Learn
How distribution works, what distributors expect and how to prepare before the first conversation.
14 guides · Last updated 8 November 2026
Entering a market through distributorsAustria has no distributor statute, but the OGH can grant an integrated distributor agent-style compensation of up to a year's margin. Draft for it.
Entering a market through distributorsBelgian law protects exclusive distributors: ending an open-ended deal takes reasonable notice or fair compensation, plus an indemnity for clientele.
Entering a market through distributorsIn France the risk at the end is the notice: ending an established relationship without written notice matching its length costs damages.
Entering a market through distributorsNo German statute covers distributors, but courts apply agency rules by analogy: notice periods and, in some cases, an indemnity you cannot waive.
Entering a market through distributorsItaly has no distribution statute: the Civil Code, good faith and case law decide notice and abuse, and the agents' indemnity is not extended to distributors.
Entering a market through distributorsPolish law has no distribution statute: the contract you write decides notice, exclusivity and exit, and agents' compensation rules apply only with care.
Entering a market through distributorsSpain has no distribution statute; the Supreme Court borrows agency rules case by case: notice in good faith and, if proven, a clientele indemnity.
Entering a market through distributorsNo Dutch statute governs distribution: the contract rules, and reasonableness may require a notice period or compensation when an open-ended deal ends.
Entering a market through distributorsA distributor buys your goods and resells them in its own name and at its own risk; an agent negotiates sales on your behalf for a commission.
Entering a market through distributorsCE marking where EU law requires it, GTINs and EDI for distributor systems, chain of custody for wood, and national marks such as NF or GREENGUARD.
Entering a market through distributorsQuote on a named Incoterms 2020 rule, offer payment terms within the EU's 60-day frame, and agree a sample policy before the first order.
Entering a market through distributorsSince 13 December 2024 a consumer product may be placed on the EU market only if an economic operator in the Union is responsible for it. Who can be that operator.
Entering a market through distributorsDistributors reply to suppliers who arrive ready to list: local-language data, margin-ready prices, Incoterms, payment terms, certificates, EAN/EDI and samples.
Entering a market through distributorsB2B supply distribution runs through independent dealers, buying groups and multi-branch head offices; each decides on new suppliers differently.
Create an account, add your first market and see who already sells your category there.
Get started