Introduction
When I first decided to expand my Amazon FBA business beyond the United States, I was overwhelmed by the sheer complexity of the European market. Between the language barriers, the intricate VAT laws, and the cultural nuances, it felt like I was trying to solve a puzzle with missing pieces. That was until I stumbled upon the Augustas Kligys – European Amazon Summit 2018. Even though this event took place a few years ago, the insights gathered from it remain surprisingly relevant and foundational for anyone looking to master the European marketplace. Hosted by Augustas Kligys, a pioneer in the Amazon event space, this summit brought together some of the most successful entrepreneurs in the private label space to share their secrets.
In this review, I’m going to dive deep into what makes this summit a goldmine for sellers. Whether you are just starting out or looking to scale your existing operations, the Augustas Kligys – European Amazon Summit 2018 offers a comprehensive roadmap. The course isn’t just a series of lectures; it is a curated collection of strategies that tackle the specific pain points of selling in the UK, Germany, France, Italy, and Spain. From setting up your business entity to navigating the treacherous waters of European taxes, this summit covers it all. Join me as I explore the modules, the ideal candidates for this course, and my final verdict on whether it is worth your time and investment.
Course Description
The Augustas Kligys – European Amazon Summit 2018 is a virtual event designed to demystify the process of building a private label business in Europe. Unlike many generic Amazon courses, this summit specifically targets the nuances of the European market. It features over 20 presentations delivered by experts who have successfully navigated the EU landscape. The teaching style is varied and engaging, moving beyond simple theory into actionable, real-world strategies that you can implement immediately.
What sets this course apart is its focus on the “how-to” of cross-border commerce. It doesn’t just tell you to sell in Europe; it explains exactly how to register your business, handle logistics, and optimize listings for different languages. The structure is built around the lifecycle of a product: from ideation and research to sourcing, launching, and scaling. For those who missed the live event, the recordings provide a timeless library of knowledge, capturing the state of the industry at a pivotal time while offering foundational principles that endure today.
Attending the Augustas Kligys – European Amazon Summit 2018 was a game-changer for my understanding of global e-commerce. The speakers didn’t hold back; they shared specific tools, templates, and workflows they used to generate millions in sales. The program is particularly strong in its coverage of legal and tax compliance, areas where many US sellers fear to tread. By the end of the sessions, I felt not just educated, but empowered to take on the European giants.
Ideal Student
- US Sellers Looking to Expand: If you are currently selling in the US and want to tap into the massive European market without making costly mistakes.
- Beginners to Private Label: Individuals who are new to Amazon FBA and want to start their business in Europe with a solid foundation.
- Struggling EU Sellers: Those already selling in Europe but facing issues with VAT compliance, logistics, or stagnant sales.
- eCommerce Entrepreneurs: Business owners looking to diversify their income streams by leveraging the Amazon FBA model.
- International Marketers: Professionals interested in understanding the complexities of cross-cultural marketing and localization.
Learning Outcomes
- Master European Business Setup: Learn the legal requirements for incorporating your business and choosing the right Amazon marketplace for your headquarters.
- Navigate VAT and Tax Laws: Gain a clear understanding of the complex European tax systems and learn strategies to remain compliant while minimizing tax burdens.
- Overcome Language Barriers: Discover how to effectively communicate with customers across five major European languages, even if you don’t speak them.
- Conduct Targeted Market Research: Develop the skills to analyze consumer demographics and identify profitable product niches specific to European countries.
- Execute High-Impact Launches: Learn how to craft product launch strategies that drive immediate sales and rank your products quickly in competitive EU markets.
Course Modules
The Augustas Kligys – European Amazon Summit 2018 is structured into comprehensive modules that cover every aspect of the Amazon FBA journey in Europe. Each module is presented by a seasoned expert who provides a deep dive into their specific area of expertise. Below, I will explain each module in detail to give you a clear picture of what to expect.
Module 1: Starting Your EU Amazon Business
This foundational module is crucial for anyone who has never sold in Europe before. It tackles the often confusing decisions regarding business registration and marketplace selection. One of the first questions I had was which country to base my operations in—should I incorporate in the UK, or does it make more sense to start in Germany? The experts break down the pros and cons of each major European marketplace, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific business goals and budget.
Beyond just choosing a marketplace, this section covers the administrative nitty-gritty. You will learn about the different business structures available to you as a non-European resident and the steps required to set them up. The speakers emphasize the importance of getting this right from the start to avoid legal headaches later on. Key takeaways include:
• Business Incorporation: Understanding the differences between Ltd, GmbH, and Sarl structures.
• Marketplace Selection: Analyzing competition and demand in the UK vs. Germany.
• Banking Solutions: How to set up European bank accounts to manage your cash flow efficiently.
Module 2: Tax and VAT Information
For many sellers, the fear of VAT (Value Added Tax) is the biggest barrier to entering the European market. This module of the Augustas Kligys – European Amazon Summit 2018 is arguably the most valuable, as it demystifies this complex topic. Experienced accountants and financial advisors take the stage to explain how VAT works within the European Union. They cover the concept of “distance selling” and the thresholds that trigger the need for VAT registration in different countries.
What I appreciated most about this session was the practical approach to compliance. The speakers don’t just quote laws; they provide actionable strategies to manage your tax obligations effectively. You will learn about the Mini One Stop Shop (MOSS) scheme, which simplifies the process of reporting VAT across multiple borders. They also discuss how to handle import VAT when bringing goods from China into Europe. By the end of this module, the terrifying prospect of European taxes becomes a manageable and systematic process.
• VAT Registration: Step-by-step guides for registering in the UK and Germany.
• Import VAT: How to reclaim taxes paid at the border.
• Compliance Strategies: Tools and software that automate VAT calculations and reporting.
Module 3: Language and Cultural Differences
Selling in Europe is not just about translating your English listings into Spanish or Italian; it is about understanding the cultural context of your customers. This module addresses the subtle but critical differences in consumer behavior across the continent. The experts, who come from diverse backgrounds, share first-hand knowledge of what works in their home countries.
For instance, the buying psychology in Germany is vastly different from that in Italy. German consumers value detailed technical specifications and trust-building elements, while Italian buyers might be more swayed by emotional appeal and brand story. This module teaches you how to navigate these differences without necessarily being a native speaker. You will learn about the best translation services, the importance of localizing your brand voice, and how to handle customer service in multiple languages.
• Localization vs. Translation: Why a direct translation often fails.
• Cultural Nuances: Tailoring your marketing messages for the UK, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain.
• Customer Service: Managing support tickets in foreign languages efficiently.
Module 4: Product and Market Research
Finding a winning product is difficult enough in the US, but doing so in Europe requires a different lens. In this module, top Amazon sellers reveal their strategies for identifying high-demand, low-competition niches within the European market. They discuss which tools are most effective for analyzing European data and how to interpret search volume trends across different languages.
The instructors emphasize the importance of looking at “hidden” markets—niche categories that are underserved in Europe but might be saturated in the US. You will learn how to validate your product ideas before investing a single dollar in inventory. They also cover the importance of seasonality in Europe, as shopping habits can vary significantly from the US calendar.
• European Tools: Using Jungle Scout and Helium 10 for EU market analysis.
• Niche Identification: Finding gaps in the market specific to European consumers.
• Validation: How to test product demand without ordering large quantities.
Module 5: Product Sourcing and Shipping
Once you have your product idea, the next step is getting it made and delivered to European warehouses. This module of the Augustas Kligys – European Amazon Summit 2018 covers the intricacies of sourcing from suppliers who are familiar with European standards. The speakers discuss how to find reliable suppliers on Alibaba who can provide the necessary CE markings and documentation required for legal entry into the EU.
Shipping logistics is another major focus. The module compares air freight, sea freight, and courier services, helping you choose the best option based on your budget and timeline. You will learn about the complexities of shipping to Amazon FBA centers in Europe, including the requirements for labeling and packaging. The experts also share strategies for minimizing duties and taxes at the border, which can significantly impact your profit margins.
• Supplier Vetting: Ensuring your products meet European safety and quality standards.
• Freight Forwarding: Choosing the right logistics partner for EU entry.
• Customs Compliance: Documentation required to clear customs smoothly.
Module 6: Product Launch Strategies in the EU Market
Launching a product in Europe requires a different playbook than the US. In this module, the focus is on strategies to gain immediate traction and rank for keywords quickly. The speakers discuss the use of launch services that were popular in 2018, while also emphasizing sustainable, white-hat methods for building reviews and sales velocity.
You will learn how to leverage PPC (Pay-Per-Click) advertising effectively in European markets. The competition for ad space can be lower in certain European niches, presenting a great opportunity for cost-effective customer acquisition. The module also touches on how to utilize Amazon’s Early Reviewer Program and Vine program (where available) to jumpstart your social proof.
• PPC Campaigns: Setting up profitable ads in pounds, euros, and kronor.
• Ranking Strategies: How to climb the search results pages quickly.
• Review Acquisition: Ethical ways to get your first reviews in a new market.
Module 7: Product Listing Optimization
Your product listing is your storefront, and in Europe, it needs to be perfect. This module is a masterclass in conversion rate optimization. The instructors walk you through the anatomy of a high-converting European listing. From the title and bullet points to the description and backend search terms, every element is analyzed.
A key theme in this module is the importance of keyword research in local languages. You cannot simply translate English keywords; you must find out what native speakers are typing into the search bar. The speakers provide resources for finding these local keywords and integrating them naturally into your copy. You will also learn how to create images that resonate with European aesthetics, which can differ from American preferences.
• Copywriting: Writing persuasive bullet points that highlight benefits over features.
• Keyword Research: Finding high-volume keywords in German, French, Italian, and Spanish.
• A+ Content: Using enhanced brand content to increase conversions.
Module 8: Marketing and Brand Building
Beyond Amazon’s internal traffic, this module explores how to drive external traffic to your listings—a strategy that Amazon loves and rewards. The experts discuss integrating your European Amazon store with social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, which are widely used across the continent.
You will learn about setting up targeted ad campaigns for specific European countries. The module also covers the importance of brand building. In a competitive market, having a recognizable brand can protect you from price wars. The speakers discuss how to create a brand story that transcends borders and how to use external assets like a simple website or landing page to capture customer data.
• Facebook Ads: Targeting European audiences with precision.
• Brand Registry: Protecting your brand and unlocking A+ content features.
• External Traffic: Using social media influencers to boost sales.
Module 9: Scaling and Management
Once you have a successful product, the next step is scaling. This module of the Augustas Kligys – European Amazon Summit 2018 is designed for sellers who want to turn their one-product business into an empire. Topics include expanding into other European marketplaces, managing inventory across multiple countries, and hiring virtual assistants.
One of the highlights is the discussion on the “European Expansion Strategy.” The speakers explain the sequence in which you should launch your products—typically starting in the UK or Germany and then rolling out to France, Italy, and Spain. You will also learn about cash flow management, which is critical when stocking inventory in multiple warehouses.
• Multi-Country Expansion: The roadmap for launching across all five major EU marketplaces.
• Inventory Management: Using software to keep track of stock levels globally.
• Outsourcing: Hiring VAs to handle customer service and administrative tasks.
Module 10: Future Trends and Updates
Even though the Augustas Kligys – European Amazon Summit 2018 is a past event, this module (and the sentiment of the summit) focuses on long-term sustainability. The speakers discuss where the industry is headed, touching on the rise of voice search, the increasing importance of sustainability, and changes in Amazon’s algorithm.
The goal of this module is to future-proof your business. By understanding the trajectory of e-commerce in Europe, you can make decisions today that will set you up for success tomorrow. It encourages sellers to stay agile and keep learning, as the European landscape is constantly evolving.
• Algorithm Changes: Adapting to updates in Amazon’s A9 algorithm.
• Sustainability: Catering to the growing demand for eco-friendly products in Europe.
• Voice Search: Optimizing for Alexa and other voice-activated devices.
Real-World Applications and Success Stories
The strategies taught in the Augustas Kligys – European Amazon Summit 2018 are not just theoretical; they have been applied by thousands of sellers to achieve tangible results. One of the most powerful applications is the “Slow and Steady” expansion approach. Many sellers I know followed the summit’s advice to master one marketplace—Germany—before branching out. By focusing their resources on dominating one market first, they were able to build a strong cash flow and brand presence, which they then leveraged to fund expansion into France and Italy. This methodical approach significantly reduced their risk and avoided the common mistake of spreading inventory too thin across five countries.
Another real-world application involves the VAT compliance strategies. One specific success story comes from a seller who was terrified of the tax implications and had been avoiding Europe for years. After watching the sessions in Module 2, they hired one of the recommended accountants and set up a VAT-compliant structure. Within six months, they had launched their product in the UK and Germany, generating an additional $15,000 a month in profit. They reported that understanding the tax side gave them the confidence to pull the trigger, proving that knowledge is the greatest asset in overcoming fear. These stories illustrate that the summit’s content acts as a catalyst, turning hesitation into action.
Pricing
Accessing the Augustas Kligys – European Amazon Summit 2018 typically involves purchasing the All-Access Pass for the event. While the live event was free to watch for 24 hours, the recordings and bonuses are usually offered as a one-time payment product. This pricing model grants you lifetime access to the content, allowing you to learn at your own pace and revisit the material as you expand into new markets.
- One-Time Payment: Grants lifetime access to all video recordings, audio files, slides, and speaker bonuses from the 2018 summit.
Considering the depth of information provided—especially regarding VAT and legal compliance—the one-time fee is a fraction of what you would pay a consultant for an hour of advice. It is an investment in your business education that pays dividends by helping you avoid costly fines and failed product launches.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- European Specifics: Rarely do you find a course that dives this deep into the specific challenges of VAT, tax, and logistics in Europe.
- Expert Speakers: The lineup features real 7-figure sellers and industry experts who practice what they preach.
- Comprehensive Coverage: The summit covers the entire business lifecycle, from idea to scaling across multiple countries.
- Actionable Strategies: The content is high on actionable steps, providing templates and checklists rather than just vague motivation.
- Cultural Insights: The focus on language and cultural differences offers a competitive edge that generic courses lack.
- Lifetime Access: Being able to re-watch the videos as you implement each step is invaluable for retention and application.
Cons
- Age of Content: Being from 2018, some specific tools or interface screenshots may look dated, requiring some adaptation to current Amazon interfaces.
- Policies Changes: Amazon’s Terms of Service have tightened since 2018, particularly regarding review manipulation, so some launch tactics need careful consideration.
- Information Overload: With over 20 sessions, the sheer volume of content can be overwhelming for a complete beginner without a clear roadmap.
- UK Context: Since Brexit, some information regarding the UK as part of the EU is no longer accurate and requires supplementary research.
- No Direct Coaching: As a pre-recorded summit, there is no direct access to the speakers for personalized Q&A.
- Focus on Private Label: Sellers interested in retail arbitrage or wholesale may find the content heavily skewed towards private label branding.
FAQs
Is the content from 2018 still relevant today?
Yes, the core principles of selling in Europe—such as VAT compliance, cultural localization, and product research—remain fundamentally the same. However, you should supplement the course with up-to-date information on Amazon’s latest algorithm changes and Brexit regulations.
Do I need to speak multiple languages to sell in Europe?
No. The summit teaches you how to leverage translation tools and agencies to communicate effectively. However, understanding the cultural nuances of each marketplace is crucial, which is covered in detail.
Does this course cover Brexit implications?
Since the event took place in 2018 before Brexit was finalized, it does not cover the specific post-Brexit trade rules. You will need to research the current UK-EU trade agreement separately.
How is the content delivered?
The content is delivered via video recordings of the live presentations. You typically get access to a dashboard where you can stream the videos and download accompanying slides and audio files.
Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is excellent for beginners who are determined to start in Europe. It lays the groundwork correctly. However, complete novices might benefit from a basic introductory course on Amazon FBA mechanics first.
Can I access the course on mobile?
Yes, the video platform used for the Augustas Kligys – European Amazon Summit 2018 is usually mobile-friendly, allowing you to watch sessions on the go.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, the Augustas Kligys – European Amazon Summit 2018 is a foundational resource for any serious Amazon seller looking to conquer the European market. While some interface details and tax laws have shifted since the original recording, the strategic backbone of the course is solid. It addresses the unique fears and challenges that stop sellers from expanding—specifically VAT, language, and logistics—with expert-level precision.
If you are tired of leaving money on the table in the US and are ready to diversify your business globally, this summit provides the blueprint. It is not a “get rich quick” scheme but a comprehensive education on how to build a sustainable, compliant, and profitable international business. The insights on cultural adaptation alone could save you thousands in failed ad campaigns. My verdict is that this course is a must-have archive for your business library, provided you apply the knowledge with an awareness of the current 2023/2024 regulatory landscape. It is a worthy investment for the ambitious seller.
