Discusses the state of direct marketing and what channels are available for companies to use direct marketing.

Companies in the Netherlands spend more than $1.5 billion annually on direct marketing, making it the third largest marketing medium after television and daily newspapers.  Digital marketing continues to grow rapidly. Online advertising will soon account for a market share greater than all other mediums combined.

Printing, handling, and distribution costs are higher in the Netherlands compared to the United States.  Distribution costs compose one-third of total costs.

The most active sectors using direct marketing are retail and financial services.  Three-quarters of direct marketing mailings are aimed at consumers in these two sectors.

A wide range of EU legislation impacts the direct marketing sector.  Compliance requirements are stiffest for marketing and sales to private consumers.  Companies need to focus on providing consumers clear and complete information prior to a purchase, and they need to comply with privacy regulations protecting customer data.
 

Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.