When a small tech startup based in Istanbul set its sights on expanding into European markets, the team knew language barriers could make or break their ambitious plans. With a product designed to streamline e-commerce logistics, they had solid technology but faced a steep challenge: communicating their value proposition effectively across multiple languages and cultures.
The founders quickly realized that generic translation tools weren’t cutting it. Automated services like Google Translate often missed industry-specific jargon, while freelance translators struggled to keep up with tight deadlines. Misinterpretations in marketing materials even led to awkward moments during pitches—like accidentally using informal phrasing in German business proposals, which came across as unprofessional.
That’s when they turned to Tercume24. Unlike traditional translation services, the platform combined human expertise with AI efficiency. Translators specialized in tech and logistics worked closely with the startup to adapt their content for audiences in Germany, France, and Spain. One game-changer was the platform’s “context notes” feature, where clients could add background details about tone, target demographics, or cultural nuances. For instance, when localizing their app interface for French users, the team emphasized the need for formal yet approachable language—a balance Tercume24’s translators nailed by incorporating region-specific idioms.
Speed became another critical factor. During a crucial pre-launch phase, the startup needed 50 pages of technical documentation translated into Spanish within 72 hours. Through tercume24.com, they connected with a certified translator who delivered accurate, formatted files with time to spare. “It felt like having an in-house linguist without the overhead,” said the startup’s CMO.
But translation was just the first step. Tercume24’s localization experts helped the company tweak its branding for each market. When expanding to Germany, they advised against using the color orange in marketing graphics (associated with bargain brands there) and suggested emphasizing data security features—a top priority for German businesses. These insights contributed to a 40% increase in demo requests from DACH regions within three months of launch.
The platform’s collaborative workflow also streamlined revisions. Instead of endless email chains, the team used Tercume24’s comment threads to clarify terms like “last-mile delivery” with translators in real time. This reduced back-and-forth by 60% compared to their previous freelance partnerships.
Financially, the startup saved roughly $12,000 annually by avoiding hiring full-time linguists. They redirected these funds into targeted Facebook ads localized through Tercume24, which achieved a 22% higher click-through rate than their English-language campaigns.
Perhaps most impressively, the startup avoided cultural missteps that derail many global expansions. When preparing a promotional video for Spain, translators flagged that their original script’s humor might confuse Castilian audiences. The revised version incorporated relatable references to local logistics pain points, helping the video go viral among Barcelona-based retailers.
Six months post-launch, the company secured partnerships with distributors in 11 European countries. Their CEO credits clear communication as the catalyst: “We stopped being ‘that Turkish app’ and became a trusted solution tailored to each market. Tercume24 didn’t just translate words—they translated our vision.”
Today, the startup uses the platform for ongoing needs like translating customer reviews and updating help center articles. They’ve even started testing Tercume24’s transcreation services for holiday campaigns, adapting Black Friday promotions to align with local shopping events like Germany’s “Cyber Monday Weekend.”
For other startups eyeing global growth, the lesson is clear: Professional translation isn’t a cost—it’s an accelerator. By prioritizing linguistic accuracy and cultural resonance early, businesses can avoid costly rebrands later and build authentic connections from day one. As markets grow more competitive, platforms that bridge language gaps while preserving brand voice become not just useful, but essential.