VSKILLZ CREATIVE BUSINESS SOLUTIONS BY VITTORIO SOMMELLA
CASE STUDY
Role: International Go-To-Market Plan
SPANISH SOCCER EXCELLENCE
Introduction: ACADEF, a distinguished Spanish soccer coaching academy, extends UEFA equivalent licenses to both amateurs and professionals. Regulated by the Spanish Sport Council and officially recognized by the Ministry of Education, ACADEF's certifications in "Técnico deportivo en fútbol" hold equivalence to UEFA A, B, and Pro Licenses. Established in 2013, the academy has exhibited exceptional growth, progressing from a single location with two classes and 100 students to a sprawling network of 20 locations, 24 classes, and an enrollment of approximately 1500 students in a mere two years.
NAVIGATING RAPID GROWTH
For startups experiencing the rapid expansion witnessed by ACADEF, maintaining service quality can be a daunting challenge. A scarcity of resources hindered the academy's ability to cater effectively to its burgeoning audience. Consequently, ACADEF sought support in the realms of brand identity, marketing, and business development strategy.
PARALLEL SOLUTIONS
Brand Identity Enhancement: Recognizing the paramount importance of creating a distinctive and memorable brand identity, ACADEF embarked on a journey to redefine its image. This process aimed at developing a robust and recognizable brand that would serve as a pillar for effective communication with the rapidly expanding audience and customers. This rebranding effort was seen as a fundamental step in elevating the academy's presence in the soccer coaching landscape.
Foreign Market Entry Strategy: In parallel, ACADEF identified the need to develop a robust Foreign Market Entry Plan. This strategic initiative was deemed essential to mitigate the risk of market saturation in the Spanish market, while concurrently unlocking new avenues for business growth.
BEYOND THE INSTINCT
To realize this vision, we undertook the management of these two crucial projects concurrently. This approach involved the creation of two coordinated workgroups—one dedicated to branding and the other to the formulation of a comprehensive development strategy.
Effective business expansion necessitates a nuanced understanding that what succeeds in one market may not necessarily thrive in another. Shaping a solid Foreign Market Entry Plan required thoughtful consideration of critical factors, such as cultural disparities, educational nuances, geographical dynamics, and the overall health of the target market.
While entrepreneurial instinct is undoubtedly valuable, it alone cannot guarantee optimal outcomes. It must be complemented by rigorous research, in-depth knowledge, data-driven insights, and meticulous planning. This comprehensive approach is essential to navigate the complex landscape of international business expansion successfully.
