Rural Resourcefulness Leads to Global Expansion
Three California-Based Companies Dive into Strategic Planning for Global Growth
When rural companies create a strong network of support, great things happen. A shining example comes from three rural California-based companies that utilized connections to win a competition and become export-ready in the process.
- FYREBX, an Anderson, CA-based fire safety and rescue equipment manufacturer selling skid steer attachments for the demanding firefighting, agriculture, landscaping, and industrial sectors.
- Hippotanicals, a Redding, CA-based cosmetic and toiletries company providing plant-based, eco-friendly dental and body personal care products.
- SAPLACOR, a Palo Cedro, CA-based medical device company offering innovative, FDA-cleared neonatal products designed to enhance safety and mitigate risks for newborns during hospital stays, ambulance transports, and evacuations.
Specializing in diverse industries, these three companies took the first step towards global growth by attending the Shasta Economic Development Corporation’s Export Expo. There, they connected with representatives from the U.S. Commercial Service (CS) and World Trade Center Northern California (WTCNC) and learned about the range of export support both organizations provide. The WTCNC’s Accelerator Program guides businesses in Northern California through developing export strategies and offers the opportunity to compete in the Pitch Fest competition. In preparation, FYREBX, Hippotanicals, and SAPLACOR worked with a CS Trade Specialist in Boise, who facilitated introductions to the U.S. Commercial Service Rural Export Center (REC) for in-depth market research.
The REC’s industry- and country-specific reports were relevant to help the CA companies to determine their top new markets with purpose and precision. Here’s how FYREBX, Hippotanicals, and SAPLACOR used the REC’s research to grow globally:
“ SAPLACOR is expanding into Canada and Europe, leveraging REC insights to make smart, cost-effective market decisions. With 181 million babies born worldwide each year, we remain committed to safe, effective neonatal care. Thank you to the REC for helping us reach new heights and support families globally.” - Mary Chiesa (CEO, SAPLACOR)
“… we have revised our partner criteria for one country that we were already exporting to [and] are evaluating the potential partners in a new country identified by the research… We have revised our export focus to eliminate countries that did not have the best market or partner fit… [and] aligned our focus with a smaller group of countries that the research showed to have better market fit and partners.” - Matthew Wilson (VP Sales & Operations, FYREBX)
“This insight has helped shape our export strategy and focus our efforts on a strong market entry. Ultimately, market research will help me make data-driven decisions to successfully launch Hippotanicals in new regions while ensuring long-term sustainability and growth.” - Ann Nguyen-Chung (Founder & Owner, Hippotanicals)
Leveraging the Accelerator program’s foundation, and the REC’s customizable research, FYREBX, Hippotanicals, and SAPLACOR won the Pitch Fest competition, and more importantly, found the clarity and confidence they needed to succeed in the global marketplace.
Expanding into international markets offers tremendous opportunities for many U.S. businesses. However, it can come with a unique set of challenges, particularly in rural communities. With time and resources at a premium, rural companies need smart strategies that amplify impact and reduce risk.
Ready for global expansion? For more information on how our services can help your business, contact the Rural Export Center or your local CS Trade Specialist today!
- Author: Ashley Wills, Research Analyst, U.S. Commercial Service Rural Export Center