Price wars in localization? Who really wins?

We just won a major client, despite having a quote that was at least twice as high as the other offers on the table.

In a market where many providers are racing to undercut each other, it’s tempting to think that lowest price wins. But in this case, the client chose us. Why?

Because we didn’t just send a quote. We delivered a clear, transparent, and deeply technical analysis. We explained every component of the project and demonstrated the value behind each line item. That credibility made all the difference.

What’s worrying is how often our industry (translation and localization) pushes itself into unsustainable price wars.

Providers slash rates to the point where it’s impossible to do a proper job.
- Quality suffers. Deadlines get missed. Corners are cut.
- The client ends up incurring internal costs to fix the fallout.
- No one comes out ahead.

So here’s the question: What’s the real value in price dumping?

If you’re a professional and truly believe in the impact of your work, don’t compromise your value just to win a deal. Stand by your expertise. Educate your clients. Build trust.

Because in the long run, value always outperforms cost.

#Localization #Translation #SustainableBusiness #ValueOverPrice #ClientTrust #LanguageServices