EGS Biweekly Global Business Newsletter Issue 27, Monday, April 5, 2021
By William (Bill) Edwards, CEO of Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS)
“Success is the sum of small efforts repeated day in and day out”, Robert Collier
“If I had nine hours to chop down a tree, I’d spend the first six sharpening my axe.”, Abraham Lincoln
“Intelligence is the ability to adapt to change.”, Stephen Hawking
Introduction
Our biweekly newsletter focuses on what is happening around the world that impacts new trends, health, consumer spending, business investment and travel.
Highlights in issue #27:
- McKinsey’s latest survey finds greater optimism about the economy and corporate prospects than at any time since the crisis began
- A Vaccine Passport Is the New Golden Ticket as the World Reopens.
- The World Happiness Report 2021 focuses on the effects of COVID-19 and how people all over the world have fared.
- Consumers can now convert bitcoin or frequent flier miles to cash and reload their Starbucks cards to pay for lattes.
- Asia’s factory recovery picks up but cost pressures grow:
- The robots are coming to small businesses – and for business owners
We daily monitor 30+ countries, 40+ international information sources and six business sectors to keep up with what is going on in this ever-changing environment. Our GlobalTeam™ on the ground covers 43 countries and provides us with updates about what is happening in their specific countries.
Please feel free to send us your input and sources of information. Our contact information is at the bottom of this newsletter.
First, a few Personal Comments
Since our last biweekly newsletter, the U.S. and The United Kingdom has seen fast growing vaccination rates. The rest of the world, not so much. While the U.S. and the United Kingdom are reopening, the European Union countries are not, partially due to a low vaccination rate. On the positive side, many companies have set new work policies to acknowledge the ability to work productively from home. And several food and beverage brands have announced accelerated growth plans.
Global Vaccine Update
“A Vaccine Passport Is the New Golden Ticket as the World Reopens. Companies and countries that depend on travel or large gatherings are counting on a totally unproven concept.”, Bloomberg, March 25, 2021
“Vaccine Trickle Becomes Torrent as U.S. Eligibility Rules Widen: It’s taking some effort and some patience. But just as eligibility is opening to millions of people across the U.S. after months of cutthroat competition to find Covid-19 shots, vaccines are starting to stream into people’s arms.”, Bloomberg, April 1, 2021
“Even When Covid-19 Vaccines Arrive, EU Struggles to Get Shots in Arms. Despite rising cases, many European countries remain reluctant to overhaul slow and bureaucratic vaccination programs. At the current pace, the EU won’t have vaccinated the majority of adults until well after the summer.”, The Wall Street Journal, March 26, 2021
Interesting Data and Studies
“Our latest survey finds greater optimism about the economy and corporate prospects than at any time since the crisis began—and on a few fronts, more than in the past several years.”, McKinsey, March 31, 2021
“OPEC+ Reaches Agreement to Slightly Increase Oil Production Starting in May”, Stratfor, April 1, 2021
From a FUNG Business Intelligence report, March 2021
Global and Regional Travel Updates
“American Airlines has inaugurated its first flights between London-Heathrow Airport (LHR) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) – one of American’s hotly awaited new routes ahead of Alaska Airlines joining the oneworld alliance. The flights were delayed due to the pandemic, but the inaugural flight leaving Heathrow for Seattle departed on Tuesday.”, Simple Flying., March 31, 2021
“American Airlines will have most of aircraft taking flight in Q2 as travel demand increases. As of Monday, American Airlines said its seven-day moving average of net bookings is 90% of its 2019 average, with a domestic load factor of 80% during the same time period, according to the filing.”, Fox Business, March 29, 2021
“South American Major Carriers Increase Domestic and International Capacity. Two of South America’s biggest airlines, LATAM, Avianca and Aeroméxico, have announced an increase of its domestic and international routes.”, Airline Geeks, March 25, 2011
“Delta, the last holdout, will start selling flights to 100% on May 1”, The Points Guy, March 31, 2021
“Covid-19 Vaccine Passports Are Coming. What Will That Mean? Scores of plans to verify immunity are in the works. But there are even more questions about how they’ll use data, protect privacy—and who gets certified first.”, Wired, April 2, 2021
“LATAM Announces New Sanitary Measures for Brazil, Chile and Peru; LATAM Airlines announced the entry of new restrictions that South American governments have established for travelers. The measures stated apply to travelers in Brazil, Chile and Peru. These restrictions are for international flights, but there are also requirements for domestic flights.”, Airlines Geeks, April 2, 2021
“Cruise lines want to restart. The CDC has just issued details on how they can do it. Friday, the CDC published detailed requirements for the COVID-19 agreements between cruise lines and U.S. ports they visit, including “worst case scenario” response plans. The agency previously said such agreements would be part of the second phase of its “conditional sail order” but had not released specifics.”, Miami Herald, April 2, 2021
Country & Regional Updates
Asia Pacific
“China, Asia to fill bulk of surging US demand for goods in 2021 as global trade rebounds from coronavirus, WTO says. North America will drive demand in merchandise trade this year, with US imports set to rise by 11.4 per cent after tumbling 6.1 per cent last year, the World Trade Organization (WTO) says. Most demand for imports will be met by producers in China and across Asia, where exports are expected to grow by 8.4 per cent this year.”, South Chinas Morning Post, April 2, 2021
“Asia’s factory recovery picks up but cost pressures grow: Asia’s factories stepped up production in March as a solid recovery in global demand helped manufacturers move past the setbacks of the pandemic, although rising costs are creating new challenges for businesses.”, Reuters, March 31, 2021
Brazil
“Brazil’s unemployment rate rises to 14.2%. Figures from statistics agency IBGE showed that the number of Brazilians officially unemployed in the three months to January rose slightly to 14.3 million from 14.1 million in the three months to October, and up 20% from a year ago.”, Reuters, March 31, 2021
Canada
“Canada’s economy grows for ninth month as pandemic recovery takes hold. January growth jumped on wholesale trade, manufacturing and oil and gas extraction. Retail trade dipped but should recover in February, when restrictions on businesses were lifted, contributing to a likely 0.5% monthly increase.”, Reuters, March 31, 2021
“Air Canada Selling Caribbean/Mexico for May; Restoring Other Routes. They also are restoring flights to Europe, Asia and some U.S. cities in May.”, Travel Pulse, March 22, 2021
China
“China’s Manufacturing Recovery Loses More Momentum: The Caixin China General Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), which gives an independent snapshot of the country’s manufacturing sector, dropped to 50.6 in March from 50.9 the previous month.”, Caixin, April 1, 2021
France
“Covid-19: France enters third national lockdown amid ICU surge: All schools and non-essential shops will shut for four weeks, and a curfew will be in place from 19:00 to 06:00. As well as the restrictions that came into force on Saturday, from Tuesday people will also need a valid reason to travel more than 10 km (six miles) from their homes.< BBC, April 3, 2021
India
“India’s second wave hits the whole world through vaccine export curbs. Facing a brutal new wave of coronavirus cases, India on Thursday made anyone over 45 eligible for vaccination. But the scramble to vaccinate as many people as possible has also meant sharply curtailing exports.”, Axios, April 1, 2021
Japan
“Japanese business sentiment rebounds despite Covid-19 woes. Tankan index for big manufacturers beats expectations, offering hope of economic uptick. The Bank of Japan’s Tankan index for large manufacturers rose 15 points to a reading of plus 5, well ahead of analyst expectations that it would remain in negative territory at minus 2.”, The Financial Times, March 31, 2021
“Japan Becomes Latest Country to Issue Digital Vaccine Passport. Vaccinated citizens currently receive a certificate in paper format.”, Travel & Leisure Magazines, March 29, 2021
The Philippines
“Philippines extends coronavirus curbs in Manila, nearby provinces: Restrictions to remain for at least another week as infections surge. Restrictions, which include a ban on non-essential movement, mass gatherings and dining in restaurants, will remain for at least another week”, Nikkei Asia, April 3, 2021
United Kingdom
“UK starts to reopen: Thousands swarm sports clubs and swimming pools as lockdown restriction ease. Golfers hit the fairways at midnight and swimmers completed lengths before dawn as thousands embraced the latest easing of lockdown restrictions..” The Sunday Times of London,. March 29, 2021
“Covid vaccine hesitancy halved in one month. Vaccine hesitancy among people in Britain has halved in one month, official figures show. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said that the overall positive vaccine sentiment among Britons rose to 94 per cent last month from 78 per cent in December.”, The Times of London, April 1, 2021
“Millions set for switch to working four days a week. More than one million companies in Britain could move to a four-day working week after the pandemic, according to research. Autonomy, a think tank specialising in the future of work, found that a rethink of employment practices could result in a shorter working week for three million people across those companies.”, The Times of London, April 1, 2021
“PwC tells staff to split office and homeworking after Covid. PwC has told its accountants and consultants in the UK that they will spend an average of two to three days a week in the office after the pandemic ends and has promised them a half day on Fridays this summer.”. The Financial Times, March 30, 2021
“Britain’s manufacturers hired more staff as output and orders rose this month in preparation for the end of lockdown restrictions, the latest manufacturing purchasing managers’ index (PMI) showed. The index rose to 58.9 in March, the highest for more than ten years. A figure above 50 indicates growth. Orders were driven by the domestic market as companies prepared for a reopening of non-essential shops and outdoor hospitality on April 12.”, The Tomes of London, April 1, 2021
United States
“A measure of U.S. manufacturing activity soared to its highest level in more than 37 years in March, driven by strong growth in new orders, the clearest sign yet that a much anticipated economic boom was probably underway.”, Reuters, April 1, 2021
“The rise of working from home. The shift to a hybrid world of work will have a big impact on managers. Before the pandemic Americans spent 5% of their working time at home. By spring 2020 the figure was 60%.”, The Economist, April 1, 2021
“Marriott CEO says jobs ‘absolutely’ coming back, company ‘actively hiring’ in select markets. Marriott’s CEO on Sunday downplayed employment concerns and said that the very technology that helped the hotel industry navigate the coronavirus pandemic will help improve the customer experience in the future.., FOX Business, March 28, 2021
“New plan at Disneyland calls for squeezing in more rides, restaurants and shops. Disney announced a plan to add new attractions, shops and restaurants inside Disneyland by redeveloping existing areas of the Anaheim resort.”, The Los Angeles Times, March 25, 2021
“Restaurants struggle to find employees despite declining COVID cases: Some owners of eateries claim stimulus checks remove incentive to work. FOX Business spoke with multiple restaurant owners across the country who say applicants, drawn by the lure of unemployment benefits and stimulus checks, have tapered off over the course of the pandemic and it remains unclear whether that trend will continue.”, Fox Business, April 1, 2021
“Google rejigs remote working as it reopens offices: Google is changing its work-from-home policy as it looks to get more people back into its US offices. The tech firm said employees can work from home overseas for more than 14 days a year if they apply for it.”, BBC, April 1, 2021
“This 210,000-Employee Company Just Banned Zoom on Fridays. Here’s Why You Should, Too. Citi CEO Jane Fraser says working too many hours is taking a toll. It doesn’t help that the pandemic has blurred work-and-home boundaries.”.\, INC. Marah 26, 2021
Brand News
“HOW GOLDEN CORRAL IS ADAPTING TO NEW REALITIES: The pandemic accelerated the buffet chain’s evolution into other service formats. Here are some of the avenues it’s pursuing.”, Restaurant Business, March 26, 2021
“Bennigan’s offers virtual kitchen franchises to hotels: The new virtual kitchen model lets hotels sell food and drinks from Bennigan’s menus for delivery or takeout to both hotel guests and area residents. For hotels with established restaurants, Bennigan’s offers a licensing option to add the Bennigan’s On The Fly menu to their already existing menus.”, Hotel Management, March 29, 2021
“Del Taco franchisees see comp sales increases in final half of 2020. Del Taco Restaurants Inc. said Thursday that the chain’s franchisees saw comp sales increases in the third and fourth quarters of 2020, bringing full-year comp sales growth to 1.4%. Comp sales in the third-quarter were up 6.5%, and for the fourth-quarter, comp sales grew 7.5%.”, Market Watch, April 1, 2021
“Hardee’s and Carl’s Jr. Aiming to Add 2,000 Restaurants. The iconic brands just finished a massive year. Now they’re rolling out a new prototype built for the future.”, QSR Magazine, March 25, 2021
“Boutique Fitness Franchisor Xponential Acquires 9th Brand: Xponential Fitness has acquired boutique boxing concept Rumble to bring its portfolio of fitness brands to nine. Rumble now joins Xponential’s other brands Pure Barre, Club Pilates, CycleBar, YogaSix, StretchLab, Row House, AKT, and STRIDE.”, Franchising.com, April 2, 2021
“Popeyes has announced plans to launch its first location in the U.K. by the end of 2021, Over 350 U.K. sites are planned for the U.S. fried chicken franchise, to open over the next 10 years.”, Global Franchise, April 5, 2021
“How Two Food Franchisees Are Affected by Covid, and How They’re Responding: Luis San Miguel, president and CEO of Fresh Dining Concepts, operates 40 Auntie Anne’s, 2 Cinnabons, 6 co-branded Auntie Anne’s/Cinnabons, and 2 co-branded Auntie Anne’s/Carvels. Robby Basati is the CEO of RoboFran development, a multi-brand organization that operates 15 Mountain Mike’s Pizza; 2 branded gas stations; 1 Neighborhood supermarket; and 8 development agent stores for Mountain Mike’s….Franchising.com, April 2, 2021
“The robots are coming to small businesses – and for business owners: Tight margins and customer demands make new technologies attractive, but are ultimately designed to replace people.” The Guardian, April 1. 2021
Articles About Doing Business Going Forward
“Business priorities in the postpandemic era: This episode of the Inside the Strategy Room podcast features a conversation between Kevin Sneader, McKinsey’s global managing partner, and John Waldron, president and chief operating officer of Goldman Sachs, that took place at our virtual M&A conference in February.”, McKinsey, February 2021
“Consumers can now convert bitcoin or frequent flier miles to cash and reload their Starbucks cards to pay for lattes. Coffee chain goes national with digital wallet platform Bakkt partnership, which allows the conversion of digital assets for payment.”, Nation’s Restaurant News, April 1, 2021
“The World Happiness Report 2021 focuses on the effects of COVID-19 and how people all over the world have fared. Our aim was two-fold, first to focus on the effects of COVID-19 on the structure and quality of people’s lives, and second to describe and evaluate how governments all over the world have dealt with the pandemic. In particular, we try to explain why some countries have done so much better than others.”, March 2021
“English is the most common language online, used by 60.4% of the top 10M websites. China has the most internet users in the world but only 1.4% of the top 10M websites use Chinese.”, Visual Capitalist, March 26, 2021
We accelerate global development for our Clients
Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS) provides a complete International solution for companies Going Global. From initial global market research and country prioritization, to developing new international markets, providing in-country operations support and problem solving around the world. Our U.S. based executive team has experience living and working in many countries. Our Associate network on the ground overseas covers 40+ countries.
Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS) has twice received the U.S. President’s Award for Export Excellence.
Find out more about how we help companies Going Global successfully at:
Download our latest 40 country ranking chart at this link:
William (Bill) Edwards, CFE, is CEO and Global Advisor of Edwards Global Services (EGS). He has 46 years of international operations, development, executive and entrepreneurial experience and has lived in 7 countries. With experience in the franchise, oil and gas, information technology and management consulting sectors, he has directed projects on-site in Alaska, Asia, Europe and the Middle and Near East. Mr. Edwards advises a wide range of companies on early to long term global development of their brands.
Everything You Need To Know To Make Your Franchise A Global Success
“96 percent of the world’s consumers and over three-quarters of the world’s purchasing power are outside of the United States”, US SBA Administrator.
“Nearly 90% of the next one billion people to attain middle-class status will be in Asia.” Homi Kharas, Brookings Institution.
“As Globalization has taken hold over the last 20 years, international growth has become a “must” for any company seeking high rates of sustained future growth.” Catherine Monson, CEO, FASTSIGNS and Chair, International Franchise Association.
Running a successful and profitable franchise is a good way to accumulate wealth and become a high net worth businessperson and entrepreneur. However, you will need to be well educated, and maybe even a certified franchise expert, if you want to see your franchise make a lot of money.
A recent survey of Franchisor members of the International Franchise Association indicated more than 80% were either international or planned to go global this decade. Having helped 40+ franchisors take their brand global, here are the questions most people have:
- Which countries have the highest potential for our specific brand?
- What is the best international development model for our specific franchise?
- Will our brand fit into the culture of other countries?
- Will we have to change our training, support, and marketing programs?
- Can we eventually make a good return on our international investment?
- What does it cost to develop our franchise outside our home country?
To answers these questions, let’s answer the why, when, how, where and with whom of taking a franchise international
Why Take Your Franchise International?
- Add new sources of franchise fees, royalties and product sales
- Reduce dependence on your home country market
- Leverage your existing technology, know-how and intellectual property
- Improved economies of scale through network growth
- Become a franchise expert
When should you take your franchise international?
- 10 units or 250 units? The number of units is not the best measure of being ready
- When your business management technology and Intranet are robust
- When you have applied for a trademark before seeking a licensee in a country
- When your training, marketing, and support resources are online
- when you’ve become familiar to franchising and an expert in the domain
- But, most of all, when you have a plan to succeed
How – The International Development Options
- Master Franchise – Franchisor grants exclusive rights for a country to one company or expert, often with the right to sub-franchise
- Area or Regional Franchise – Franchisor grants exclusive rights for part of a country. The most common method for food franchises
- Direct Franchise – Franchisor awards expert or certified franchisees and directly supports their Franchisees in a country
- Joint Venture License – Franchisor jointly invests, owns, and develops the business in a country with a local company
- Direct Investment – Franchisor owns and operates all units in a country.
Where should you take your franchise?
- Rule of Law and IP Protection – this is needed to protect your brand over time
- Country Stability – this is needed to be able to start and grow your brand
- Your consumer market size – who can. And will want to buy at your franchise
- Culture – adaptation, but not changing the brand
- Ability to get paid in a timely manner, not all countries allow freedom of payments
- Potential to Achieve An Acceptable ROI – you will have costs associated with fees
And with whom? Your international licensee should have these attributes:
- A passion for and understanding of your business
- Successful company with expert experience in appropriate sectors
- Good reputation in the country
- Experienced management to put into the business
- Access to suitable real estate
- Marketing oriented company
- Capital to start and grow your business in their country
- Preferably a licensed or certified expert themselves
A Proven International Development Strategy
- Budget conservatively for the first 3-5 years of international developments
- Be realistic in your initial fee expectations
- Realize that initial fee revenues have associated expenses over time
- Be realistic in how many countries you can award and properly support
- Plan ahead for marketing, training, and support costs
William Edwards, CFE, is CEO of Edwards Global Services (EGS) and a global advisor to CEOs. He has 47 years of expert international experience and has lived in 7 countries. He has been a certified Franchisor, an International Master Franchisee in 5 countries, and has assisted more than 40 franchisors in their global development. bedwards@edwardsglobal.com +1-949-224-3896. For more information on the Certified Franchise Executive program, please go to this link: http://bit.ly/3ulCfpE
EGS Biweekly Global Business Newsletter Issue 23, Monday, February 8, 2021
By William (Bill) Edwards, CEO of Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS)
“Success isn’t always about greatness. It’s about consistency. Consistent hard work leads to success. Greatness will come.”, Dwayne Johnson
“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in & out.”, R. Colier
“So often in life things that you regard as an impediment turn out to be great good fortune.”, Ruth Bader Ginsburg
Introduction
Our biweekly newsletter focuses on what is happening around the worldthat impacts new trends, health, consumer spending, business investment and travel.
HiiHighlights in issue #23:
- Vaccine milestone as global Covid jabs pass number of confirmed cases
- Daily cases of COVID-19 are currently falling across most of the world, and deaths….are also beginning to decrease
- Which Covid-Related Consumer Marketing Changes Will Last Beyond the Pandemic? In the Articles and Charts section
- Work-from-home isn’t going away: Only 4% of CEOs plan to add office space. In the Articles and Charts section
- Lots of positive brand recovery news in the Brands section
- A global risk assessment in the Articles and Charts section
We daily monitor 30+ countries, 40+ international information sources and six business sectors to keep up with what is going on in this ever-changing environment. Our GlobalTeam™ on the ground covers 43 countries and provides us with updates about what is happening in their specific countries.
Please feel free to send us your input and sources of information. Our contact information is at the bottom of this newsletter.
First, a few Personal Comments
The big news today is the growing initial vaccinations in many key business countries along with an apparent broad decline in the number of new cases. Business leaders are cautiously optimistic about the recovery of business in 2021. The International Monetary Fund recently projected the global economy will grow 5.5% in 2021 versus a -3.5% in 2020. The 2nd half of 2021 may see post-COVID-19 travel passports.
Vaccine Updates from Around the World
“Vaccine milestone as global Covid jabs pass number of confirmed cases: FT tracker shows rapid growth in doses administered around world — but warnings come of long road ahead.”, The Financial Times, February 3, 2021
“Daily cases of COVID-19 are currently falling across most of the world, and deaths — which had been climbing globally until late January — are also beginning to decrease…..this is the first time since the pandemic began where cases are falling in basically every region of the world at the same time. On a global level, virtually the only number that is rising is vaccine doses administered. And in some places — south Asia for example — there’s growing confidence that the worst of the pandemic may be over even before vaccines become widely available.”, Axios, February 5, 2021
Please see specific country vaccine news in the country section below.
Interesting Data and Studies
“In our newest McKinsey Global Survey of more than a thousand executives from all industries, the outlook is still positive, though not quite as strong as in early December 2020. Majorities of executives continue to believe that conditions in their home economies and in the global economy will improve over the next six months.”, McKinsey & Co., February 2, 2021
“Carlsberg predicts surge in demand similar to Jazz Age boom: World’s third-largest brewer expects ‘normal summer’ as lockdowns lift. Carlsberg is expecting a surge in demand this summer similar to a boom seen a century ago as more people are vaccinated and lockdowns lift, according to the Danish brewer’s chief executive.”, The Financial Times, February 7, 2021
Global and Regional Travel Updates
“Where Can I Travel Internationally and Do I Need the Covid-19 Vaccine? Covid restrictions for international trips are more complicated than ever. Before you dust off your passport, a few words of caution. THE COVID-19 VACCINES have arrived. Does this mean we’ll soon be free to roam the world, guilt- and hassle-free? The short answer is no. While an inoculation protects you from getting sick, it’s not yet known whether the vaccines will prevent an asymptomatic person from passing the virus to others.”, The Wall Street Journal, February 4, 2021
“Healthy Passport Apps Under Development in Travel Industry: Travel technology companies are developing health passport apps to allow travelers to verify test results or vaccinations for international flights……SITA, a travel technology firm with its U.S. offices in Atlanta, said Thursday it has started trials of technology enabling airlines and passengers to share COVID-19 test results or vaccination history with authorities to meet government requirements. It has tested it with travelers to the United Arab Emirates and plans for a trial at Milan, Italy’s Malpensa Airport.”, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, February 6, 2021
“The future of business travel: Digital nomads and “bleisure” define the new high-tech take on work trips: The coronavirus pandemic served as a temporary kill shot to the business travel industry. A tech-savvy and adaptable hospitality industry is rising from these ashes in the remote work era.”, Tech Republic, January 29, 2021
“Delta Air Lines Launches First Domestic Digital ID Test: As the COVID-19 pandemic changes the way people travel by air, possibly forever, growing attention is being paid to systems and procedures aimed at eliminating opportunities for close personal contact and the exchange of objects and papers that can lead to disease transmission.”, Airline Geeks, February 1, 2021
“Delta and Alitalia To Codeshare on COVID-Tested Flights: That gives customers the ability to produce a negative COVID-19 test before flying to avoid quarantine in either country. Effective immediately, travelers can book to fly on Alitalia’s dedicated COVID-tested service from New York’s John F. Kennedy International and Delta’s COVID-tested service from Atlanta’s Hartsfield Jackson International Airport with both flying to Rome’s Fiumicino Airport.”, Travel Pulse, February 2, 2021
“Delta Plans to Bring 400 Grounded Pilots Back to Active Flying Status by Summer: Earlier this month, Delta’s senior vice president of flight operations John Laughter detailed in a memo to staff that the airline plans to return 400 pilots to regular flying status by summer 2021, so they are ready to fly again by summer 2022, according to a report from CNBC. ‘As we looked at ways to better position ourselves to support the projected recovery, we saw an opportunity to build back additional pilot staffing in advance of summer 2022 by bringing 400 affected pilots back to active flying status by this summer,’ Laughter said in his staff note, per the publication.”, People, January 28, 2021
“Copa Will Become the First American Carrier to Have IATA Travel Pass: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is partnering with the Panamanian government and Copa Airlines to trial the IATA Travel Pass – a mobile app to help passengers easily and securely manage their travel in line with government requirements for COVID-19 testing or vaccine information.
“Australian PM’s New Hope for Country’s Airlines: Australia’s Prime Minister, Scott Morrison has announced that the country’s international arrival caps would return to a higher rate. However, the PM also argued that for the near future, the hotel quarantine process would proceed as before irrespective of vaccination process.”, Airways Magazine, February 7, 2021
“San Diego Airport rolls out on-site COVID-19 testing: Carbon Health, a major player in COVID-19 testing, will now extend its footprint to the San Diego International Airport (SAN). It’s offering “travel clearance visits” that include a COVID-19 test that is sufficient for domestic travel. San Diego joins other West Coast airports such as Portland, San Jose and Los Angeles that all offer similar testing.”, The Points Guy, February 6, 2021
Australia
“Retail and fast-food workers to receive increase in minimum wage from today: The retail and fast-food award wage is now $21.78 an hour.”, Smart Company Australia, February 1, 2021
“Restaurant owners increasingly optimistic about business this year, Deliveroo report says. 81% of restaurant owners are planning to hire more staff. Restaurant sector confidence has grown going into 2021, with hiring and building out a strong workforce becoming a major focus.”, QSR Media Australia, January 21, 2021
“Temporary restructuring relief for small business directors: The Australian Government introduced insolvency reforms for small businesses that came into effect on 1 January 2021, including temporary restructuring relief. These reforms extend some of the temporary measures introduced in March 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.”, News Hub Asic Australia, January 18, 2021
The three articles om Australia are compliments of Jason Gehrke, Managing Director of the Franchise Advisory Centre, Brisbane, from their February 5, 2021 franchise newsletter.
Mainland China – Chinese New Year is February 12th
“China Services Activity Expands at Slowest Pace in Nine Months, Caixin PMI Shows: China’s services sector expanded at the slowest pace in nine months in January as growth in total new business and new export business softened, a Caixin-sponsored survey showed Wednesday. The Caixin China General Services Business Activity Index, which gives an independent snapshot of operating conditions in the services sector, fell to 52 in January from 56.3 the previous month.”, Caixin, February 3, 2021
“US fast food giants turn to the taste of Chinese: From Chinese burgers to ice cream doused in chili oil, US fast-food giants are infusing their offerings with a Chinese flair. McDonald’s and KFC have long localized their menus to appeal to the Chinese palate, but their latest takes on traditional dishes and ingredients seem to be causing quite a buzz, and not always the good kind.”, Shine, January 27, 2021. Submitted by Paul Jones, Jones & Co., Toronto
https://www.shine.cn/news/nation/2101273955/
“China wins a boost for international luxury brands: The COVID-19 pandemic has had sweeping repercussions on almost all sectors of the worldwide economy. The fashion industry has been among the hardest hit because it is, in essence, under the non-essential spending category. Yet there is light at the end of the tunnel — for some.”, Shine, February 3, 2021. Submitted by Paul Jones, Jones & Co., Toronto
https://www.shine.cn/feature/lifestyle/2101314114/
“China’s Car Sales Rose 25% in January: It was the strongest growth since September 2016. Retail sales of passenger cars rose 25.7% to 2.16 million vehicles last month compared with the same time a year before, the China Passenger Car Association said Monday, the strongest growth since September 2016.”, The Wall Street Journal, February 8, 2021
Iceland
“Iceland opens up after success of Covid testing regime: ‘Cautious steps’ will see return of personal training in gyms and opening of bars until 10pm. Iceland became one of the first European countries to start opening up society again after the second wave of Covid-19 as it reaped the rewards of having the region’s lowest infection rate.”, The Financial Times, February 8, 2021
Korea
“South Korea eases curfew on businesses outside Seoul: South Korea on Saturday eased curfews on more than half a million restaurants and other businesses outside the capital Seoul, letting them stay open an hour later, amid a public backlash over tight curbs to contain COVID-19.”, Reuters, February 5, 2021
“South Korea Leads World in Innovation as U.S. Exits Top Ten: South Korea returned to first place in the latest Bloomberg Innovation Index, while the U.S. dropped out of a top 10 that features a cluster of European countries. Korea regained the crown from Germany, which dropped to fourth place.”, Bloomberg, February 2, 2021
New Zealand
“’Hard and early’ lockdown was the right economic strategy: Economist. Going “hard and early” with a strict lockdown to stop the spread of Covid-19 has proved to have been the best tactic for the economy, too, Infometrics chief forecaster Gareth Kiernan says. The economics consultancy has updated its forecasts and now expects GDP growth to accelerate to 4.6 per cent in the second half of 2021. Kiernan said the country’s economy had now almost recovered to pre-Covid levels. In the year to December 2019, GDP growth was 2.3 per cent.”, Stuff New Zealand, February 5, 202i, Compliments of Simon Lord. Franchise New Zealand
The Philippines
“This hotel in Metro Manila has multifunctional pods for safe outdoor dining, massage. Sheraton Manila is offering the first-ever luxury outdoor dining pod in the Philippines called “Vubble Pods.”, GMA News Online, January 5, 2021
Singapore
“Singapore approves Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine in Asia first: Singapore has become the first country in Asia to approve Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine as it begins rolling out its immunisation programme to the wider population.”, Reuters, February 3, 2021
“Our COVID-19 cases have been low since last fall — here’s what we’re doing right: Dr. Lim Hui Ling, 51, is the medical director for the International Medical Clinic in Singapore. Lim says going through the 2002-2003 SARS pandemic helped prepare her and other healthcare workers to deal with COVID-19. She also credits fellow Singaporeans for helping stop the spread of the virus by willingly wearing masks, social distancing, and using a contact tracing app.”, Business Insider, February 8, 2021
South Africa
“South Africa halts AstraZeneca vaccine rollout: South Africa stopped the distribution of the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine on Sunday, after researchers found that the vaccine ‘provides minimal protection’ against infection from the new strain first identified in the country, Reuters reports.”, Axios, February 8, 2021
United Kingdom
“Vaccines minister ‘confident’ everyone over 50 will be offered coronavirus jab by May: Nadhim Zahawi says that at one point on Saturday, the UK was administering COVID-19 jabs at a rate of almost 1,000 per minute. The pace of the vaccine rollout indicates the UK is on track to meet its target of offering a jab to everyone in the top four priority groups – about 15 million people – by the middle of this month.”, Sky News, February 7, 2021
“Scientists raise hopes of March meetings and normal summer: The country could be back to near normal by summer, with people able to meet relatives as early as next month, senior scientists have said.”, The Sunday Times of London, February 5, 2021
“NHS plans for annual coronavirus vaccinations: UK government aims to copy flu prevention programme as model for control of new variants. The NHS is planning a mass campaign of booster jabs against new variants of coronavirus as early as the autumn, in what the vaccines minister suggested would become an annual effort to prevent Covid-19 as the virus keeps mutating.”, The Financial Times, February 7, 2021
“UK applying to join Asia-Pacific free trade pact CPTPP: The UK will apply to join a free trade area with 11 Asia and Pacific nations on Monday, a year after it officially left the EU. Joining the group of “fast-growing nations” will boost UK exports, the government says. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership – or CPTPP – covers a market of around 500 million people.”, BBC News, January 31, 2021
United States
“Johnson & Johnson Asks U.S. Regulators for Emergency Approval of Its Covid-19 Vaccine: The potential third vaccine could jump-start a slower-than-expected vaccination rollout…. J&J’s shot wouldn’t only boost the overall supply of Covid-19 vaccine doses, but also could simplify vaccinations for many because it is given in one dose.”, The Wall Street Journal, February 4, 2021
“Business Travel Deductions in the Post COVID-19 World: Tax expert Bonnie Lee offers some tips on what to claim, what not to claim and what’s changing on 2020 taxes.”, Business Traveler, January 27, 2021
“Technology Adoption: This visualisation details the rates of diffusion and adoption of a range of technologies in the United States, measured as the percentage of US households with access or adoption over time.”, Our World In Data, February 2021
Brand News
“’We’re delivering iconic pizzas and blockbuster moments’: Pizza Hut talks digital. Last year, Pizza Hut decided to launch its first global campaign in 20 years to celebrate the 40th anniversary of its iconic Pan pizza, delivering a digital-first campaign in 55 markets around the world and declaring October ‘Global Pizza Month’. This campaign also saw Pizza Hut use its ‘now that’s delivery’ brand story globally for first time, after seeing how successful the message was in the UK alongside the restaurant chain’s ambassador character, Parker.”, MobileMarketing, February 4, 2021
“What Lies Ahead for Restaurant Franchising: Franchise experts weigh in on the opportunities for the industry in a post-pandemic environment. big reason for many quick serves to be excited is the state of franchising. All signs point to franchises surviving the pandemic better than others, and there is significant potential in franchising moving forward; economic downturns typically lead to more people looking for a second career, and would prefer the safety net of a proven concept.”, QSR Magazine, January 29, 2021
“Chipotle’s Recovery Has Come From Its Digital Business. Here’s How Operations Kept Up. The company announced its Q4 results Tuesday afternoon, which included a comp sales increase of 5.7%, a revenue increase of 11.6% and digital sales growth of 177.2%. This is compared to Q2–in the depths of government-mandated shutdowns and unprecedented consumer anxiety–when comp sales dropped nearly 10%.”, Forbes, February 3, 2021
“This Chicken Chain Is Opening 100 New Locations This Year: Church’s credits its success to strong delivery sales and a mega successful chicken sandwich….. A Southern chain with a fried chicken legacy spanning almost seven decades is planning a major expansion this year as it rides the momentum of the chicken category.”, Eat This, Not That, February 2, 2021
“Everyone Wants Sushi to Go, and It’s Saving Some Restaurants: Eateries and grocers are selling more takeaway sushi during the pandemic, while supermarkets rush to train chefs. Sushi was the most searched takeout cuisine on restaurant-reservation platform Tock during the last three months of 2020.”, The Wall Street Journal, February 6, 2021
“How Two Franchisees Are Affected by Covid, and How They’re Responding: We asked a wide range of multi-unit franchisees about the biggest impacts Covid-19 has had on their business, how they’ve responded, and which changes they think will be permanent. This week we hear from a longtime restaurateur Del Taco operator and a 13-year franchisee of The Learning Experience.”, Franchising. Com. February 8, 2021
Articles and Charts About Doing Business in The Times Of COVID-19 and Beyond
“2021 International Development Goes Online in the Pandemic: 2020 has been a challenging year for the entire global franchise community as the Covid-19 crisis has changed how we seek new international licensees. International travel to countries stopped in May. To meet new licensee candidates, we had to resort to videoconferences. Due diligence on candidates became remote. Discovery days to have candidates meet the franchisor team and see face-to-face the resources the franchisor would provide either did not happen in 2020 or were done virtually.”, Franchising.com article by William Edwards, CEO of Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS), February 2021
“Expanding Your Business Internationally in 2021: If you have been thinking about expanding your business internationally, the decision to move overseas is both challenging and rewarding. Whether it has always been part of your long-term business plan or you are responding to a current international opportunity, there are critical considerations you need to make for your project to be successful.”, ArtOne Translations by Olena Polissky, Vancouver, January 29, 2021
“Which Covid-Related Consumer Marketing Changes Will Last Beyond the Pandemic? Looking at what’s changed in 2020 because of Covid – and what changes might be permanent – let’s start with the biggest driver of economic activity: consumers. A majority of the more than 2,000 people surveyed by Jones Lang LaSalle said they want to continue working away from the office at least two days a week; only 26% want to do it full-time after the pandemic passes.”, Franchising.com, Darrell Johnson, CEO of FRANdata, February 2021
“Work-from-home isn’t going away: Only 4% of CEOs plan to add office space: Once the vaccine is fully rolled out, we’ll find out what the future of remote work is. To get a sense of where we’re headed, Fortune conducted a survey of CEOs in collaboration with Deloitte.”, Fortune, February 4, 2021
“A Global Risk Assessment of 2021 And Beyond: Risk is all around us. After the events of 2020, it’s not surprising that the level and variety of risks we face have become more pronounced than ever. Every year, the World Economic Forum analyzes the top risks in the world in its Global Risks Report. Risks were identified based on 800+ responses of surveyed leaders across various levels of expertise, organizations, and regional distribution.”, Visual Capitalist, January 25, 2021
“Mapping Global Income Support During COVID-19: Income loss has impacted many during the COVID-19 pandemic. Unemployment, reduced hours, office closures, and business shutdowns have prompted the need for mass income support. Income support, in this case, is defined as governments broadly covering lost salaries, or providing universal basic income or direct payments to people who have lost their jobs or cannot work. Levels of income support are changing over time.”, Visual Capitalist and Our World In Data, January 26, 2021
“The UN projects that the global population increases from a population of 7.7 billion in 2019 to 11.2 billion by the end of the century. By that time, the UN projects, fast global population growth will come to an end.”, Our World In Data, November 2019
“Business cards are going online in Asia: But traditionalists miss the feel of paper and ink. Networking is difficult when white-collar workers have fled to home offices, business lunches have been cancelled and conferences have migrated online. Orders for business cards from Vistaprint, a multinational printing company, plummeted by 70% in late March and early April and have yet to recover fully.”, The Economist, February 6, 2021
Who We Are and How We Help Companies ‘Go Global’ Successfully
Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS) provides a complete International solution for U.S. businesses Going Global. From initial global market research and country prioritization, to developing new international markets, providing in-country operations support and problem solving. around the world. Our U.S. based executive team has experience living and working in many countries. Our Associate network on the ground overseas covers 40+ countries.
Founded in 2001, Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS) takes businesses global and currently has activity in 25 countries. Our Clients are consumer-faced brands. Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS) has twice received the U.S. President’s Award for Export Excellence.
Find out more about the services we provide companies Going Global at:
Download our 4th quarter 2020 GlobalVue™ 40 country ranking chart at this link:
William Edwards, CFE, is CEO and Global Advisor of Edwards Global Services (EGS). He has 46 years of international operations, development, executive and entrepreneurial experience and has lived in 7 countries. With experience in the franchise, oil and gas, information technology and management consulting sectors, he has directed projects on-site in Alaska, Asia, Europe and the Middle and Near East. Mr. Edwards advises a wide range of companies on early to long term global development of their brands.
For market research, operations and development support on taking your business global successfully contact Mr. Edwards at bedwards@edwardsglobal.com or +1 949 224 3896.
GlobalVue™ September 2020 – Projecting 2021 Recovery
Since 2001, William Edwards has published the EGS GlobalVue™ country ranking analysis quarterly based on recent activities in countries, feedback from the in-country EGS GlobalTeam™ covering 43 countries and a continuous review of 40+ international information sources.
The September 2020 GlobalVue™ chart projects how countries will come out of the COVID-91 crisis in 2021.
A downloadable full version PDF covering 40 countries in the Americas, Asia, Europe, the Middle and Near East can be found at this link:
https://edwardsglobal.com/globalvue/
Key to 2021 economic recovery are the projected 2021 Gross Domestic Product growth, political and economic stability or lack thereof and the projected recovery from the pandemic. Of course, there is a high degree of uncertainty today especially as to the timing of a vaccine and political challenges in key countries.
Here are a few countries that are key to obtaining the OECD 5% GDP growth projection for the world in 2021.
| Australia | Mixed pandemic outcome, moderate 2021 growth |
| Brazil | Challenging pandemic outcome, improving economy |
| Chile | Mixed pandemic status, economy will grow in 2021 |
| China | Swift virus recovery, dual economy will have different 2021s |
| Germany | Controlling pandemic, may see 2021 government change |
| India | Huge pandemic impact, chaotic government response |
| Italy | Controlling pandemic, steps being taken on economy |
| Mexico | Poor pandemic response, anti-business government |
| Peru | Poor pandemic response, elections due soon |
| Taiwan | Positive virus control, expanding economy, China (?) |
| Philippines | Negative government pandemic management |
| South Africa | High unemployment, low new investment, corruption |
| Spain | Mixed pandemic response, but strong basic economy |
| Thailand | Pandemic tourism hit limits 2021 economic growth |
| Turkey | Democracy iffy, economy limping along |
| United Kingdom | Mixed pandemic management results and BREXIT |
| Vietnam | Tight virus control, offshoring from China impact |
EGS Biweekly Global Business Newsletter Issue 13, Monday, September 21, 2020
By William (Bill) Edwards, CEO of Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS)
“There are two kinds of companies in this pandemic: those doing clever things to deal with the new world….and those who are not”, Pilita Clark
“Every major difficulty you face in life is a fork in the road. You choose which track you will head down, toward breakdown or breakthrough.”, John C. Maxwell
“The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance.”, Alan Watts, compliments of Sylvia Adler
“I asked a wise man, ‘tell me sir, in which field could I make a great career?’ He said with a smile, ‘be a good human being. There is a lot of opportunity in this area and very little competition”., Compliments of Brad Weinstein from a LinkedIn post
Introduction
This biweekly newsletter focuses on what is happening in more than 20 countries that impacts new trends, health, consumer spending, business investment and travel. A few highlights:
- This issue we start off by thanking the people around the world who help us curate for our newsletter readers.
- The US$88 trillion world economy by country in one chart
- What happens every minute on the Internet, Articles and Charts section
- Global Trade Returns Faster Than Expected
- U.S. to Lift COVID-19 Designated Airport Restriction
- U.S. Small-business owners gained confidence in the U.S. economy last month, outpacing expectations, according to data from a survey compiled by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB).
- We have added a new section that highlights what well-known brands are doing to survive and thrive in these times
We constantly monitor 30+ countries, 40+ international information sources and six business sectors to keep up with what is going on in this ever-changing environment. Our team on the ground covers 43 countries and provides us with updates about what is happening in their specific countries. Please feel free to send us your input and sources of information. Our contact information is at the bottom of this newsletter.
Many thanks to the people around the world who help us curate our global business newsletter for our 500 global readers:
Ursula Alexio, Brasil, Craig Allen, U.S.-China Business Council, Rym Bedoui, Tunisia, Paul Cairnie, Middle East, Enver Celikbas, Istanbul, Franz-Josef Ebel, Germany, Lauren Ellermeyer, California, Manal El Masry, United Arab Emirates and Egypt, Ferenz Feher, Mexico, Ichiro (Roy) Fujita, Japan, Jason Gehrke, Brisbane, Stewart German, Auckland, Paul Jones, Toronto and China, Robert Jones, Miami and Spanish speaking countries, Gabor Kaczmarczyk, Budapest, Ned Levitt, Toronto, James Liu, Greater China, Simon Lord, Auckland, Iain Martin, United Kingdom and Ireland, Tarsicio Merin, Madrid, Rajeev Manchanda, India, Sean Ngo, SE Asia, Sethaphong (Seth) Phadungpisuth, Bangkok, Gordon Schaeffer, UCLA, Don Southerton, South Korea, Andrew Stearns, Milan, Enrique Tellez, Panama, Norcia Ward-Marin, Colombia, Chris Wingo, Shanghai, Steven Wolfson, Israel, James Young, Melbourne, Rod Young, Sydney and our highly valued U.S. Commercial Service Trade Specialists in 24 countries.
This issue’s chart is the US$88 Trillion World Economy on One Chart
Global Economic Recovery Projections – GeoPolitical Futures, September 18, 2020
Sharp recovery in GDP per country in 2021
International Travel Updates
“U.S. to Lift COVID-19 Designated Airport Restriction: For nearly six months, travelers from certain COVID-19 restricted countries have only been able to enter the United States by passing through one of 15 designated airports and undergoing enhanced health screening. The restriction currently applies to those arriving from, or with recent presence in, China (excluding the Special Administrative Regions of Hong Kong and Macau), Iran, the Schengen region of Europe, the United Kingdom (excluding overseas territories outside of Europe), Ireland, and Brazil. The 15 designated airports are Boston Logan International, Chicago O’Hare International, Dallas/Fort Worth International, Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu, Hawaii, Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International, George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, Texas, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International, John F. Kennedy International, Los Angeles International, Miami International, Newark Liberty International, San Francisco International, Seattle-Tacoma International, and Washington-Dulles International. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has announced that starting on September 14, 2020, this restriction will be lifted.”, Airline Geeks, September 11, 2020
“Vigilance and trust essential if travel bans are to be lifted: If economies are to get moving again, governments will have to strike deals to allow people to cross borders without having to undergo extended periods of quarantine. Travel bans to protect populations from imported Covid-19 infections are preventing the resumption of international commerce and tourism, and cannot remain in place indefinitely. If economies are to get moving again, governments have to explore so-called travel bubbles by striking deals to allow people to cross borders without having to undergo extended periods of quarantine.
The challenge is ensuring that restrictions make communities feel safe, but are not so cumbersome that travellers are deterred.”, South China Morning Post, September 9, 2020
“These are the 40+ countries Americans can visit: Albania, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Barbados Belarus, Belize, Bermuda, Brazil, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Costa Rica (some states), Croatia, The Dominican Republic, Egypt, El Salvador, French Polynesia, Honduras, Ireland (sort of), Jamaica, Kenya, Kosovo, The Maldives, Mexico, Moldova, Montenegro, Namibia, Nicaragua, North Macedonia, Panama, Rwanda, St. Barths, St. Lucia, Saint Maarten, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Serbia, Seychelles, Slovenia (maybe), South Korea (sort of), Tanzania, Turkey, Turks and Caicos, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates (Dubai only), United Kingdom (sort of).”, The Points Guy, September 13, 2020 See this link for the ‘details’.
“Around the World, Flights to Nowhere Grow in Popularity: How much do you miss flying? Not, mind you, flying to a specific destination — just the act of boarding a flight and spending several hours in the air? With many countries restricting travel due to the pandemic, a new phenomenon has taken root in a few spots around the globe: the flight to nowhere.”, InsideHook, September 19, 2020
“Cathay Pacific and Prenetics to launch London-Hong Kong digital health passport in October in bid to ease travel: Cathay Pacific and Hong Kong start-up Prenetics are set to launch a digital health passport that allows travellers to show their negative Covid-19 test results on a mobile app before boarding, potentially easing international travel and establishing a new model to help airlines and airports ride out the health crisis. The pilot will kick-off on the Hong Kong-London route from October, Prenetics told the South China Morning Post. The partners are working in collaboration with Swiss-based non-profit The Commons Project, which is backed by the Rockefeller Foundation.”, South China Morning Post, September 18, 2020
“United Airlines Is Launching 3 New Nonstop Routes to Africa: Plus new flights to Bangalore and New Delhi in India and Kona and Maui in Hawaii. “We’re really focused on rethinking the network,” says Patrick Quayle, United Airlines’ vice president of international network and alliances. ‘We’re not just looking at adding everything back the way it was prior to the coronavirus, and so what we’re looking at trying to do is come up with more convenient travel.’ Part of that strategy includes launching new nonstop routes to Accra, Ghana, and Lagos, Nigeria, from Dulles International Airport in Washington, D.C. The routes will operate three times a week on Boeing Dreamliner 787-8s starting in spring 2021. The airline is also launching a year-round, daily nonstop from Newark Liberty International Airport to Johannesburg. When the route launches next spring, it will be the only roundtrip nonstop to the South African city operated by a U.S. airline. Typically, U.S. fliers heading to countries in Africa have to connect in Europe or the Middle East.”, Conde Nast Traveler, September 9, 2020
“Second Carnival Corporation Ship Returns To Cruising in Europe: The second Carnival Corporation cruise ship, Costa Diadema, is returning to service on Saturday, another sign that slowly but sure, the industry is getting back on track. Costa Diadema is among the first of Carnival Corporation’s ships to return to service. This is the second Costa Cruises’ ship to return to the sea with passengers.”, Cruise Radio, September 19, 2020
Global Trade Update
“Global trade is rebounding much more quickly this year than it did after the 2008 financial crisis, lifting parts of the world economy and defying predictions the pandemic could send globalization into permanent retreat. When the new coronavirus hit earlier this year, international trade in goods suffered the biggest year-over-year drop since the Great Depression. Economists warned of rising protectionism, and some companies said they would reassess overseas supply chains that were vulnerable to unexpected shocks. Trade remains below pre-pandemic levels. Still, it has snapped back robustly—and had recovered about half of this year’s historic loss by June, according to calculations by the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, a German think tank.”, The Wall Street Journal, September 21, 2020
Australia
“Victorian Government announces unprecedented $3 billion support for businesses: An extra $3 billion in cash grants, tax relief and cashflow support will be made available to Victorian businesses in a bid to keep them afloat during the extended coronavirus shutdown. In what Premier Daniel Andrews described as “the biggest package of business support in the history of this state”, more than $1 billion of that funding will support small and medium sized businesses that are most affected by the restrictions.”, News.com.au, September 13, 2020
“Australia’s COVID-19 hotspot on track for easing curbs, faces three lawsuits: Australia’s Victoria state on Wednesday said the daily rise in infections in its coronavirus hot spot of Melbourne has eased further, putting it on course to relax an extended hard lockdown in the city by the end of the month. Construction sites, manufacturing plants, warehouses and childcare facilities can reopen, allowing more than 100,000 workers to return to their jobs, if the 14-day rolling average is under 50 cases as of Sept. 28. The state has set a much tougher target of a 14-day average of five cases for lifting a nightly curfew, allowing people out of home for more than two hours a day, and reopening more businesses in Melbourne from Oct 26.”, Reuters, September 15, 2020
Canada
“Air Canada to Offer Travelers Free COVID-19 Insurance: Air Canada (AC) will offer complimentary COVID-19 insurance in partnership with Manulife, a Canadian insurance company, to travelers with new international trip bookings made in Canada between September 17 and October 31, 2020, with the coverage applying to travel completed by April 12, 2021.”, Airways magazine, September 20, 2020
Canada
“Ottawa extending its widely criticized pandemic rent-relief program: Ottawa will extend its widely criticized pandemic rent-relief program for small businesses for a final month as officials weigh options to overhaul it. Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland confirmed the news in a press release Tuesday. The Globe and Mail first reported on Saturday that the program would be extended through September while Ottawa considered changing its structure. Many small businesses saw revenue collapse immediately as jurisdictions entered pandemic lockdowns in March. Main Streets all over the country are now dotted with for-lease signs as entrepreneurs spent the past six months struggling to keep up with fixed costs – the biggest of which is usually rent. Ottawa announced the Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance (CECRA) program in late April to help with these costs by offering landlords forgivable loans worth half their tenants’ rent if they absorbed a quarter of the rent and the tenants paid the final quarter. But the program required that landlords make the application – and very few did.”, The Globe and Mail, September 8, 2020
Mainland China
“China economy’s broad recovery from coronavirus continues, as retail sales grow for first time in 2020: Industry, retail and investment all showed marked improvements in August, as the Chinese economy continued its broad-based recovery from the ravages of the coronavirus earlier this year, according to new data released by the National Bureau of Statistics…”, South China Morning Post, September 14, 2020
“Chinese Car Sales Rise at Fastest Rate in More Than Two Years: Heavy discounts and new-model debuts propel a second-half recovery in the world’s largest auto market. Retail passenger-car sales in the country increased by 8.9% last month from a year earlier to 1.7 million vehicles, the China Passenger Car Association said Tuesday, marking the strongest rate of growth since May 2018. It represented the second straight month in which sales outpaced those of the same month last year. Car sales to individual customers had declined by 3.4% in the April-to-June period compared with a year earlier before bouncing back in July with a year-on-year increase of 7.7%.”, The Wall Street Journal, September 8, 2020
“Occupancy Rates for China’s Hotels Show First Year-Over-Year Growth Since Pandemic’s Start: Even if recent occupancy gains are tied to a blip in the holiday calendar, Chinese hotels continue to see a coronavirus economic recovery pattern that is the envy of the world.”, Skift, September 18, 2020
“China’s retiring ‘baby boomers’ a shot in the arm for tourism, fitness and insurance sectors: Credit Suisse: China’s “baby boomers” are nearing retirement and will spend more on travel, health foods and commercial insurance than earlier generations, according to Credit Suisse. The upcoming retirement of about 245 million people – about a fifth of China’s population – will lead to business opportunities for a host of industries, the Swiss investment bank’s China Quantitative Insight (CQi) team said in a report recently. Much like the United States after the second world war, China witnessed a spike in birth rates in the 1960s following the end of the Great Famine. This was a lucky generation, entering adulthood when China began its great reform and opening up in 1978 that would eventually led to the economy ballooning 90 times in the following four decades.”, South China Morning Post, September 14, 2020
“AmCham China Charter Flight Arrives in Beijing: History was made on Sunday as AmCham China’s Back to Work Charter Flight became the first such flight from the US to fly directly into Beijing since the pandemic began, as well as the first multi-company charter flight from any country to fly directly into the capital, as 87 passengers made the trip from San Francisco. The charter flight – a Boeing 787-9 aircraft – has been months in the making since China first effectively closed its borders to foreign nationals at the end of March. Since that moment, the Chamber has led extensive efforts to bring member executives and their families back to China, first through surveying the wider membership to find out where the most members were located, and then through lengthy negotiations with key stakeholders, most notably the Beijing government, who gave the green light for this charter flight at the end of August.”, AmCham China, September 14, 2020
Colombia
“Spirit Airlines Becomes First International Carrier to Resume Operations to Colombia
From Sept. 19, Spirit Airlines will restart direct flights from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), to Cartagena, Colombia. Spirit will be the first international airline to resume operations to Colombia. This flight will arrive to Cartagena at 12:36 (UTC-5) and would leave again to Fort Lauderdale at 13:36 (UTC-5). Additionally, Spirit will restart flights from Bogotá, Medellín and Cali to Fort Lauderdale from Sept. 21.”, Airline Geeks, September 20, 2020
El Salvador
“Avianca To Resume Its International Operations From El Salvador: After more than six months without operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Avianca has announced it is ready to gradually resume its flights from its hub in El Salvador on September 19, once the authorities allow the arrival and departure of international flights to the country.”, Airline Geeks, September 14, 2020
France
“France tries to salvage failed StopCovid tracing app as cases surge: When the pandemic was raging across Europe last spring, many politicians and health experts were optimistic that a new generation of tracing apps could eventually help keep COVID-19 at bay. France was one of the many countries to seize on this idea, but its controversial approach has failed to have an impact and is instead becoming a cautionary tale. In a report issued this week, a national committee charged with reviewing the nation’s COVID-19 response called for the government to reinvest in promoting the app, which has so far generated few notifications. In theory, someone who has the app installed on their smartphone will receive a notification if they have recently crossed paths with someone who reported a positive diagnosis via the same app.”, Venture Beat, September 18, 2020
Israel
“Emirates to Begin Flights Between UAE and Israel: As relations between the United Arab Emirates and Israel continue to improve, Emirates has received approval to launch flights from Dubai to Tel Aviv.”, Airlines Geeks, September 18, 2020
“Israel marks Jewish New Year with second lockdown: Israel is entering a second nationwide lockdown to curb surging coronavirus cases, just as people begin to mark the start of Jewish New Year. Rosh Hashanah is traditionally a time for big, family get-togethers. But under the new three-week lockdown, Israelis must stay within 1km (0.6 miles) of their homes, with exceptions, and the number of people allowed in synagogues has been greatly reduced.”, BBC News, September 18, 2020
Italy
“Rome Fiumicino Airport Awarded 5-Star SkyTrax COVID-19 Airport Rating: The COVID-19 pandemic that has wreaked havoc on commercial aviation over the past months has caused the traveling public to modify the parameters used to evaluate the service they receive when they board an aircraft or they transit through an airport. Therefore, SkyTrax Ratings — the World Airline and Airport Star Rating program that has been providing their ratings since 1999 — has launched a new airport ranking aiming to evaluate airport based on its COVID-19 procedures and facilities.”, Airlines Geeks, September 21, 2020
Japan
“Tokyo lowers alert level as coronavirus fears ease: Tokyo’s government on Thursday dropped its coronavirus alert by one notch from the highest level as cases continue to trend down, opening the path for a loosening of restrictions on night-time activity. ‘Regarding the infection situation, we have lowered one level down to orange from the highest level of red. But, we need to be cautious about increases again,’ Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike said at a coronavirus response meeting.”, Reuters, September 10, 2020
New Zealand
“New Zealand ends all pandemic restrictions outside main city of Auckland: New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Monday lifted all coronavirus restrictions across the country, except in second-wave hotspot Auckland, as the number of new infections slowed to a trickle. Some restrictions were also eased in Auckland to allow gatherings of up to 100 people, but the country’s biggest city needed more time before all curbs could be lifted, Ardern said.”, Reuters, September 20, 2020
Peru
“Peruvian Government Announces Oct. 1 Restart of International Flights: Peruvian Minister of Transport and Communications Carlos Estremaydoro indicated that the country’s sanitation protocols necessary to begin international service will be defined this month in concordance with the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Economy and Finance, and airlines representatives. As a result, airlines should be able to begin international flying on Oct. 1.”, Airline Geeks, September 8, 2020
Singapore
“Singapore August exports rise 7.7% year/year, higher than forecasts: Singapore’s August non-oil domestic exports (NODX) rose 7.7% from a year earlier, beating forecasts, official data showed on Thursday, helped by items such as non-monetary gold and specialised machinery.”, Reuters, September 17, 2020
“Singapore rolls out Covid tracing tokens: Singapore is distributing thousands of devices that can track where a person has been and who they have interacted with. The small bluetooth device is meant for those who do not own smartphones and cannot use a contact tracing app that was previously rolled out by the Singapore government. While there are some concerns over about data protection, authorities say the token helps vulnerable groups to feel safer when out and about. For instance, the token helps elderly people keep a precise record of their whereabouts.”, BBC News, September 19, 2020
Sweden
“Sweden beating coronavirus with herd immunity, expert claims: Evidence is mounting that Sweden has beaten the coronavirus epidemic with herd immunity rather than lockdowns, according to a renowned expert on the spread of disease. Sweden’s infection rate has remained low and stable at a time when other European countries are facing a strong resurgence. In Britain there are 69 cases per 100,000 people compared to just 28 for every 100,000 in Sweden which did not implement stringent lockdown measures this spring. The infection rate in France is almost seven times higher than in Sweden and the virus is ten times more prevalent in Spain, both countries that implemented strict lockdowns.”, The Sunday Times of London, September 21, 2020
Thailand
“Thailand Woos Tourists With A New Long Stay Visa: The popular Asian destination has seen a reduction of Covid-19 cases and wants to welcome back foreigners. On 15th September 2020 the Thai Cabinet, as proposed by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, created a new “special tourist visa” for long-stay visitors. One precondition, which is certainly achievable by most, is to agree to a 14 day state quarantine on arrival in Thailand. To qualify for the visa, long-stay visitors are required to show evidence of accommodation beyond the quarantine period. This can be in the form of hotels or other licensed lodging, so long as they comply with the health stipulations as mandated by the Ministry of Public Health.”, Forbes, September 17, 2020
United Kingdom
“The economy recorded its third consecutive month of growth in July, growing 6.6 per cent month-on-month, according to data released this morning by the Office for National Statistics. City economists had forecast a 6.7 per cent month-on-month rise in gross domestic product (GDP), following 8.7 per cent month-on-month growth in June. More than two thirds of the growth came from service industries — including pubs, restaurants and hotels — as lockdown restrictions eased, the ONS reported. Despite the growth, however, the ONS calculates that the UK economy is still 11.7 per cent smaller than in February, before the full impact of the coronavirus hit.”, The Times of London, September 10, 2020
“UK’s Johnson to levy 10,000 pound fine on COVID-19 rule-breakers: People in England who break new rules requiring them to self-isolate if they have been in contact with someone infected with COVID-19 will face a fine of up to 10,000 pounds ($12,914), Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Saturday.”, Reuters, September 19, 2020
“Downing Street threatens to shut bars that let in too many people: Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty will warn this morning that the nation is at ‘a critical point in the pandemic’. Last night Downing Street warned the UK is ‘in the last chance saloon’ as coronavirus cases continue to rise. Boris Johnson expected to set out plans for new restrictions this week which could last for up to six months. Health Secretary Matt Hancock was today unable to guarantee that pubs will still be open at the weekend.”, The Daily Mail, September 21, 2020
United States
“U.S. Small Business Optimism Up In August: Small-business owners gained confidence in the U.S. economy last month, outpacing expectations, according to data from a survey compiled by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB). The NFIB Optimism Index rose 1.4 points in August to 100.2, slightly above the historical 46-year average. Seven of the 10 Index components improved, two declined, and one was unchanged. The NFIB Uncertainty Index increased two points in August to 90, the second-highest reading since 2017. “Small businesses are working hard to recover from the state shutdowns and effects of Covid-19,” said NFIB Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg. “We are seeing areas of improvement in the small business economy, as job openings and plans to hire are increasing, but many small businesses are still struggling and are uncertain about what the future will hold.’”, Franchising. Com, September 17, 2020
“Study Finds Consumers Returning To Stores, But Shopping Habits Have Changed: As Covid-19 lockdown measures continue to be scaled back around the world, almost three-quarters of global consumers (71%) now report feeling comfortable returning to physical stores, according to research by Mood Media entitled ‘Shopper Sentiments: A September 2020 Global Mood Survey.’ But their shopping habits have changed and they see a “return to normal” as still being a ways off.”, Franchising.com, September 9, 2020
“Planning to fly for the holidays? 6 things to know before you book: Airfares may be much lower, but passengers who book for Thanksgiving or Christmas should make backup plans, too…. For those willing to buy a ticket, the flying future is shifting in more dramatic ways, too—for this season and beyond.”, Fortune, September 19, 2020
Brand News – a new section highlighting what major brands are doing to survive and grow in these times
“Burger King unveils ‘touchless’ store concept with suspended kitchens, conveyor belts and canopies: Burger King has unveiled a new ‘touchless’ concept store, designed to meet the challenges of doing business during a pandemic, and adapt to the ‘new normal’. The new stores will feature physically contactless experiences, such as mobile ordering and curbside pick-up areas, as well as drive-in and walk-up order areas. ‘In March our in-house design and tech team accelerated new restaurant design plans and pushed the limits of what a Burger King restaurant could be,’ said Josh Kobza, COO at Restaurant Brands International. ‘We took into consideration how consumer behaviours are changing and how our guests will want to interact with our restaurants. The result is a new design concept that is attractive to guests and will allow our franchisees to maximise their return.’ The ‘touchless’ store is expected to provide multiple ordering and delivery modes, and boast a physical footprint 60% smaller than a traditional Burger King restaurant.”, Smartcompany.com.au, September 8, 2020
“Chili’s parent company CEO says new virtual delivery-only restaurant first of other, similar concepts: Brinker International, parent company of Chili’s and Maggiano’s, discussed the concept behind It’s Just Wings during calls with investors and the media, Restaurant Business Online reports. According to him, the delivery-only restaurant is just the first of a developing portfolio of similar concepts that the company is developing. It’s Just Wings is reportedly already generating revenue at an annual rate that will exceed $150 million. The delivery-only restaurant uses kitchens across various Chili’s and Maggiano’s restaurants and makes deliveries through DoorDash, MarketWatch reports.”, Fox Business, August 16, 2020
“Chipotle’s Chief Says the Online Boom Will Outlast the Pandemic: CEO Brian Niccol wants to protect employees, but won’t require them to get vaccinated. As the pandemic made people hesitant or unable to eat inside its restaurants, Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc. saw its online orders and delivery business take off. CEO Niccol thinks much of that digital business is here to stay.”, Bloomberg, Businessweek, September 16, 2020
“Starbucks continues on the road to recovery as sales performance is almost completely back to normal in China; with flat sales in August representing a major improvement from negative 10% sales in July, according to chief financial officer Patrick Grismer who gave an update on the company at the J.P. Morgan Gaming, Lodging, Restaurant & Leisure Management Access Forum. Starbucks’ U.S. performance, however, has a longer road ahead, and Grismer predicted that it will take six more months to completely recover. Sales incrementally improved from negative 14% in July to negative 11% in August as the company continues to reopen cafes and dining rooms. At this point, about 3% of their stores remain closed, and about half of the stores have seating available. Grismer noted that at cafes that have opened, drive-thrus — which represent about 60% of the company’s portfolio — have boosted sales significantly at a time when food traffic is still low. ‘We’ve seen that as we’ve progressively opened our ordering and sales channels, from drive-thru to entry way pick-up to in-store ordering and seating, sales have improved and they’re continuing on that path,’ Grismer said. ‘Looking ahead, we expect three key initiatives will fuel our future recovery in the US: first, the deployment of handheld POS at the drive-thru; second, the roll-out of curbside pick-up where we have convenient parking; and third, today, the launch of Stars for Everyone.’”, National Restaurant News, September 16, 2020, compliments of Paul Jones, Jones & Co., Toronto and China
“This week Texas Chicken™ (Church’s Chicken™) had a virtual conference success story. While everything seems to be online nowadays, being online isn’t always negative! Texas Chicken hosted a multi-day International Virtual Summit that spanned 16 time zones while promoting a “Stronger Together” theme to unite teams worldwide. The event brought franchisees, corporate brand leadership, and field team members together to celebrate their alignment on strategic goals accompanied by an energetic display of faces on a single platform. Through this event, Texas Chicken honored their people worldwide through various awards. ‘We respect and recognize our international franchisees in the 26 countries in which we operate. Their commitment and ability to face the challenges of 2020 is worthy of applause and recognition,’ said Joe Christina, Chief Executive Officer.”, Franchising.com, September 14, 2020, compliments of Brianne Barbakoff, Ink Link Marketing
Articles And Charts About Doing Business in The Times Of COVID-19 and Beyond
“Here’s What Happens Every Minute on the Internet in 2020: Data never sleeps”, Visual Capitalist, September 15, 2020
“The Shape of Economic Recovery, According to CEOs: Is the glass half full, or half empty? Whenever the economy is put through the ringer, levels of optimism and pessimism about its potential recovery can vary greatly. The current state mid-pandemic is no exception. This graphic first details the various shapes that economic recovery can take, and what they mean. We then dive into which of the four scenarios are perceived the most likely to occur, based on predictions made by CEOs from around the world.
“It’s Go Time for Digital Transformation: If people had doubts about the new capabilities that companies everywhere are implementing as part of digital transformations, the response to the COVID-19 crisis appears to have put them to rest. The vast majority of both managers and employees believe that these capabilities helped counter the effects of the pandemic and will aid businesses in getting back on their feet once the crisis is over, according to a new survey commissioned by Boston Consulting Group.”, August 4, 2020
“What 12,000 Employees Have to Say About the Future of Remote Work: Although the COVID-19 pandemic has led to economic, health, and social devastation, it has also created an unprecedented opportunity: to run the world’s biggest-ever workplace experiment. This experience is yielding fascinating insights that have significant implications for the way we should organize work. To assess employee sentiment on these changes, from the end of May through mid-June we surveyed more than 12,000 professionals employed before and during COVID-19 in the US, Germany, and India.”, Boston Consulting Group, August 2020
Who We Are And What We Do
Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS) provides a complete International solution for U.S. businesses Going Global. From initial global market research and country prioritization, to developing new international markets and providing operational support around the world. Our U.S. based executive team has experience living and working in many countries. Our Associate network on the ground overseas covers 40+ countries.
Founded in 2001, Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS) takes U.S. businesses global and currently has activity in 25 countries. Our Clients are all consumer-faced brands. Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS) has twice received the U.S. President’s Award for Export Excellence
Find out more about the services we provide U.S. companies Going Global at: www.edwardsglobal.com
William Edwards, CFE, is CEO and Global Advisor of Edwards Global Services (EGS). He has 46 years of international operations, development, executive and entrepreneurial experience and has lived in 7 countries. With experience in the franchise, oil and gas, information technology and management consulting sectors, he has directed projects on-site in Alaska, Asia, Europe and the Middle and Near East. Mr. Edwards advises a wide range of companies on early to long term global development of their brands.
For global cross business sectoral updates and advice, contact Mr. Edwards at bedwards@edwardsglobal.com or +1 949 224 3896.
