How Is Nearshoring Changing?

The British technology magazine Computer Weekly recently published analysis by Professor Ilan Oshri of Loughborough university on how the European nearshoring market is adjusting to a more mature environment. In particular how different markets are aiming to distinguish themselves from the pack.

I wrote about this research from Loughborough university last month, but the constant push to regionalisation rather than globalisation – as I mentioned in my last blog – made me find this research again. In the context of the political activity in Europe and the USA, this is worth visiting again as it is taking on increased importance.

Anyone who has attended a nearshoring or outsourcing conference in Europe knows how the various regions promote themselves. PowerPoint slides are loaded full of statistics demonstrating government support, a steady flow of graduates, great local companies, and a low cost of doing business. In most cases though, the consistently positive messages from one presentation could be used by another country without anyone noticing that the message had changed – because the message in each pitch is largely the same.

Professor Oshri suggests that we should take it as read on the basic measure. Most European countries have good airports and a supply of graduates, so anyone considering nearshoring will be looking at other factors – the companies and trade bodies in those regions should appeal to these factors:

– Higher Value; what higher value can working in your region offer? What sets your companies or country apart? Are there particular industries you excel in or skills that are hard to find?

– Ability to partner; suppliers today need to move on from the traditional client-supplier relationship and become a part of the value chain. They need to be true partners, not just hired help.

– Innovation; many companies today are looking to their suppliers for advice on innovation. Innovating throughout the supply chain is becoming much more common – are you able to innovate for your clients?

In short, Professor Oshri is suggesting that when companies look to nearshoring regions they are looking for much more than just a low cost place to do business. If you are still marketing your region as low cost with a great airport then you might be losing business just because you are not looking ahead to the type of relationship companies really want.

In an environment where managers are thinking in detail about how to ensure processes are closer to home, this is more important than ever.

Try thinking of how your location is different. What differentiates you from the others? Focus on this, even if it is a niche difference. It will make all the difference in a nearshoring market that is growing fast as companies focus more on developing regional partners rather than long distance offshoring.