# Presentation: 551106

## European Manufacturing Partnership Forum 

- Brussels, Belgium
- May 31 - June 4, 2005

**U.S. Commercial Service Belgium**

**Notes:**
On April 8, 2004, Rhonda Keenum was appointed by President Bush to serve as the Assistant Secretary and Director General of the United States and Foreign Commercial Service at the United States Department of Commerce. 
Prior to her nomination, Ms. Keenum served as a Senior Vice President at Edelman Worldwide in Washington, D.C., a full-service international public relations firm. Suffice it to say, the list of her incredible accomplishments is extensive.  Thank you Rhonda, we are honored to have you with us today. 

I want to also say Welcome Everyone, and especially the business representatives out their interested in the European market.  As you will see, now is the time and we will make this call worth your time!

First I would like to express appreciation for helping to coordinate and organize this call to:
Deborah Doherty, Harrisburg, PA USEAC
Allan Patch, Des Moines, Iowa USEAC

Joining me in Brussels:
Isabelle Uttenhove – The person who has really taken the European Manufacturing Partnership Forum event since day one and most knowledgeable
Stephane Croigny – Also an authority on this event and promoted it widely during his recent USEAC TDY
Ira Bell – who is offering technical support for this event 

Special Thank You to Robin Kessler – joining us as our neighbor & EU expert.

## Presentation Outline

**Why is NOW the Time to Come to Belgium to Expand Exports?**
**What is C.S.’s European Manufacturing Partnership Forum? **
**Participation Fee & Benefits**
**Next Steps**
**Questions?**

**Notes:**
Why Belgium in particular and the European Union in general represent such an outstanding opportunity for U.S. exports, especially now.
An overview of CS European Manufacturing Partnership Forum, built around a multinational partnering event that will take place here in Belgium May 31 – June 4, 2005.
An overview of the exceptionally good deal we have secured for U.S. exporters
Next steps for those who are interested in learning more about this unique opportunity for U.S. firms
Opportunities for Q&A

## Presentation Outline

**Why is NOW the Time to Come to Belgium to Expand Exports?**
**What is C.S.’s European Manufacturing Partnership Forum? **
**Participation Fee & Benefits**
**Next Steps**
**Questions?**

**Notes:**
First, let’s take a look at why the timing is right for U.S. companies, especially small to medium-sized firms, to begin or expand their sales in Europe.

## Favorable Exchange RateReduces Cost of Exporting

**Notes:**
The US dollar is at historic lows against the Euro.
While this is not good news for Americans like myself living in Europe, it is outstanding news for US exporters, especially our new to export clients.
Effectively it discounts the inherent costs of developing your market in Europe.
With larger profit margins, companies can minimize their risks and benefit from the developed markets of Europe.
Again, now is an excellent time to expand your market overseas, and especially in Europe.

## The Belgian MarketHeart of the EU

- Ideal Distribution Point
- Excellent Infrastructure
- Great Test Market
- One of the Highest Per Capita GDPs ($29,200) in the World & Open to New Products
- In 2003, Belgium imported over $15 billion in goods and services from the U.S.
- Headquarters of the E.U. (Single Market 455 million consumers)

**Notes:**
Belgium is known for its ideal location for distribution throughout Europe.  This will be graphically illustrated in our next slide. 
Belgium’s advanced infrastructure means rail, road, sea, and telecom links are all top notch.
We consider Belgium to be an excellent test market for new to export clients.  With 3 official languages  and a decentralized government structure, it prepares U.S. exporters for some of the challenges of exporting but in a manageable context. 
Belgians enjoy one of the highest standards of living in the world.  They are open to new products and are early adopters of new technology.
Belgium’s trade relations with the United States are as old as the U.S. itself and are the foundation of a strong bilateral relationship with foreign and domestic firms receiving equal treatment under the law.
Noteworthy, Belgium is home to the European Union and an excellent array of experienced, consultants, agents, and distributors ready to help U.S. firms desiring to reach Europe's 455 million customers. 

## Welcome to The Center of Europe

**Brussels**

**Oslo (1553 km)**

**Stockholm**

**Madrid**

**Rome (1391 km)**

**Copenhagen**

**Prague**

**Vienna**
** ****(1259 km)**

**Dublin (761 km)**

**Belfast**

**Lisbon (2224 km)**

**Amsterdam (211 km)**

**Cologne**

**Frankfurt**

**Paris (308 km)**

**London (332 km )**

**Berlin **
**(781 km)**

**Hamburg**

**Munich**

**Bern (663 km)**

**Milan (935 km)**

**Brussels**

- 010104

- 10-98

**Source: FFIO**

**Welcome to ****The Center of Europe**

**70% of Euro-Zone Purchasing Power **
**within 400 miles**

**Notes:**
As this slide shows, Belgium is in the center of Europe.
Within 400 miles of Belgium, firms can reach more than 70% of the Euro-Zone’s purchasing power, including the economic power houses of Europe, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
This ideal location was considered when the European Union decided to establish its headquarters here and is the reason more than 1,200 U.S. companies have established there European headquarters here.

## Presentation Outline

**Why is NOW the Time to Come to Belgium to Expand Exports?**
**What is C.S.’s European Manufacturing Partnership Forum? **
**Participation Fee & Benefits**
**Next Steps**
**Questions?**

**Notes:**
As I said, now is the time for U.S. manufacturers to make there move and begin exporting to Europe.
Now, let’s take a look at a truly unique event that we have created to support these adventurous spirits, especially small- to medium-sized manufacturers, interested in entering or expanding their business in Europe.

## What is CS Belgium’s European Manufacturing Partnership Forum?

**Brussels, Belgium, May 31 – June 4, 2005**
**Supports small- to medium-sized U.S. manufacturers  **
**1,000 decision makers from more than 40 countries**
**12 face-to-face meetings – Participants choose!**
**Outstanding Networking Opportunities**
**Site visits**

**Notes:**
The Commercial Service’s European Manufacturing Partnership Forum will take place May 31 – June 4, 2005 in Brussels, Belgium. 
Our European Manufacturing Partnership Forum package is built around Futuralia 2005.  This rotating event will be in its 10th incarnation this year.  The event targets support for small- to medium-sized companies. This year the Belgian government will play host.
More than 1,000 participants are expected – mainly from Europe, but also including large delegations from Canada, China, and the Middle East, as well as many other countries.
The Futuralia event will provide each of our companies with the opportunity to schedule 12 face-to-face meetings.  We will facilitate additional meeting opportunities on the side-lines of the official meeting schedule.
Participants will benefit from meeting potential clients but also by gaining valuable first hand information about new markets.
Participants will be welcomed to join a number of site visits which will provide a unique opportunity to compare their operations with a European business.

## Where Will the Meetings Take Place?

- The _Louvain-La Neuve University Campus_ near Brussels - the biggest campus in Europe

**Notes:**
Many of the events associated with the event will take place at the Louvain-La Neuve University Campus.  This campus, located on the outskirts of Brussels, is the largest university campus in Europe.
The campus will host the feature activity, one-on-one appointments with potential clients and partners, as well as other networking events.  The campus will be served by a special train that will bring participants to and from their hotel in Brussels.
The campus is located in a planned community with sprawling green spaces and lakes.

## Location of Meeting Venue 

**Location of Meeting Venue **

**Louvain****-****la-Neuve**

- Language Distribution:
-  58 % Dutch
-  41 % French
-  1% German

**Notes:**
Participants will stay in Brussels, the capital and largest city in Belgium.  Brussels offers outstanding cultural attractions, shopping, nightlife, and cuisine.
Lovain la-Neuve, where the meetings will be held, is located south of Brussels in the French speaking Wallonia Region.
Both the lodging in Brussels and the meeting location in Lovain la-Neuve are convenient to the Brussels International Airport.

## Sectors Expected to Have Significant Participation 

- Agri-Business & Machinery
- Construction and Public Works
- Biotechnologies, Chemicals, New Materials
- Electronics and Optics
- Environmental Technology
- Aeronautics & Aerospace
- Printing and Publishing
- Mechanical and Metallurgical Industries
- Information and Communication Technologies
- Transport and Logistics
- Health & Cosmetics

**Notes:**
Listed are some of the sectors where we expect to see a sizable presence.
This matchmaking event targets small- to medium-sized businesses.  
It is a horizontal event meant to partner growing firms with like-minded business.
Unique about this event is that you will be able to review details and descriptions of the participating companies and then select who they want to meet with.

## Presentation Outline

**Why is NOW the Time to Come to Belgium to Expand Exports?**
**What is C.S.’s European Manufacturing Partnership Forum? **
**Participation Fee & Benefits**
**Next Steps**
**Questions?**

**Notes:**
Next, let’s get to the matter of cost and what you will get for your hard earned money.
It is important to know that we are required to charge fees to fully recover our costs associated with providing a service.  Our costs for this event are based on our organizational costs and costs passed on by the Futuralia 2005 organizers.

## 	Participation in this event is only 

**What is the Fee for Participation?**

- $**1,450**

**Notes:**
The cost for this event is only $1,450.
The cost is so low because it is subsidized by the Belgian Government and the European Union.

**What This $1,450 Fee Does **_**Not**_** Include**

**Air transportation to Brussels**
**First night Hotel on Tuesday, May 31, 2005**

**Notes:**
Perhaps it is easier to begin with what this fee does not include:
It does not include air transportation to and from Brussels.
It does not include lodging for the first night on Tuesday, May 31rst.  For the first night, companies are on their own.  However, we will do our best to assist participants in making lodging reservations during this first night at a preferred rate.  Of course, we expect to provide more assistance in this regard to companies that register early.  
Now is the time to register!

**So What Does $1,450 Buy?****...A Lot!**

**CS Support From Beginning to End**
**A “Doing Business in Belgium and the EU” Seminar **
**United States Embassy VIP Reception**
**Full Participation in Futuralia 2005 Event**
**12 Pre-selected business meetings**
**3 nights in first-class hotel (June 1-4), including breakfast**
**All group transfers between lodging, meeting center, and other events**
**2 business luncheons**
**Tickets for Gala Dinner and International Party June 2****nd**** & 3****rd**
**Your Company’s Listing on Futuralia web-site for 1 year**
**Translation Assistance**
**Follow-up Assistance**

**Notes:**
Assistance From Registration to Follow-up: We are already taking payment from interested U.S. companies.  The event is listed on E-menu.  CS Brussels is familiar with the registration software regarding the Futuralia event and can assist participants with their registration.
We are organizing a Welcome Reception for the U.S. delegation.  This will be an official U.S. Embassy event and will provide an excellent opportunity for you to meet business and government leaders in Belgium.  It will also provide an opportunity to meet senior officials assigned to represent the United States to Belgium and the European Union.
We are organizing a “Doing Business in Belgium and European Union” Seminar in cooperation with the Belgian Manufacturers Trade Federation Agoria. 
Our fee will also include Full Participation in Futuralia 2005 Event being organized by the Belgian Government.  This event includes the following benefits:
12 Pre-selected business meetings
3 nights in first-class hotel (June 1-4) 
All group transfers between lodging, meeting center, and other events
business luncheons
Gala Dinner June 2nd and International Party June 3rd
Your Company’s Listing on Futuralia web-site for 1 year
We will also support companies with translation assistance as they register for the event.  Company descriptions will be in both English and French.  During the event itself, we will have staff on hand that can provide translation assistance.
Of course, after the event CS Belgium will provide Follow-up Assistance to participants to ensure that the U.S. participants have every opportunity to realize export sales from their participation.

**Event Program**

**May 31:**
**Arrival and Hotel Check-in**
**United States Embassy Reception**
**June 1:**
**CS “Doing Business in Belgium and the EU” briefing**
**Delivery of Individual Meeting Schedules**
**Welcome Reception**
**June 2:**
**Official Opening Ceremony**
**Business Partnership Meetings – Day 1**
**Gala Dinner**
**June 3:**
**Business Partnership Meetings – Day 2**
**Site Visits **
**International Party**
**June 4:**
**Cultural Visits**
**Departure**

**Notes:**
Assistance From Registration to Follow-up: We are already taking payment from interested U.S. companies.  The event is listed on E-menu.  CS Brussels is familiar with the registration software regarding the Futuralia event and can assist participants with their registration.
We are organizing an Embassy Welcome Reception for participants.  This will be an official U.S. Embassy event and will provide an excellent opportunity for participating U.S. companies to meet business and government leaders in Belgium.  It will also provide an opportunity to meet senior officials assigned to represent the United States to Belgium and the European Union.
We are organizing a “Doing Business in Belgium and European Union” Seminar in Cooperation with the Belgian Manufacturers Trade Federation Agoria.  We expect this event to take place on 
The feel will also include Full Participation in Futuralia 2005 Event being organized by the Belgian Government.  This event includes:
12 Pre-selected business meetings
3 nights in first-class hotel (June 1-4)
All group transfers between lodging, meeting center, and other events
2 business luncheons
Tickets for Gala Dinner June 2nd and International Party June 3rd
Listing on Futuralia web-site for 1 year
We will also support companies with translation assistance as they register for the event.  Company descriptions will be in both English and French.  During the event itself, we will have staff on hand that can provide translation assistance.
Of course, after the event CS Belgium will provide Follow-up Assistance to participants to ensure that the U.S. participants have every opportunity to realize export sales from their participation.

## How Are Matchmaking Appointments Pre-scheduled?

**Registration with Company Description **
**You Search Database & Review Other Company Descriptions**
**Rank up to 20 Selections**
**Others Select You**
**Software Works Its Magic**
**A Final Schedule Created and Distributed Upon Arrival**

**Notes:**
The Core of the Event is the Matchmaking meetings.  It requires companies to be active participants in the run up to their travel to Belgium.
Once we receive your payment, you will provide a company profile and answer a brief questionnaire provided on-line by the Futuralia 2005 event organizers.
You will then be able to search a database catalogue to review profiles of other firms
You will then be able to pre-selects up to 20 requests for meetings among all the companies you identify as potential clients, strategic partners or good sources of useful market information
Other firms will also review your company description and include you on their list of meeting requests.  
The Futuralia 2005 organizer’s on-line software monitors participants entries and generates a personalized meeting schedule for you just prior to the event.  
The final agenda will be given to participants at arrival in Brussels.

## The Company’s Business Meeting Schedule

**Notes:**
All companies will receive a detailed schedule of their meeting appointments.  
The schedules are generated automatically based on the participants desires and the availability of the potential partners chosen.
The automated system insures that the 1,000 participants all have schedules without conflicts.

## Stats from the 2004 Event

**95 % reported at least 5 ventures**
**50 % of these ventures resulted in sales**
**26 % reported gaining critical market intelligence**
**93 % said they were “very satisfied” with the event**
**94 % said they will participate in the next event**

**Notes:**
Here are some statistics from the Futuralia 2004 event in France, which are useful in reassuring prospective participants that others have found the Futuralia event to be worthwhile:
95 % of the participants said that since the end of their meetings, at least 5 alliances projects have been initiated and now need a recall from their part.
50 % of the alliances resulted in projects of sales contracts and of foreign distributors network organization.
26 % of the partnerships dealt with an action of economic monitoring and of commercial and strategic information exchanges
93 %of the participants say they are very satisfied by the general organization of FUTURALLIA.
94 % of FUTURALLIA 2004 participants confirm their wish of participation in the next edition.

## Presentation Outline

**Why is NOW the Time to Come to Belgium to Expand Exports?**
**What is C.S.’s European Manufacturing Partnership Forum? **
**Participation Fee & Benefits**
**Next Steps**
**Questions?**

**Notes:**
Now will speak briefly about the next steps for companies interested in participation.

## Timeline

**NOW****	****	****	****	****	**- Recruitment & Pre Registration
**	****	****	****	****	****	****	****	****	****	****	****www.buyusa.gov/belgium/en/200.html**
**April 1**				- Information Conference Call
**April 1-27**		- Open Registration
**April 10****	**		- Meeting Selection Process Open
**April 27** 			- Payment Deadline for 																			Guaranteed Participation
**May 15** 			- Final Deadline for Participation
**May 31****	**			- Event begins

**Notes:**
Here is a timeline for recruitment for the event.
We are currently informing U.S. companies about this event and accepting pre-registrations on our web-site
March 30	- USEAC/ DEC Conference Call
April 1	- European Manufacturing Partnership Forum conference call to provide information on the event.
April 10	- The Futuralia 2005 organizer has said that you will begin to have access to the database of other participant.
April 27 	- Payment Deadline for Guaranteed Participation
May 15 	- Final Deadline for Participation

## Pre Registration Form

**Notes:**
On our website we have a pre-registration form for any interested U.S. exporter.

## Key Contacts

**The United States Embassy to Belgium:**
- Isabelle Uyttenhove, Commercial Specialist
- 	_[isabelle.uyttenhove@mail.doc.gov](mailto:isabelle.uyttenhove@mail.doc.gov)_
- Stephane Croigny, Commercial Assistant _[stephane.croigny@mail.doc.gov](mailto:stephane.croigny@mail.doc.gov)_
**U.S. Export Assistance Centers:**
- Allen Patch, Director – Des Moines, Iowa
- 	_[allen.patch@mail.doc.gov](mailto:allen.patch@mail.doc.gov)_
- Deborah Doherty, Director – Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. _[deborah.doherty@mail.doc.gov](mailto:deborah.doherty@mail.doc.gov)_

**Notes:**
In Belgium, Isabelle Uyttenhove is working closely with the event organizer Futuralia and will be resolving any issues that develop on behalf of clients.
Stephane Croigny will help clients with any problems they have using the Futuralia web-site software
Both will also be coordinating the logistics of our CS activities with the Futuralia event, ensuring support at the Futuralia event for U.S. participants, organizing the Embassy reception and the Doing Business in Europe Briefing.

On the US side, Allen Patch and Deborah Doherty will be coordinating recruitment and responding to inquiries about the event from USEAC specialists. They will be, relatively speaking, within the time zone and better able to handle any questions that pop-up.

## Presentation Outline

**Why is NOW the Time to Come to Belgium to Expand Exports?**
**What is C.S.’s European Manufacturing Partnership Forum? **
**Participation Fee & Benefits**
**Next Steps**
**Questions?**

**Notes:**
Next I’d like to turn it over to Allen Patch in Iowa and Deborah Doherty in PA for any comments and then we’ll open the floor to any Questions
Now we’ll open the floor to any Questions

## For more information 
link to the following website:

http://www.buyusa.gov/belgium/en/200.html

Thank You!

**link to the following website:**
- _[http://www.buyusa.gov/belgium/en/200.html](http://www.buyusa.gov/belgium/en/200.html)_
**Thank You!**