Slovenia holds a strong position in the European automotive industry. So, we wonder whether North America could be the next market for growth?
Many Slovenian automotive suppliers are known for their innovation, technical excellence, and strong position within the European supply chain. However, for many, the North American automotive market remains an opportunity that is visible yet not easily accessible. The market is vast, and current uncertainties regarding tariffs, as well as labor costs and availability, offer Slovenian suppliers a genuine opportunity to establish themselves as reliable, cost-competitive partners delivering high quality.
How can you get your products, technologies, and capabilities in front of the right decision-makers at OEMs, vehicle manufacturers, and Tier 1 / Tier 2 suppliers in the U.S. and Canada?
To answer these and other questions regarding business operations in North America and Canada, we are organizing an online event
COULD NORTH AMERICA BE THE NEXT GROWTH MARKET?
Wednesday, 26th August 2026 at 3.00 PM on MS Teams
In this upcoming webinar, Mr. Joest Hoekstra will share his experience with leading US suppliers and original equipment manufacturers, his understanding of American business culture, and how these insights can help establish connections and unlock business opportunities in North America.
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Joest Hoekstra: In the field of business development, he thrives on creating new business opportunities and establishing the right connections with clients. He has established ties with companies in the US such as Caterpillar, GM, Stellantis, Lucid, Tesla, and Honda North America. He possesses an excellent understanding of how to approach American partners, knowing how to align expectations and employing the cross-cultural skills needed to gather feedback. Having worked for American companies (Caterpillar, Briggs & Stratton, Garrett, BorgWarner), he is well-versed in the local culture and business practices.
At the upcoming webinar, he will share his experience and outline potential steps for expanding your reach in North America and transforming this key market into a tangible business opportunity.
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Participation is free for ACS members; however, prior registration via email at dunja.podlesnik@acs-giz.si is required by 24th August 2026 at the latest. Once your registration is received, a calendar invitation containing the event link will be sent.
We look forward to seeing you there!
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Additional information: dunja.podlesnik@acs-giz.si
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The automotive industry in Slovenia generates approximately 10% of the GDP and almost 25% of Slovenian exports (source: SPIRIT Slovenia). All members of SRIP ACS+, including all areas of mobility, contribute more than 17% to Slovenian GDP. Our members generate more than 8 billion euros in annual revenue, most of them operating as tier 1 and 2 suppliers to global vehicle manufacturers. Annually, SRIP ACS+ members receive more than 25% of all awarded innovations of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Slovenia.