WHITE PAPER
Doing business in France: guide for British investors
Brexit and understanding the French market: British companies' main challenges
Since Brexit, expanding into Europe has become more expensive, slower and more complex, from logistics and customs to compliance.
For many UK businesses, setting up an EU base is now the safest way to regain control. France often stands out: close to the UK, economically strong, strategically positioned.Yet it’s still perceived as an administrative maze: labour law, tax and legal frameworks, and a system that feels unfamiliar.
France isn’t necessarily harder. It’s just different.
And without clarity, “going to France” can quickly mean delays, surprises and avoidable costs.
That’s why reliable, expert, decision-ready information matters.
A guide for British investors looking to set up in Europe
At UK Business Centre Lille, we support British companies expanding into France every day.
The same questions always come up: where to start, what it really costs, how employment law works, and what support is available.
That’s why our experts – with hands-on knowledge of both the UK and French business environments – created this white paper: clear, pragmatic, and built for decision-makers.
✔ Written by experts supporting UK businesses in France
✔ Practical, concise, decision-focused
✔ Trusted by investors and public partners
A guide for British investors looking to set up in Europe
Doing Business in France gives you a clear, structured view of what it takes to expand into France – legal, tax, HR and practical setup – so you can move faster, avoid surprises and make confident decisions.
This isn’t about “learning French bureaucracy”.
It’s about building a smarter EU strategy.
Inside the white paper:
#1 France’s position in Europe and post-Brexit opportunities
#2 Legal setup options for foreign companies
#3 Employment law essentials (HR & hiring)
#4 Taxation, incentives and key costs
#5 Support available for international investors
