Global marketing through collaboration of local marketing agencies : How can local marketing agencies work together for global clients?

Abstract: Background: The world becomes more connected as technology advances and with the internet as a distribution channel more companies internationalises. However, there are still cultural differences around the world that marketers must take into consideration. The marketing industry faces difficult challenges in adaptation to international marketing, as collaboration between local marketing agencies could be a solution.   Purpose: The purpose of the study is to contribute with understanding of how local marketing agencies can work together for global clients, and how these agencies can adapt local marketing for these clients. In order to understand how marketing agencies can work together, this study will contribute with understanding of this collaboration between local marketing agencies and how they can help each other grow their businesses.   Method: This study uses a qualitative method with unstructured interviews of five people operational within a network of local marketing agencies.     Theory: The theoretical framework for this study consists of theories in international marketing, collaboration and learning.   Results and conclusions: By collaborating in a network, local marketing agencies get access to international markets and can support global clients. By having multiple local agencies working together for global clients, these agencies all provide local knowledge and create local communication. The collaboration in a network is most effective if the competition is eliminated, which can be done through shared ownership and personal connection within the network.