An Update on the Coronavirus Impact on Doing Business in China Today

Bill Edwards, CEO of EGS, has been doing business in China for 37 years, starting with living in China from late 1982 through mid 1985. Our company opened an office in Beijing in 2014. Our company is currently helping four U.S. brand enter the Mainland China market. Needless to say, things right now are different than ever before

Here are some recent headlines and analysis that define what is going on in China today:

As of this date, all flights from the US to China and most to Hong Kong have stopped. Business meetings stopped 2+ weeks ago. The Chinese are learning to work remotely.

“China Passenger Car Association said sales fell to just 4,909 units in the first 16 days of February, from 59,930 in the same period in 2019”, South China Morning Post (SCMP), 022120

“China app downloads surge due to coronavirus outbreak Deadly epidemic has left tens of millions of people confined to their homes”, Financial Times 021920

“Coronavirus a boon for China’s tech-savvy supermarkets as homebound customers switch to online grocery orders”, SCMP 022120

Burger King®, Dairy Queen®, KFC, McDonald’s® and Starbucks® closed a total of over 7,500 stores in China in late January or early February.

“McDonald’s has implemented contactless pickup and delivery of Big Macs, fries and other menu items across the China. Customers order remotely and employees seal the meals in bags and put them in a special spot for pickup without human contact.” Reuters 021820

Some feedback from business contacts in China:

“We have been inside our Beijing home for over a month. Only one adult is allowed out every other day. Our temperature is checked by a guard on the way our and on the way back in. Our 8-year-old daughter has not been to school in a month and we have run out of videos for her. Our local grocery store now comes to our housing compound.”, Our company’s Managing Director for Greater China based in Beijing.

“Thanks so much for the nice email and your concerns, Bill. The Coronavirus has essentially stopped inbound/outbound movement and that’s not good for business. All of our staff are doing fine and no one so far has been affected. Many of us try to work remotely as much as possible and avoid crowds, subways, and restaurants.” Message from the Managing Partner of a Shanghai legal firm. 022220

But things are starting to change:

“China’s biggest factories are offering bonuses and the government has laid on planes, trains and buses to ferry people back to work.” Financial Times 022520

“Apple reopens more than half its retail stores in China after coronavirus closures. Apple’s store website shows 29 of 42 locations are opening”. SCMP 022520

With over 37 years of experience of doing business in China, I’m happy to discuss these business ramifications and solutions. I keep my thumb on pulse of the Chinese business market, monitoring daily changes and trends, and have insight on how you can protect and grow your brand in this critical market. Contact me directly at bedwards@edwardsglobal.com or on +1 949 375 1896

Global Business Predictions for 2019

Despite global trade fears, new investment projects and new business development around world in 2019 will continue to be tied to a country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth. Generally, the higher the annual GDP growth rate in country, the more new investment is being made in an economy.

While the International Monetary Fund (IMF) believes global growth will slow a bit to about 3.7% in 2019, there remain several countries where the annual GDP growth rate will exceed 5%, including China, India, Indonesia, the Philippines and Vietnam. These high annual GDP growth countries have rapidly growing middle classes that need high growth rates to ensure there are sufficient jobs for the young consumer.

Argentina – “IMF support and fiscal reforms have pleased financial markets, but high interest rates are slowing domestic consumption and the economy is expected to have GDP growth of less than 2% in 2019.   The second half of 2019 will be the time to begin looking at this market again.” Robert Jones, Chief International Officer, EGS

Brazil – Although the recent election of new President Jair Bolsonaro is somewhat of a wild card, he is expected to push fiscal reforms during his first year signaling a very positive message to the market, attracting domestic and foreign investors. Pro-business policies are expected to stimulate the economy and generate 2.4% GDP growth in 2019, creating new opportunities for foreign brands.

Canada – A GDP growth rate of 1.7% due to lower oil prices, new employment laws and regulations plus high business taxes will keep new brand investment and development down in this country in 2019.

Chile – Continued strong domestic demand and solid fiscal discipline should result in a GDP growth rate of 3.4% in 2019, making Chile a solid prospect for foreign brands.

China – Trade tensions with the U.S. and EU, as well as Chinese government controls and barriers, have increased the foreign investment difficulty factor in this market. GDP is expected to slow to 6.3% in 2019 as the government attempts to establish a more sustainable level of growth for the long-term. This ‘low’ GDP growth relative to recent years may be tied to lower consumer spending for the first time in almost 30 years

India – Although higher oil costs are a drag on the economy, GDP growth is expected to exceed 7% in 2019. This is slightly down form 2018. If the government implements regulatory and economic reforms, which it has announced it will do, the business climate could improve for foreign companies in 2019.

Indonesia – Strong domestic demand is expected to sustain a GDP growth rate of 5.2% in 2019. Foreign brand investment will continue due to the rapidly growing middle class consumer base. The presidential election needs watching for its impact on consumer confidence.

Italy – A higher fiscal deficit and disagreement with the EU regarding the new government’s budget have resulted in an estimated GDP of 1.2% in 2019; however, American brands are popular in this market and there is a demand despite the economy’s challenges.

Japan – Manufacturing has recently slowed somewhat and varying oil prices are a negative, but increasing domestic demand should maintain a GDP growth rate of 1.1% in 2019.  This relatively low annual GDP growth rate is still good for this economy

Middle East – “The Middle East (Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and Bahrain), has experienced an economic contraction over the past several years with lower oil prices. Nevertheless, the restaurant segment continues to be strong. Retail is highly competitive and the B2B and B2C sectors offer limited opportunity for compelling new investment opportunities.” Paul Cairnie, CEO, World Franchise Associates.

Peru – Consumer spending is up, the government is pro-business growth, and increased export growth supports a prediction of 4% GDP growth for 2019, providing a solid opportunity for new investors.

Philippines – With an expected GDP growth rate of 6% in 2019, a fast-growing middle class consumer base, and a robust new investment environment, this country will continue to see continued new international brand entry this coming year.

Poland – Although the country’s very strong growth is expected to moderate somewhat in 2019, the current estimate of 3.6% is one of the European Union’s highest economic growth rates. This market offers solid opportunities for foreign franchisors, but market analysis and selection of the correct partner are keys for success.

Saudi Arabia – The 2019 GDP growth rate is expected to be an anemic 2% in 2019. Low oil prices, little new local investment plus fallout from recent legal issues, mean little new foreign investment in 2019.

Singapore – Weaker manufacturing will be offset by stronger consumer demand, with a 2.9% GDP growth rate estimated for 2019. Anti-immigrant legislation has made finding service workers difficult and choice retail space is priced at a premium.

South Africa – With a new government, the country could have an estimated GDP growth rate of 1.7% due to a program of fiscal stimulus. But security and rule of law challenges remain in a country with a huge middle class consumer upside.

Spain – Although 2019 annual GDP growth is expected to slow down from 2.7% in 2018, the pace of new development should continue to be high, especially in the food and beverage sector, in 2019. Retail rents are the price level before the 2008 recession.

Thailand – “As a center for global tourism, Thailand supports more international brands than its own population could support. It is also an excellent showcase of brands and proof-of-concept for the region.   The Thai international brand market is crowded and tightly focused on selected urban areas.  But there is a subset of strong, risk tolerant and qualified investors willing to invest in well-established American brands.” Greg Wong, Senior Commercial Officer, U.S. Commercial Service, Bangkok.

United Kingdom – “The United Kingdom is open for business, but until the details of what Brexit is going to look like have been confirmed, there will continue to be uncertainty in the marketplace. There are, however, still many good opportunities for the brave!” Iain Martin, The Franchising Centre, London.

Vietnam – This market continues to have strong retail sales and has benefitted from factories relocating from China. GDP growth of 6.6% is expected in 2019. American brands are highly desired in this market.

Projected 2019 GDP growth rates for this article are from the ‘Economist’ magazine.

William Edwards is CEO of Edwards Global Services (EGS). Contact him at bedwards@edwardsglobal.com or on +1 949 224 3896.  With 45 years’ experience as a leader in international operations, business development and franchising, William “Bill” Edwards helps clients worldwide navigate the complex and often turbulent global business landscape. EGS provides a complete International Operations and Development Solution for Franchisors. From the initial global market research and country prioritization, to developing new international markets and providing operational support around the world, EGS offers the complete solution based on:

• Experience as Franchisors, International Licensees, Franchisees and Consultants working with 30+ U.S. franchise brands across 40 countries
• Knowledge across Food & Beverage, Retail and Service sectors and diverse cultures
• An operations and development team in over 40 countries experienced in finding,
• qualifying, signing, starting up, growing and fixing intentional licensees
• Trademarked processes and services based on decades of problem-solving experience

The EGS GlobalVue™ Country Ranking for Selected Countries in 2019

 
This blog is adapted from an article to appear this month in ‘Franchise Update’ magazine.

EGS is the International Extra Strength Pain Reliever for Franchisors

EGS is the International Extra Strength Pain Reliever for Franchisors

Our company is best known for helping franchisors find, qualify and sign international licensees.

But, we also provide franchisors with international operations support such as new licensee startup, licensee compliance and audits in country.  Additionally, we can assist in fixing, terminating when necessary and even replacing international licensees.

Research indicates that up to 40% of all international licensees of franchisors do not reach their development commitments resulting in lower royalties for franchisors.

We provide the only complete International Operations and Development Solution for Franchisors.

In effect, we are the International Extra Strength Pain Reliever for Franchisors!!!

From the initial global market research and country prioritization, to developing new international markets and providing operational support around the world, EGS offers the complete solution based on:

• Experience as Franchisors, International Licensees, Franchisees and Consultants working with 30+ U.S. franchise brands across 40 countries
• Knowledge across Food & Beverage, Retail and Service sectors and diverse cultures
• An operations and development team in over 40 countries experienced in finding, qualifying, signing, starting up, growing and fixing intentional licensees
• Processes and services based on decades of problem-solving experience

Global Franchise Development

• International Development Services – Identify the best countries for a specific brand and then find, qualify and sign the most qualified international licensees. EGS provides this service on a global or regional basis, managing the Going Global process for our U.S. franchise Clients.

• GlobalAssess™ – Determines the readiness of a franchisor for going global and prioritizes markets around the world for their specific brand.

• GlobalCheck™ – Candidate vetting and background check service confirms the history and credibility of a potential international licensee company or individual.

• GlobalData™ – EGS’ database of international licensees, potential licensee candidates and multi-brand franchise companies to assist in finding licensees for our Clients.

• LicensePro™ – Defines the average unit revenues & expenses in a specific country for both the licensee and franchisor and projects Going Global revenue and expense over time.

Global Franchise Operations

• International Operations Services – Franchisor in-country operational support including new licensee startup, site selection, menu development, supply chain development, international licensee reviews, compliance, audits and resolving operational challenges.

• Operation Fixit™ – Fixing, upgrading, terminating when necessary and then replacing international licensees.

International Market Research – EGS conducts country and sector specific research using our GlobalTeam™, in-country sources, international publications, EGS analysis, global databases and websites to generate cultural adaptation, sector and brand market research reports.

International Consulting Services – One-on-one consultation with the world’s foremost experts in global franchising.

Download our complete service offering

Contact us to learn how we can help your franchise grow worldwide 1+949.224.3896 • info@edwardsglobal.com

Our company is expanding our customer base

After 15 years focusing on exporting U.S. franchise companies, EGS is expanding our portfolio to include market research, trend analysis, and project management for rapidly growing companies in other sectors and countries with companies who are seeking to increase stakeholder value by going global. We are taking on an increased role with private equity companies seeking to acquire franchise brands or evaluate the global potential of those they already own.

Our U.S.-based team has lived in 15 countries and worked on projects in more than 70 countries. Our GlobalTeam™ is based in 40+ countries in Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. We have hands-on experience operating companies in other countries.

Our Trademarked Business Tools Apply Across Many Business Sectors

GlobalVue™ – economic, political and operations country analysis 
GlobalSurvey™- brand country priority analysis
LicensePro™ – brand country financial and development modeling
GlobalAssess™ – define a company’s readiness to go global and prioritize countries

Our Specialties

• Business and personal country culture analysis
• International project planning, development and management
• Operations support and monitoring in-country
• Licensee and partner identification, evaluation and negotiation services
• Brand and business sector analysis by country and region
• Supply chain resources and analysis
• Company due diligence and analysis
• Global business, economic and political research, and analysis
• F&B, retail, fitness, oil and gas, and service sector experience
• Franchise evaluation for private equity groups
• Evaluation of a company’s global potential based on proven processes

For further information on how we might help your company realize its full global potential, contact William Edwards on +1 949 224 3896 or at bedwards@edwardsglobal.com.

An Update on Countries as Places to Do Business in 2018

Our company conducts country and regional market analysis for our clients who are considering what countries to take their business into. We tap into more than 25 international information sources and the real-time knowledge of our GlobalTeam™ members on the ground in 43 countries. Here are some snippets from our recent research in key countries at the start of the second quarter of 2018.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) predicts 3.7% global growth for 2018, the highest level in 10 years. While risks to global growth include political meltdowns, economic disasters, wars and unrest, investment risk, and intellectual property concerns, economic growth is robust in many parts of the world.

The Americas

Argentina – After 20+ years in the economic, exchange rate, and political wilderness, the Latin American & Caribbean Director of The Economist Intelligence Unit noted in a recent webinar that Argentina is now in a new period of extended, stable economic growth. Structural reforms, business friendly policies, less regulations, higher levels of direct foreign investment; dropping interest rates and efforts to lower the public deficit have resulted in an expected level of GDP growth of about 3% over the next few years.

Brazil – For the past five years the economy has stalled, inflation has been high, and there have been numerous government and corruption problems. A recent Wall Street Journal article (March 1, 2018) stated, “Brazil’s economy returned to growth in 2017 (1.0%) after two years of contraction . . . Gross Domestic Product (GDP) increased 2.1% in the fourth quarter of 2017 from the same period a year earlier. Economist magazine expects Brazil to grow 2.6% this year and 2.8% in 2019. This will mean new investment opportunities.

Peru – GDP growth is expected to be 3.9% in 2018. This has been the fastest growing economy in Latin America for many years. The government is pro new business creation because this means new and better jobs for their people.

Asia Pacific

China – The Chinese consumer economy is growing at over 8% per year. The middle class is approaching 300 million people. There are 160 cities with a population of more than 1,000,000 people. In 2016, Shanghai and the two adjacent provinces had a combined GDP of that of Italy and Mexico combined. Today’s Chinese consumers want the quality, brand, convenience and service associated with Western brands.

As excellent example of the spending Chinese middle class consumer is the fact that in 1990 less than 1 million Chinese took a commercial airline flight. In 2017 over 600 million Chinese flew a commercial airline flight.

Indonesia – The world’s fourth most populous nation is experiencing a rapid expansion in the middle class, which includes over 30 million households.  Like many other Asian countries, the middle class in Indonesia is characterized not only by their purchasing power, but also their generally higher levels of skills and education.

Japan – Although Japan has an expected GDP growth rate of 1.5% in 2018, this is up considerably from past years. There has been a transformation of Japanese consumer spending patterns in recent years. Consumers are spending money on physical experiences rather than purchasing tangible goods and products.

The Philippines – Growth in disposable income has resulted in a more comfortable and better lifestyle. This has contributed to the growing sophistication of consumers across age, income and gender groups. A very strong acceptance of social media allows businesses to connect with the young middle class consumer.

Europe

2017 was Europe’s strongest year of economic expansion in over a decade, with average Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of 2.5%. In 2018, Ireland is expected to lead the pack with GDP growth of 4.1%, with estimated growth rates of 2.4% in Germany and even 2.1% in France which is its best performance in years. While 2018 will feature a great deal of political melodrama as negotiations between the EU and United Kingdom occupy headlines, the economies of this region are moving ahead strongly and this is good news for new franchise development. Consumer confidence is the highest it has been in decades and average unemployment is at a nine-year low.

Italy – The expected relatively low 2018 GDP growth rate of 1.5% is offset by increased business investment and significant household consumption. Most of the new investment in 2018 will be in the north centered around Milan.

Poland – Economic growth remains strong. Rising social transfers and a booming labor market are underpinning rapid consumption growth. The unemployment rate is at a record low level, labor shortages are spreading, and there are early signs of accelerating wages. The labor market is expected to tighten further, leading to somewhat faster wage and price inflation.

Spain – With 2018 GDP growth estimated at 2.7%, Spain is benefiting from a dynamic economy, record levels of tourism, rapidly declining unemployment, and domestic consumption and new business investment.

Middle and Near East

United Arab Emirates – The International Monetary Fund (IMF) expects GDP to recover from recent oil and gas price woes to grow at 3.4% in 2018. The UAE has three major consumer types: (1) the local Emiratis (about 400,000); the ex-pat foreigners who work at the regional headquarters of international companies; and the high number of tourists who come to the UAE because it is a regional vacation and shopping opportunity.

India – This country is set to be the fastest growing economy in the world again in 2018. The World Bank says India’s growth is expected to be over 7% in 2018, overtaking China. The World Bank believes strong private consumption and services are expected to continue to support economic activity. Exports for the last month that data is available rose 30% year over year. The Purchasing Managers’ Index expanded the fastest it has in five years. At least one international ratings agency has upgraded India’s credit rating.

For further information on how we might help your company realize its full global potential, contact William Edwards on +1 949 224 3896 or at bedwards@edwardsglobal.com.

The Fastest 2 Minutes in International Franchising

Our GlobalTeam™ of highly experienced international specialists in the USA and on the ground in 32 countries contributed to this summary of today’s world business opportunities. Countries to watch for excellent business development opportunities in 2017: the Philippines, the UAE, Spain and Poland.

Download a PDF »