International and Domestic Marketing Comparison - Spain

Essay by janetdufourUniversity, Bachelor'sA, October 2008

download word file, 4 pages 5.0

Many companies not only market their products within the United States but also with many other countries. By doing so, they expand their opportunities and are able to keep up with the competition while building relationships with other countries. When a business decides to market their product internationally, they must consider several factors such as cultural, political, legal, and economic influences within that country as compared to that of the United States. Understanding the effects of these factors will be the key to a successful international marketing relationship between two countries.

SpainSpain is located in southwestern Europe, on the Iberian Peninsula. The mainland is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, the Bay of Biscay to the north, and the Mediterranean Sea on the south and east side of the country. Spain also includes territories off the coasts of Spain, the Baeleric Islands in the Mediterranean, and the Canary Islands in the Atlantic Ocean.

The capital of Spain is Madrid.

CulturalMany different languages are spoken in Spain besides Spanish. These consist of Basque, Catalan, Glacian, Asturian and many others. The majority of the Spanish are Roman Catholics. The United States consists of many different types of people, from all different races, languages and religions, who come together as one culture, many who speak Spanish. Language between the two countries needs to be addressed when it comes to international marketing as translations for product names may be misinterpreted, which could lead to disaster. Understanding Spain's customs will help gain an understanding of how to do business with the country and help build business relationships. For example, in Spain, it is customary to give some type of small food, called tapas, with each drink that is ordered. In America there is no such custom, but there are tapas bars and restaurants...