Global AIMS Networking Event

AIMS International held its’ special EMEA meeting (“EMEA MEETS ASIA”) in Munich from the 15^th to 20^th October, with abundant attendance from AIMS partners, cooperation partners and (potential) clients. Besides 74 AIMS consultants from EMEA, ASIA and Americas, clients and cooperation partners contributed to a crowd of +140 participants.

The objective of this event was to support companies to effectively prepare and realise successful business going East, by meeting the speakers and AIMS Partners after the panel at so-called Country Desks with surprisingly diverse perspectives.

Florian von Tucher, Chairman of the Tucher Group and of the European Technology Chamber (EUTECC) focused in his key notes on actively promoting that „Technology Obliges“ in order to solve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s). One of his key take aways from his many years of professional experience in these markets was that Joint Ventures are not necessarily the preferable starting points when investing in China. According to this vision, Florian von Tucher aims to increase the competitiveness of Europe, reach the SDG’s and build bridges to emerging markets.

Sabine Dietlmeier, Managing Director German Industry and Commerce Greater China GmbH took a different path of argument stating that preparation and consulting far before entering the area (or even any market) is most important. Consulting mid-sized enterprises in Greater China; projects including market entry, supplier selection and building sales structures, company foundations and a large range of operational questions were addressed.

Prof. Dr. Michael Freiboth, from the University of Applied Sciences Augsburg gave first insights into the new development (establishing Universities of Applied Sciences in China, based on German principles). He invited companies to be among the “First Movers” collaborating with these exciting new institutes, which is sure to build a bridge between East and West amongst the leaders of tomorrow.

Klaus Steingass, Senior VP Human Resources of Rheinmetall Group focused on experiences in ASIA concerning HR Management, giving lively examples about cultural differences in recruiting and retention showing some surprising success stories. His experiences are proof that true staff engagement has value across all cultures and borders.

David Littau, Chief Operation Officer of Flabeg Group gave insights on operations and establishing business relations and the diverse difficulties of Asian cultures. He also shared his findings and insights in business development with Asian partners.

Daniel Müller, Managing Director of Management Angels (WIL Group), moderated the expert talks with elegance and wit. Posing some questions to enhance discussion or changing the focus somewhat from greater China to other Asian regions from time to time.

After the lively podium talks, the participants met face-to-face with partners and consultants from various AIMS offices such as China, India, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, and our international cooperation partners from Intergest, S-CountryDesk, WIL Group and Alliott.

The hospitality from the AIMS International Germany team ensured that a most enjoyable afternoon was had by all with valuable connections forged and experiences shared.

We are looking forward to similar activities in Asia focusing on “going West”!