“The Lone Star State is the favorite choice for many Swedish companies coming to the U.S.”
PDI, Prosperity Developers International is a consulting firm with presence in Florida, North Carolina and Texas, specializing in helping Swedish companies coming to USA. PDI recently entered a strategic partnership with SACC USA, combining PDI’s business advisory services with the reach of the SACC-USA network to leverage business opportunities in local markets. The company was founded by former top executive, Gary Bruce, who is also the former Chairman of the board for SACC USA. For him, Texas is a given when choosing where to have boots on the ground. “The Lone Star State is the favorite choice for many Swedish companies coming to the U.S.”
Why is it so important for you to have a strong presence in Texas?
Texas is important for several reasons. Firstly, it is one of the biggest states in the US, but it is also one of the fastest growing states in the country. The biggest reason for this is a fast growing and dynamic labor market, which stems from an extremely business friendly climate. Swedes also tend to like Texas, especially Dallas, since Ericsson has it’s U.S. headquarters here. For us at PDI, working with Swedish companies coming to the U.S., it is very important to have presence on the ground in such a dynamic environment that also attracts Swedish companies.
Could you give us an example of what kind of clients you are working with currently?
We are working with a broad range of companies; from very specialized B2B IT- and Tech companies to more traditional manufacturing companies, aiming at the consumer market. And it is not only Swedish companies, we also have managed to attract companies from Mexico. They all have in common that they need a broad range of services to set up their business here.
What are the most common mistakes many Swedish companies do when they are setting up a business in the U.S.?
I think that Swedish companies – as many European companies – sometimes underestimate what it takes to have a breakthrough on the U.S. market. Mostly when it comes to money and the time required to do so. You need to be patient and work very methodically. Many Swedish companies also tend to think that by knowing and visiting New York, makes you an expert on the whole U.S. market. Nothing could be more wrong. It is important to do your homework and use U.S. based expertise as your partner on that journey.