How to choose a market entry strategy for EU DACH market?

[Riley96]

My company manufactures sustainable packaging materials and we're planning our market entry strategy into the European Union, specifically targeting the DACH region, but we're grappling with whether to pursue a direct sales model, partner with local distributors, or establish a small local entity. The regulatory landscape for packaging waste is complex and varies by country. For businesses that have successfully entered a new international market, what factors were most critical in choosing your entry model? How did you navigate local compliance and certification requirements efficiently, and what due diligence did you perform on potential partners to mitigate risk before committing significant resources?