Alavanka’s LATAM Entry Model vs. Traditional Models
- carlosacandre
- Feb 11
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 12

Expanding into Latin America requires a strategic approach to ensure sustainable growth, profitability, and minimal risks. Below is a detailed comparison between Alavanka’s LATAM entry model and traditional expansion methods, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages to help decision-makers assess the most effective approach.
1. Alavanka’s LATAM Entry Model
Description: A partnership-based approach where Alavanka manages the entire LATAM operation for the first three years, covering revenue, team, infrastructure, pipeline, and processes. This model focuses on rapid pipeline generation and sustainable growth with pre-established exit terms for share buyback.
2. Traditional Models
Direct Expansion: The company establishes its subsidiary, hires local teams, and sets up infrastructure independently.
Partnerships/Distributors: The company works with local distributors or partners who manage sales and market penetration.
Joint Ventures: A formal partnership with a local company, sharing resources, investments, and risks.
Comparison Table: Advantages and Disadvantages
Aspect | Alavanka’s LATAM Entry Model | Direct Expansion | Partnerships/Distributors | Joint Ventures |
Initial Investment | Low upfront investment, as Alavanka covers early-stage costs. | High upfront costs for hiring, infrastructure, and setup. | Low to moderate, depending on partnership terms. | High due to shared resource commitments. |
Speed to Market | Fast, leveraging Alavanka’s existing local expertise. | Moderate, as building a team and setup takes time. | Fast, but reliant on partner’s capability. | Moderate, dependent on the joint venture structure. |
Control | High during the partnership, transitioning to complete control post-exit. | Complete control but comes with high resource dependency. | Low control over day-to-day operations. | Shared control with the local partner. |
Risk | Lower due to Alavanka’s expertise and phased buyback model. | High, as the company bears all risks. | Moderate, depending on the partner’s performance. | High, as risks are shared but may lead to conflicts. |
Scalability | Highly scalable, with support for growth and knowledge transfer. | Scalable but dependent on internal resources. | Limited scalability if the partner’s resources are constrained. | Scalable, but decision-making may slow due to joint ownership. |
Local Market Expertise | Alavanka provides deep local knowledge and connections. | Requires time to build local expertise. | Leverages the partner’s knowledge but may lack company alignment. | Depends on the partner’s understanding of the market. |
Revenue Growth | Accelerated, with an initial pipeline built by Alavanka. | Slow to moderate, depending on internal capability. | Moderate, reliant on partner performance. | Moderate, with shared responsibility for growth. |
Long-term Commitment | Defined 3-year partnership with a smooth transition plan. | Long-term commitment with ongoing resource allocation. | Short-term to medium-term based on contracts. | Long-term, as dissolving joint ventures can be complex. |
Cost of Operation | Optimized by leveraging Alavanka’s local infrastructure. | High, due to in-house management of all resources. | Lower, as partners manage operations. | High, depending on the terms of the joint venture. |
Summary of Key Benefits: Alavanka’s LATAM Entry Model
Lower initial investment and minimized risk compared to direct expansion.
Accelerated entry into the market with immediate pipeline generation.
Expert local guidance to avoid common pitfalls.
Structured exit plan, ensuring a smooth transition and knowledge transfer.
Predictable growth, with results-based buyback of shares.
When to Choose Alavanka’s Model:
When you need rapid, cost-effective market entry.
If you prefer to de-risk your LATAM expansion.
When local expertise and sustainable growth are priorities.
If you want a flexible exit option with predictable results.
When to Consider Traditional Models:
If you have substantial internal resources and local knowledge.
When complete control of every aspect of the operation is critical.
If you are exploring partnerships or joint ventures with strategic local players.
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