan 2020
If you’ve been reading the news recently, you may have heard about the ongoing strikes in France. While industrial action isn’t unusual, the scale and timing of these strikes is. As well as taking place over Christmas - paralysing the country’s transport infrastructure - they have also involved most ...
How to start a wine business in France
05 Dec 2019
Of the many things France is famous for, none have been exported so successfully as its wine. Both a hallmark of great quality and a cheap evening staple, France is the first place most people associate with this great drink and a mecca for wine-lovers everywhere. For those intrepid souls who want t ...
How easy is it to move your business abroad?
29 Oct 2019
So, you’re thinking of relocating your business to sunnier climes? Perhaps you need a change of pace; perhaps your market is elsewhere and you want to be closer to them; or perhaps it’s just Brexit? Whatever the rationale, you’re considering the feasibility, the benefits and the drawbacks of picking ...
What is the best startup visa scheme in Europe?
09 Oct 2019
Most entrepreneurs only ever think about starting a business at home, with expanding abroad a pipe dream or afterthought. Yet to truly understand how to sell internationally, you need to step outside of your comfort zone. While you may not know where to start, many countries are actively seeking inv ...
The EORI number explained: what it is and why you need it to trade
09 Sep 2019
Though there’s still a chance of avoiding it, the UK could be leaving the European Union pretty soon. While many of the repercussions of this can only be speculated about, one aspect that is set in stone is the effect it would have on trade. Businesses who trade with other EU nations will face admin ...
Video Guide to Starting a Business in France
22 Jul 2019
If you want to know how to start a business in France but don't have time to wade through articles and paperwork, take a look at our new video which gives you all the information you need to know to get you started. It's a step by step video guide that gives you the main stages of opening a company ...
4 Differences Between American and European Business Culture
15 Jul 2019
America’s impact on the rest of the world is staggering and its products are unavoidable. From Hollywood movies to music to food, most people from outside the US are far more familiar with America and its social landscape than America is with theirs.
So for US entrepreneurs who want to expand their ...
The best country to start a business in Europe
05 Jul 2019
If you’ve decided to expand your business into Europe, it’s likely that you already have an idea of where you want to move. However, this can often be influenced by preconceptions and misconceptions about the most prestigious place to be rather than the best place for your business. In actual fact, ...
Does foodtech only work in certain countries?
18 Jun 2019
You may not realise it, but you’ve probably interacted with foodtech - and it probably didn’t seem very technical. Subscription boxes such as Graze and Naturebox, as well as meal preparation kits like Blue Apron, are all examples of this burgeoning field. This is a world that goes beyond just apps a ...
A Guide To ‘Silicon IX’ - The Biggest Tech Hub In Paris
07 Jun 2019
While Silicon Valley still steals the headlines, France may be the world’s most interesting startup destination. With a relentless focus on promoting tech startups over the past decade, France has accelerated from a standing start to become a major player on the world stage. The country now sends th ...
5 Things Startups Can Learn From French Working Culture
13 May 2019
Think of France, and you probably think of the country’s quality of life. Food, wine, romance, culture...everything points to it being a great place to live. A phrase that probably doesn’t come to mind is ‘business destination’ - and yet France is the 6th biggest country in the world by GDP, one of ...
How to set up a VAT number in a foreign country for ecommerce entrepreneurs
25 Apr 2019
With the rise in ecommerce entrepreneurs using sites like Amazon to trade in foreign countries, governments have started to clamp down on companies who are dodging paying VAT in different territories. So if you’re an ecommerce entrepreneur, you need to make sure you’re not breaking the law when you ...
How to start a street food business in London
26 Mar 2019
For some business owners, the idea of being glued to one location is what puts them off retail altogether. You worry that you’ll get tired of the town or city you’re in, or you simply have itchy feet in general, and want to apply your creativity to a business that affords you the ability to travel. ...
How to start an online education business
11 Mar 2019
One of the great benefits of the internet has always been its ability to inform. Whether through Wikipedia or YouTube, the tools exist for people to seek self-improvement at a moment’s notice, learning everything from historical facts to foreign languages. Nowhere is this better encapsulated than th ...
How to start a web design business in France
26 Feb 2019
Of all the forms of tech startup, web design is perhaps the easiest to get into, and the most sought after by other businesses. It’s a business that can be conducted entirely online, with limited startup costs and substantial crossover with both creative and technical fields. This is not to say it’s ...
How to choose a website builder for your new business
12 Feb 2019
A professionally designed website is one of the most powerful tools in an online business’ arsenal. Great web design is expensive, however, and great web designers can be hard to find. It’s not unheard of to invest thousands in multiple websites from different providers, and find none capable of exe ...
How to rent your property in Paris on Airbnb
04 Feb 2019
Of the many businesses that comprise the ‘sharing economy’, Airbnb is perhaps the biggest success story. The third largest private company in the world now boasts more than 600,000 properties in 192 countries around the world, and has transformed thousands of homeowners into letters and tour guides ...
How to open a company in tax-friendly Lebanon
21 Jan 2019
Lebanon isn’t the first place you’d think of to open a company. The images of the war-torn capital Beirut after years of civil war which ended in 1990 would probably be the only things that come to mind when you mention Lebanon. But since that time, the country has worked hard to establish itself wi ...
David & Goliath - How France is Squaring up to the US Tech Scene
09 Jan 2019
French president Emmanuel Macron recently invited 40 venture capitalists from the world of tech to find out why France is competing with the US tech giant Silicon Valley to become a hot-spot location for tech startups.
The VCs and partners attended the two-day event at Station F – the world’s bigge ...
Brexit update: what businesses can expect in 2019
04 Jan 2019
Brexit is a conversation most people would rather avoid at this point, but it’s a painful reality for most businesses. After more than two years of negotiations and just a few months away from the withdrawal date, it’s still unclear what the nature of Brexit will be, and exactly what impact it will ...
Start A Business In Ireland In 8 Steps
05 Dec 2018
Starting a new business is exciting, but it can be daunting if you’re unfamiliar with the process - and particularly if it’s in a new country. While The Emerald Isle is a friendly place for businesses, that doesn’t mean you can waltz through the formation process. Here are the 8 steps you’ll need to ...
The advantages of opening a company in Singapore
23 Nov 2018
In terms of business in Asia, Singapore is often overshadowed by the more dominating presence of China, but this relatively small country actually ranks way higher for international entrepreneurs who want to stake their claim in the Asian markets. So, if you want to find out how to start a business ...
What Does The Pre-Brexit Budget Mean For Small Businesses?
05 Nov 2018
“Austerity is over.” That’s the line from the Prime Minister and the Chancellor, who has just delivered the country’s last budget before Brexit. With cuts continuing in many areas, the reality is somewhat different - but we do have a few tax breaks to contend with.
This budget may less interesting ...
How to transfer your business to France
29 Oct 2018
France was once seen as a country that was anti-entrepreneur. But with the election of Emmanuelle Macron who is furiously trying to put France back on the business map with new labour laws that favour the employer and tax cuts that ease the burden on business owners, France is now becoming a country ...
4 Simple Tips For Exporting Your eCommerce Business To France
12 Oct 2018
Consumer culture in France is perhaps better developed - and preserved - than anywhere else in the world. The historical home of high fashion is also a haven for physical retail businesses, with locals still flocking to bakeries, butchers and all manner of outposts for fresh produce and local goods. ...
How to start a podcasting business
01 Oct 2018
If you have a long commute or a lot of housework to rattle through, the chances are that you’re already a fan of podcasts. If not, you soon will be, as almost a quarter of Americans surveyed last year had listened to a podcast within the last month. This isn’t just a large audience, but a highly eng ...
What are the benefits of starting a business in France?
17 Sep 2018
There are all sorts of reasons to live in France, but it’s typically been ignored as a business destination by many outsiders. Stereotypes of an unfriendly business climate, a low rate of English literacy and a laid-back working culture have stuck in the popular imagination, even as these issues hav ...
5 Reasons You Should Start A Food Business In France
27 Aug 2018
France is known for many things: romance, revolution, the Eiffel Tower. The cultural contribution that stands above all others, however, is fantastic food. Mealtimes have an almost holy resonance in France, with delicious and complex home cooking taking precedence over ready meals and fast food take ...
A simple guide to starting a business in Berlin
07 Aug 2018
In a competitive field, Berlin is making a strong claim to be the world’s premier city. The German capital can lay claim to reasonable rent, an English speaking population, thriving local businesses, great food and nightlife, and a burgeoning startup scene. It’s not just an attractive place to live ...
How An Indian Company Can Start A Business in the UK
23 Jul 2018
In spite of Brexit, the UK is still a place of enormous opportunity. As one of the top five economies in the world and one of its largest and most developed consumer markets, the UK is a prestigious location for businesses. It’s also a favoured destination for Indian businesses, and not without good ...
US Retail Boosted As Court Rules On Online Sales Tax
09 Jul 2018
Retail outlets in the United States have been given a significant boost, as the country’s Supreme Court rules against online retailers in a major tax court case. In a 5-4 decision against major online storefronts Newegg, Wayfair and Overstock.com, the Supreme Court ruled that individual states ...
How to open a branch of your business in France the easy way
18 Jun 2018
Having the small but impactful word ‘Paris’ attached to your brand or business can do wonders for your marketing strategy. But it’s not just fashion designers who desire the mark of France’s capital city on their labels and business cards. Foreign investors from all over the world - especially trade ...
Drone Tech Is The UK's Next Big Business Opportunity
01 Jun 2018
From secret military projects to Christmas stocking fillers, the arrival of drones over the past decade has been revolutionary. Now a new study suggests that both the creation and wider deployment of drones could have a similar effect on UK businesses, boosting the economy by as much as £42 billion ...
How France became Europe’s top investment destination
25 May 2018
Emmanuel Macron has been hard to keep out of the headlines - and he probably wouldn’t want it any other way. The media-savvy French President has risked ire at home by courting President Trump on recent state visits, but this has been a calculated gamble. His grandstanding is designed to further Fra ...
Cannabiz: the pros & cons of starting a marijuana business in the US
04 May 2018
Cannabis. Marijuana. Pot. Call it what you want - in America it’s now big business. A sudden influx of tax dollars has quelled some concerns about the effects of the drug, and fast-tracked its legalisation. Yet despite this explosion of business interest, cannabis is still illegal at the federal lev ...
What's the difference between a SARL, SAS, SA, EURL, Micro-Entreprise & Auto-Entrepreneur?
27 Apr 2018
A Guide to the Main Business Structures in France
Setting up a business in a different country is a big step, and one of the first hurdles you need to jump is choosing the correct business structure. In France there are various different structures available, from SARLs to SAs to EURLs -- and for t ...
Why the French are Flocking to Florida
04 Apr 2018
There’s always been a slightly tricky relationship between the French and Americans. Despite being allies in the world wars and never having taken up arms against each other in their military history, the French nevertheless like to maintain an independence of thought which doesn’t always sit well w ...
Why celebs and startups are moving to Portugal
23 Mar 2018
Why have celebrities such as Madonna moved to Portugal? Well, there’s been a quiet revolution happening in Portugal over the last few years, especially in its capital Lisbon. Young people, celebrities and businesses have flocked to the sunny Iberian coast, creating a surge of new and innovative busi ...
Our SEO journey – and how we (finally) harnessed the power of SEO to boost our business
05 Mar 2018
When we started out as a tiny startup in a dingy back office in Paris, we had no idea about Search Engine Optimisation. We knew that by setting ourselves up as company formation experts specialising in helping international entrepreneurs set up their business in France, we needed to reach as m ...
How to pay cross-border VAT in the EU
05 Feb 2018
If you’re opening a business in or expanding to the European Union, you may not be aware of your obligations when it comes to value added tax (VAT). Because of the open trade between EU countries, the obligation to pay this goods tax often falls on the exporter, as opposed to customs. Changes to the ...
What the 2024 Olympics is doing for real estate and business in Paris
26 Jan 2018
Paris has always been a popular city for real estate. The image of geranium laden balconies and dinky apartments accessed by twisting wooden stairs has often been a romantic ideal for a large number of tourists and expats.
But with Paris becoming the host for the Olympics in 2024, prices in both th ...
Why you should be setting up a company in Ireland
22 Jan 2018
The Emerald Isle is internationally renowned for a number of things: beautiful countryside, wonderful people, and plentiful beer. What’s perhaps less well known - or at least less well appreciated - is the country’s strength as a business destination. When it comes to attracting and supporting innov ...
Macron’s ‘Gift Horse’ Leaves UK Out In The Cold
17 Jan 2018
Emmanuel Macron has presented the Chinese Premier Xi Jinping (pictured) with an elite French cavalry horse - the latest sign of a shift in allegiances for the world’s most populous nation.
The eight-year-old stallion, named Vesuvius, was presented to the Chinese Premier at the start of a three ...
Tax changes to French business in 2018 – how will it affect you?
10 Jan 2018
From January 1st, the French government are ringing in the new year with some changes to business – so how will it affect you and your French business in 2018? Below is a quick-look guide to what’s happening with taxes, credit rates and pension funds.
Decrease in the corporate income tax rate & ...
The differences between starting a business in the UK and Ireland
02 Jan 2018
Now Brexit is in full swing, the picture is still uncertain for UK businesses, as well as those looking to move to Europe. Concerns about tariffs and other barriers to trade have yet to be settled, jeopardising the UK’s status as a launching pad for businesses in Europe.
The UK’s loss however may b ...
Dubai Opens Its Doors To e-Commerce Businesses
21 Dec 2017
Dubai has opened a new free-trade zone specifically for e-Commerce businesses, in the United Arab Emirates’ latest effort to modernise and diversify its business interests.The Dubai CommerCity trade zone will be located in the Umm Ramool district, just south of Dubai International Airport. Investmen ...
Why Cyprus is so popular with tax savvy entrepreneurs
15 Dec 2017
Although Cyprus is a tiny island, it’s now becoming a giant for business due to its extremely tax-friendly environment. With the UK exiting the European Union, many entrepreneurs are now looking to other EU member states to set up their companies and Cyprus has quickly become the go-to country for i ...
France Fights Back In The War For British Banks
08 Dec 2017
France and Germany are continuing a heated battle over the relocation of banks from London, as Brexit talks continue to throw uncertainty on the country’s financial sector.
As a more established European financial centre, Frankfurt currently holds a slim lead when it comes to statements and guarant ...
New German Coalition Is A Relief For Businesses
28 Nov 2017
Angela Merkel looks set to form a coalition government just days after ruling it out, in the latest surprise move since her narrow election win in September.
Merkel won 33% of the vote as part of her CDU/CSU party, while former allies the SPD received only 20%. However, the plurality of parties in ...
Can A Business-Friendly Budget Save Britain From Brexit?
24 Nov 2017
For the Conservative Party, it was enough that 2017’s Budget announcement passed without much incident. There was a smattering of jokes, and scattered bits of good news: more money for the NHS, house building and Brexit planning, and a suite of protections for businesses.
A couple of days beforehan ...
How to start a life coaching business in France
06 Nov 2017
For the experienced individual looking to start a new life in France, life coaching can be an ideal opportunity. Like any other skill, life coaching takes genuine passion, determination and individual ability to turn it into a profitable venture. But unlike other businesses, you have the potential t ...
Macron Battles Strikes To Implement Business Reforms
27 Oct 2017
French President Emmanuel Macron has faced fresh strikes over his controversial public sector reforms, but has resolved not to back down in the fight for French business.
Workers across France’s public sector, which employs a fifth of the French population, are unhappy about reforms he had touted d ...
How Station F Shrugged Off France’s Bad Business Reputation
09 Oct 2017
Who would have believed it? The country whose favourite phrases begin with “Mais le problème est...” or “C’est compliqué” has managed to open the biggest startup campus in the world. And not only that, after only a few months of opening its doors, Station F in Paris appears to be roaring suc ...
What Merkel’s Win Means for Business
28 Sep 2017
Angela Merkel may have just secured a fourth term as Germany’s Chancellor, albeit under heavy opposition, but as she looks to form a coalition government, what will this mean for business in Germany and Europe?
Merkel's party - the ruling Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party - secured 33% of the ...
Macron Continues Reforms Despite Popularity Dip
12 Sep 2017
While French President Emmanuel Macron swept to power on a surge of populist sentiment, there was always the chance that things would go sour quickly. His winning margin was at least partly due to widespread dislike of his final round opponent, Marine Le Pen.
Many people on the traditional right an ...
Lessons in French Business – How Our Startup Survived Recessions, Referendums & Rough Times
07 Sep 2017
We’ve been in business for 10 years now and during that time we’ve managed to keep our heads above water during a monster worldwide recession, a knock-on economic dip in France that seemed to be never-ending, an EU referendum, and a rocky political climate. But despite those difficulties, our compan ...
How To Start A Film Production Company in Europe
19 Jul 2017
So you want to start a film production company. You’ll have to move to America, right? Wrong! While Hollywood still dominates the global box office, Europe has a strong claim to be cinema’s second home. It’s where the medium was developed, and where many of the most experimental and interesting film ...
Why a 'Hard Brexit' Is Good News For France And Germany
14 Jul 2017
After the recent destabilising UK General Election, the Conservative government’s Brexit negotiator David Davies had to enter talks with the EU on the back foot. The government’s intention to call the snap election - to strengthen its hand with an increased mandate - backfired catastrophically, with ...
Audits in France – What to Expect When Your French Company Is Audited
29 Jun 2017
Being audited is a stressful business. Being audited in France is a whole other level of stress due to the fact that tax and accountancy in France are not just matters of paperwork and filing, but matters of rigid laws that leave very little room for mistakes and carry high penalties.
We spoke to A ...
7 key differences between European and Indian business culture
23 Jun 2017
Co-operation between businesses in India and the rest of the world has increased dramatically in recent years, and much has been learned. Many differences still exist however, and these can be disorienting for Indian entrepreneurs looking to expand a business to European shores. Here are a few diffe ...
Macron Presses On With Parliamentary Majority
20 Jun 2017
Less than two years ago, Emmanuel Macron was a relatively unknown and innocuous figure in French politics. He now stands as one of the most powerful presidents in generations since his hastily assembled party has just scored a major victory in the country’s parliamentary elections.
La République en ...
UK General Election: What A Hung Parliament Means For Business
09 Jun 2017
So, who saw that coming? As results crept in from constituencies around the UK, the shock exit polls were largely borne out in the result. The ruling Conservative Party won, and increased their proportion of the vote, but managed to lose around a dozen seats. Labour, the largest opposition party, ma ...
The Business of Perfume
07 Jun 2017
By Katya Puyraud – co-owner of Euro Start Entreprises
Perfume is not just some misty substance you can waft away. It’s a multi-billion pound industry that, according to advertisers, does not just sell scent. It sells a lifestyle and an identity.
To get to grips with the business of perfume, I went ...
Merkel vs Macron: whose plan is better for business?
29 May 2017
The recent election of Emmanuel Macron in France was seen as a major boon for the EU. Following the Brexit referendum, there were immediate concerns of a domino effect, with the potential election of anti-EU populists in other countrie ...
The best business destinations for Belgian entrepreneurs
23 May 2017
Belgium is lucky location-wise. Nestled between three European financial behemoths and with direct routes to the Channel Tunnel and the North Sea, it provides easy access to European markets for Belgian entrepreneurs who want to expand their business.
So for Belgian business people who want to base ...
How to Start a Clothes Shop in France
15 May 2017
Ask anyone around the world what the home of fashion is, and they’ll give you the same answer. Having practically invented and continually redefined modern style, France is a fashionista’s mecca. Setting up a retail clothing business in France is many people’s dream: not just for the beautiful cloth ...
Opinion: What Macron Needs To Do Next
08 May 2017
After several months of a long and difficult campaign, France has finally elected its new president.
Emmanuel Macron is now the youngest president elect of the French 5th Republic and has won the polls by more than 66%.On the second round of the Presidential election he was up against Front Na ...
How to start a private security company in France
02 May 2017
As an unfortunate by-product of security concerns in France over the past couple of years (not to mention the robbery in Paris of celebrities Kim Kardashian and Kanye West), the personal security sector has received enormous attention. Along with greater vigilance and protection of public events, th ...
How will the UK General Election Impact Business?
21 Apr 2017
With British Prime Minister Theresa May’s announcement of a snap election, 2017 has continued last year’s trend of political surprises. May had repeatedly said that such an election wasn’t in the UK’s “best interests”, and many expected her to ride out the remaining three years left after their deci ...
Why Holland Is A Smart Place For Your European Business
18 Apr 2017
With so many heavy hitters in the global economy coming from Europe such as Germany, Britain and France, it’s easy to forget that one the brightest stars in the international business scene is a smaller country nestled in North Western Europe – Holland.
There are many reasons why the Netherlands is ...
Global Entrepreneurs Find a Warm Welcome in Post-Brexit Britain
05 Apr 2017
Now the UK is all set to extricate itself from the EU, the British government is doing its best to encourage foreign entrepreneurs to come to the UK by offering some tempting business incentives.
With the British economy growing faster than the US, Japan and France, and with employment at an eleven ...
How to start a sports agency in France
03 Apr 2017
Starting a sports agency anywhere is a compelling prospect. Players at the top level of many sports make large amounts of money, and agents’ fees can reflect this. While the competition is cutthroat in many countries, France has opted to keep a closer eye on the industry. This can feel like it prese ...
La French Tech Invigorated By New Visa Reforms
27 Mar 2017
France has already enjoyed enormous success in its tech ecosystem, with a record foreign delegation at CES and more investments in 2016 than anywhere else in Europe. But until now those startups could find it tough to hire talent from outside the EU - a crucial means of staying competitive. And ...
How To Start a Holiday Cottage or Gîte Business in France
14 Mar 2017
Working for yourself and living in the beautiful French countryside is an idyll to which many expats aspire. Being able to bask in the warm weather, indulge in French patisseries and enjoy classic wines on your terrace while earning money on your own doorstep certainly sounds like a cushy number. Bu ...
Will Business Beat ‘Frexit’ in French Presidential Election?
28 Feb 2017
After a year of Brexit, Trump and all manner of upsets, it’s anyone’s guess who will win the upcoming French presidential election. While some candidates have been quick to highlight this year of upheaval, France is a unique country. The enshrinement of republican secularism, protections against pop ...
How to start a cleantech business in France
21 Feb 2017
It seems the world is finally waking up to the realities of climate change. Big polluters such as China and India have made major commitments to reduce pollution, while the Paris Agreement represents a monumental international effort.
As such, there’s never been a better time to start a business in ...
Will the French ‘right to disconnect’ help or hinder business?
09 Feb 2017
No self-respecting businessperson would be caught without their trusty smartphone. Cloud computing and digital convergence have made it easier to carry work with us wherever we go, turning phones into vital business tools.
But for all the advantages this brings, it has become increasingly hard to e ...
How To Start An Indie Video Game Company
19 Jan 2017
Incorporating a video game company is much the same as any other business. But the unique requirements of this competitive industry require some in-depth research. Here are some of the most important things to consider before you take a leap into the digital realm.
Utilising tax breaks to start a v ...
How to open a French company the cheap and easy way
06 Jan 2017
If you’ve been thinking about opening a company in France but haven’t found the right time to do it, then this year could be the year to achieve that goal.
Starting a business in France – or in any country other than your own – is always a serious undertaking. So you need to consider a wide range o ...
How French Fashion Continues To Set The Global Trend
04 Jan 2017
Whatever difficulties France faces, the country’s fashion industry will always fire on all cylinders. A recent report by the French Fashion Institute (IFM) found that the sector outperforms several major high-ticket trades, including aerospace and car production.
Yet according to the head of Jean P ...
Brexit: A Big Bonus for Big Business?
12 Dec 2016
With McDonald’s announcing plans to say goodbye to Luxembourg and move its controversial tax structure to the UK, other big businesses that are feeling the heat of EU tax investigators might also find a welcoming bonus in Britain post-Brexit.
The Conservative government pledged to reduce the UK cor ...
How to Get Around Trump’s Trade Policies
22 Nov 2016
With Donald Trump’s promise to scrap the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade deal on his first day at the White House it seems that the world’s export-import industries will have to brace themselves for change once again.
Just as the UK grapples with having to renegotiate trade deals with EU coun ...
Guide to Digital Nomad Hotspots for Global Entrepreneurs
07 Nov 2016
If you're an entrepreneur with itchy feet who doesn't like to stay in one place for too long, or if you have the type of startup that sends you from pillar to post all over the world, you'll need to choose your locations carefully if you want to stay in business. If you're serious about being a glob ...
Business Brexit: How To Relocate Your Enterprise to France
14 Oct 2016
In the post-Brexit clamour to tempt businesses away from Britain, the best claimant may be France. The UK’s closest continental neighbour already has thriving hubs for many of the UK’s key industries. With the banking sector a particularly tempting prize, politicians have already rallied to pro ...
Hollande to Cut French Corporation Tax
19 Sep 2016
Two months ago, in the wake of the Brexit vote, then UK chancellor George Osborne announced his plans to lower corporation tax to 15% in a bid to convince businesses to stay. The move was roundly condemned by many EU countries, but particularly vociferously by French finance minister Michel Sapin, w ...
France - number one destination for Chinese investment?
01 Aug 2016
It would seem like common sense to pursue the world’s biggest market, yet until recently many businesses have considered China too difficult to penetrate. But having laid the groundwork for success both at home and abroad, France is now reaping the financial and political rewards. In the wake of Bre ...
Don’t Panic! Brexit Opportunities for Global Business
28 Jun 2016
Whether you already have a UK business or whether you were thinking of starting up in Britain, you may be feeling a bit wobbly after last week’s Brexit results. But don’t panic. All is not lost. While Britain starts slowly packing its bags and waving a forlorn farewell to the EU, there may be some o ...
The Implications of Brexit on Businesses
27 Jun 2016
Now that the vote on whether Britain should exit the European Union has been finalised, businesses face a period of uncertainty as everyone tries to digest what this means in the long-term.
The wide-ranging implications of Brexit on businesses range from tax, employment, financial regulation, intel ...
Success Beckons for Startup Competition Winners
20 Jun 2016
Three young science students who won the Euro Start Entreprises startup competition are planning to launch a product to help solve the world’s energy storage problem.
Lukas Lutz (pictured right) from Germany, Luca Scherrer (pictured centre) from Switzerland and Daniel Corte (pictured left) from Bra ...
How To Become A Digital Nomad
10 Jun 2016
For many people the monotony of a structured working environment is far from ideal. The notion of a perpetual Groundhog Day where you’re endlessly trapped in the same routine is leading many of us to become bored, dissatisfied and restless when it comes to our working life.
According to a huge ...
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Pro Business or Pro Worker: Why The French Are Striking Against French Employment Law Reforms
19 May 2016
It’s been an interesting few weeks in France. Under pressure from the upcoming election and poor opinion polls, the French president has been trying to cement his position with sweeping reforms to the country’s rigid employment laws.
Mass strikes throughout the country by those against the pro ...
An Expat’s Adventures in Auto-Entrepreneur Land
11 Apr 2016
If you’re out wandering the Paris streets one day and you happen to see a huge bicycle in the shape of a restaurant table, with 16 people peddling along while tucking into charcuterie, French cheeses and bottles of wine, then you’ve just witnessed the Cyclo-Café - the brain-child of expat entreprene ...
How do I pay VAT / TVA in France?
04 Apr 2016
“If I’m a foreign entrepreneur who does business in France, how do I pay the correct French VAT / TVA rate for my services?”
This is a question that troubles many international business owners when they do business within global markets. Every country has a different Value Added Tax rate which need ...
How does the payroll system work in France?
21 Mar 2016
If you're thinking of owning a business in France and are planning to employ people to work for you, then you will need to hire someone who knows how the payroll system works in France.
Many business owners choose to outsource their payroll department because the system can be very complex and is s ...
The Next Big Startup in France – Could It Be You?
10 Mar 2016
Have you got a great startup story to tell? Then you might just win yourself a free startup package worth over €2,000 as part of our fantastic competition to find the next big startup in France.
Back in 2007, we were a little startup operating out of a tiny room belonging to a record company in a d ...
Winners of Startup Scheme Welcomed to France by President Hollande
07 Mar 2016
The French Tech Ticket – a government startup scheme to attract new business to France – announced the first set of 2016 winners with President François Hollande welcoming the successful entrepreneurs at the Élysée Palace in Paris.
The scheme was launched back in May last year and promised successf ...
Starting Your Business in France - Everything You Need to Know
19 Feb 2016
Whether you’re an expat, a foreign entrepreneur or a French resident, starting your business in France can sometimes seem like a complicated procedure. But if you have all the information you need to know at hand, then you’re half the way there. That’s why we’ve compiled a useful free downloadable g ...
Entrepreneur Coach gives Fool-Proof Tips for Success
01 Feb 2016
You have to be a dreamer to be an entrepreneur but it’s no good staring up at the clouds and waiting for the first million pounds to just drop into your lap. Once the dreaming is over, the hard work starts and the first step for any would-be entrepreneur is a business plan. Entrepreneur coach Dawn Z ...
New Visa to Boost UK Economy
04 Jan 2016
There’s a good start to 2016 for both the UK tourism business and for Chinese visitors to Britain – from January the government is introducing a new two year visa for Chinese visitors to the UK.
Four times the usual six-month standard visa limit, the British government is hoping the new visa will b ...
The Survival Spirit of an Entrepreneur
18 Nov 2015
In our field as company formation experts, we come across many inspiring international entrepreneurs. One of them is Nada Rothbart, who fled her war-torn homeland of Yugoslavia and then went onto become a successful businesswoman in the US. Here is her brave story of survival...
Nada Rothbart is an ...
How to open a restaurant in France
11 Nov 2015
Trying to open a restaurant in France, the home of classic cooking and culinary expertise, might be likened to selling ice to Inuits. Luckily for foreign restaurant entrepreneurs, the French are known for spending vast quantities on eating out, and are very open to fresh taste concepts and new place ...
France’s Startup Scheme Offers Ticket to Success
19 Oct 2015
The French government’s incentive to attract foreign entrepreneurs seems to be working. The program - called the French Tech Ticket - has attracted thousands of business people from around the world who want to set up a company in Paris.
The scheme was launched back in May and promised successful a ...
Budapest – the ‘go-to’ city for entrepreneurs
05 Oct 2015
A few years ago Hungary and its capital Budapest wouldn’t exactly have tripped off the tongue of any global entrepreneurs looking to make their mark on the international startup scene. But the business world is a rapid and fickle thing, and where previously it had revered such cities as Berlin and L ...
Business Banking in France - What NOT to Do
21 Sep 2015
French banks are in a league of their own. Unlike the banks in Britain where the big banking companies compete for your money with interest rate incentives or insurance discounts, the French banks have a slightly different attitude. It’s up to you to impress them.
So to help you understand the some ...
How tax breaks in Portugal are saving expats €30,000 a year
14 Sep 2015
Portugal has long been a favoured tourist destination for Europeans, but thanks to some tax incentives introduced by the Portuguese government many tourists are now deciding to extend their stay.
Besides the obvious benefits of around 300 days of sunshine in the south coupled with the low cost of f ...
France - World Champions of Tax?
13 Jul 2015
The French are well known for their love of taxes. A list of 266 taxes levied by the French taxman has recently been doing the rounds on social media, causing quite a few raised eyebrows at the pernickety nature of some of the taxes. (Our personal favourite is number 62 – a tax on cross-country skii ...
Relocating to the UK - Part 2
06 Jul 2015
Relocating to the UK – How To Open a UK Bank Account & International Shipping
In Part 2 of our UK Relocation series, we turn our attention to the world of banking and shipping....
There are many banks to choose from when deciding to open a bank account in the UK. Since the economic c ...
Relocating to the UK - Part 3
06 Jul 2015
Relocating to the UK – Schools, Doctors & Pets
In Part 3 of our UK Relocation series we tackle the subject of finding schools for your kids, registering with a UK doctor and dealing with any animals and pets.
If you have a family, then relocating to the UK will mean a huge adjustment. All ...
Relocating to the UK - Part 4
06 Jul 2015
Relocating to the UK – Working or Starting Your Business in the UK
In Part 4 of our UK Relocation series, we focus on the British work and tax system and how to start a business in the UK including UK company formation, registration and visas.
The UK is well known for being welcoming towards entre ...
Relocating to the UK - Home, Business & Family
26 Jun 2015
Moving to the UK - Everything You Need to Know
Relocating your home, family and business to another country might seem like an insurmountable task but if you have a list of exactly what you need to tackle, then an international move doesn’t need to be a stressful affair.
Of course you can always o ...
Start A Business In France in 8 Steps
12 Jun 2015
Opening a company is a big leap forward for many would-be entrepreneurs, but the jump doesn’t need to be so daunting if you’re armed with the right information. Opening companies in France is what we do every day, so you can trust our information to be up-to-date and correct, as we really know ...
The Worst & Funniest Moments From The Apprentice UK
05 Jun 2015
The infamous words “There’s No Such Thing As A Bad Idea” are routinely proclaimed at the start of brainstorming sessions to encourage innovation and trigger creative collaboration. But while risky and down-right ridiculous ideas are blurted out under the protection of these immortal words, is it rea ...
Inspirational Quotes from Successful Female Entrepreneurs
02 Jun 2015
All business owners need some motivation to push through the difficult times so what better way to focus on your goals than with some inspirational quotes from successful female entrepreneurs. These little gems of wisdom come from the dynamic Paris Women of Success group - a lively bunch of expat en ...
What will the new UK government do for small business?
18 May 2015
After the post-election fuss settles down, many entrepreneurs will now be wondering what exactly the new all-Conservative UK government has in store for small business owners.
During the launch of his small business manifesto last month, Prime Minister David Cameron gave a speech praising the small ...
Expand Your Business Abroad
16 Feb 2015
If you’re lucky enough to have a successful small business, there may come a time when you’ll want to expand your business abroad. Branching out internationally can bring huge benefits – a whole new client base, a bigger business profile, fresh tax options, potential new business partners and, most ...
Join the UK Startup Scene
16 Feb 2015
Britain has always has always loved revolutionizing the old guard. The fashion, music and comedy scenes have all benefited from the particular brand of humour and the love of the contrary that is deeply ingrained in the British psyche. Now that radical sensibility has transferred itself to the start ...
How to Open a Company in France
16 Feb 2015
Setting up a company in your own country can be fraught with difficulties, let alone tackling another country’s administrative system. Language problems, mounds of paperwork, legal obstacles and banking issues can all trip up would-be international entrepreneurs.
Luckily, there’s an easy way to exp ...
Tax Advantages in the Emirates
16 Feb 2015
Dubai is well-known amongst the business community for being a hot-hub for entrepreneurs, but of the other seven emirates that make up the UAE there’s another destination that’s coming up in the ranks – Ras Al Khaimah.
Ras Al Khaimah (or RAK as it’s most commonly referred to) is now recognized as o ...