Claude Chartier
December 13, 2024
Entrepreneur support

TOP 5 Quebec and Canadian export success stories

Exporting is a crucial economic driver for Canadian and Quebec companies. Some industries stand out for their success on international markets, thanks to their ability to innovate, adapt and overcome challenges. Here are the five best-performing export sectors, along with the most important ones. risks and strategies to succeed on the world stage.

TOP 5 successful industries

1. Manufacturing industry

Export success rate : 60,2 %
Why does she succeed? The manufacturing industry benefits from advanced know-how, a solid infrastructure and a diversification of products, from technological equipment to agri-food.
Main risk High production costs and increased competition in Asian markets.
Keys to success Invest in automation, target emerging markets and improve supply chains.

2. Information and cultural industries

Export success rate : 59,7 %
Why does she succeed? : Creative talent from Quebec and Canada, combined with technological expertise, makes this industry particularly attractive on foreign markets.
Main risk Copyright protection and language barriers.
Keys to success Strengthen partnerships and align with local market regulations.

3. Professional, scientific and technical services

Export success rate : 52,6 %
Why does she succeed? This industry offers specialized, customized solutions, from engineering services to advanced technological research.
Main risk Difficulties in recruit qualified personnel to meet demand.
Keys to success Increase professional training and invest in globally-recognized certifications.

4. Wholesale trade

Export success rate : 41,0 %
Why does she succeed? The wholesale business relies on an efficient supply chain and strong international distribution networks.
Main risk Volatility of exchange rates and price fluctuations.
Keys to success : Implement strategies to hedge financial risks and strengthen relations with suppliers.

5. Transport and warehousing

Export success rate : 36,0 %
Why does she succeed? The industry benefits from Canada's strategic geographic position and proximity to the United States, as well as modern infrastructure.
Main risk Dependence on fuel prices and regulations environmental.
Keys to success Invest in green technologies and improve delivery efficiency.

Exporting your Quebec products and services: opportunities and challenges to master

The industries that thrive in Export show that a strategy and an understanding of international markets are essential.

However, the risks are real: global competition, high costs and regulatory barriers can put the brakes on ambitions.

By focusing on innovation, partnerships and understanding local dynamics, Canadian and Quebec companies can continue to shine internationally.

Getting support

Get support from an organization like SADC (Société d'Aide au Développement des Collectivités) or Investment Quebec offers a number of strategic advantages for businesses and communities.

SADC is making a real difference in communities and businesses across Quebec. SADC's professionals are on hand to respond to your needs. needs of Quebec's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Quebec's regions face unique economic challenges, and CFDCs are there to help them meet them. Their aim is to propel collective and entrepreneurial projects towards success.

CFDCs support companies in their development at International by offering a support specialized export services (SODIL, IQ, etc.). Whether it's a question of strategic advice training on foreign markets or personalized support, they help entrepreneurs to seize opportunities on international markets and extend their reach beyond national borders.

IQ (Investissement Québec) succeeded in generating $3.1 billion in sales farms out of province thanks to the companies it has supported. In addition to her impact directly on sales, IQ also provided 3,910 specialized accompaniments This is a clear demonstration of the company's commitment to strengthening the capabilities of Quebec companies in international markets.

Visit SODIL can help you understand your market, build a winning strategy, overcome obstacles, finance your development projects and take action.

Visit MAPAQ (Quebec Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food) supports agri-food businesses by providing technical advice and financing agricultural projects.

Export Development Canada (EDC) also provides financial and strategic support for companies wishing to develop their international activities.

Evol offers support to entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, with a focus on economic inclusion and impact projects.

Quebec Chambers of Commerce bring together entrepreneurs to promote networking, training and the representation of business interests.

These organizations often work in synergy to support companies at various stages of their growth. When you enlist their help, you benefit from strategic supporta network valuable contactsand a specialized expertiseThis increases the chances of long-term success.

Quebec's international successes

Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc.

The Canadian multinational was founded in 1980 when Alain Bouchard opens his first convenience store in Laval in Quebec. Inspired by the convenience store models he had observed in the United States, Bouchard wanted to create a chain of stores offering both convenience and accessibility. The name "Couche-Tard", which literally means "lying late" or "open late" in French, reflects the company's commitment to providing extensive services, often 24/7, meeting customers' needs at all hours.

Visit Europe and other regions, Power supply Couche-Tard manages a vast network of nearly 5,300 points of saleThese include convenience and fuel stores, as well as automated fuel-only service stations. These establishments are mainly operated by under the Circle K banner in Scandinavia (Norway, Sweden, Denmark), in the Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania)in Irelandand benefit from a strong presence in Poland. The company has recently expanded its operations to Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg and the Netherlands. The automated stations operate under the INGO brand in Sweden and Denmark. In 2020, the company entered the Asian market in expansion by acquiring Circle K Hong Kong, which includes almost 400 stores.

Cirque du Soleil

Cirque du Soleil is a true Québec's cultural ambassadorembodying artistic excellence and innovation on a global scale. Founded in 1984 in MontréalCirque du Soleil has become a symbol of Quebec's entertainment know-how. Cirque du Soleil has experienced a veritable renaissance after the pandemic, which forced him to cancel his shows and lay off a large number of employees, almost bankrupting him with a billion-dollar debt. Thanks to a new financing of $300 million in 2020 and a recovery of its activities to Las Vegas in 2021, the company not only overcame the crisis, but returned to operating levels close to those prior to the pandemic. Artists and audiences alike have responded, enabling Cirque to set records in several markets, notably in Europe and North America.

Today, Cirque du Soleil is financially more solid than before, with debt cut in half and the company in the black. annual sales approaching one billion dollars. The strength of its global brand has been a key asset in this renaissance.

The company diversifies now its model business by exploring the digital and immersive formatsRoblox, to reach a wider audience and meet consumers' new entertainment expectations.

At the same time, Le Cirque is developing new show formatsadapted to different markets and infrastructures. This diversification, which includes intimate experiences such as cabarets or dinner shows, is not a constraint but a strategic opportunity. With partnerships underway to export these concepts to Europe and AsiaCirque du Soleil pursues its ambition to recreate a new golden age, combining grandiose shows and unique experiences to maintain its international reputation.

Bombardier

Founded in 1942 by Joseph-Armand Bombardier in ValcourtBombardier was born with the invention of the snowmobile, an ingenious response to the challenges of getting around in Canada's harsh winters. Initially focused on recreational and ground transportation vehicles, the company gradually diversified into become a global player in transportationBombardier has a long history of innovation and adaptation. This history of innovation and adaptation has made Bombardier an icon of Quebec ingenuity.

Today, Bombardier is a leader the world's leading manufacturer of business jets, having refocused its activities on this sector after selling its rail and commercial divisions. With a presence in over 120 countries, the company exports a large proportion of its production, with the United States and Europe representing its main markets. It relies on innovation and quality to meet the needs of high-end customers, while maintaining centers of excellence in Quebec. However, global competition and economic pressures pose constant challenges, forcing Bombardier to strengthen its operational efficiency and competitiveness in international markets.

Citadelle, Les Industries Bernard & Fils, etc...

Citadelle, a cooperative of maple syrup producers founded in 1925, is one of the world's leading major quebec exporters maple syrup, with a presence in in over 40 countries. L.B. Maple Treat Corporation Citadelle: Active on the European market, this Quebec exporter is one of Citadelle's main competitors. Les Industries Bernard & Fils : Also present in Europe, this Quebec company is a major player in maple syrup exports. Érablières des Alléghanys : Specialized in maple syrup biologicalthis company family exports its products overseas, responding to strong demand for organic syrup, particularly in Europe. Decacer Decacer: Active on the European market, Decacer is another Quebec competitor to Citadelle in maple syrup exports.

These companies, among others, contribute to the Québec's strong presence on the world market maple syrup, while competing to increase their international market share.

Contact us for your projects

Selling in another province or country requires you to consider a number of standards and other details. It's important to be well informed and to adapt your business plan accordingly.

In addition to helping you answer export-related questions, our SADC experts can help you guide in identifying support organizations and appropriate programs and funding. Don't hesitate to apply to SADC for funding. We'll help you think through and implement your project. project.