EGS Biweekly Global Business Newsletter Issue 22, Monday, January 25, 2021
By William (Bill) Edwards, CEO of Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS)
“The future depends on what we do in the present”, Mahatma Gandhi
“Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.”, Albert Einstein
“We must be willing to let go of the life we planned so as to have the life that is waiting for us.”, Joseph Campbell
Introduction
Our biweekly newsletter focuses on what is happening around the worldthat impacts new trends, health, consumer spending, business investment and travel.
Highlights in issue #22:
- Vaccine Updates from Around the World:Ramped up production and better distribution are widely needed
- A new USA administration takes office and starts to define trade policies
- What you need to know about traveling in 2021 from several sources
- The art and science of boarding an airplane in a pandemic
- Health passports for travel are beginning to be available
- 40 Happy Pictures to Take Your Mind Off Things from ‘Readers Digest’
We consistently 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
‘It’s the last mile”, said Honeywell Chief Executive Darius Adamczyk. As you can read below, the challenges currently are producing sufficient vaccine and getting it the last mile to the end user – us humans! But the really good news is that there are a number of apparently effective vaccines available.
As surely the reader knows, the USA has a new President. The expectation is for a calmer, more consistent and less tweet filled 2021.
Vaccine Updates from Around the World
“What to Know About the Global COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout So Far: Several countries stand out for their success in delivering coronavirus vaccinations, while most of the world is struggling to figure out how to get immunizations into more arms.”, The Council on Foreign Affairs, January 25, 2021
“Johnson & Johnson Aims for 100 Million Vaccine Doses by Spring: ‘Johnson & Johnson is making a very large supply, going all out with its production both here in the U.S. and elsewhere around the world, with the goal of having perhaps enough vaccines for 100 million Americans by spring, by this April or so,’ (Dr. Mark) McClellan (A Johnson & Johnson board member) said. 1So that’s going to make a big difference in supply available over the coming weeks and months, if the clinical trial does work out.’, Barron’s, January 22, 2021
“Coronavirus vaccine delays halt Pfizer jabs in parts of Europe: Vaccinations in parts of Europe are being held up and in some cases halted because of a cut in deliveries of the Pfizer-Biontech vaccine. Germany’s most populous state and several regions in Italy have suspended first jabs, while vaccinations for medics in Madrid have been stopped too. The US pharmaceutical firm has had to cut deliveries temporarily while cases in many European countries surge.”, BBC News, January 22, 2021
“Fed-Up Executives Plot a Faster Covid-19 Vaccine Rollout: Honeywell CEO and other leaders say their operational know-how can help jump-start America’s vaccine administration. ‘It’s the last mile,’ Honeywell Chief Executive Darius Adamczyk said of the problems that have plagued the vaccine rollout. “We dramatically need to pick up the pace.”, The Wall Street Journal, January 21, 2021
“Africa’s long wait for the Covid-19 vaccine: Africa will have to wait “weeks if not months” before receiving Covid-19 vaccines approved by the World Health Organization, according to various officials working towards getting doses for the continent. Close to 900 million doses have been secured so far through various initiatives, enough to inoculate about 30% of the continent’s 1.3 billion people this year.”, BBC News, January 22, 2021
Interesting Data and Studies
From “TOP 10 GLOBAL CONSUMER TRENDS 2021’ by Euromonitor International, January 2021
“40 Happy Pictures to Take Your Mind Off Things”: We need a bit of relief these days!
Global and Regional Travel Updates
“Delta CEO: Coronavirus vaccine could restore profitability by summer: Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian told FOX Business Network’s “The Claman Countdown” Thursday that the company could return to profitability in six months’ time as more people receive the vaccine. ‘I think we’ll be profitable this summer,’ he said. ‘That requires that the vaccines become distributed at a higher pace and that we as a country continue to take the necessary steps to combat COVID and put the virus into a contained mode.; Bastian believes the U.S. can approach herd immunity by summer, allowing more people to travel confidently.”, Fox Business, January 14, 2021
“The art and science of boarding an airplane in a pandemic: Researchers and airlines obsessed over efficiency now worry about safety, too….. ‘Airlines are dealing with a very precious balancing act,’ says Martin Rottler, an aviation veteran who now runs his own consultancy. ‘They need to balance efficiency with customer satisfaction, and now they need to add on safety.”, ARS Technica, January 23, 2021
“Your Questions About the COVID-19 Vaccine and Travel, Answered: Experts on what the industry could look like after shots become widely available. While the pandemic likely won’t end until the majority of the world’s population is vaccinated, many of us are looking ahead to a return to travel. But what will that look like after the vaccine widely available?”, Conde Nast Traveler, January 13, 2021
“What You Need to Know for Traveling in 2021: As the pandemic continues, many people are still planning major trips for later this year—here are the factors to consider before booking. Demand is double-barreled. Many travelers rebooked canceled 2020 trips for dates in 2021 and 2022. In addition, there’s massive pent-up demand for travel. But travel has changed. It will require more paperwork, preparation and patience.”, The Wall Street Journal, January 13, 2021
“Etihad, Emirates Launch IATA Travel Pass App: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) today announced partnerships with Etihad Airways (EY) and Emirates (EK) to launch the IATA Travel Pass for guests of two airlines. The IATA Travel Pass is a mobile app that helps passengers easily and securely manage their travel in line with government requirements for COVID-19 tests or vaccines.”, Airways Magazine, January 19, 2021
“Singapore Airlines aims to vaccinate entire workforce, become first fully-vaccinated carrier in the world: Singapore’s Changi Airport opened a vaccination center in Terminal 4. Singapore’s Transport Minister Ong Ye Kung, as well as Singapore Airlines CEO Goh Phong Choon, are currently urging all employees of the country’s national carrier to register for the first dose of their COVID-19 vaccinations, with the goal of completing the vaccination of all front-line workers in the aviation and maritime industries within two months.”, Fox News, January 18, 2021
“American Airlines Passengers Can Soon Upload COVID-19 Test Results to New Health Passport Before Travel: The app will be available to passengers traveling internationally starting Jan. 23.”, Travel and Leisure, January 19, 2021
“EU leaders draw up coronavirus vaccine passports to restart foreign travel: European Union leaders will discuss plans next week for coronavirus vaccination “passports” to allow people who have had the injections to avoid travel restrictions and go on holiday.”, The Times Of London, January 15, 2021
“All UK travel corridors to close on Monday to stop new Covid variants: Everyone travelling to Britain from Monday will have to produce a negative coronavirus test taken within the previous 72 hours and go into immediate isolation for up to ten days.”, The Times of London, January 16, 2021
“Lufthansa’s Boeing 747-8 (and first class) returns to the US in March: The route is set to switch back to the 747-8 on Mar. 30, 2021. This route is currently operated by the airline’s Airbus A350-900…. This marks the return of Lufthansa’s first-class service to the U.S. as well.”, The Points Guy, January 15, 2021
“Qatar Airways: More Capacity on Flights to USA: Qatar Airways (QR) has announced it will add its 12th gateway in the US with four-weekly flights to Atlanta (ATL) starting June 1. The carrier will also significantly increase frequencies, adding an additional 13 weekly flights to operate a total of 83 weekly flights across its 12 gateways.”, Airways. January 22, 2021
“KLM suspending long-haul operations to stem COVID-19 spread: As part of the Dutch government’s bid to crack down on the spread of COVID-19, the airline said that it will suspend 270 weekly flights, according to Reuters. When it takes effect on Jan. 22, the suspended routes will include all intercontinental flights as well as some connections between Amsterdam and other European destinations where crew have to stay overnight.”, The Points Guy, January 21, 2021
“Aeromexico Secures COVID-19 Testing Partnership for U.S.-Bound Travelers: In response to the new COVID-19 testing requirement for international air travelers entering the U.S., Mexico’s largest carrier Aeromexico has reached agreements with two large medical laboratories in Mexico to provide discounted COVID-19 testing and benefits for its travelers in Mexico and those on partner airline Delta Airlines.”, Airline Geeks, January 24, 2021
“Everything You Need to Know Before Traveling to Mexico During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Planning a trip soon? Here’s what you need to know.”, Travel and Leisure, January 21, 2021
“Air Canada Adds Flights to Cairo, Egypt: Air Canada (AC) is launching flights from Montréal (YUL) to Cairo (CAI) in Egypt, which marks a new destination for the airline. According to MEDIAinTORONTO, AC has confirmed the establishment of this new route.”, Airways, January 23, 2021
“Saga Cruises: First To Require Covid-19 Vaccinations, Bookings Surge – The U.K. cruise company, Saga, has become the first tour operator to require passengers to have a Covid-19 vaccination before setting sail. It marks a turning point in international travel, as more and more companies are deliberating how to safely restart travel, and as the clamours for ‘vaccination passports’ or ‘immunity passports’ become louder.”, Forbes, January 23, 2021
Australia
“Iconic fast-food chain Pizza Hut has declared ambitions to unseat rival Domino’s as the nation’s dominant pizza chain, as its private equity owner Allegro Funds explores a possible ASX float of the business.”, Brisbane Times, January 17, 2021
“Fast food giant Five Guys chooses unusual spot to launch its first site in Sydney: Seagrass Boutique Hospitality Group has signed a deal with the Panthers Group to open next door to the Leagues Club and in between a KFC and McDonalds. The Five Guys eatery will also be adjacent to the first Krispy Kreme store in Australia.”, News.com.au, January 19, 2021
The two Australia articles above are supplied compliments of Jason Gehrke, Managing Director, Franchise Advisory Centre, Brisbane
Brazil
“Brazil braced for IPO spree this year after bumper 2020: Bankers says pipeline of companies preparing to hit markets may be ‘biggest ever’. Brazil’s stock market is gearing up for another rush of flotations in 2021, after an army of new investors helped spur the strongest year for initial public offerings in more than a decade.”, The Financial Times, January 20, 2021
Mainland China – Chinese New year is February 12th
“China Trade Surplus Hits Record as Exports Surge More Than Expected: China’s goods trade surplus hit a record high last month while exports rose more than expected, official data showed Thursday, as overseas demand for personal protective and remote work equipment remained strong while the Covid-19 pandemic continued to rage across much of the world. Exports rose 18.1% year-on-year in dollar terms in December, down from 21.1% in the previous month, according to data (link in Chinese) from the General Administration of Customs. Imports increased 6.5% year-on-year in December, faster than the previous month’s 4.5%.”, Caixin Global, January 14, 2021
“CPI returns to growth while factory gate deflation continues to ease in December: Year-on-year growth in CPI picked up to 0.2% in December, returning to positive territory. Factory gate deflation eased as the year-on-year growth in PPI improved to minus 0.4% in December. Year-on-year growth rate of the purchaser price index of industrial products improved to 0.0% in December, ending 18 consecutive months of deflation in upstream price.”, FBIC Group, January 18, 2021
“China’s economic centre of gravity is moving south: The country’s dynamic southern provinces now account for two-thirds of output….The south’s share of GDP has risen to 65%, up from 60% five years ago and the highest on record.”, The Economist, January 20, 2021
“Starbucks cultivates growing taste of coffee in China: In 1999, the first Starbucks outlet on the Chinese mainland opened in Beijing, a pioneering move to nurture a taste of coffee in a tea-drinking culture. The company’s initial attempt in the Chinese market failed to generate a profit in the first nine years. “We were not successful in the early years,” acknowledged Howard Schultz, Starbucks Corporation’s chairman emeritus. “It took us several years to get traction and gain success and loyalty,” he said in an interview with China Global Television Network.”, Shine/ Xinhua, January 20, 2021. This articled was submitted by Paul Jones, Jones & Co., Toronto
Mexico
“Cancun Hotels Offer Free Covid Tests And Discounted Quarantine Stays: In Cancun area, hotels are taking the lead in making guests feel comfortable. Posadas Resorts, including The Grand Fiesta Americana and LiveAqua, the Hard Rock Hotel and AMResorts’ many brands are offering free on-site Covid tests.”, Forbes, January 15, 2021
Japan
“Bank of Japan lifts next year’s growth forecast, saves ammunition as virus risks linger: The Bank of Japan kept monetary policy steady on Thursday and upgraded its economic forecast for next fiscal year, but warned of escalating risks to the outlook as new coronavirus emergency measures threatened to derail a fragile recovery.”, Reuters, January 21, 2021
“Japan Denies ‘Categorically Untrue’ Rumors of 2021 Tokyo Olympics Being in Doubt: The Japanese government released a statement Friday saying rumors it’s been decided the Summer Olympics in Tokyo will be canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic are ‘categorically untrue.’”, Bleacher Report, January 22, 2021
Singapore
“These Singapore hotels are offering health insurance for guests who catch COVID-19: In an effort to ease some of the worries that still come with traveling, one hotel group has announced it will offer health insurance to all of their guests so that their expenses will be covered in case they contract COVID-19 during their stay.”, Lonely Planet, January 20, 2021
United Kingdom
“Trucks sent to Britain return to EU without goods over post-Brexit export fears as UK firms are ‘told to set up hubs across the Channel’ to help avoid disruption: Bosses of firms claim they have been advised to set up subsidiaries in Europe”, The Daily Mail, January 25, 2021
United States
Most of the business related news in the USA since our last biweekly newsletter is focused on the new Biden administration and how they will handle trade issues.
“Biden Team Promises New Look in Trade Policy: A ‘worker-centered’ policy means less focus on opening markets for banks and drug makers. Leading members of the Biden administration are promising a very different approach to international trade. No longer would American negotiators focus on opening markets for financial-service firms, pharmaceutical companies and other companies whose investments abroad don’t directly boost exports or jobs at home.”, The Wall Street Journal, January 24, 2021
Brand News
“How McDonald’s technology investments helped it navigate the pandemic: Chief digital customer engagement officer Lucy Brady talks about outdoor digital menu boards, kiosks and more.”, Nation’s Restaurant News, January 20, 2021
“Chipotle, Just Eat Takeaway CEOs bullish on return to normal: Fast-casual U.S. chain Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc and Dutch delivery company Just Eat Takeaway.com predicted a return to more normal levels of dining out by spring or summer of 2021, they said on Thursday. The two companies, which have both prospered during the coronavirus pandemic, saw little downside to the idea that consumers will want to eat in dining rooms again – instead of grabbing burritos to go or ordering in-home delivery.”, Reuters, January 14, 2021
“Denny’s tests two virtual brands with rollout plans: Family-dining brand says the virtual brands focus on burgers and melts. Denny’s Corp., the family-dining brand, is testing two virtual brands that it plans to expand in 2021 and they “focus on burgers and melts,” the company said Monday. ‘Both concepts have shown promising results in testing and each is expected to be launched in the first half of fiscal 2021 in over half of Denny’s domestic restaurants,’ the company said in a press release before its presentation at the 23rd annual ICR Conference 2021, which was held virtually.”, Nation’s Restaurant News, January 11, 2021
“This Book Is Required Reading For Every Chick-Fil-A Manager: According to Maisie Bolton, a former Chick-fil-A assistant manager, every manager is given a copy of Ken Blanchard’s book, The New One Minute Manager, with the hope that the manager will follow the tips provided within….”, Mashed.com, January 22, 2021
“Stories from the Covid-19 Front Lines: Scott Williams, Batteries Plus CEO: How many locations has your brand reopened? How many closed permanently? ‘All of our stores remain open. In fact, none of our stores had to close as Batteries Plus was deemed an essential business almost immediately. To add to all of this, we were on track to sign for 30 new stores during the course of 2020, with the majority of those signings since March.’”, Franchising.com, January 24, 2021
“How Covid accelerated the rise of ghost kitchens: The Covid pandemic has decimated the restaurant industry and has created huge demand for food deliveries. It’s leading to the accelerated growth of ghost kitchens, or cooking facilities that produce food only for delivery and takeout with no dine-in areas. According to Euromonitor, ghost kitchens could create a $1 trillion global market by 2030.”, CNBC, January 15, 2021
“White Castle celebrates Valentine’s Day with a retro drive-in dining experience: Reservations are now open for ‘Slider Lover’s Point’. For the past 29 years, White Castle has established itself as the dark horse of Valentine’s Day hoopla. Instead of scrapping this year’s festivities due to COVID-19, White Castle is taking it outside and launching “Slider Lover’s Point,” a socially distanced drive-in dining experience that will take over more than 300 parking lots across the country.”, Time Out, January 12, 2021
“Topgolf opens first location in Dubai: Topgolf Entertainment Group has announced the opening of its first location in Dubai, UAE, which marks the fifth country where Topgolf venues now operate. The brand currently has 64 sites in operation, throughout the U.S., U.K., Australia, and Mexico. This news comes shortly after Topgolf announced plans for more venues across Southeast Asia.
Articles and Charts About Doing Business in The Times Of COVID-19 and Beyond
“These are the fastest growing jobs in Southeast Asia, according to LinkedIn: Careers in health care, education and digital services are set to be among the fastest-growing in Southeast Asia this year, according to a new report released Tuesday. LinkedIn’s inaugural “Jobs on the Rise” report points to a surge in demand for medical professionals, teachers and creatives in 2021, as the coronavirus changes the face of the region’s jobs landscape.”, CNBC, January 18, 2021
Who We Are and What We Do for Companies ‘Going Global’
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 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:
Download our 4th quarter 2020 GlobalVue™ 40 country ranking chart at this link:
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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, contact Mr. Edwards at bedwards@edwardsglobal.com or +1 949 224 3896.
EGS Biweekly Global Business Newsletter Issue 21, Monday, January 11, 2021
By William (Bill) Edwards, CEO of Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS)
“The goal is not to be perfect by the end. The goal is to be better today.”, Simon Sinek
“You can find inspiration in everything. If you can’t, then you’re not looking properly.”, Paul Smith, fashion designer.
“The secret of getting ahead is getting started”, Mark Twain
Introduction
Our biweekly newsletter focuses on what is happening around the world that impacts new trends, health, consumer spending, business investment and travel.
HiiHighlights in issue #21:
- Vaccine Updates from Around the World: There are 12 vaccines in various stages of approval and distribution around the world with massive logistics challenges
- This issue has links to several surveys that project economic recovery in 2021
- Economic recovery uneven: US Chamber of Commerce, but Chipotle is hiring an additional 15,000 employees
- A significant amount of generally positive travel news
- The Middle East begins to open borders for business
- Consumer spending on app stores over the holidays surpasses $100 billion
- Women Pilots to Make History: Air India’s Longest Nonstop Flight
For our biweekly newsletter, we 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
While shutdowns continue, the vaccine news is positive but with logistics challenges. Our first newsletter edition in 2021 has links to several studies projecting economic, health, travel and business trends for 2021. Asia Pacific region countries generally continue to lead the recovery with a few exceptions. Global retail and hospitality brands continue to innovate to address the new consumer trends as they prepare to come out of the COVID-19 crisis. Let’s start with vaccine news.
Vaccine Updates from Around the World
The number of approved vaccines continues to increase, but distribution is still lagging, the Financial Times, December 30, 2020
This version gives another look at the vaccines secured to go to various countries, World Bank, December 2020
“BioNTech lifts 2021 COVID-19 vaccine output target to 2 billion doses: Pfizer’s partner BioNTech boosted the 2021 delivery target for their COVID-19 vaccine to 2 billion doses, up from 1.3 billion previously, as they bring new production lines on stream and as more doses can be extracted per vial.”, Reuters, January 11, 2021
“What vaccines mean for the return of travel: COVID-19 jabs will eventually help tourism start again, but expect a trip full of immunity passports, mouthwash tests, and wary travelers.”, National Geographic, January 2021
“Moderna Raises Covid-19 Vaccine Production Estimate: Biotech company says it will make at least 600 million doses this year, up 100 million from earlier forecast. The Cambridge, Mass., company also said it is making investments and adding staff to make as much as one billion doses this year.”, The Wall Street Journal, January 5, 2021
“EU regulator approves Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine: The European Medicines Agency on Wednesday recommended Moderna’s coronavirus vaccine for authorization in the European Union’s 27 member states…..This is the second vaccine to be granted approval by the regulator. The European Commission — which has purchased 160 million doses of the Moderna vaccine — is likely to issue final approval this week.”, Axios, January 6, 2021
“Indonesia to ink Pfizer, AstraZeneca vaccine deals as awaits Sinovac clearance: Indonesia is poised to secure coronavirus vaccines from Pfizer and AstraZeneca, the health minister said on Tuesday, as it awaits authorisation to begin its inoculation programme with a third drug, by China’s Sinovac.”, Reuters, December 29, 2020
Interesting Data and Studies
Good news from the OECD via Stratfor Worldview 2021 annual forecast, January 3, 2021
“Manufacturers Overcame Covid-19 Setbacks to End 2020 on High Note: Sector’s strength in U.S., Europe and Asia contrasts with services businesses harmed by pandemic restrictions.”, The Wall Street Journal, January 4, 2021
“The next normal arrives: Trends that will define 2021—and beyond: The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the world, and its effects will last. Here are some factors that business leaders should keep in mind as they prepare for the next normal.”, McKinsey & Company, January 4, 2021
“2021 Top Digital Trends and Resolutions: The pandemic forced us all to reconsider how we work and learn, all while the number of cyber threats significantly increased. Accelerated digital transformation became critical for us all to continue to live our lives and do our jobs. As we look ahead to 2021, we wanted to share our insights on some of the biggest digital trends and resolutions.”, Boston Consulting Group, January 2021
“Consumer spending on app stores surpasses $100 billion for the first time: Reported by Sensor Tower, spending on mobile apps and games has passed $100 billion in a single year for the first time in 2020. On Christmas alone, consumers spent around $407 million across Apple’s App Store and Google’s Play Store.”, iMORE, December 30, 2020
Global and Regional Travel Updates
“Delta CEO Confident There Is a ‘Turning Point’ for Travel This Year: Ed Bastian detailed what 2021 may look like in a published memo to employees. While COVID-19 continues to hinder travelers around the world, Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian wrote in a New Year’s memo to employees that he was confident a “turning point” for the travel industry is ahead.”, Travel and Leisure Magazine, January 5, 2021
“World’s safest airlines named in new ‘Airline Ratings’ report: US carriers Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest, Delta, American and United made the top 20…Qantas topped the annual list from AirlineRatings.com, a ranking which reviews 385 carriers on the following factors: crash and serious incident record; audits from governing and industry bodies; government audits; industry-leading safety initiatives; and fleet age.”, Fax News, January 4, 2021
“What A Survey By Hilton Hotels Reveals About Travel Eagerness: A recent survey from Hilton has found that 95% of Americans are missing travel right now. Though that in itself is not a groundbreaking discovery, the reasons behind this large number is worthy of attention.”, Forbes, December 30, 2020
“LAX begins rapid coronavirus testing for travelers: Fliers who pre-book an appointment at the recently built lab, located across from Terminal 6, will receive results in three to five hours. The lab, located in a shipping container, is processing about 250 to 300 rapid tests a day, with plans to ramp up to 1,000 tests daily. Additional testing sites are at Terminal 2 and Tom Bradley International Terminal, which will provide results in 24 hours.”, The Los Angeles Times, December 31, 2021
“Will you need an immunity passport to fly? How the COVID-19 vaccine will restart travel: TPG spoke to healthcare and travel professionals, as well as travelers, to understand how vaccines (once they become widely available), ongoing COVID-19 testing and potential immunity passports could reshape the travel industry.”, The Points Guy, December 27, 2020
“How Brexit Affects UK Aviation: Brexit is today a reality and major changes will affect tariffs, trade and mobility in the UK for the foreseeable future. Negotiations between the European Union (EU) and the UK regarding new rules have not come to term yet, but there are some that shed a Light on how they will affect the region’s aviation industry.”, Airways Magazine, January 2, 2021
“China Southern Ranks (World’s) Third Largest Airline: China Southern (CZ) ranks third largest airline this winter due to the gradual resumption of air traffic in the country. Since 2019, CZ has gone up by three places, with a 16% increase per year from year to year® domestic flights, not international. As such, China’s total domestic seats are up by 35% this winter, OAG data shows. However, a shadow of its former self, down by 87%. Chinese airlines now account for seven of the world’s top-20 airlines, up from three last (year)., Airways Magazine, January 9, 2021
“Canada announces strict new entry requirements: Canada is announcing strict new entry requirements for all international arrivals. The news comes as a new strain of COVID-19 first identified in the U.K. that spreads even more easily is showing up in more and more countries including Canada.”, The Points Guy, December 31, 2020
“Singapore Airlines resumes UK, Australasia Flights: Singapore Airlines (SQ) has resumed flying to the UK and to Australia and New Zealand under a special agreement. Last month, the government of Singapore banned foreign travelers in the UK from visiting or passing through the city state. Australia and New Zealand remain closed to foreign nationals, but resident citizens can return home by carrying out a 14-day preventive quarantine.”, Airways Magazine, January 6, 2021
“New app can be used as proof you’ve been vaccinated for COVID-19: Your doctor can upload proof of vaccination to software that links to app on your phone.”, WFAA.com, December 29, 2020
“Copa Returns to Its Cabana in Tampa: Copa Airlines (CM) announced today that after a nearly ten-month hiatus due to travel restrictions in the region relating to the COVID-19 pandemic, the carrier is resuming operations from Tampa International Airport (TPA) and Tocumen International Airport (PTY) in Panama.”, Airways, January 10, 2021
Asia Pacific Countries
“HSBC names 2 countries that have tackled the virus and will reap the benefits: Singapore and Vietnam have been successful in controlling Covid in 2020 and are likely to keep the situation contained next year, said HSBC Global Research’s Joseph Incalcaterra. Singapore and Vietnam have been successful in controlling the coronavirus in 2020 and are likely to keep the situation contained next year, an economist said this week.”, CNBC, December 30, 2020
Australia
“McDonald’s Australia reaches 1,000-store milestone with sustainability flagship: The new restaurant features 25 core sustainability initiatives. Located at Melton South, the restaurant is operating fully on renewable energy and features 25 core sustainability initiatives, including Happy Meal toy recycling, carbon neutral McDelivery via Uber Eats and DoorDash, a bespoke PlayPlace made with recycled content, electric vehicle charging stations, and daylight harvesting lighting. An on-site solar system will generate around 42,000kWh per year, the company said., QSR Media Australia, December 11, 2020
“Radical plan to save Australia’s shopping centres: Smashed by online retail and battered by COVID, shopping centres have been all but written off. But one reckons it has the secret to survival – and it involves Ninja Warrior. The firm calls it a “retail-as-a-service concept”. In layman’s terms, it’s a space designed specially for online retailers that enables them to set up shop for a fraction of the price and time it would normally take. Rather than a month to build the interior of a store, Mirvac reckons it can now be done in a single day.”, News.com.au, December 15, 2020
“Mark Wahlberg is Bringing His Wahlburgers Chain to Australia: While in Australia promoting his F45 fitness chain, Wahlberg reportedly took a liking to the scenery. According to The Daily Telegraph, the actor signed a $50 million deal with the owners of the United Cinemas chain to house his restaurants at over 15 locations across Australia.”, Manofmany, January 5, 2021
“Guzman y Gomez ends the year with an $86 million investment: Specialist funds manager Magellan Financial Group has acquired 10 percent of existing shares from (Mexican) restaurant chain Guzman y Gomez, the business announced on Tuesday morning. The deal cost Magellan $86.8 million, leaves TGM Growth Partners and GYG founder and CEO Steven Marks as the chain’s largest shareholders, and will allow Magellan head of governance and advisory Craig Wright to join the board.”, Inside Retail Australia, December 22, 2020
Mainland China – Chinese New year is coming up again soon!
“Apple launches special, limited edition AirPods Pro for Chinese New Year: Since the next year is Year of the Ox in the Chinese calendar, Apple’s new AirPods Pro – noticed by 9to5Mac – have a little image of a cow on the box and engraved on the earbuds’ case. The image is actually a reworked version of the cow face emoji. These limited edition AirPods Pro are only available in certain Asian markets, such as China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, and Malaysia.”, Mashable, January 7, 2021
“Chain Favorites Foreign Hotels Expand Against Trend: In the past 2020, foreign hotel giants did not slow down their expansion due to the epidemic. On January 4, a reporter from Beijing Business Daily learned from several hotel groups that last year, InterContinental Group opened nearly 60 hotels, Hilton Group expanded dozens of high-end hotels, and Marriott, the largest hotel group, also opened in China. 36 hotels.”, Beijing Commercial Daily, January 5, 2021. Compliments of Paul Jones, Jones & Co., Toronto
“China’s Factory Outlook Eases With Recovery Still on Track: A gauge of China’s manufacturing industry moderated in December from a three-year high in the previous month, with the economy’s recovery stabilizing as the year comes to a close. The official manufacturing purchasing managers’ index fell to 51.9 from 52.1 in November, the National Bureau of Statistics said Thursday, lower than the median estimate of 52 in a Bloomberg survey of economists. The nonmanufacturing gauge, which reflects activity in the construction and services sectors, dropped to 55.7. Bloomberg via Caixing Global, December 31, 2020
India
“Women Pilots to Make History: Air India’s Longest Nonstop Flight: Four women Pilots will make history today by flying Air India’s (AI) inaugural flight from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Kempegowda International Airport (BLR). The 17-hour-long route, covering a distance of 9,942 mi (16,000km), will be Al’s longest nonstop flight. It will take the Pilots directly over the North Pole. Making them the first all-female Crew to operate a flight over that region.”, Airways Magazine, January 8, 2021
Bill Edwards personal comment: 3 years ago, I flew an all-female crew flight between New Delhi and Mumbai
Korea
“South Korea exports post sharpest expansion in 26 months in December but slide 5.4% year-on-year in 2020. South Korea’s exports expanded at their fastest pace in 26 months in December, on robust chip demand and improved global demand, providing additional signals that the recovery is on track despite resurgences in the novel coronavirus.”, Reuters, December 31, 2020
The Middle East
“How the Middle East is defying a Covid downturn: Tarek Fadlallah took his seat among the bankers enjoying after-work drinks on the terrace of the International Financial Centre in Dubai on Wednesday and declared: ‘We’re seeing an economic bounce-back. Everything’s trending in the right direction.’ Fadlallah, who has run Nomura Asset Management across the Middle East for the past six years, can scarcely believe it.”, The Times of London, January 10, 2021
“Saudi Arabia ends entry ban, keeps some coronavirus restrictions: Saudi Arabia said that entry to the kingdom by sea land and air will be resumed starting Sunday after a ban that lasted two weeks amid fears of a new coronavirus variant, the state news agency reported on Sunday. A ministry of interior official said that some restrictions including asking people coming from countries where the new variant spread such as the UK, South Africa and any others, to stay at least 14 days out of these countries before entering the kingdom.”, Reuters, January 2, 2021
“Saudi Arabia to Open Borders with Qatar: Saudi Arabia has agreed to open its air, sea, and land borders with Qatar. The move will help to end a dispute that has lasted more than three years and triggered a crisis in the oil-rich Gulf – setting two US allies against each other. According to The Financial Times, Kuwait mediated the agreement and has said that the borders would be open beginning Monday night.”, Airways, January 4, 2021
Peru
“Peru’s Economy Gets a Wake-Up Call. Will Its Leaders Listen? Peru’s post-pandemic path to economic recovery will primarily require retaining confidence in prudent fiscal management and political stability, as well as addressing the structural issues impeding the country’s long-term financial sustainability.”, Stratfor, January 6, 2021
The Philippines
“Philippines signs deal to secure 30 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine Covovax: distributor: The Philippine government has signed a deal to secure the supply of 30 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine Covovax from Serum Institute of India (SII), the latter’s local partner said on Sunday.”, Reuters, January 10, 2021
United Kingdom
“No Deal’ Brexit Averted: EU/U.K. Reach Historic Bilateral Trade Deal: The full contours of the Agreement are detailed in a 1,256-page text released by the European Commission on December 25, 2020, and cover a broad array of issues including trade in goods and services, digital trade, intellectual property, public procurement, aviation and road transport, energy, fisheries, social security coordination, law enforcement and judicial cooperation in criminal matters, thematic cooperation and participation in EU programs.”, Faegre Drinker summary, December 30, 2020
“Approval of Oxford vaccine hailed as game-changer in Covid fight: Astrazeneca chief promises 2 million doses a week. The Covid vaccine developed by Oxford University and the drugmaker Astrazeneca has been approved for use in Britain, with government advisers saying that a single shot could achieve 70 percent protection.”, The Times of London, December 30, 2020
“COVID-19: Retail, leisure and hospitality firms to get up to £9,000 to help cope with lockdown: Rishi Sunak said the measures would help businesses get through the months ahead and sustain jobs for when firms reopen. Businesses in the specified sectors across the UK will receive up to £9,000 per property, costing a total £4bn. An estimated 600,000 properties are expected to benefit.”, Sky News, January 5, 2021
“BBC to put lessons on TV during lockdown: BBC TV is to help children keep up with their studies during the latest lockdown by broadcasting lessons on BBC Two and CBBC, as well as online. Schools have been closed to most children across the UK as part of tougher measures to control Covid-19. The BBC will show curriculum-based programmes on TV from Monday. They will include three hours of primary school programming every weekday on CBBC, and at least two hours for secondary pupils on BBC Two.”, BBC News, January 6, 2021
United States
“Prediction Consensus: What the Experts See Coming in 2021: Making predictions is a tricky business at the best of times, but especially so after a year of upheaval. Even so, that didn’t stop people from trying their hand at reading the crystal ball. If anything, the uncertainty creates a stronger temptation for us to try to forecast the year ahead.”, Visual Capitalist, January 5, 2021
“Economic recovery uneven: US Chamber of Commerce – The survey includes responses from thirty-six business leaders across a wide range of industries, from healthcare to finance and energy to entertainment. A new analysis released Monday by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce reveals that the United States’ economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic continues to be uneven.”, Fox Business, January 11, 2021
“Traveling soon? Here’s where you can quickly get a COVID-19 PCR test for travel.”, The Points Guy, January 7, 2020
Vietnam
“Lowest in 10 years, Vietnam 2020 growth among world’s highest: A 4.48 percent Q4 growth has propelled Vietnam’s annual growth to 2.91 percent for the year, the General Statistics Office said Sunday afternoon. ‘This is the lowest GDP growth level in the 2011-2020 period. However, given the negative impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, it is considered a success for Vietnam, with the growth rate among the world’s highest,’ Nguyen Thi Huong, head of the GSO, said at a press briefing.”, VF Franchise Consulting, Ho Chi Minh City, December 29, 2020
“Long Thanh International Airport to Break Ground Next Week: The aviation industry in Vietnam is growing fast. With new startups in Vietnam like Vietravel Airlines, Bamboo Airlines, and VietJet Airlines emerging, airports in Vietnam can handle limited passengers. For example, Ho Chi Minh City’s main airport, Tan Son Nhat International Airport, is designed to handle 25 million passengers. However, pre-pandemic in 2019, the airport carried 40.6 million passengers, according to data from the Civil Aviation Authority in Vietnam. The overcapacity at Tan Son Nhat International Airport has necessitated a new airport to be built. The solution to this will break ground on January 5, 2021, which is Long Thanh International Airport.”, Airline Geeks, January 2, 2021
Brand News
“Burger King revamps brand for first time in over 20 years: Burger King has redesigned its brand including its logo, food packaging and restaurants in order to reflect improvements such as eliminating preservatives, the fast food chain announced on Thursday. ‘We’ve been doing a lot in terms of food quality and experience,’ said Fernando Machado, global chief marketing officer of Restaurant Brands International, which owns Burger King.”, Reuters, January 7, 2021
“2021 Will Be “Road To Recovery” For Foodservice Industry Say Reports: Technomic foresees strong to moderate growth—specifically in the U.S. and Canada—over the next 12 months, being led by aggressive strategies. One commonality across regions is the streamlining of menus.”, Franchising.com, December 31, 2020
“Chipotle to hire 15,000 workers in the United States: Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc said on Monday it would hire 15,000 workers in the United States, as the fast-casual burrito chain benefits from strong demand during the COVID-19 pandemic. The move comes about five months after Chipotle said it planned to add 10,000 more people to its more than 85,000-strong workforce. It now employs about 94,000 people, most of them in the United States.”, Reuters, January 11, 2021
Articles and Charts About Doing Business in The Times Of COVID-19 and Beyond
“Change Is Just Beginning: How Leaders Can Focus on Meeting 2021’s Challenges: As this new year begins amid much economic uncertainty, companies that successfully navigated 2020’s turbulence can’t rest. They need engaged, forward-thinking leaders who can keep adjusting and focusing on the right factors in a volatile business environment. We live in a VUCA world, which stands for volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity. We need to adjust to how fast things are changing.”, Franchising.com, January 10, 2021
“Demystifying Global Consumer Choice: What really drives consumer choice around the world? An intensive BCG research project offers three key insights…”, Boston Consulting Group, December 15, 2020
“The Serial Innovation Imperative – THE MOST INNOVATIVE COMPANIES 2020: Facing turbulent and fast-changing markets, innovators need a well-tuned innovation system that can spot emerging product, service, and business model opportunities—and then rapidly develop and successfully scale them—over and over again.”, The Boston Consulting Group, January 2021
Who We Are and What We Do for Companies ‘Going Global’
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 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:
Download our 4th quarter 2020 GlobalVue™ 40 country ranking chart at this link:
To download our latest published article, “2021 International Outlook – Mixed Prospects Amid Global Uncertainty”, go to 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, contact Mr. Edwards at bedwards@edwardsglobal.com or +1 949 224 3896.
EGS Biweekly Global Business Newsletter Issue 20, Monday, December 28, 2020
By William (Bill) Edwards, CEO of Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS)
“It is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit”, President Harry Truman
“Great minds discuss ideas, average minds discuss events, small minds discuss people”, Eleanor Roosevelt, compliments of Jeff Bevis
“The best way to predict the future is to create it”, Peter Drucker
Introduction
Best wishes to our readers in 20 countries for the holidays and a calmer, healthy and prosperous 2021. Our biweekly newsletter focuses on what is happening around the world that impacts new trends, health, consumer spending, business investment and travel. This is our 20th edition, 40 weeks since the COVID crisis formally hit.
A few highlights in issue #20:
- Three vaccines have now been approved and two are being distributed in the EU, USA and the United Kingdom – a global vaccine update
- The United Kingdom and the European Union have an agreement to part ways as of January 1, 2021
- Nobel Perspectives & Economic Views: Asking the questions that matter. A UBS current knowledge resource
- The Impact of Covid-19 on Global & Local Supply Chains
- McDonald’s China releasing Oreo, Spam burger for limited time…..seriously!
- A bit of fun: Stroll down memory lane with a 1996 instructional video on “How to Internet”
For our biweekly newsletter, we 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 world is a mixed place at the time of this holiday season report. Multiple vaccines are being deployed. Businesses are open in Asia but not as much in Europe and the USA. Cross border travel and tourism remains constrained, but airlines and governments are seeking ways to get planes flying long hauls once again. Predictions for the world’s economy for 2021 are optimistic. Let’s start with a vaccine update.
A COVID Vaccine Update
“Astra Zeneca’s Soriot says vaccine has a “winning formula’: After the strangest festive period many of us have lived through, there is a rare dose of good news in today’s section – one has the potential to make a lot of difference to all our lives. It’s contained in Sabah Meddings’ interview with Pascal Soriot, the boss of Astra Zeneca. He has won our award for businessperson of the year – thanks to the drugs giant’s work tackling Covid-19. Soriot reveals that its vaccine – which we have bought 100 millions doses of – should work against the new strain of the virus, and that it should be just as effective as the other jabs being developed.”, The Sunday Times of London, December 27, 2020
“’The beginning of the end’: Europe rolls out vaccines to fight pandemic: Europe launched a mass COVID-19 vaccination drive on Sunday with pensioners and medics lining up to get the first shots to see off a pandemic that has crippled economies and claimed more than 1.7 million lives worldwide.”, Reuters, December 27, 2020
“EU Begins Covid-19 Vaccinations After Clearing Pfizer Shot: European Union countries began vaccinating against Covid-19 as members of the 27-nation bloc struggle with a rising death toll from the virus. The coordinated rollout launched on Sunday is getting underway less than a week after the EU cleared a shot developed by Pfizer Inc. and BioNTech SE. Several European countries, including Germany, have imposed tougher restrictions in an effort to contain a winter surge in infections and deaths.”, Bloomberg, December 27, 2020
“The COVID-19 vaccines are here: What comes next? Countries must prepare now for the largest simultaneous public-health initiative ever undertaken”, McKinsey & Co., December 9, 2020
The United Kingdom and the Remaining 27 EU Countries reach an Agreement
“’Parting is such sweet sorrow’: EU and UK clinch narrow Brexit accord: Britain clinched a narrow Brexit trade deal with the European Union on Thursday, just seven days before it exits one of the world’s biggest trading blocs in its most significant global shift since the loss of empire.”, Reuters, December 23, 2020
The European Union and the United Kingdom have a final agreement to separate as of January 1, 2021. This is what the regional alliance map looks like post January 1, 2020.
Some Interesting Year End Data
“The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) projects that after a 4.2% drop this year, the global economy will reach pre-pandemic levels in 2021. This chart, which uses data from the OECD, shows which countries will recover the fastest from the global recession in 2020”, Visual Capitalist, December 15, 2020
“Bill Gates: These breakthroughs will make 2021 better than 2020. The latest on the innovations that will let us go back to normal.” GatesNotes, December 22, 2020
“Global cargo logjam deepens, delaying goods bound for retailers, automakers: A surge in demand for furniture, exercise equipment and other goods for shoppers sheltering at home in a worsening COVID-19 pandemic has upended normal trade flows. That has stranded empty cargo containers in the wrong places, spawning bottlenecks that now stretch from factories to seaports.”, Reuters, December 23, 3030
A Bit of Fun in these Times
“Stroll down memory lane with this 1996 instructional video on How to Internet: Everything You Need to Know About… Introduction to the Internet is on the Internet Archive.”, Ars Technica, December 13, 2020
Global and Regional Travel Updates
“US to Require Negative COVID-19 Test for UK Arrivals Tomorrow: The US is set to require a negative COVID-19 test for travelers arriving from the UK starting December 28, 2020. Following the emergence of a new COVID-19 variant in the UK, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) on December 25 approved the order requiring the negative tests. Canada itself, along with over 60 other countries, have virtually shut their borders to the UK while New York City has imposed a 14 day quarantine for international arrivals.”, Airways Magazine, December 27, 2020
“Will you need an immunity passport to fly? How the COVID-19 vaccine will restart travel: The majority of travelers say a proven vaccine will make them feel safe enough to hit the road again, according to a survey by the travel insurance provider Allianz. But vaccines won’t just change the way people feel about traveling: they could completely alter the entire travel experience.”, The Points Guy, December 27, 2020
“How Airlines Are Trying to Get Passengers Back on Long-Haul Flights: From virus-sniffing dogs to new testing requirements. Along with COVID-19 testing areas and sanitizer dispensers, air travelers in Dubai or Helsinki might notice another pandemic-era addition to airports: a station where specially trained dogs can detect the presence of coronavirus in arriving passengers.”, The Condé Nast Traveler, December 14, 2020
“Tried and true tricks for getting over jet lag: Here, from the editorial staff of Fortune, is a roundup of the best tips and tricks for going the distance.”, Fortune, December 27, 2020
“Qantas Set to Form a Joint Business Agreement With Japan Airlines: Following the drastic reduction in the number of passengers flying this year, many airlines are seeking new ways to attract travelers on board in time for next summer. Australian flag-carrier Qantas is negotiating with Japan Airlines to increase travel between Australia and Japan by a new “joint business.” The two carriers, members of the Oneworld alliance, already have a close partnership with many mutual benefits for its frequent flyers.”, Airline Geeks, December 25, 2020
“XpresCheck, JetBlue Offer Rapid-Tests at Boston Airport: On Monday, XpresSpa Group’s subsidiary XpresCheck announced a partnership with New York-based JetBlue Airways to build a COVID-19 testing site at Boston’s Logan International Airport, reported by GlobeNewswire. The “pop-up” facility will aim to give passengers a convenient place to get tested before or after travel. Currently, officials in Massachusetts require a negative PCR test within 72 hours of entering the state to avoid quarantine.”, Airline Geeks, December 22, 2020
“Your next hotel check-in may include a COVID-19 test: Are COVID-19 tests the latest resort welcome amenity? It’s starting to seem that way.”, The Points Guy, December 17, 2020
“British Airways to restore service in first and business class: Currently, all meals are served in snack boxes and there is no hot meal service (with the exception of international first-class cabins). It’s nice to see British Airways — which was one of the airlines to most drastically reduce in-flight services — start reintegrating a more full-service flight experience for business and first-class passengers.”, The Points Guy, December 19, 2020
Asia Pacific Countries
“Emerging stronger, fitter, faster: The rise of the Asian corporation: Leading CEOs in Asia explain how COVID-19 has accelerated five business trends in the region and why they’re confident that unprecedented opportunities lie ahead.”, McKinsey & Co., December 17. 2020
Australia
“Melbourne reaps festive benefits from its hard lockdown: Decision to close its borders, however, means many expatriates are stuck abroad for Christmas. Restaurants, pubs and cafés expect a busy Christmas after Australia’s second most populous city emerged from a strict 112-day-long lockdown in late October. Victoria’s state government recently dropped requirements to wear face masks when dining, removed a ban on dancing and is allowing up to 30 people to visit private homes. In a symbolic moment for a nation hooked on cricket, the Boxing Day Test match between India and Australia will welcome 30,000 spectators — the first time fans will be allowed to attend the Melbourne Cricket Ground since the virus began spreading rapidly in March.”, The Financial Times, December 21, 2020
“Flights cancelled, holidays in disarray as Sydney battles pre-Christmas COVID-19 outbreak: Dozens of domestic flights due to leave Sydney were cancelled on Monday and authorities issued more health alerts across the city, as Australia battled to contain a fresh COVID-19 outbreak in its largest city four days before Christmas.”, Reuters, December 20, 2020
Chile
“Chile becomes first South American country to start COVID vaccination: Chile became the first country in South America to begin coronavirus vaccinations on Thursday after receiving its first 10,000 Pfizer-BioNTech doses, Reuters reports….The country bought 10 million doses from Pfizer-BioNTech and is expected to receive 240,000 doses in January, per Reuters. It has secured 36 million doses overall, Bloomberg writes.”, Axios, December 25, 2020
Mainland China
“Chinese consumers are spending again—but they remain wary of restaurants: As the first in and the first out of the pandemic, China’s economy has staged a dramatic recovery this year. It surged 3.2% and 4.9% in the second and third quarters, respectively, after plunging 6.8% in the first, compared with the same periods last year. But spending at restaurants has been especially slow to bounce back.”, Fortune, December 17, 2020
“McDonald’s China releasing Oreo, Spam burger for limited time: The fast food chain is only making 400,000 of the burgers. The fast food chain announced the limited-time menu item on Chinese social media platform Weibo earlier this week. On Friday, video game analyst Daniel Ahmad tweeted pictures of the ‘Oreo x Spam’ burger, which shows a layer of crumbled Oreos on top of two slices of Spam.”, Fox News, December 19, 2020
“Dr. Zhang Wenhong Talks COVID-19 and Vaccines: Greg Gilligan, Chairman of AmCham China and Dr. Zhang Wenhong, Professor and Head of the Center for Infectious Disease at Huashan Hospital of Fudan University, discussed the current global fight against COVID-19 during a fireside conversation with member companies.”, AmCham China, December 10, 2020
“Sinopec Yijie and Lian Coffee set up a joint venture to push gas station coffee: Yijie has 27,800 convenience stores nationwide, covering more than 90% of Sinopec’s gas stations. Yijie Coffee will rely on Yijie convenience stores to open stores in the future. ) Sinopec entered the coffee market. December 22, Sinopec convenience stores Express announced a partnership with Internet coffee brand ‘even the coffee’ joint venture. “, Caixin, December 22, 2020, compliments of Paul Jones, Jones & Co., Toronto
India
“India’s Domestic Passenger Air Traffic Grows in November: The demand for air travel during the holidays has helped India’s air traffic recover after a dark period. Indeed, passenger volume saw sequential growth of 22% in the previous month, India’s ICRA rating agency NSE said Wednesday. The ICRA also said that November domestic passenger traffic was close to 50% of domestic air travel demand in November 2019.”, Airways, December 23, 2020
Japan
“COVID-19 clampdown: Japan closes borders to foreign nationals: Effective on Monday, Dec. 28, the Japanese government will bar most foreign nationals in an effort to curb the spread of the virus. Entry bans were already in place for international travelers from more than 150 countries all over the world, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom. The latest move, which will last until at least the end of January, simply builds upon the nation’s already strict entry requirements, and even Japanese nationals and foreigners with residency returning from short business trips, according to Bloomberg, must now comply with a 14-day quarantine, along with multiple COVID-19 tests.”, The Points Guy, December 26, 2020
Korea
“S. Korea to accelerate virus vaccine efforts as first U.K. variant detected: South Korean officials are vowing to speed up efforts to launch a public coronavirus vaccination programme as the country on Monday announced it had detected its first cases of the virus variant linked to the rapid rise in infections in Britain.”, Reuters, December 28, 2020
New Zealand
“New Zealand’s ‘go hard and early’ Covid policy reaps economic rewards: New Zealand’s economy has accelerated out of a coronavirus-induced recession to grow a record 14 percent in the third quarter, reflecting authorities’ adept handling of the pandemic.”, The Financial Times, December 16, 2020
Singapore
“Singapore To Open For Business Travel In January Under ‘Bubble’ Arrangement: Singapore will allow a limited number of business, official and high economic value travelers from all countries to come to the city-state and stay at dedicated facilities under a “bubble” arrangement. Applications for the new travel arrangement, which was announced by the Ministry of Trade and Industry on Tuesday, will open next month. Travelers who qualify will be allowed into Singapore from the second half of January for up to 14 days.”, Forbes, December 15, 2020
Spain
“AmCham Spain in 2020: A Year in Review”, compliments of Angela Turrin, International Trade Advisor, U.S. Commercial Service, Madrid, December 16, 2020
Switzerland
“With Ski Resorts Closed Across Europe, Die-Hards Descend on Switzerland: Resisting pressure to close resorts in pandemic, the country says it can make skiing safe. Switzerland is holding out against pressure from other European countries to shut down its ski lifts, even though the country is struggling with one of Europe’s highest Covid-19 infection rates. Like elsewhere in Europe, anti-contagion measures punctuate Swiss daily life: Face masks are obligatory almost everywhere, large gatherings are banned, and restaurants and bars have limited hours. But Swiss authorities say skiing is safe.”, The Wall Street Journal, December 19, 2020
United Kingdom
“Britain is fifth-largest economy in world again after leapfrogging India: Britain has retaken fifth place in the rankings of the world’s biggest economies despite suffering one of the deepest recessions in the pandemic. According to the annual league table produced by a leading British economics consultancy, the UK has leapfrogged India and will accelerate away from France in the decade after Brexit.”, The Sunday Times of London, December 26, 2020
“Brexit: EU ambassadors approve EU-UK trade deal: Ambassadors from the 27 EU member states have unanimously approved the EU-UK post-Brexit trade deal, paving the way for it to take effect. The deal is likely to become law on 1 January, as the UK Parliament is expected to approve it on Wednesday.”, BBC News, December 28, 2020
United States
“U.S. Starts Delivery of Moderna’s Covid-19 Vaccine: Trucks carrying the shot will start rolling out Sunday, with injections slated to commence Monday. Immunizations using the newly authorized Covid-19 vaccine from Moderna Inc. are slated to start Monday, boosting the mass inoculation campaign that was launched just last week.”, The Wall Street Journal, December 20, 2020
“TSA screens highest number of travelers since pandemic began: The Transportation Security Administration screened 1,284,599 people at airport checkpoints around the U.S. on Sunday, according to agency data. It’s the highest number of travelers the TSA has recorded since the COVID-19 pandemic was declared in March. It’s also the sixth day in the last 10 that more than a million people have flown….”, Axios, December 28, 2020
Vietnam
“Vietnam prepares for supply chain shift from China: Multinationals look to build up bases despite infrastructure and labour issues. Veteran business people in the region like to compare its rising economy and exuberant business climate to Thailand’s during its foreign investment-driven boom that began in the 1980s, or China’s 20 years ago when its manufacturing sector was taking off. The boosters point to Vietnam’s solid record in making products to global standards, and to a widening network of free trade agreements, including recently with the EU and the UK.”, The Financial Times, December 27, 2020
Brand News
“Domino’s launches ‘press for pizza’ button service for people bored of Christmas leftovers: The fast food chain has launched the “Turkey Panic Button” on 27 December in the hope that it will appeal to consumers who have tired of traditional Christmas foods.
Those who volunteer for the service will receive their own button and be able to push for pizza at their leisure. The pizza will then be delivered for free.”, The Independent, December 26, 2020
“8 Things You Probably Never Knew About the Dairy Queen Blizzard: Only the biggest Dairy Queen fans will know these fun facts about the iconic Blizzard treat.”, Taste Of Home, December 21, 2020
“Coronavirus lockdowns ‘accelerated’ innovation, Burger King, Popeyes, Tim Hortons parent say: ‘Despite the challenges we’re facing, there’s hope,’ Restaurant Brands International CEO said. although coronavirus lockdowns have been difficult for many restaurants and small businesses, Jose Cil, Restaurant Brands International CEO told ‘Mornings with Maria’ they have helped with innovation. Leading Burger King, Popeyes, and Tim Hortons, Cil said drive-thru service and delivery has increased significantly over the last 10 months and he expects it to continue when the pandemic is over.”, Fox Business, December 2020
“Casual Dining – Alive and Well: Casual dining has been around as long as the concept of eating out has existed. It has always held a large market share, falling nicely between fine dining and quick service restaurants. So, let’s look at what casual dining really is, why some question its sustainability after 2020, why people go out in the first place, and how casual dining restaurants must adapt to be successful in 2021.”, Sean Ngo, VF Franchise Consulting, Ho Chi Minh City
Articles and Charts About Doing Business in The Times Of COVID-19 and Beyond
“Nobel Perspectives & Economic Views: Asking the questions that matter. In a global, forward-thinking future, knowledge holds the key. That’s why UBS offers you the credible source of information, Nobel Laureates in Economic Sciences, who answer the questions that shape our world. Invest in knowledge, learn from the smartest minds in science, and be better prepared for the future., UBS, December 26, 2020
“The Impact of Covid-19 on Global & Local Supply Chains: The coronavirus pandemic has become a “black swan” event. Its presence has shaken things up globally across all industries, particularly the global freight field, resulting in significant impacts to the world economy. The pandemic has exposed the vulnerabilities of numerous companies, especially those that rely on global supply chains, as well as international trade.”, Franchising.com, December 22, 2020
“The biggest small business trends and challenges of 2020: Each year, SmartCompany surveys its readers to understand what they’re focusing on and investing in, and this year’s Reader Survey provides a snapshot of what the ‘new normal’ looks like after a year that has fundamentally changed the way we do business.”, Smart Company Australia, December 2020
“Guide to investment trends 2021: We assess the investment opportunities thrown up by the pandemic – the possibility of battered companies and share prices making a comeback – as well as the themes that have leapt up the agenda in 2020, such as ethical investing and technology, or are set to emerge in 2021, such as healthcare.”, The Times of London, December 214, 2020
“This way out: How leading companies chart a full-potential COVID-Exit: Half measures and incrementalism won’t work when your company emerges from a crisis. Here’s jhow leading organizations are thinking about holistic transformation to go all in”, McKinsey & Co., December 15, 2020
“Buy into themes accelerated by COVID-19: Technology disruption as the world undergoes a digital transformation has been accelerated by COVID-19. Trends that are here to stay….”, UBS, December 2020
Who We Are and What We Do for Companies ‘Going Global’?
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 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:
Download our 4th quarter 2020 GlobalVue™ 40 country ranking chart at this link:
To download our latest published article, “2021 International Outlook – Mixed Prospects Amid Global Uncertainty”, go to 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, contact Mr. Edwards at bedwards@edwardsglobal.com or +1 949 224 3896.
EGS Biweekly Global Business Newsletter Issue 19, Monday, December 14, 2020
By William (Bill) Edwards, CEO of Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS)
“The true test of leadership is how well you perform in a crisis”, Brian Tracy
“When life gives you a hundred reasons to break down and cry, show life that you have a million reasons to smile and laugh. Stay strong”, contributed on LinkedIn by Erik Premont and Paul Segreto
“We must accept finite disappointment, but we must never lose infinite hope”, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Introduction
Our biweekly newsletter focuses on what is happening around the world that impacts new trends, health, consumer spending, business investment and travel. A few highlights in issue #19:
- The USA and United Kingdom approve the Pfizer vaccine and distribution starts while the EU is close to approving 1 or 2 vaccines. Bloomberg maps vaccine contracts
- A number of sources see rapid economic growth from the middle of 2021. But resurgence of the COVID virus in some parts of Asia, Europe and in the USA means global vaccines are crucial
- Over 900 cars paid for each other’s meals at a Dairy Queen drive-thru in Minnesota
- Australia is seeing good economic growth as it reopens
- Nearly a third of workers don’t want to ever return to the office in Fortune magazine survey
For our biweekly newsletter, we 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 approval of the first vaccine for distribution in the USA and United Kingdom is very good news. A second vaccine may be approved this coming week. The actual distribution will take months. But this is very positive news for the world, for businesses and international business travel. In this issue, in addition to country and travel updates we will share charts from excellent sources that tell us what about the world today.
Interesting Data to Start
“Global Economic Forecasts, Q4 2020: The Global Economic Forecasts report focuses on quarterly macro changes for the world’s key economies and what these mean to our view of the likely, optimistic and pessimistic scenarios for the global economy.”, Euromonitor International, December 2020
This very interesting list is from the ‘Future of business: 2021 and Beyond” McKinsey webinar on December 9th. It generated lots of conversation in my Vistage group’s monthly meeting.
“U.S. Approves First Coronavirus Vaccine to End the Pandemic: We’re tracking the nine most promising shots from around the world. Bloomberg is tracking nine of the most promising vaccines around the globe, from national procurement deals to shots in patients’ arms. By our count, 7.95 billion doses have already been allotted.”, Bloomberg, December 11, 2020
Our company’s fourth quarter 2020 GlobalVue™ country ranking chart was issued last week and clearly shows countries that managed the CVID crisis better are doing better economically.
Source: Visual Capitalist, December 11, 2020 https://bit.ly/3gK5IDc
“Light at the End of the COVID Tunnel: Light at the End of the COVID Tunnel: While a Winter COVID19 wave in Europe/U.S. is the late 2020 focus, vaccine approval and rollouts will dominate 2021. This should allow a reduction in official and voluntary social distancing – but how will it impact consumption and business investment, and hence growth and inflation? Meanwhile, will policymakers withdraw temporary fiscal measures or undertake some additional fiscal and monetary policy stimulus?” Find out the answers at the Continuum Economic webinar at this link:
Travel Updates
“Delta and KLM’s Pre-flight Testing Program Will Allow Americans to Travel to Amsterdam Without Quarantine: The program starts Dec. 15 and is for travelers heading out of Atlanta, Ga. Travelers to Amsterdam may be able to skip The Netherlands’ quarantine when Delta Air Lines and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines start their COVID-19 testing program on flights to the European city next week. This latest flight testing program, set to start on Dec. 15, will allow passengers on select flights from Atlanta to Amsterdam to participate in multiple tests before and after the flight, according to Delta. If passengers continually test negative, they will be exempt from quarantine upon arrival in the Netherlands.:, Travel and Leisure magazine, December 7, 2020
“Cruises and Covid-19: When U.S. Sailings Could Restart and What Safety Precautions Are Expected: Carnival, other operators are looking to resume trips next year, but health officials say cruises are high risk and require changes first. The timing for U.S. voyages ultimately depends on receiving a permit from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which is requiring operators to conduct mock sailings and apply for a certificate at least 60 days before offering passenger cruises.”, The Wall Street Journal, December 14, 2020
“Singapore, Hong Kong Postpone Travel Bubble Until 2021: Singapore and Hong Kong have again postponed the launch of the much-awaited travel bubble that would connect the two Asian hubs without the need for a quarantine period. The quarantine-free travel corridor launch was delayed two days before it was due to begin as Hong Kong saw a new hike in the number of COVID-19 cases begin on Nov. 21.”, Airline Geeks, December 3, 2020
“Delta Resumes Only Nonstop Flights to China by U.S. Airlines: Delta Air Lines Inc. resumed nonstop flights to China on Wednesday, even as its major U.S. competitors continue to stop first in South Korea. The change extended Delta’s rebuilding of China service since U.S. airlines suspended flights in February because of the coronavirus pandemic.”, Caixin, December 3, 2020.
“Taiwan and New Zealand show business travel’s future: The real boom will be in face-to-face training and sales — as you can’t close deals on Zoom. Companies also feel pressure to limit flying for environmental reasons. Travel will be subdued for some years, but business is a social activity, and memories of this pandemic will fade. ‘We’re wired to forget,’ said Darrin Grafton, chief executive of Serko, a travel technology company. Business travel will be down, he said, but not by 50 percent.”, The Financial Times, November 29, 2020
“Airlines scrap international ticket change fees as demand crumbles in pandemic: Delta and United are joining American Airlines in scrapping international change fees. The measure is an effort to drum up demand for air travel abroad, which has suffered more than domestic trips in the coronavirus pandemic.”, CNBC, December 9, 2020
“ India domestic air travel 65% back to pre-COVID levels:
“American Airlines starts offering $129 at-home Covid tests for U.S. travel to avoid quarantines: American will start offering the tests on Wednesday. The tests are meant to help travelers avoid quarantine requirements that could preclude them from booking. The at-home tests are $129 and ordered online.”, CNBC December 8, 2020
“Hong Kong temporarily blocks some airlines’ routes in Covid-19 prevention measure: Hong Kong has put a temporary ban on four international airlines flying specific routes into the city under a new law aimed at stopping the spread of Covid-19, the Hong Kong government told CNN Friday. In a blow to potential holiday travelers, British Airways passenger flights from London into Hong Kong have been banned from December 12 to December 25, authorities said.”, CNN Travel, December 11, 2020
“La Compagnie to Resume Operations in December: French airline La Compagnie (B0) will resume operations in December with three services between Paris Orly (ORY) and New York Newark (EWR). Intending to capture some holiday season travel, the innovative transatlantic business-class-only airline has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic with operations on hold since March 18, 2020.”, Airways, December 6, 2020
Asia Pacific Countries
“Developing Asia’s projected 2020 contraction to be less severe than expected, ADB says: Developing Asia is on course to contract this year, but probably less than previously thought as China recovers faster than expected, although the prolonged pandemic remains a risk to the outlook, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) said on Thursday.”, Reuters, December 9, 2020
“Covid-19 Surge Hits South Korea and Japan, After They Had Contained Virus: Uptick in outbreaks among Asia’s coronavirus success stories comes after life had been restored to pre-pandemic levels. Some Asian countries that have been among the world’s most successful at containing Covid-19 are now struggling to beat back a winter resurgence, a sign of how elusive sustained progress can be until a vaccine gets rolled out widely.”, The Wall Street Journal, December 9, 2020
Australia
“Australia consumer sentiment hits 10-year high: A measure of Australian consumer sentiment climbed for the fourth straight month in December to a 10-year high as the country further relaxed virus restrictions and states opened their borders to each other. A measure of Australian consumer sentiment climbed for the fourth straight month in December to a 10-year high as the country further relaxed virus restrictions and states opened their borders to each other.”, Reuters, December 8, 2020
Brazil
“Knocked down (but up again): Brazil’s economy: In the three months to June, Brazil’s economy shrank by a record 9.7%, quarter-on-quarter. Most forecasters expect that today’s third-quarter figures will show a rebound of more than 8%. Big stimulus spending—including 265bn reais’ ($51bn) worth of monthly “coronavouchers” for 68m poor Brazilians—have boosted consumption, helped by an easing of social-distancing rules. The stronger-than-expected recovery has prompted the government to project a smaller contraction of GDP in 2020: 4.5%, rather than 4.7%.”, The London Economist, December 3, 2020
Mainland China
“China Car Sales Rise Again, Cementing Pandemic Recovery: To boost sales, government has been easing purchasing quotas and giving subsidies to car buyers. Car sales in China, the world’s largest auto market, rose for a fifth straight month in November, as strong demand and policy stimulus continued to cement the recovery from the coronavirus pandemic.”, The Wall Street Journal, December 8, 2020
“China Business – Opportunity or risk? A smarter approach: Pursuing business in China has never been easy, and now after a trade war, pandemic and other unfavorable conditions, it has become even more tricky. Yet, opportunities still abound for companies able to approach China smartly and employ the latest approaches to business…”, a YouTube® video on doing business right in China today, Chris Wingo, China Sage Consultants, Shanghai
“‘Made in China,’ Once a Badge of Derision, Finds New Fans—in China: After decades of lagging behind foreign rivals, domestic brands are increasingly competitive.”, Bloomberg Businessweek, December 2, 2020
“Goldman Sachs shifts to full ownership of China securities joint venture: Goldman Sachs Group Inc has signed a pact to buy out its China joint venture partner to make it the most advanced foreign bank to take full ownership of a mainland securities business.”, Reuters, December 7, 2020
“Chinese exports grow 21% amid global appetite for pandemic products: China’s exports grew at their fastest pace this year in November, with rising global demand for the country’s goods pushing its trade surplus to the highest monthly level on record.”, The Financial Times. December 6, 2020
“Trending in China: Starbucks Latest Expansion Leaves Netizens Unimpressed, as Some Still Show Love for Luckin: Starbucks has announced that it will open 600 new stores in China in its coming fiscal year. The news seems to be even more popular than an iced guava passionfruit apple latte topped with whipped cream – if such a thing exists – and is trending on Weibo with 90 million views and over 2,000 comments. Starbucks announced at an investor day event on Wednesday that it plans to expand its global footprint from the current 33,000 stores to 55,000 by 2030, focusing on what it calls “walk-thru” locations in busy metropolitan areas where customers can pick up their orders after placing them online using their smartphones.”, Caixing Global, December 11, 2020
European Union
“Europe Relaxes Covid-19 Rules For Christmas: France, Spain, the U.K. and parts of Germany will ease restrictions to let families get together, despite still-high contagion. Many European countries are planning to relax restrictions on travel and social contacts for the Christmas and New Year period despite still-high levels of coronavirus infections, bowing to public pressure to allow more family gatherings.”, The Wall Street Journal, December 4, 2020
“Ski resorts are closed in most of Europe, but not in Switzerland: France and Italy are keeping ski resorts closed through the holidays, but Switzerland’s share of the Alps is already open.”, Axios, December 4, 2020
“ECB gives euro zone new shot in arm to fight pandemic: The European Central Bank rolled out yet more stimulus measures on Thursday to lift the currency bloc out of a double-dip recession and provide support to the economy while its 350 million people wait for coronavirus vaccines to be deployed.”, Reuters, December 9, 2020
India
“India Domestic Air Travel 65% back to pre COVID-19 Levels: According to Indian Civil Aviation Secretary Pradeep Singh Kharola. nearly 65% of domestic air travel has returned to pre-COVID-19 levels. The Secretary also said a strategy to bring the tourism industry back to its feet now needs to be established. According to economictimes.indiatimes.com, Kharola also said that air travel had become a favored mode of travel as a secure means of transport during the pandemic.”, Airways Magazine, December 1, 2020
Israel
“Israelis Flock to the Gulf, Undeterred by Government Warning of Iranian Attacks: Israeli concerns come in the wake of the killing of a top Iranian scientist last month. Israelis are traveling in droves to the United Arab Emirates for work and pleasure, filling up the first-ever direct commercial flights between the two countries in pursuit of new opportunities in the Persian Gulf despite heightened tensions in the region.”, The Wall Street Journal, December 11, 2020
Japan
“Japan’s third quarter GDP revised up to annualised 22.9% growth: Japan’s economy grew an annualised 22.9% in July-September, better than the initial estimate of a 21.4% expansion, revised data from the Cabinet Office showed on Tuesday, as it rebounded from a COVID-induced recession.”, Reuters, December 7, 2020
Korea
“South Korea to allocate 72.4% of 2021 fiscal outlays in first half: South Korea plans to spend most of its annual fiscal budget in the first half of 2021 to shore up growth hit by the coronavirus pandemic, the finance ministry said on Tuesday.”, Reuters, December 7, 2020
“As South Korea’s economy rebounds, small businesses struggle with tighter coronavirus curbs: Official figures show the country’s economy rebounding from its pandemic slump, with exports rising and growth data coming in stronger than expected. But all that means little to the small business owners hit by a slew of new Covid-19 restrictions in the wake of surging infection rates.”, South China Morning Post, December 4, 2020
Peru
“Peru economy minister sees room to upgrade 2021 growth forecasts: Peru expects to raise its economic growth projection for 2021 from the current forecast of 10% as coronavirus cases fall from this year’s devastating peaks, reinvigorating the world’s No. 2 copper miner, Economy Minister Waldo Mendoza told Reuters.”, Reuters, December 7, 2020
“Peru Will Reopen Its Borders With Europe On December 15: On Dec. 15, Peru will take a definitive step in its process of reopening tourism, with the government again allowing flights more than eight hours long to its territory. As announced, since Oct. 5, and as part of phase four of an economic reactivation plan, international operations with neighboring countries were authorized. And since early November, international flights lasting up to eight hours long have been allowed into and out of the country.”, Airline Geeks, December 10, 2020
Thailand
“Thailand to reopen to the outside world next year, minister says: Thailand’s economy should rebound from the shock dealt by the coronavirus pandemic and be ready to reopen to the outside world by the second half of 2021, the kingdom’s finance minister told the Financial Times.”, The Financial Times, December 9, 2020
United Kingdom
“U.K. Allows Banks to Resume Dividend Payments: Regulator says it isn’t necessary to extend precautionary action taken as the pandemic began. U.K. banks can resume paying dividends next year after regulators ended a ban introduced in March to make lenders conserve capital during the coronavirus pandemic.”, The Wall Street Journal, December 10, 2020
“Brexit: UK and Singapore sign free trade agreement: Singapore and the UK signed a free trade deal in the Southeast Asian city-state on Thursday. The deal will cover a trade relationship worth more than $22bn (£17bn). The agreement largely mirrors an existing deal between Singapore and the European Union (EU).”, BBC News, December 10, 2020
United States
“CDC advisory panel recommends COVID-19 vaccine for widespread use: A U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advisory panel on Saturday recommended the nation’s first COVID-19 vaccine, helping clear the way for public health authorities to begin the largest vaccination campaign in U.S. history.”, Reuters, December 12, 2020
“U.S. expects to have immunized 100 million against COVID-19 by end of March: The United States expects to have immunized 100 million people with the coronavirus vaccine by the end of March, the chief adviser for the U.S. COVID-19 vaccine program said on Sunday.”, Reuters, December 13, 2020
“Small business owners’ optimism ticks up, still trails pre-pandemic levels: The latest Wells Fargo/Gallup Small Business Survey reveals an uptick in optimism from some owners regarding the pandemic’s impact on their livelihood, though overall positivity remains far below pre-pandemic outlooks. Results from the fourth quarter survey show small business owners are notably more optimistic about the future compared to responses in April and slightly more hopeful than in July.”, The Hill, December 8, 2020
“U.S. economy to slow in first-quarter but reach pre-COVID-19 levels in a year: Reuters poll: U.S. economic growth will lose momentum this quarter and next but expand faster than previously thought after that, according to a Reuters poll of economists, a firm majority of whom now expect the economy to reach pre-COVID-19 levels within a year.”, Reuters, December 9, 2020
“Amazon Wants to Train 29 Million People to Work in the Cloud: New programs seek to help people from Montana to Nigeria attain roles ranging from tech support to machine learning. Amazon announced an effort Thursday aimed at helping 29 million people world-wide retrain by 2025, giving them new skills for cloud-computing roles as the pandemic upends many careers. The online giant committed $700 million last year to reskilling 100,000 of its own workers in the U.S. The new effort will build on existing programs and include new ones in partnership with nonprofits, schools and others.”, The Wall Street Journal, December 10, 2020
“More Americans Are Becoming Their Own Bosses in the Coronavirus Economy: To adapt to pandemic-related job loss, Americans are becoming entrepreneurs. Emerging entrepreneurs have found success by offering services to people who are faring better economically. Interest in freelancing has also increased during the pandemic….”, The Wall Street Journal, November 18, 2020
Brand News
“Health and Fitness Trends in Asia”, Sean Ngo, VF Franchise Consulting, December 9, 2020
“Over 900 cars paid for each other’s meals at a Dairy Queen drive-thru in Minnesota: What started as a random act of kindness from one man paying for the car behind him in a Dairy Queen drive-thru resulted in over 900 cars also taking part in the pay it forward chain.”, CNN, December 9, 2020
“3 actionable insights with… Denny’s brand chief John Dillon: ‘America’s Diner‘ has managed to beat earnings estimates thanks to some smart, speedy and soul-searching adjustments throughout the year. Denny’s 1,700 locations dialed up four key guest-centric themes: reassurance, value, comfort and convenience. Changes have included a greater emphasis on its Denny’s on Demand curbside offering, value deals like free pancakes delivered and a thoughtful programs honoring US veterans – with more on-deck for this challenging holiday season.”, The Drum, December 3, 2020
“You won’t be able to get Popeyes in this country anymore: The fast-food restaurant business is growing fast in South Korea (via Statista), but Popeyes won’t be part of that wave. The Korea Herald reports the chicken chain will close all of its South Korean locations at the end of this year.”, Mashed, December 9, 2020
“Starbucks chief bullish as crisis engulfs smaller coffee shops: Kevin Johnson targets market share gains as rivals falter and customers return to the office: The global pandemic will only briefly interrupt Starbucks’ industry-beating growth, Kevin Johnson told the Financial Times, as he overhauls cafés, deploys artificial intelligence and raises wages to sharpen the competitive advantage of the world’s biggest coffee chain. ‘People will be back in Starbucks stores at a rate far beyond what they were pre-pandemic,’ he said in an interview on the eve of a biennial investor day.”, The Financial Times, December 8, 2020
“5 Popular Fast Food Restaurants That You Won’t Even Recognize Next Year: Recent innovations inspired by the COVID-19 pandemic have dramatically changed several brands’ image.”, Eat This, Not That!, December 9, 2020
“At InXpress, Covid Has Shortened the Time from Signing to Opening”, Franchising.com, December 2020
Articles and Charts About Doing Business in The Times Of COVID-19 and Beyond
“Worldwide Cost of Living 2020: How is Covid-19 affecting the prices of consumer goods?”, The Economist Intelligence Unit, December 2020
“Nearly a third of workers don’t want to ever return to the office: To get an eye on the future of work, Future Forum by Slack conducted a three-month survey of over 9,000 knowledge workers or skilled office workers around the world—something they used to build their Remote Employee Experience Index. Future Forum by Slack gave Fortune Analytics exclusive access to that raw data.”, Fortune, December 6, 2020
“Speeding up to become even more consumer-obsessed: An interview with GSK’s Keith Choy: The leader of GlaxoSmithKline’s Asia–Pacific Consumer Healthcare group describes how his organization is speeding up to serve consumers, despite the heightened uncertainty of COVID-19. The massive uncertainty around COVID-19 has fixed some companies—and managers—in place, making them unable to react quickly to the changes affecting their business. But for others, it’s been a catalyst for change and an opportunity to gain new insights about their customers’ needs and to demonstrate their agility to adapt and grow.”, McKinsey, December 9, 2020
“Grading Our 2020 Annual Forecast as 2021 Approaches: Every December here at Stratfor, we sit down and do the critical work of self-assessment, taking the forecast we made the previous December and seeing how it stacked up against actual world events. Even with the pandemic throwing the world a little askew, we still had a strong 2020 forecast with quite a few hits and just a handful of misses.”, Stratfor, December 11, 2020
“Rethinking Supply Chains”, Council on Foreign Relations, December 10, 2020
Who We Are and What We Do for Companies ‘Going Global’?
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 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
Download our 4th quarter 2020 GlobalVue™ 40 country ranking chart at this link:
To download our latest published article, “2021 International Outlook – Mixed Prospects Amid Global Uncertainty”, go to 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, contact Mr. Edwards at bedwards@edwardsglobal.com or +1 949 224 3896.
EGS Biweekly Global Business Newsletter Issue 18, Monday, November 30, 2020
By William (Bill) Edwards, CEO of Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS)
“I think if you do something and it turns out pretty good, then you should go do something else wonderful, not dwell on it for too long. Just figure out what’s next.”, Steve Jobs
“Great leaders don’t see themselves as great; they see themselves as human.”, Simon Sinek
“Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier.”, Colin Powell, American politician, diplomat and retired four-star general
Introduction
This biweekly newsletter focuses on what is happening around the world that impacts new trends, health, consumer spending, business investment and travel. A few highlights in issue #18:
- United (Airlines) begins flying Pfizer’s Covid-19 vaccine to the USA and the UK is set to approve Pfizer-BioNTech Covid vaccine within days
- Shanghai Replaces London As World’s Largest Travel Hub
- In our Doing Business in the times of COVID section are links to several articles on how businesses are learning to do succeed in these times
- Australia state reopens border after Covid cases plummet
- Mexico Confirms Its Economy Rebounded in Third Quarter
- More Than Half of Restaurant Sales Will be Digital by 2025
We 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
Much of what we have to report from around the world in this issue has to do with how countries and companies are finding ways to keep businesses and schools open as we approach the time when COVID-19 vaccines will be available. Multinational government approvals for the first two vaccines could occur before Christmas. Distribution then becomes the global challenge. United Airlines over the past weekend started charter flights to bring Pfizer’s vaccine to the USA from Brussels. Distribution of the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid vaccine could start in the United Kingdom as early as December 7th. There is hope.
Interesting Data To Start
The latest McKinsey report: “When will vaccines be available? And is the end of COVID-19 nearer? While the situation looks somewhat better in parts of the Southern Hemisphere, much of Europe and North America is in the midst of a “fall wave,” with the prospect of a difficult winter ahead. Yet the past two weeks have brought renewed hope, headlined by final data from the Pfizer/BioNTech1 vaccine trial and interim data from the Moderna trial, both showing efficacy of approximately 95 percent2 ; and progress on therapeutics. Is an earlier end to the pandemic now more likely?”
“Industries in 2021: Key forecasts for the year ahead”, an Economist Intelligence Unit webinar, November 4, 2020
“In the pandemic, capitalism’s adherents are reconsidering its recent history and its future direction.”, McKinsey report, November 18, 2020
A bit lighter content: “How holiday spending compares around the world” – Visual Capitalist
The Top Exports in each country: “Today, exports make up roughly 25% of total global production. One of the common influences on these exports, unsurprisingly, is oil. In fact, petroleum is the top export across over 50 nations, and along with many other resource-driven materials makes up a sizable share of the global export market. Since 2000, the total value of all exported global trade of goods and services has tripled to $19.5 trillion.
This infographic from HowMuch.net shows the top export in every country by value, according to the most recent global data from 2018.”, Visual Capitalist
Wilson Perumal & Co., in conjunction with the Wall Street Journal, publish the annual GLOBAL MARKETS COMPLEXITY INDEX, which they call, “A Guide for Multinationals Navigating Geographic Expansion and Contraction”. “The world has become vastly more complex in the last decade, with the emergence of new technologies, greater customer variety, global operations, and shifting regulations.”
International Travel Updates
” Airlines Face ‘Mission of the Century’ in Shipping Vaccines: Lufthansa, one of the world’s biggest cargo carriers, began planning in April in anticipation of the shots that Pfizer Inc. to Moderna Inc. and AstraZeneca Plc are developing in record time. A 20-member task force is at work devising how to fit more of the crucial payload onto the airline’s 15 Boeing Co. 777 and MD-11 freighters, along with hold space in a vast passenger fleet now flying at just 25% of capacity. Carriers must balance delicate storage requirements with speed. Airlines from Asia to Europe working frantically behind scenes”, Bloomberg, November 29, 2020
“Shanghai Replaces London As World’s Largest Travel Hub: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data revealing how the COVID-19 crisis has affected international connectivity, shaking up the rankings of the world’s most connected cities. London, the world’s number one most connected city in September 2019, has seen a 67% decline in connectivity. By September 2020, it had fallen to number eight. Shanghai is now the top ranked city for connectivity with the top four most connected cities all in China—Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou and Chengdu.”, Airways, November 28, 2020
“Overseas quarantine for England to be slashed to five days: Travellers will be allowed to take a self-paid test and end their self-isolation if the result is negative. The government is poised to slash the quarantine time for overseas travellers arriving in England from 14 days to five under a new “test and release” scheme to be announced on Tuesday, according to Whitehall and industry figures.”, The Financial Times, November 23, 2020
“Aerolíneas Argentinas To Resume Regular International Flights: Aerolíneas Argentinas (AR) has announced its international flights scheduled for the Summer 2021 season with a considerable increase in flights and frequencies offered per destination.”, Airways, November 19, 2020
“14 Reasons We Can’t Wait to Travel in 2021: This year has changed so much about travel: the where, the how, and perhaps most importantly, the why. We’ve sketched out the myriad reasons for getting out there again next year—and the best and most meaningful ways to do it.”, CNN Traveler, November 17, 2020
https://www.cntraveler.com/story/reasons-to-travel-in-2021
“El Al Launches Tel Aviv-Dubai Direct Link: El Al (LY), launches a direct passenger service between Tel Aviv Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) and Dubai (DXB) on December 13, 2020. The route is a first after Israel–United Arab Emirates normalization agreement was signed back in September. Following the flight roster reported by LY, the flight will take place 14 times per week with its Boeing 737-900 and Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft.”, Airways, November 23, 2020
Asia Pacific Countries
“Asia Sourcing Update: Cambodia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam”, FUNG Business Intelligence, November 25, 2020
Australia
“Australia state reopens border after Covid cases plummet: The Australian state of New South Wales (NSW) has reopened its border with neighbouring Victoria for the first time since July after coronavirus cases there fell to zero. Victoria, which imposed a tough lockdown after a surge in cases, has reported no new infections since the beginning of November.”, BBC News, November 23, 2020
“Australia’s most populous state eases COVID-19 curbs, urges people return to offices: Australia’s New South Wales (NSW) state will ease social distancing restrictions and remove requirements for companies to allow employees work from home after recording nearly three weeks without any local transmission of COVID-19, Premier Gladys Berejiklian said on Wednesday.”, Reuters, November 24, 2020
“McDonald’s (Australia) to hire 17,400 people nationwide by the end of 2020: McDonald’s is set to hire 17,400 people nationwide by the end of 2020.”, News.com.au, November 18, 2020. Compliments of Jason Gehrke, Founder & Director, Franchise Advisory Centre, Brisbane
Mainland China
“Measures of Chinese Economic Activity Signal Widening Recovery: Manufacturing and nonmanufacturing reach highest levels in three and eight years, respectively. The official manufacturing purchasing managers index, a key measure of factory activity, rose to 52.1 in November from 51.4 in October, according to data released Monday by the National Bureau of Statistics. Meanwhile, China’s nonmanufacturing PMI, which includes services and construction activity, rose in November to 56.4, its highest level since June 2012…”, The Wall Street Journal, November 30, 2020
“Forget decoupling. China’s economy is wedded to globalization: By opting to show China’s preference for large, regional free trade agreements, even those led by the US or Japan, China is sending two powerful signals. It wants Chinese state-owned enterprises to prevail in an expanding market overseas, not just within China. More importantly, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation – which has set out a vision for liberalisation of more business sectors by 2040 – is vital. It should now be clear that globalisation is indeed a staple of Chinese policy. Thus, any talk of the decoupling of the Chinese economy from the rest of the multilateral trading world is unrealistic, to say the least.”, South China Morning Post, November 29, 2020
The China Chain Store and Franchise Association (CCFA) held its annual meeting between November 11-17 in Wuhan. Business is back to normal in Wuhan and most of mainland China. This link and update is compliments of Paul Jones, Paul Jones & Co., Toronto
http://www.ccfa.org.cn/portal/cn/xiangxi.jsp?id=442313&type=1&sharetype=1
France
“French lockdown to ease after second peak passes: France will begin to ease its strict coronavirus restrictions this weekend, allowing non-essential shops to reopen, President Emmanuel Macron has said. People will also be able to share ‘moments with the family’ over the Christmas period, Mr. Macron announced. But he said bars and restaurants would have to remain closed until 20 January.”, BBC News, November 25, 2020
“Air France to Increase Domestic Holiday Capacity: Air France (AF) is set to increase its domestic holiday capacity, reaching up to 55% of the capacity for the same period in 2019. Frequencies will increase on routes both between Paris departures as well as inter-regional routes and routes to the French Overseas Territories.”, Airways, November 28, 2020
Japan
“With Tokyo posing a challenge to Hong Kong’s financial hub crown, are companies likely to head for Japan? The Japanese government has swiftly implemented measures to bolster Tokyo’s chances, sensing weakness in rival Hong Kong amid political turmoil.”, South China Morning Post, November 17, 2020
Mexico
“Mexico Confirms Its Economy Rebounded in Third Quarter: GDP expanded a seasonally adjusted 12.1% in the third period following a record 17% contraction in the previous quarter. Mexico’s economy bounced back in the third quarter, led by increases in industrial output as business reopened from shutdowns to slow the spread of the coronavirus, but activity remained well below its year-earlier level, revised data show.”, The Wall Street Journal, November 26, 2020
The Philippines
“Philippine Airlines to Launch Manila COVID-19 Testing Center: Philippine Airlines (PR) is set to launch a COVID-19 testing center in Manila beginning on December 1, offering RT-PCR tests for passengers leaving the Philippines. With test results released between 12 and 24 hours, PR ticketholders are eligible for a discount on the tests.”, Airways, November 28, 2020
South Korea
“South Korea mulls stricter social distancing as COVID-19 spike continues: South Korean authorities will consider tighter social distancing restrictions on Sunday to clamp down on economic activities after last week saw the fastest spread of infections since the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. South Korea bans year-end parties, some music lessons, as virus spikes again.”, Reuters, November 28, 2020
New Zealand
“Good news, but lower unemployment and immigration a challenge for franchise recruitment: Starting with the good news: New Zealand’s economy has shown its resilience in fine style, says Dominick Stephens, Westpac’s Chief Economist. ‘It’s now clear that the economy will be damaged, but not as severely as originally feared. We predict a peak unemployment rate of 6.2%, which is about the same as the 2009 recession.’”, Franchise New Zealand, November 26, 2020
Turkey
“Turkey’s GDP grew by 6.7% in the three months through September, according to data released earlier today, after contracting by 9.9% in the previous quarter. Turkey not only exceeded most forecasts but outperformed all major economies in the third quarter. But the country is hardly out of the woods.”, The London Economist, November 29, 2020
United Kingdom
“UK set to approve Pfizer-BioNTech Covid vaccine within days: Rollout of two-shot jab could begin as soon as December 7. The UK is poised to become the first western country to approve a Covid-19 vaccine, with the independent regulator set to grant approval within days. Deliveries of the vaccine developed by BioNTech and Pfizer would begin within hours of the authorisation, according to government officials.”, The Financial Times, November 28, 2020
“COVID-19 cases fell by a third in England during second lockdown, study suggests: The findings suggest the tiered system and lockdown have worked to bring cases down, the study’s director says. Falling infections in the North East and North West – where cases decreased by more than half – have helped to fuel the change, according to the latest findings from Imperial College London’s React study.”, Sky News, November 30, 2020
United States
“United (Airlines) Begins Flying Pfizer’s Covid-19 Vaccine: Carriers are positioning doses for quick distribution if vaccines are approved by regulators. United Airlines Holdings Inc. on Friday began operating charter flights to position doses of Pfizer Inc.’s Covid-19 vaccine for quick distribution if the shots are approved by regulators, according to people familiar with the matter. The initial flights are one link in a global supply chain being assembled to tackle the logistical challenge of distributing Covid-19 vaccines.”, The Wall Street Journal, November 27, 2020
“Delta Air Lines To Block Middle Seats Until March 2021: Delta Air Lines (DL) will continue delivering on its commitment to providing more space for customers as the only US airline blocking middle seats. The measure continues for flights departing now through March 30, 2021.”, Airways, November 19, 2020
“New York City to reopen nation’s largest schools system: Remote learning had angered parents and prompted claims Mayor de Blasio was prioritising businesses. New York City will reopen its schools for younger children, overturning an earlier policy that frustrated parents and which critics said prioritised businesses over education. Mayor Bill de Blasio announced the change on Sunday, stating that schools would reopen their doors for children in elementary school beginning December 7. In-person classes for special education students will resume three days later.”, The Financial Times, November 29, 2020
“Chicago adding COVID-19 testing facilities at O’Hare and Midway airports next month: The Chicago Department of Aviation is planning to add COVID-19 testing facilities at O’Hare and Midway airports by next month for travelers and employees. The city announced a request for proposals Friday for drive-up and walk-up facilities, with both the rapid and PCR tests offered. The tests are not free but should be covered by insurance.”, The Chicago Tribune, November 20, 2020
“Mail-in COVID tests available to United travelers flying out of Houston’s Bush Airport: United Airlines said Monday that it’s launching mail-in COVID-19 testing for people traveling from Houston to Latin American and Caribbean destinations. Starting on Dec. 7, customers flying out of George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) will have the option to take a self-collected, mail-in test that meets local entry requirements for select destinations.”, Houston Chronicle, November 23, 2020
Brand News
“Sola Salon Studios signs 17 franchise development agreements: Sola Salon Studios, a salon studios franchise brand with more than 540 locations open across the U.S., Canada, and Brazil, has announced the signing of 17 new franchise development agreements that will expand the brand’s presence in 14 key U.S. states, including Illinois, Arizona, Texas, New York, California, and Florida. The new signings will total 44 new Sola locations over the next several years, and come after eight more franchise agreements were announced in August. This year, Sola has opened 54 new locations across North America, and has signed more than 25 franchise development agreements with both new and existing Sola franchisees.”, Global Franchise, November 20, 2020
“At InXpress, Covid Has Shortened the Time from Signing to Opening: Covid-19 has influenced, ohh… everything, including franchise development. We asked Christina Chambers, Executive Vice President for Franchise Development at InXpress, how Covid-19 has affected the brand’s timeline from time of signing to actual opening. We are not a brick-and-mortar franchise, so from signed agreement to opening simply includes the time to attend training and launch the business. No difference in timing this year, but we did adjust to all-virtual training classes instead of in-person. Since March, we’ve seen faster time from candidate application submission to signing, at an average of just over 60 days. In 2019, this timing was 100 days, so it has been significantly faster during Covid-19….’I believe this uptick is a direct result of the resilient, essential nature of our business in shipping and logistics, combined with the safe work-from-home atmosphere for franchisees.’”, Franchising. Com, November 20. 2020
“Respublika (Moscow) gives stores to good hands: Franchisees will be engaged in the development of offline sales. The Respublika book chain will transfer all the stores to franchisees, and itself will manage only the online store to cut costs. If the company cannot pay off creditors and the owner of the franchise changes, the licensees’ working conditions may change, lawyers warn. The chain of stores of books and gifts “Respublika” will give up its own stores in favor of a network operating under a license agreement, a company representative told Kommersant. The new model of work assumes that the licensees will manage all points, and the “Respublika” – only the online store.”, Komersant, November 19, 2020. Compliments of Paul Jones, Paul Jones & Co., Toronto
https://www.kommersant.ru/doc/4576722?from=main_1
Articles And Charts About Doing Business in The Times Of COVID-19 and Beyond
“How Small Businesses Can Survive The Growing Pandemic: While the pandemic continues to take its grim toll throughout the United States, there has been recent good news of late regarding vaccines and therapeutics. However, let’s get real, this tough business climate is not going away soon.”, Henry DeVries, noted author and publisher, provides sage advice for small businesses in this Forbes article dated November 29, 2020.
“In Times Of Crisis, Innovating Your Business Model Can Be A Lifeline. Here Is How To Do It Right. The global health crisis is upending businesses across the world. As many countries have entered into a second lockdown, companies whose business models relied on global supply chains or frictionless travel are having to radically rethink their strategies from the ground up, or be faced with potentially permanent damage. However daunting the external context might be, in a crisis stasis is not an option. Redesigning your company’s business model may even be necessary to stave off a liquidity crisis.”, Forbes, November 26, 2020
“What’s next for remote work: An analysis of 2,000 tasks, 800 jobs, and nine countries. Hybrid models of remote work are likely to persist in the wake of the pandemic, mostly for a highly educated, well-paid minority of the workforce.”, McKinsey report, November 23, 2020
“More Than Half of Restaurant Sales Will be Digital by 2025: Digital sales will make up more than half, or 54 percent, of all quick-service and limited-service restaurant sales by 2025, according to new survey numbers from market research firm Incisiv. That’s 70 percent higher than pre-COVID estimates, the firm notes.”, The Spoon, November 24, 2020
“The restaurant of the future: Engaging the next-generation consumer. Consumer demands for convenience and seamless digital experiences are on the rise, further accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. How can food establishments elevate customer experiences with the help of new convenience practices and digital ecosystems to be successful with the next-generation guest? We serve up insights into three trends that are shaping consumption patterns among restaurant guests and examine actions restaurants of the future can take to thrive.”, Deloitte report
“Are plant-based meats now a vital part of the QSR menu? So we recently learned that McDonald’s shall soon go full-bore into the plant game with not just one product but an entire platform of menu items called, perhaps unsurprisingly, “McPlant.”, Jonathan Maze, Restaurant Business, November 20, 2020
Who We Are And What We Do For Companies ‘Going Global’
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 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
Download our latest quarterly 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, contact Mr. Edwards at bedwards@edwardsglobal.com or +1 949 224 3896.
