On this episode of the BOEI Podcast, we’re talking about Americans doing business in France. Specifically, what American medtech and healthcare businesses should consider when weighing a location in the region of Alsace. We are joined by three American professionals who each have deep experience working and growing businesses in France. Together they’re discussing the cultural, logistic, and talent aspects of doing business here, from the perspective of Americans and American businesses.
Kristine Morrill, Founder and President of Medevise Consulting
Patricia Hatesuer, senior health advisor for Invest Eastern France
Darragh Paradiso, (former) US Consulate General Strasbourg
Renée Meyer, French-American expert for medtech
What is unique about the international business environment in Alsace, specifically for the health sector?
The BioValley cluster is one of Europe’s major centers for life science companies
Strong access to talent in the Upper Rhine Valley, where there are an estimated 32,000 people working in the life science sector (compared to 4,000 in London, and 20,000 in Paris).
Alsace has been a cradle of biotech and pharma since the 1990’s.
At the University of Strasbourg, there are five Nobel Prize winners in medicine, chemistry or related.
US companies employ 23,000 people in the region, and 200 American companies are present in the region.
Invest Eastern France is one of the top incubators in France for the health sector.
France offers competitive tax credits for R&D and innovation expenditures for start-ups and new businesses
Border region
This region benefits from the multicultural influences, a sense of openness to others, and multiple languages and cultural influences.
It’s also key for market access: This region borders Germany, Switzerland, Belguim, and Luxeumbourg – 48% of the European MedTech market is centered in these five countries (including France).
Is there a language a barrier?
While knowing French is helpful, its not always necessary.
There are several American companies in this region headed by people who do not speak French, and they manage.
Many people in this region are comfortable with English, as it is taught in school. This is more common in the cities like Strasbourg (less so in the villages), as residents are used to living alongside many foriegners from the European Parliament, the Council of Europe, international students and businesses.
There are several international school options in the region with resources to help children learn French.
Logistics
Rhenus Logistics Alsace is a dedicated warehouse to pharmaceutical and medical device located on the border with Germany. Their ability to get across Europe and into the Middle East is unmatched.
Transport access includes the active Port of Strasbourg; an extensive train system with a connection to Paris in less than 2 hours; trams that connect Strasbourg to Kehl, Germany; and the second largest network of bike paths in Europe.
Cultural connections between US and France
France is the US’s oldest ally. They helped us during our War of Independence, and we helped France during the World Wars. As a result, the friendship and the ties are deep and very diverse.
The second largest M&M factory in the world is just 12 miles north of Strasbourg.
Kobe Bryant lived in Strasbourg as a kid, when his dad played for French basketball. Basketball is popular here, and the SIG team in Strasbourg usually has a roster that’s about half American.
Learn more about our guests Patricia Hatesuer, senior health advisor for Invest Eastern France; Darragh Paradiso, (former) US Consulate General Strasbourg; and Renée Meyer, French-American expert for medtech.
