EGS Biweekly Global Business Newsletter Issue 45, Monday, December 13, 2021

A more detailed look at the world today for each section of our newsletter is on our blog at www.staging.geowizard.biz if you wish to click through.

All of us at EGS wish all of our readers Happy Holidays and a prosperous and healthy 2022. Our next issue will come out on Monday, January 10, 2022.

First, Some Words of Wisdom

“Kindness is like snow. It beautifies everything it covers.” – Kahlil Gibran

“Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.” – Oprah Winfrey

“Last year’s words belong to last year’s language. And next year’s words await another voice.” – T.S. Eliot

Highlights in issue #45:

• The latest EGS GlobalVue™ Country Ranking

• In the Middle East, a New Era of Alliances Emerges

• When Shipping Containers Are Abandoned, the Cargo Becomes a Mystery Prize

• Record Share of U.S. Small Businesses Raise Pay, NFIB Says

• Covid-19 booster jab results raise hopes of beating Omicron (UK)

• How Technology is Evolving to Make Companies More Productive

•  The digital transformation market size is expected to grow from $521.5 billion as of this year to $1.25 trillion by 2026. 

• Brand Global News Section: 9Round®, Chipotle®, Del Taco®, Jack In The Box®, The Melting Pot®, Nathan’s Famous®, Shake Shack®

Our Mission and Information Sources

Bolded article titles are live links if the article is available without subscription. Specifically, articles from the ‘Economist’ and the ‘Financial Times’ do not have direct links to the article.

Our biweekly global business update newsletter focuses on what is happening around the worldthat impacts new trends, health, consumer spending, business investment, economic development and travel. We daily monitor 30+ countries, 40+ international information sources and six business sectors to keep up with what is going on in this ever-changing environment. Our GlobalTeam™ 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.

To sign up for this free newsletter click on this link:   https://lnkd.in/d_XkTGN.

Interesting Data and Studies

Our company has released our last 2021 GlobalVue™ countries as a place to do business in 2022 ranking analysis. Countries going up in the ranking include Egypt, Germany and Taiwan. Countries dropping in the ranking include Ireland, Italy, New Zealand. Hong Kong has been dropped as it is no longer considered separate from Mainland China. A major factor continues to be how well business in a country is recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“If you could say anything positive about the COVID-19 pandemic—and its latest twist, the Omicron variant—it might be that it forced a lot of people to get better at accepting and acting upon the need for change. This week, we looked at three ways in which business leaders are transforming their organizations, as well as changes reshaping mortgages, infrastructure, healthcare, and the workplace.”, McKinsey, December 8, 2021

“During the pandemic, venture funding has boomed globally. The United States has retained its lead, accounting for roughly half of total venture dollars invested worldwide. China comes second, reflecting its status as the world’s second-largest economy. The striking change is that other regions are catching up: the rest of Asia has grown fast, and so too has Europe.”, Council on Foreign Relations, December 6, 2021

“Emerging markets hit by abrupt slowdown in new foreign investment – Flows into asset class ‘dry up’ on worries over US monetary policy and Omicron. Foreign investment in emerging market stocks and bonds outside China has come to an abrupt halt over fears that many economies will not recover from the pandemic next year, their prospects worsened by the Omicron coronavirus variant and expectations of higher US interest rates.”, Financial Times, December 8, 2021

“What comes after the Great Resignation? 4 workplace predictions for 2022? 4 workplace predictions for 2022. Daniel Zhao, senior economist and lead data scientist at employer review aggregator Glassdoor, thinks 2022 will be defined by the new normal and skyrocketing employee power within a historically tight labor market. The companies to find success in the new year will be the ones who ‘embrace the opportunities to rethink old ways of hiring, employee engagement, and how business is done.’”, Fortune, December 9, 2021

“J.P. Morgan says 2022 will be a great year: COVID’s impact will diminish and the economy will fully recover. In its annual global economic outlook, the U.S. investment bank optimistically predicted that 2022 will mark a huge improvement from the past two years. ‘Our view is that 2022 will be the year of a full global recovery,’ Marko Kolanovic, J.P. Morgan’s chief global markets strategist, wrote in a note to clients this week.”, Fortune, December 9, 2021

Global Supply Chain & Trade Update

“When Shipping Containers Are Abandoned, the Cargo Becomes a Mystery Prize –

Supply chain carnage creates opportunities for companies willing to take a chance on random goods, from cheese to used cars—and maybe even pumpkin seeds…… JS Cargo & Freight Disposal, acquires containers filled with abandoned goods that shipping lines want to get rid of. And business is booming in his line of work. Snarls in the global supply chain have left an estimated 3 million containers idling on ships queued up at ports around the world, according to Niels Larsen, president of Air & Sea North America at DSV, a global transport and logistics company.”, Bloomberg, November 29, 2021

“Toy sellers ponder reliance on China as supply problems bite – Companies hit by delays and soaring shipping costs are rethinking production options. The global supply chain crunch has led retailers from grocers to toy stores to warn of product shortages and higher prices. Recent manufacturing delays in China have added to the pressure, leading some in the $95bn global toy market to reconsider their reliance on the country.”, The Financial Times, December 11, 2021

“Supply Chain Woes Force Murata to Ship Lithium Batteries by Air – ‘We are being forced to use airfreight to deliver our batteries because ships are unavailable, and that costs an outrageous amount of money. If we were able to use sea routes, we should be able to make a profit.’ (President Norio Nakajima said in an interview.) On top of inflated base cargo fees fueled by high demand, batteries shipped via air incur extra handling charges because they’re a fire hazard.”, Bloomberg, December 9, 2021

“Vanishing Ships Underscore Supply Woe: Crisis Peak Is a Mirage – A line of more than 80 container ships waiting to dock at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, California, was cut in half in late November — or so it seemed. Turns out the vessels disappearing from the queue were merely hiding from it, loitering in the Pacific out of reach of the official count. The actual bottleneck at midweek stood at 96 ships. In a recurring theme in economies from Germany to the U.S., progress repairing this supply snarl proved to be a mirage.”, Bloomberg, December 9, 2021

“Shipping container lines on track make a record-breaking $150 billion this year from the supply chain breakdown – Container shipping pre-tax profit for 2021 and 2022 could be as high as $300 billion, according to Drewry, an independent maritime research consultancy. In 2021, the industry is forecast to make $150 billion. That’s a new record. In 2020, the industry brought in $25.4 billion, according to The Journal of Commerce. And even though 2021 has been a banner year, Drewry expects the industry to make even more in 2022.”, Fortune, December 3, 2021

“China shipping to Southeast Asia sees prices surge tenfold as reopening demand picks up – Already taxed by the coronavirus pandemic, intra-Asian shipping routes have entered their traditional peak season. Reopening and work resumption in Southeast Asia, as well as ongoing disruptions in the global logistics network, have contributed to record high prices. A 20-foot container, shipped from Shenzhen to Southeast Asia, cost about US$100 to US$200 before the pandemic, but the price has since surged tenfold, from US$1,000 to US$2,000, said Yan Zhiyang, a manager with a logistics company based in Guangdong province.”, South China Morning Post, December 10, 2021

Global, Regional & Local Travel Updates

“Qantas reopens Singapore, London lounges – Qantas’ Singapore and London business class lounges are once again open as the airline prepares to ramp up flights for the December/January holiday season. Along with the rest of Qantas’ international lounges, these were shuttered in March 2020 as the sweeping scope of the Covid pandemic became clear.”, Executive Traveller, December 11, 2021

“China’s domestic air traffic recovery faltering due to zero-COVID policy – China’s domestic air traffic, once the world’s envy after a fast rebound during the pandemic, is faltering due to a zero-COVID policy that has led to tighter travel rules in Beijing and weaker consumer confidence after repeated small outbreaks. The outlook for the fourth quarter, normally a popular time for southerners to head north for winter breaks and northerners to head south for warmer weather, is dimming due to COVID-19 related disruptions at a time when international traffic is negligible.”, Reuters, December 9, 2021

“International passenger flights will not resume till January 31, says India’s aviation regulator – The restrictions will not apply to flights specifically approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation and international all-cargo operations. International passenger flights to and from India will remain suspended till January 31, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation announced on Thursday, amid concerns about the spread of the Omicron variant of Covid-19.”, Scroll, December 9, 2021

“Big Airline Orders Moving Ahead Despite Variant, Executive Says – Airlines are moving forward to finalize big commercial aircraft orders despite the newly discovered coronavirus variant and a fresh wave of travel restrictions to contain its spread, Pratt & Whitney’s top sales executive said. ‘The campaign activity is as high as I’ve seen, maybe ever,’ said Rick Deurloo, chief commercial officer of Pratt & Whitney, a unit of Raytheon Technologies Corp.”, Bloomberg, December 3, 2021

Global COVID & Vaccine Update

“COVID-19 cases are plummeting in Asia, and scientists aren’t 100% sure why – After recording nearly 200,000 cases per day on Sept. 1, the region is recording 43,000 cases per day as of Thursday, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, meaning the entire continent is logging roughly a third of the daily cases in the United States……Asia’s COVID-19 decline comes as Delta-driven waves are fueling surges elsewhere.”, Fortune, December 9, 2021

“Covid-19 booster jab results raise hopes of beating Omicron (UK) – Third dose gives immune system a massive lift. A third dose not only increased antibody levels thirtyfold, but roughly tripled levels of T-cells, a part of the immune system that experts believe could be the critical weapon against the heavily mutated Omicron strain.”, The Times of London, December 2, 2021

Country & Regional Updates

Africa

“African Startup Inflows Seen Hitting Record $5 Billion This Year – The jump partly reflects greater interest in Africa from investors in the U.S. and China as well as institutional bankers, according to Nina Triantis, global telecoms and media head at Standard Bank Plc, who spoke at the Africa Tech Summit in London this week.”, Bloomberg, December 8, 2021

Australia

“Australia GDP Falls Less Than Feared, Shows Signs of Resilience – Australia’s economy posted a smaller-than-forecast contraction, a result that’s likely to reinforce views the Reserve Bank will taper or potentially even scrap its bond buying program early next year. The result is “much stronger and consistent with the resilience theme,” said Su-Lin Ong at Royal Bank of Canada.”, Bloomberg, November 30, 2021

“Beer Shortage Is a Nightmare Before Christmas for Australians – The nation’s two biggest brewers — Lion and Carlton & United Breweries — have flagged protracted delays and lower production of some of the beer-loving country’s most popular brews due to supply chain problems. That’s sparked fears major retail chains might start imposing limits on booze purchases at the worst possible time, with millions of Australians only recently emerging from a series of bleak lockdowns and hoping for a summer holiday season resembling some kind of normality.”, Bloomberg, December 9, 2021

China

“Analysts Offer Clues for Where to Invest in Xi’s New China – Before the coronavirus struck, investing in luxury stocks and Chinese internet giants like Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. and Tencent Holdings Ltd. was a surefire way of tapping the world’s largest consumer base……But as investors are learning, Xi’s vision goes further than just reducing inequality. His speech also made clear that efforts to foster “common prosperity” would come amid a drive for “high-level development” of China’s economy.”, Bloomberg, December 11, 2021

“China’s vegetable prices surge 30.6% in November as food costs soar – The gains followed a 15.9% year-on-year rise in October, as floods and other extreme weather in recent months have hit farms. Although the bureau noted the supply of vegetables increased in November, prices were still up on a monthly basis by 6.8%. Investors have been watching for signs of whether rapidly rising prices and stagnant economic activity might further drag down growth.”, CNBC, December 8, 2021

European Union

“Few Europeans want a return to 9-5 at office after pandemic, survey shows – Only 14% of European workers want to return to the office 9-5, and more than half say they have become more productive as a result of working from home, which has boomed amid COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions, a survey showed on Thursday. About 12% of employed people in the European Union usually worked from home in 2020, up from around 5% before the pandemic, according to data from Eurostat.”, Reuters, December 8, 2021

The Middle East

“In the Middle East, a New Era of Alliances Emerges – Middle Eastern relations as we’ve known them for decades are over. As ambitious states try to expand their influence throughout the region, interests, not ideology, are driving the creation of new alliances. Even ultra-religious movements are showing signs of pragmatism.”, Geopolitical Futures, December 2, 2021

New Zealand

“2021 Survey – FRANCHISING COUNTS – Highlights from Massey University’s latest survey show the resilience of franchising in difficult times. Sales through franchised units are estimated to be a massive $36.8 billion – equivalent to a remarkable 12 percent of our GDP – and this figure doesn’t include motor vehicle or fuel retail through franchised outlets. Add those in, and the total comes to $58.5 billion. The survey has also confirmed that New Zealand is still the most franchised country in the world.”, Franchise New Zealand Magazine, December 8, 2021. Compliments of Stewart Germann, Stewart Germann Law Office, and Simon Lord, Publisher, Franchise New Zealand Magazine

“After 108 Days Of Lockdown, New Zealand’s Largest City Reopens As Nation Shifts Away From ‘Zero Covid’ Approach – Restaurants, cafes, cinemas and other public venues reopened in Auckland on Friday as New Zealand’s largest city exited 108 days of Covid-19 lockdown, a move that comes as the highly vaccinated south Pacific nation moves forward with its plans to ease pandemic restrictions despite the emerging threat from the Omicron variant.”, Forbes, December 3, 2021

Peru

“Peru Lifts Key Rate to 2.5% as Economy Grows Most in Region – Peru raised interest rates for a fifth straight month as the economy grows at the fastest pace in Latin America and inflation exceeds the upper limit of its target range.”, Bloomberg, December 9, 2021

United Arab Emirates

“UAE to shift weekend and create shorter working week – Gulf state will introduce four-and-a-half day office week to boost economy and attract expats. The United Arab Emirates government is shifting the national weekend to Saturday and Sunday to synchronise with global markets, instituting a four-and-a-half day working week from January next year. Changes to the working week, which at present runs from Sunday to Thursday, are intended to “boost work-life balance and enhance social wellbeing, while increasing performance to advance the UAE’s economic competitiveness”, the government said in a statement.”, The Financial Times, December 7, 2021

United Kingdom

“U.K. Warned of ‘Unsustainable’ Shortage of Workers as Pay Soars – Survey by REC and KPMG shows no easing of labor market strains Starting-pay inflation hits record as firms try to fill roles. U.K. employers increased starting salaries at a record pace in November amid an ‘unsustainable’ shortage of workers, according to a survey published Thursday.”, Bloomberg, December 8, 2021

“Want to start a business? Next year could be a great time to do it – Among the positives, Covid-19 has had a significant impact on reducing costs inside companies, especially in areas such as business travel and property, and we are still seeing the beneficial effects of the enormous fiscal and monetary stimulus pumped into the economy by governments around the world in response to the pandemic. Unesco estimates the total stimulus at $16 trillion out of a global economy valued at $93 trillion.”, The Times of London, November 11, 2021

“Christmas lunch burns hole in pockets – The price of a Christmas dinner has risen by 3.4 per cent as food inflation reaches its highest level so far this year. The average price of a festive meal for four is £27.48 (US$36.48), with the price of a frozen turkey rising by 7 per cent and brussels sprouts and Christmas puddings 5 per cent more expensive than last year, according to figures from Kantar.”, The Times of London, December 7, 2021

United States

“Record Share of U.S. Small Businesses Raise Pay, NFIB Says – Forty-four percent of firms boosted pay, matching the largest share in monthly data back to 1986, according to the NFIB’s November survey. Those wage gains may be beginning to pay off. Some 48% of respondents reported having job openings they could not fill, and while still very high, it’s the second straight monthly decline.”, Bloomberg, December 2, 2021

“Disneyland employees vote for union contract, avoid strike – The tentative agreement endorsed by Master Services Council leadership raises minimum pay from $15.50 to $18.50 per hour — a 19% increase….The union coalition represents approximately 40% of the 25,000 Disneyland resort cast members — Disney parlance for employees.”, OC Register, December 4, 2021

Brand News

“13 restaurant prototypes unveiled in 2021, from Taco Bell to Denny’s – Restaurant chains unveiled plans for new prototypes in 2021, almost entirely catering to consumers’ evolving needs during the pandemic. Quick-service and fast-casual chains nationwide made plans to add drive-thrus and specific pickup areas for digital orders, with many shrinking or even eliminating dining rooms. Not every redesign came from limited-service chains, however. At least two family-dining restaurants joined in the trend.”, Nation’s Restaurant News, December 11, 2021

“As 2022 Arrives, The Restaurant of the Future Comes Into Focus – The pandemic brought a catalog of questions to restaurateurs’ tables. Nothing was revolutionary, necessarily. Notions like mobile ordering and loyalty. Finding ways to alleviate drive-thru capacity. Whether or not guests even needed a dining room. And just like early lockdown days, three vectors have driven evolution as operators approach 2022, according to new data from consulting giant Deloitte, which polled 1,000 consumers who dined in a restaurant within the past three months to field its latest “Restaurant of the Future Report.’”, QSR Magazine, December 8, 2021

“9Round finalizes South Korean expansion plans, expands Middle Eastern operations – “We are thrilled to welcome South Korea to our roster and to continue to expand our presence across the Middle East,” said 9Round founder and CEO Shannon Hudson.”, Upstate Business Journal, December 2, 2021

“America’s Most Popular Fast-Casual Chain Could Double Its Locations, CEO Says – Chipotle is on a meteoric rise, and according to CEO Brian Niccol, not afraid of the competition. While expressing cautious concern about the impact of the latest COVID-19 variant Omicron on the chain’s operations, Niccol was optimistic about Chipotle’s ability to continue its dominance of the fast-casual market in a recent interview with CNN.”, Eat This, Not That!, December 1, 2021

“Jack in the Box to acquire Del Taco for over $450 mln – Jack in the Box, which would now have over 2,800 restaurants spanning 25 states, said the deal would help the chain beef up its off-restaurant premise sales. About 99% of Del Taco restaurants feature a drive-thru.”, Reuters, December 5, 2021

“How the Melting Pot is re-emerging from COVID-19 stronger – The 100+-unit fondue chain is expanding its franchising footprint amid a menu overhaul. Moving forward, The Melting Pot is looking to expand franchising and add new franchisees to the team, with plans for the new Melting Pot Social spinoff: the “younger, hipper cousin” to the Melting Pot with shorter experience times (which originally could run up to 2-3 hours per table) and an emphasis on the bar program.”, Nation’s Restaurant News, December 1, 2021

“Nathan’s Famous (US) Expands to Saudi Arabia – Nathan’s Famous, Inc., the American tradition serving New York favorites for more than 100 years, announces a new expansion plan into Saudi Arabia. Nathan’s Famous will serve their world-famous hot dogs and fries in seven kiosks across Saudi Arabia, with plans to open three more in the coming weeks.”, World Franchise Associates, November 4, 2021

“Shake Shack expands into drive-thru industry – In 2022, Shake Shack plans to open 45 to 50 new restaurants, including up to 10 drive-thru locations….In addition to ordering directly in Shack and at drive-thru lanes, guests will have the option of placing orders ahead of time for pickup via the Shack app and online at order.shakeshack.com., Fox Business, December 7, 2021

Articles & Studies For Today And Tomorrow

“The Year In Franchising: Reflecting On 2021, And Anticipating 2022 – Over the past two years, the world has changed in ways it never has before, and the franchise industry is no exception. It has taken a while, but following the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, 2022 is positioned to be a massive year for franchise development and sales growth.”, Forbes, November 30, 2021

“The digital transformation market size is expected to grow from $521.5 billion as of this year to $1.25 trillion by 2026.   Corporations need to create bionic capabilities so that they can harness the potential of disruptive technologies and integrate them into new processes, business models, and ways of working.  Evidence shows that successful digital transformation drives performance and competitive advantage and directs companies towards becoming bionic.  In the short term, digital technology improves productivity and customer experiences.  Longer term, it opens up new growth opportunities and sets up companies for sustained success.”, NMS Consulting, December 2021

“Global Factory Output Stabilizes But New Threat of Omicron Lurks – Euro-area PMI ends four-month slowdown from record expansion. Asia benefits from looser lockdown and border restrictions. Factories across Southeast Asia had been on a recovery path as loosened movement restrictions allowed output to catch up before the crucial year-end holiday season.”, Bloomberg, November 30, 2021

“How Technology is Evolving to Make Companies More Productive – What’s one of the biggest goals of most small businesses? Efficiency. Emerging technology is helping to make companies more productive. When operations are fast, effective, and accurate, the company can do more with less. Though the dream of full-on productivity might not be entirely feasible, many professional teams are making headway.”, Entrepreneur Magazine, December 9, 2021

“Back in the 1960s, global population growth peaked at a 2.1% annual rate, but since then it has been on a historic downtrend. In fact, according to the most commonly cited United Nations projection, which is based on a medium fertility rate scenario, it’s expected that annual population growth could drop all the way to 0.1% by the end of the 21st century.”, Visual Capitalist and Our World In Data, December 2, 2021

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William (Bill) Edwards, CFE and CEO and Global Advisor, Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS) has 4 decades 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.

Our Latest GlobalVue™ Country Ranking

Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS) provides a complete International solution for companies Going Global. From initial global market research and country prioritization, to developing new international markets, providing in-country operations support and problem solving around the world. Our U.S. based executive team has experience living and working in many countries. Our Associate network on the ground overseas covers 40+ countries.  EGS has twice received the U.S. President’s Award for Export Excellence.

www.edwardsglobal.com

For global market research, operations and development support across 40 countries, contact Mr. Edwards at bedwards@edwardsglobal.com or +1 949 224 3896. 

https://calendly.com/geowizard/30min  Click here to schedule a call with Bill Edwards to discuss how to successfully grow your company around the world.

EGS Biweekly Global Business Newsletter Issue 43, Monday, November 15, 2021

But First, Some Words of Wisdom

“You will either step forward into growth or you will step back into safety.”, Abraham Maslow

“Intellectual growth should commerce at birth and cease only as death.”, Albert Einstein

“You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.”, Martin Luther King, Jr.

Cultural Wisdom

In China, “Yes” does not always mean yes. When a person nods their head, they may be merely following what you are saying, not giving a definitive answer. District Export Council of Southern California, December 16, 2020 webinar

Highlights in issue #43:

• With rising vaccination rates, surveyed economies are reopening more fully; industry and trade are expanding despite the pandemic’s knock-on effects.
• Status of the Global Economic Recovery
• U.S. Resumes Visa Services in China After Reopening Borders
• In the Race to Boost Semiconductor Manufacturing, Global Powers Take Their Marks
• Worst Is Over for Indonesia’s Growth as Consumers Head to Malls
• Southeast Asia Digital Economy to Reach $363 Billion by 2025
• Covid vaccine mandates around the world
• Brand International News Section: Appleby’s® and IHOP®, Betty’s Burgers®, Fat Brands®, Firehouse Subs®, Sonic® (Inspire Brands®), Legendary Restaurant Brands®, Panera Bread®, Planet Fitness®, Roll’d®, Steak n Shake®, Subway®, Little Gym® (Unleashed Brands®)

Our Mission and Information Sources

Bolded article titles are live links if article is available without subscription

Our biweekly global business update newsletter focuses on what is happening around the worldthat impacts new trends, health, consumer spending, business investment, economic development and travel. We daily monitor 30+ countries, 40+ international information sources and six business sectors to keep up with what is going on in this ever-changing environment. Our GlobalTeam™ on the ground in 27 countries 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.

To sign up for this free newsletter click on this link:   https://lnkd.in/d_XkTGN.

First, Something a bit Different

“Jane Goodall on a life as a woman defending the wild – In a series exploring women in international affairs, global environmentalist, Dr Jane Goodall DBE, speaks to Gitika Bhardwaj about why humanity still has reason to hope.”, Chatham House, November 12, 2021

Interesting Data and Studies

“With rising vaccination rates, surveyed economies are reopening more fully; industry and trade are expanding despite the pandemic’s knock-on effects. The global purchasing managers’ indexes (PMIs) for manufacturing and services show healthy expansion, with respective readings of 54.1 and 53.4. Unemployment is generally falling, and world trade has effectively recovered to prepandemic levels.”, McKinsey, November 8, 2021

“Status of the Global Economic Recovery – Economies around the world are still climbing out of the hole created by the pandemic, and plenty of things could derail the recovery, from supply chain shortages to rising prices.”, Geopolitical Futures, November 5, 2021

Global Supply Chain & Trade Update

“Major Ports Are Congested. Shipping Companies Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd Are Thriving –  This year is likely to end as the best year on record for the sector. Global trade volumes jumped by 8% to 10% this year as the global economy started recovering from months of lockdowns and other trade restrictions. Meanwhile, shipping rates have more than doubled between January and August, amid signs of a shortage of container transport capacity.”, Barron’s, November 11, 2021

“Supply chain disruption: is the worst over? As companies, investors and policymakers fret over port logjams, freight costs and chip shortages, some indicators are starting to signal that global supply chain stress may be on the wane. The coming months will show if the snarl-ups portend a toxic scenario of stagflation for the world economy or are just a bump in the road to recovery. They will also determine how inflation expectations, monetary policy and corporate earnings pan out.”, Reuters, November 3, 2021

“(UK) Supply chain crisis ‘will last into 2023’ – Henrik Pedersen, chief executive of Associated British Ports (ABP), said he would be ‘positively surprised’ if the problem eased before the end of next year. ‘We have a shortage of truck drivers in the UK, and in other countries, too, so it [the problem] is in the shipping leg and the road leg.’ Pedersen said ABP’s ports were still clogged up with empty containers that Asian ports were reluctant to take back because they did not have the space.”, The Times of London, November 14, 2021

“Small-business owner faces fees of at least $30K due to delays after shipping container flagged for inspection – A small-business owner could be on the hook for tens of thousands of dollars in fees after her container was flagged for inspection by the Canada Border Services Agency amid international shipping congestion.”, CBC, November 11, 2021

“The global port backlog continues. Domestically, L.A. and Long Beach ports are the most severe pinch points for U.S. trade, while shortages of trucking, rail, and warehouse capacity at alternative gateways are challenging importers seeking to avoid the Southern California port logjam. Meanwhile, port congestion extends worldwide and container freight prices are surging, including in China from two of the three biggest container ports in the world.”, Exiger Trends Report, September – October 2021

“The Busiest Port in America: Los Angeles – U.S. e-commerce grew by 32.4% in 2020—the highest annual growth rate in over two decades. Such rapid growth has resulted in many more goods being imported, leaving America’s western ports completely overwhelmed.”, Visual Capitalist, November 2, 2021

“Snarled Supply Chain Is Making U.S. Warehouse Shortage Worse – Record numbers of cargo ships bob in the waters off Southern California, unable to unload. A late shipment of patio furniture gets moved — three times — before finding a home for the winter. With no warehouse space, a crew assembles holiday displays in a parking lot in an effort to get them to clients on time.”, Bloomberg, November 9, 2021

Global, Regional & Local Travel Updates

“U.S. Resumes Visa Services in China After Reopening Borders – The U.S. embassy and consulates in China resumed regular visa services as the country reopened its border to international travelers after barring them for nearly two years under Covid-19 restrictions.”, Caixing Global, November 10, 2021

“British Airways and Virgin Atlantic Synchronize Departures to Celebrate U.S. Reopening – More than 600 days after the U..S.’s travel ban was introduced aimed to reduce the spread of coronavirus infections, arch-rivals British Airways and Virgin Atlantic momentarily put rivalries aside as both airlines departed from London Heathrow to New York’s John F. Kennedy Airport, symbolizing the end of restrictions on travel to the U.S.”, Airline Geeks, November 8, 2021

“Delta bookings soar in six weeks after U.S. move to open borders – Delta Air Lines (DAL.N) has seen a 450% surge in international bookings in the six weeks since Sept. 20 when the United States said it would reopen for fully vaccinated visitors. The U.S. carrier said that international flights were expected to operate in full capacity on Nov. 8, with high passenger volume throughout the following weeks.”, Reuters, November 4, 2021

“Chinese Airlines Struggle While the World Slowly Reopens – Carriers attributed the subpar performance to the repeated appearance of Covid-19 cases in China and rising oil prices over the past months. The year 2021 is turning to be worse than 2020 for some carriers.”, Airline Geeks, November 11, 2021

“The pandemic has accelerated digitalisation as businesses pivot online. Mobile travel sales are expected to regain all lost ground by 2022, hitting almost USD500 billion. Online travel will continue to grow, accounting for 54% of travel sales in 2021. Online sales gained five years’ worth of growth during the pandemic.”, Euromonitor International, “Travel Rewired: Innovation Strategies for a Resilient Recovery” report, November 2021

“LATAM Confirms Demand Recovery for November – LATAM Airlines Group’s operational passenger projection for November 2021 is estimated to reach 62% compared to the same month in 2019, as measured in available seat kilometers.”, Airline Geeks, November 14, 2021

Global COVID & Vaccine Update

“51.2% of the world population has received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.   7.34 billion doses have been administered globally, and 28.14 million are now administered each day.   Only 4.2% of people in low-income countries have received at least one dose.”,   Our World In Data, November 13, 2021

“Covid vaccine mandates around the world – Many countries have made inoculation mandatory for at least some of their citizens, with penalties for those who do not get jabbed. The UK became the latest country to introduce vaccine mandates on Tuesday after the government announced all NHS workers would need to be jabbed by next spring. Although obligatory shots have been ordered in many other countries, some have balked at the measures and resorted to protests and legal action.”, The Guardian, November 9, 2021

“Covid passes set to stay as Europe heads for winter – There have been protests and complaints of restricted freedom, but much of Europe is now using Covid passports to enter bars, restaurants, cinemas and museums.”, BBC News, October 28, 2021

“Pfizer says antiviral pill 89% effective in high-risk cases – A pill to treat Covid developed by the US company Pfizer cuts the risk of hospitalisation or death by 89% in vulnerable adults, clinical trial results suggest. The drug – Paxlovid – is intended for use soon after symptoms develop in people at high risk of severe disease.”, BBC News, November 6, 2021

“Rising Covid infections in Europe spark fears of new wave – WHO says pace of transmission across continent and Central Asia is a ‘grave concern’. Europe is experiencing a surge in coronavirus infections to levels not seen in months, alarming health officials and sparking fears that the continent could be engulfed by a new wave of the pandemic this winter.”, The Financial Times, November 4, 2021

Country & Regional Updates

Argentina

“Argentina Reopens to Vaccinated Tourists Around the World — What to Know –  Argentina opened its borders to the world Monday, welcoming fully vaccinated travelers to experience the country’s amazing wine, breathtaking mountains, and deep-rooted culture. Eligible travelers must have received a completed vaccination at least 14 days before coming and must show proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of entering the country, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports.”, Travel and Leisure, November 2, 2021

Australia

“Why Australia’s ‘great resignation’ is a myth – There is no evidence of such a phenomenon here. if there was, it would be no bad thing. Australia’s resignation rate has fallen to an all-time low.”, Inside FMCG, November 9, 2021. Compliments of Jason Gehrke, Franchise Advisory Centre, Brisbane

China

“Soaring inflation at China’s factory gates raises fears for rest of world – Producer prices increased by 13.5 per cent in the year to October, accelerating still further from the 10.7 per cent jump recorded for September. The new figure showed producer inflation picking up to a level not seen since July 1995 and exceeding analysts’ consensus forecast of 12.4 per cent.”, The Times of London, October 19, 2021

“China industrial output, retail sales accelerate but property clouds outlook – China’s industrial output and retail sales grew more quickly than expected in October, despite fresh curbs to control COVID-19 outbreaks and supply shortages, but the slowing property sector weighed on the economic outlook. Output grew 3.5% in October from the same period a year ago, official data showed on Monday, accelerating from a 3.1% increase in September. Retail sales growth also picked up.”, Reuters, November 14, 2021

“Consumers win in public interest civil lawsuit – The Wuxi Intermediate People’s Court recently awarded punitive damages to consumers of counterfeit coffee purporting to be from US coffee-maker Starbucks. Unlike traditional trademark infringement cases, where the rights owner is the plaintiff, this case was unusual as it had been initiated by the Consumers Council of Jiangsu Province (JSCC)….”, INTA Bulletin, November 8, 2021. Compliments of Paul Jones, Jones & Co., Toronto

“The first digital convenience store in the country landed in Shanxi – This is the first digital convenience store in the country. Customers can shop while receiving coupons and enjoy Alipay prices; they can also experience personalized services such as laundry delivery, old clothes recycling, and mobile phone teaching for the elderly through the ‘small program convenience corner’.”, China Chain Store & Franchise Association, October 29, 2021. Compliments of Paul Jones, Jones & Co., Toronto

India

“India opens for international travel — what happens next? India has opened up for travelers and will allow commercial flights from November. The Home Ministry announced that tourist visas would be issued to those arriving on chartered flights first, whereas travelers on commercial flights would start getting their visas approved from November.”, Deutsche Welle, November 2, 2021

Indonesia

“Worst Is Over for Indonesia’s Growth as Consumers Head to Malls – Indonesia will likely catch up on growth in the fourth quarter as its all-important consumption engine returns to high gear. More Indonesians are venturing outside to malls and supermarkets as a sharp decline in Covid-19 cases lets the government ease movement restrictions. Traffic in retail and recreation areas has largely returned to pre-pandemic levels, while mobility in groceries and pharmacies have rebounded well beyond that, according to Google data.”, Bloomberg, November 9, 2021

Japan

“Toyota accelerating vehicle production in December as COVID-induced parts shortages ease. The automaker’s 14 plants, 28 production lines in Japan will be operating normally for the first time since May. The automaker expects to build approximately 800,000 vehicles globally during the month, up from approximately 760,000 vehicles built during the same period a year ago.”, Fox Business, November 12, 2021

“Japan’s wholesale inflation hits 40-year high as fuel costs spike – The corporate goods price index (CGPI), which measures the prices companies charge each other for their goods and services, surged 8.0% in October from a year earlier, exceeding market expectations for a 7.0% gain, Bank of Japan data showed onThursday.”, Reuters, November 10, 2021

Malaysia

“Malaysian Economy Returns to Contraction as Virus Curbs Hit – GDP shrank 4.5% y/y in 3Q, deeper than est. for 2.6% decline. BNM sees growth rebounding in 4Q as virus curbs are lifted. Gross domestic product in the three months ended September shrank 4.5% from a year earlier, Malaysia’s central bank said Friday, worse than the 2.6% drop predicted by analysts in a Bloomberg survey.”, Bloomberg, November 11, 2021

Southeast Asia

“Southeast Asia Digital Economy to Reach $363 Billion by 2025 – E-commerce, travel, media, transport and food are driving the region’s digital growth, with online spending rising 49% in 2021 to $174 billion, the companies said in their latest annual report. The region added 60 million new digital consumers since the start of the pandemic, led by Thailand and the Philippines.”, Bloomberg, November 10, 2021

New Zealand

“New Zealand Jobless Rate Falls to 14-Year Low, Hiring Surges – New Zealand’s unemployment rate fell to its lowest level in almost 14 years in the third quarter as employment surged, sending the currency higher as traders boosted bets on interest-rate increases. The jobless rate dropped to 3.4% from 4% in the second quarter, the lowest rate since the fourth quarter of 2007 and matching the lowest on record, Statistics New Zealand data showed Wednesday in Wellington. Economists expected 3.9%.”, Bloomberg, November 2, 2021

United Kingdom

“Most furloughed workers returned to their jobs – The Office for National Statistics said yesterday that 65 per cent of these employees returned to work on the same hours, while 16 per cent went back with reduced hours and 6 per cent went back with hours increased. Another 6 per cent were either laid off or left their jobs voluntarily.”, The Times of London, October 22, 2021

“Ingredient costs push up price of food – Food prices have risen by 2.1 per cent over the past four weeks, driven higher by the rising cost of ingredients and supply chain pressures. Cash-conscious shoppers are beginning to shop around, visiting an average of 3.3 supermarkets a month to find the best value for money.”, The Times of London, November 10, 2021

“Christmas comes early to high streets amid fear of shortages – More than a third of shoppers are changing their approach to Christmas shopping this year with 52 per cent buying gifts earlier than normal, particularly children’s presents, according to figures from Barclaycard. Online spending at toy retailers jumped by 38.4 per cent in October compared with 9.9 per cent in September.”, The Times of London, November 9, 2021

United States

“How the Great Resignation is fueling the passion economy – In a post-pandemic world, the notion of having a job and working in a single role felt old-fashioned, several people who recently resigned from their jobs told Fortune. In a world where work is made increasingly autonomous through gig work, social media, and ecommerce, seeking out entrepreneurial endeavors is likely to become the rule, rather than the exception.”, Fortune, November 3, 2021

“NFIB’s Latest Covid-19 Survey: Supply Chain Disruptions, Staffing Shortage, And The Holiday Season – About half of small business owners (48%) reported that supply chain disruptions are having a significant impact on their business, almost unchanged from September’s survey.:, Franchising.com, November 9, 2021

“U.S. consumer prices jump 6.2% in October, the biggest inflation surge in more than 30 years – Core inflation, stripping out food and energy, increased 4.6%, the fastest gain since August 1991. Energy, shelter and vehicle costs led the gains, which more than wiped out the wage increases that workers received for the month.”, CNBC, November 10, 2021

Brand News

“Applebee’s and IHOP are ready to open new restaurants again – Parent Dine Brands is winding down a financial review that led to hundreds of closures over the past several years, and sees fertile ground for growth coming out of the pandemic. Parent company Dine Brands is winding down a financial review that led to the closure of hundreds of underperforming restaurants over the past several years, executives said Thursday. It plans to get Applebee’s back to net new unit growth in 2023, and expects IHOP to double its historical unit growth by then.”, Restaurant Business Online, November 4, 2021

“The new (Australia) burger king: The rise and rise of Betty’s Burgers amid Covid-19 – Betty’s Burgers and Concrete Co. might only have 39 stores across the country, but it has arguably been the form player during the Covid pandemic. The slick chain of 1950s-themed diners has enjoyed a meteoric rise since launching in Queensland seven years ago, growing steadily from a single outlet on the Sunshine Coast to now having a restaurant in nearly every state and capital.”, News.com.au, November 8, 2021. Compliments of Jason Gehrke, Franchise Advisory Centre, Brisbane

“Fat Brands to acquire Fazoli’s for $130 million – The purchase from Sentinel Capital Partners is expected to close in December 2021. This will be the growing restaurant group’s third acquisition in 2021 alone, following the purchase of the Twin Peaks ‘breastaurant’ sports bar chain in October and Global Franchise Group in July, which includes mainly snack and dessert brands like Hot Dog on a Stick, Marble Slab Creamery, Pretzelmaker, and Great American Cookies.”, Nation’s Restaurant News, November 2, 2021

“Burger King parent to buy Firehouse Subs for $1 billion – The deal would immediately add to Restaurant Brands’ earnings, the company said. Jacksonville, Florida-based Firehouse Subs’ system-wide sales would be about $1.1 billion for 2021, with October U.S. same-store sales about 20% higher from pre-pandemic levels two years ago, Restaurant Brands said.”, Reuters, November 15, 2021

“Sonic Parent (Inspire) Launches First-Of-Its-Kind Ghost Kitchen – There are more than 1,000 ghost kitchens in the U.S., but Inspire Brands recently launched one unlike any before it. The company, which owns Dunkin’, Baskin-Robbins, Arby’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, Jimmy John’s, Sonic Drive-In, and Rusty Taco, recently introduced Alliance Kitchen, which it called the first ghost kitchen owned and operated by a multi-brand restaurant company.”, QSR Magazine, November 9, 2021

“Legendary Restaurant Brands Partners with Franklin Junction to Accelerate Growth in Asia-Pacific Regions – Legendary Restaurant Brands – the parent company of Bennigan’s, Bennigan’s On The Fly, Bennigan’s On The Fly Virtual Kitchens and Steak & Ale – is preparing to introduce its chef-driven American fare to more markets across the globe through a new partnership with Franklin Junction…. (who) boasts a network of more than 500 virtual restaurants and over 300 Host Kitchens™ across more than 10 countries.”, Restaurant News, November 2, 2021

“JAB bought Panera Bread in 2017 and in August combined it with Caribou Coffee and Einstein Bros. under one unit. Panera Bread is planning to go public and has secured an unconventional investment from Danny Meyer’s special-purpose acquisition company, adding to one of the busiest restaurant IPO seasons in years.”, The Wall Street Journal, November 9, 2021

“Planet Fitness CEO says gym membership has almost reached its pre-Covid peak – In an interview on “Mad Money,” Rondeau said the gym chain now has 15 million members, describing that figure as “unbelievable” after locations were shuttered for months early during the Covid crisis and then even when they reopened, many people were hesitant to return right away. ‘Our height was 15.5 [million members]. We’re 97% all the way recaptured back to where we were pre-Covid,’ Rondeau said.”, CNBC, November 4, 2021

“Roll’d to make US debut ahead of further international expansion – Australia-based Vietnamese food restaurant chain, Roll’d, is set to accelerate its expansion plan with an international debut in the US next year, to be followed by more overseas markets. The restaurant chain will open its first US store in Salt Lake City next May, paving the way for more international restaurants to come, including Canada, the UK, France, Japan and New Zealand.”, Inside Retail (Australia), November 5, 2021. Compliments of Jason Gehrke, Franchise Advisory Centre, Brisbane

“More Steak ‘n Shake stores closed this year as revenue dips – Biglari Holdings, the local company that owns the burger and shake chain, reported that 16 more stores “temporarily closed” as of  December 31, 2020, according to the public company’s third quarter filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. One of those stores was company operated and the 15 others were traditional franchises. Biglari Holdings only operated 221 stores as September 30.”, My San Antonio, November 9, 2021

“Subway Inks One of the Biggest Franchise Agreements in History – Subway announced Tuesday that it signed a deal to open more than 2,000 stores across South Asia, a move the fast-food chain called one of the ‘largest master franchise agreements in quick-service restaurant history.’ The sandwich concept will work with Everstone Group, a South Asia-focused private investment firm, to open the locations in India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh over the next 10 years. Currently, those markets have nearly 700 Subway restaurants.”, QSR Magazine, November 2, 2021

“Unleashed Brands Adds The Little Gym and CEO Nancy Bigley – The Little Gym has a new owner, Unleashed Brands, and a new president and CEO, Nancy Bigley, a former Dunkin’ Brands executive turned entrepreneur. She started Bottle & Bottega and grew it to 27 studios before selling to the largest paint-and-sip franchise, Painting With a Twist, in 2018. She stayed on, eventually being named CEO of Twist Brands and its portfolio of art and entertainment franchises.”, Franchise Times, November 5, 2021

Articles & Studies For Today And Tomorrow

“In the Race to Boost Semiconductor Manufacturing, Global Powers Take Their Marks – Increased investments following the pandemic-induced semiconductor shortage will lead to more chip factories being built in more parts of the world. But the sector’s rigid nature and boom-and-bust cycles will still result in countries facing similar supply disruptions in the future.”, Stratfor, November 11, 2021

William (Bill) Edwards, CFEand CEO and Global Advisor, Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS) has 4 decades 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.

Our Latest GlobalVue™ Country Ranking

Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS) provides a complete International solution for companies Going Global. From initial global market research and country prioritization, to developing new international markets, providing in-country operations support and problem solving around the world. Our U.S. based executive team has experience living and working in many countries. Our Associate network on the ground overseas covers 40+ countries.  EGS has twice received the U.S. President’s Award for Export Excellence.

www.edwardsglobal.com

For global market research, operations and development support across 40 countries, contact Mr. Edwards at bedwards@edwardsglobal.com or +1 949 224 3896. 

https://calendly.com/geowizard/30min  Click here to schedule a call with Bill Edwards to discuss how to successfully grow your company around the world.

EGS Biweekly Global Business Newsletter Issue 41, Monday, October 18, 2021

Words of Wisdom from Others

“If you are not willing to learn, no one can help you. If you are determined to learn, no one can stop you.”, Zig Ziglar

“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.”, R. Collier

“The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old, but building on the new.”, Socrates

Highlights in issue #41:

• What matters most? Five priorities for CEOs in the next normal (McKinsey)
• The US reopens to international travelers on November 8 — what you need to know.
• Covid Australia: Sydney celebrates end of 107-day lockdown
• China GDP: economic recovery stalls, growth slows to 4.9 per cent in third quarter
• Why Tropical Smoothie Cafe is Bucking the Ghost Kitchen Trend
• Download the October EGS GlobalVue™ 40+ country ranking chart
• Brand News Section: Burger-Fi®, Carl’s Jr®, Denny’s®, Dominos®, Home Instead®, KFC® Russia, Tropical Smoothie®

Our Mission and Information Sources

Bolded article titles are live links, available without subscription

Our biweekly global business update newsletter focuses on what is happening around the world that impacts new trends, health, consumer spending, business investment, economic development and travel. We daily monitor 30+ countries, 40+ international information sources and six business sectors to keep up with what is going on in this ever-changing environment. Our GlobalTeam™ on the ground in 27 countries 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.

Interesting Data and Studies

Our latest GlobalVue™ country ranking chart as places to do business in 2022 can be downloaded at this link: https://edwardsglobal.com/globalvue/

“The coronavirus effect on global economic sentiment – Eighteen months into the COVID-19 pandemic, executives’ responses to our latest McKinsey Global Survey suggest that they believe the economy is on track toward a recovery. 1 Throughout 2021, their views have, on average, been consistently positive. And they continue to report largely positive expectations: 71 percent of respondents predict that conditions in the global economy will improve in the next six months, down from an all-time high of 81 percent who said so last quarter.”, McKinsey, September 29, 2021

“IMF Revises Down Projected 2021 Growth – On Oct. 12, the International Monetary Fund announced a marginal revision down of its 2021 forecast for the global economy to 5.9%, though the adjustment does not reflect large changes for some countries. The IMF’s 2022 projection is unchanged at 4.9%…. The World Economic Outlook cited “dangerous divergence” across countries as a result of the “great vaccine divide” and differences in policy support by governments. Emerging market and developing countries face tighter financing conditions and the risk of “de-anchoring” inflation expectations, with the group’s output remaining 5.5% below pre-pandemic levels in 2024 amid deteriorating living standards. Supply bottlenecks, coupled with the release of pent-up demand, are also contributing to inflation.”, Stratfor, October 12, 2021

“Wages are surging across the rich world – When lockdowns were imposed poorly paid people in service jobs dropped out of the workforce, for instance, which had the effect of raising average pay as measured by statisticians. Even so, wage growth seems to have been stronger than the scale of the economic downturn alone would have suggested. Goldman Sachs, a bank, has created a “tracker” that corrects for pandemic-related distortions. Underlying wage growth, at about 2.5% across the (G)10 group of large economies, is as fast as it was in 2018.”, The Economist, October 16, 2021

“Coal Shortages in China and India – China’s attempts to resolve its ongoing power crunch hit a new snag. New flooding in the central Shanxi province over the weekend shut down a number of coal mines, hitting China’s plans to offset the loss of coal imports with a surge in domestic output. Several Indian states are reporting shortages of coal and warning of possible power cuts. Tamil Nadu and Kerala are running low on supplies, while Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra have shut down power generation units because of coal shortages.” Geopolitical Futures, October 11, 2021

Supply Chain & Energy – Worldwide Issues

“Port Gridlock Stretches Supply Lines Thin in Blow for Economies – Delays may get worse before improving, several experts warn. Christmas gifts are sitting on the dock of a bay, wasting time. Global ports are growing more gridlocked as the pandemic era’s supply shocks intensify, threatening to spoil the holiday shopping season, erode corporate profits and drive up consumer prices.”, Bloomberg, October 16, 2021

“The waiting game: where are the world’s worst port delays? From Shenzhen to Los Angeles, storms, Covid and labour shortages are causing disruption. The nearly 100 ships waiting on the horizon to berth at the Hong Kong and Shenzhen container ports are just the latest sign of the problems to have snarled global supply chains, pushed up consumer prices in Europe and the US, and led to shortages of goods ranging from Christmas toys to furniture…..Globally, there are now 584 container ships stuck outside ports, nearly double the number at the start of the year, according to real-time data from Kuehne+Nagel, one of the world’s largest freight forwarders.”, The Financial Times, October 15, 2021

“Dubai to restrict cargo imports into airport to clear shipment backlog – Cargo logjam at regional trade and financial hub blamed on labour shortages. Dubai will restrict imports of cargo into its international airport for six days from Tuesday to clear a backlog caused by “extraordinarily high” volumes of inbound shipments. Dnata, the cargo handling arm of government-owned airline group Emirates, said the restrictions would also include transit cargo en route to other destinations in the United Arab Emirates. Certain categories of essential freight would be exempted.”, The Financial Times, October 15, 2021

“Stranded at sea with the cargo – Unvaccinated crews growing desperate to get off ships….Some 300,000 of these migrant merchant sailors have been stranded on vessels at sea or in ports around the world, according to the International Transport Workers’ Federation, a London-based trade union that is among the maritime agencies lobbying governments to address what’s been labeled the ‘crew-change crisis.’ They endure unbroken monotony and growing desperation. Their unions and charity groups describe exhaustion, despair, suicide and violence at sea, including at least one alleged murder on a cargo ship headed to Los Angeles.”, The Los Angeles Times, October 2021. Compliments of Guy Fox, Chairman of the Board, International Seafarers Center, Ports of Long Beach & Los Angeles

“China’s energy crisis threatens lengthy disruption to global supply chain – Buyers in Europe and US must wait longer for supplies as factories are forced to slash operating capacity. Factory owners in China and their customers worldwide have been told to prepare for power supply disruptions becoming part of life as President Xi Jinping doggedly weans the world’s second-biggest economy off its dependence on coal.”, The Financial Times, October 16, 2021

“Don’t expect supply chain challenges to end anytime soon – Port backups are delaying equipment deliveries for months. Here’s why it’s happening, and how long it will last. Shipping delays can be expected to last until late next year. Restaurants looking to replace old fryers or build new locations have found it can sometimes take months to get equipment in the door, thanks to a backlog of imports that has left two dozen or more container ships waiting outside of U.S. ports. Such waits are likely to continue to be a problem for the foreseeable future.”, Restaurant Business Online, September 24, 2021

“(The commissioner of the Federal Maritime Commission), Carl Bentzel, discusses State of US Ports at International Forum – The shipping challenges the nation is currently experiencing are, he says, “the largest meltdown since World War II.” It is the first time since WWII that cargo shipments are not getting into the U.S. at a time when people want shipments. There are two primary factors behind this meltdown. The first reason is the dislocation of products and closures brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. In California alone, cargo decreased by 20%–30% for a three-month period. The second factor is the resumption of activity after the COVID-19 closures, which led to an almost 30% surge in cargo. So, the industry quickly saw a swing of 60% in volume, he explains.”, California Chamber of Commerce, October 12, 2021

“Ikea warns stock shortages likely to last another year – World’s largest furniture retailer faces supply chain struggles but pandemic has shifted sales online. Ikea has become the latest retailer to warn on supply chain problems, saying on Thursday that stock shortages were likely to last another year…..Reporting its annual results, the world’s largest furniture retailer also said the pandemic had helped its business and sped up its transformation.”, The Financial Times, October 14, 2021

Global, Regional & Local Travel Updates

“The US reopens to international travelers on November 8 — what you need to know. Although we now have a confirmed date of Nov. 8, some questions remain regarding acceptable proof of vaccinations and what the entire process will look like. Here’s what we know so far about the U.S. reopening.”, The Points Guy, October 15, 2021

“European Cities Top Travel Openness Ratings in New Analysis – U.S. lags behind; Asian cities dominate bottom of Bloomberg’s ranking. European finance and tourism capitals dominate a Bloomberg ranking of 70 global cities most open to travelers, based on vaccination rates, local public health rules and Covid-19 travel restrictions.”, Bloomberg, October 10, 2021

“Nearly all major (USA) airlines mandate COVID vaccine for employees….. the largest pilots association and most major carriers — United Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, JetBlue, Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines — confirm they will follow President Biden’s executive order requiring workers to get the shots.”, CBS News, October 12, 2021

“Canada Announces Vaccine Mandate for Air, Rail and Cruise Travelers – The Canadian government announced Wednesday that domestic and international travelers arriving in the country via commercial flight, train or cruise ship must be fully vaccinated. According to the official website of Canada, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau revealed that all travelers 12 years of age and older entering or departing the country via federally regulated modes of transportation must be fully vaccinated by October 30.”, Travel Pulse, October 7, 2021

“LATAM Colombia Exceeds 2019 Passenger Numbers – LATAM Airlines Colombia exceeded the number of passengers moved during the third quarter of the year compared to the same period of 2019. The carrier transported a total of 1,742,988 passengers between its 15 destinations and 25 domestic routes handled in Colombia. With these results, the Colombian market remains one of the key countries in the LATAM Airlines Group’s strategy, with a trend that has continued to rise in recent months.”, Airline Geeks, October 12, 2021

“Phuket’s sandbox to Singapore’s travel corridors: as Asia wakes up to travel, destinations weigh risks and rewards – Thailand and Singapore are at the vanguard of Asia’s tourism reawakening and their moves will be eagerly watched by other destinations seeking an insight into what works and what doesn’t. Early data looks encouraging, but experts say such schemes are small steps. Increased costs, the risk of new variants emerging, and a lack of demand from Chinese tourists are all hurdles on the long road to full recovery.”, South China Morning Post, October 16, 2021

“Asian Destinations Are Finally Cracking Open For U.S. Travelers – In general, there are very few Asian destinations that an American leisure traveler can visit right now. A couple of destinations, including the Maldives and Sri Lanka, stand out as exceptions in welcoming tourists since early 2021. Yet slowly but surely, the tourism doors are starting to crack open, if ever so hesitantly and with many restrictions still in place. Here’s a tentative timeline for countries that have recently announced rolling out a conditional welcome mat for U.S. travelers.”, Forbes, October 11, 2021

“The Best Airports in the World: 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards – The airports you can’t wait to fly into again. 10. London Heathrow Airport (LHR), 9. Zurich Airport (ZRH), 8. Athens International Airport (ATH), 7. Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK), 6. Dubai International Airport (DXB), 5. Hamad International Airport (DOH), 4. Seoul Incheon International Airport (ICN), 3. Tokyo Narita International Airport (NRT), 2. Istanbul Airport (IST) and as usual 1. Singapore Changi Airport (SIN)”, CNN Traveler, October 8, 2021

Global Vaccine Update

“47.6% of the world population has received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. 6.67 billion doses have been administered globally, and 19.23 million are now administered each day. Only 2.7% of people in low-income countries have received at least one dose.”, Our World In Data, October 18, 2021

Country & Regional Updates

Australia

“Covid Australia: Sydney celebrates end of 107-day lockdown – Midnight rush for shops and pubs as Sydney reopens. Australia’s largest city, Sydney, has emerged from Covid lockdown after almost four months, with locals celebrating a range of new freedoms. People queued for pubs and shops that opened at midnight on Monday. Many others have been enjoying anticipated reunions with relatives and friends.”, BBC October 12, 2021

Brazil

“Brazil Comes Out of Pandemic and Hits the Next Hardship—Inflation – Prices of electricity and cooking gas are up 30% or more over the year, while meat prices are up 25%. Prices rose in September at the fastest pace for the month since 1994, while the 12-month figure reached 10.25%, returning Brazil to double-digit inflation for the first time in more than five years, the country’s national statistics agency, IBGE, said Friday.”, Wall Street Journal, October 8,2021

Canada

“A remarkable milestone’: Canadian employment jumps back to prepandemic levels – The country added 157,100 positions last month, building on a gain of 90,200 in August, Statistics Canada said Friday. Hiring was considerably stronger than the 60,000 positions that economists were expecting. The unemployment rate fell to 6.9 per cent from 7.1 per cent. In September, around 19.13 million people were employed – the same as in February, 2020, marking a significant milestone in the country’s recovery from the pandemic.”, The Global and Mail, October 8, 2021

China

“China GDP: economic recovery stalls, growth slows to 4.9 per cent in third quarter – China’s economy grew by 4.9 per cent in the third quarter of 2021 compared with a year earlier, down from the 7.9 per cent growth seen in the second quarter. Retail sales and industrial production rose by 4.4 per cent and 3.1 per cent, respectively, in September from a year earlier.”, South China Morning Post, October 18, 2021

“China goes back to coal to combat power crisis ahead of Cop26 – China has ordered coalmines to increase production by tens of millions of tonnes before the end of the year as President Xi prioritises a nationwide power crisis over reducing Beijing’s dependence on fossil fuels…..The power shortage and rationing of electricity has seen factories halt assembly lines in the manufacturing hubs of Zhejiang, Jiangsu and Guangdong provinces.”, The Times of London, October 10, 2021

“China inflation: factory-gate prices rise at fastest pace on record due to surging coal costs amid power crisis – China’s official producer price index (PPI) rose by 10.7 per cent in September from a year earlier, compared with 9.5 per cent in August. The consumer price index (CPI) rose by 0.7 per cent in September from a year earlier, compared with a 0.8 per cent rise in August.”, South China Morning Post, October 14, 2021

“China’s Consumer Spending May Suffer ‘Long Covid’ Contraction, Economists Warn – Surely one of the most commonly asked questions by people in China and indeed all over the world is: when will the Covid-19 pandemic end and life finally return to normal? Unfortunately, the answer from experts appears increasingly that it remains some time off.”, Caixing Global, October 7, 2021

European Union

“Europe’s Faltering Economy (???) – As the COVID-19 vaccination campaign proceeds, the pandemic seems almost under control in Europe….But like the rest of the world, European supply chains can’t keep pace with demand. Industrial production in some states is faltering due to supply shortages…..Supply issues are also evident in the energy sector, where gas and electricity prices are hitting record highs, causing energy firms across the continent to shut down and putting upward pressure on inflation – a particularly sensitive issue in the eurozone….Put it all together and the supply bottlenecks, rising energy prices and inflationary pressures are headwinds that could hamper the European economic recovery.”, Geopolitical Futures, October 15, 2021

“There is no quick fix for Europe’s self-manufactured energy crisis – A bit more than a decade ago, a concerted effort was launched within the European Union countries and a few others on the continent to phase out their coal-fired generating plants to clean the skies and slow the pace of global warming. That’s the good news. The bad is that the Europeans are guilty of spectacularly bad planning. What was lost – coal-fired plants and their ability to meet peak demand fairly quickly – was never adequately replaced. Yes, loads of solar and wind power came on stream, but not enough. And – surprise! – solar and wind power became utterly useless when the sun did not shine and the wind did not blow.”, The Global and Mail, October 8, 2021

India

“India faces electricity crisis as coal supplies run critically low – Eight in 10 thermal power stations within days of running out as state blackouts spark protests. States across India have issued panicked warnings that coal supplies to thermal power plants, which convert heat from coal to electricity, are running perilously low.”, The Guardian, October 12, 2021

The Philippines

“Why the Philippines Became the Worst Place to Be in Covid – The Philippines fell to last place in Bloomberg’s Covid Resilience Ranking of the best and worst places to be amid the pandemic, capping a steady decline over the course of 2021. The monthly snapshot — which measures where the virus is being handled the most effectively with the least social and economic upheaval — ranks 53 major economies on 12 datapoints related to virus containment, the economy and opening up.”, Bloomberg, September 29, 2021

Thailand

“Thailand to reopen for some vaccinated tourists from November – Visitors from Britain and the US among those permitted as country seeks to boost its crucial tourism sector. Thailand plans to fully re-open to vaccinated tourists from countries deemed low risk from 1 November, the country’s leader said, citing the urgent need to save the kingdom’s ailing economy.”, The Guardian, October 12, 2021

United Kingdom

“UK job vacancies hit record amid Brexit and Covid staff shortages – Job vacancies soared to a record high of almost 1.2m in September, according to official figures, as employers hunted for staff to meet shortages brought on by Brexit and the pandemic. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures also showed a 207,000 increase in the number of people on payrolls to a record 29.2 million – 120,000 above pre-pandemic levels.”, The Guardian, October 12, 2021

“Containers of Christmas gifts turned away as Felixstowe port hits capacity – The problem was described yesterday as a “perfect storm” caused by a shortage of lorry drivers to move the containers, restrictions at ports because of Covid, and a surge in imports. One shipping boss said: ‘I don’t want to sound like a Grinch but there are going to be gaps on shelves this Christmas.’ The delay threatens to become the latest emergency to hit Britain after fuel shortages at the pumps and rising gas prices.”, The Times of London, October 13, 2021

“Warehouse space harder to find after online boom – Amid a desperate battle for space, several companies have agreed recently to pay 20 per cent above the asking price, CBRE said. ‘Supply levels are now critical, particularly in the northern belt that straddles the M62 motorway,’ Jonathan Compton, senior director for UK logistics at CBRE, said. Reflecting the change in shopping habits, of all the warehouse space taken in the most recent quarter, 39 per cent was leased by online retail companies.”, The Times of London, October 2, 2021

United States

“The ‘Great Resignation’ is likely to continue, as 55% of Americans anticipate looking for a new job – Most Americans expect to look for a new job as the pandemic continues. Some 55% of people in the workforce, meaning that they’re currently working or actively looking for employment, said they are likely to look for a new job in the next 12 months, according to Bankrate’s August jobseeker survey, published Monday. YouGov Plc conducted the survey of 2,452 adults for Bankrate from July 28 to July 30.”, CNBC, August 25, 2021

“Will Gen Z save malls and stores from their online rivals? Physical retailers have a rare chance to make shopping attractive again this holiday season. New US data from Accenture suggests 70 per cent of Gen Z customers plan to make most of their holiday purchases in store, while 54 per cent of Baby Boomers plan to buy largely online. Younger consumers are driven partly by fear of shortages — they would rather physically pick up items than risk shipping delays — but also by a desire to get out and do things with other people…..That means brands and malls that lost ground to online sales last year have a vital chance to fight back.”, The Financial Times, October 13, 2021

Brand News

“BurgerFi to acquire Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza & Wings – Palm Beach, Fla.-based fast-casual burger chain BurgerFi International announced Monday the intention to acquire Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza & Wings for $161.3 million from growth investment firm L Catterton. When the deal goes through, likely in the fourth quarter of 2021, L Catterton will become one of the largest shareholders of Burger Fi International.”, Nation’s Restaurant News, October 11, 2021

“US burger giant Carl’s Jr. states intention to enter the UK market – Popular US burger restaurant chain Carl’s Jr. is looking to enter the UK for the first time with plans to open restaurants in the capital and beyond. The brand, best known for its charbroiled burgers, is actively seeking companies to invest in franchises to open its first restaurants on UK soil. Founded in 1941, Carl’s Jr. is one of the most popular QSR chains in the world with more than 1,000 restaurants in 28 markets worldwide. The company already has a presence in Europe, with 79 restaurants across France, Denmark, Spain, Turkey and Russia and has just signed a 300-restaurant deal in Russia and is now targeting the UK as well as Germany for further expansion.”, Big Hospitality, October 7, 2021

“Denny’s Corporation: Catalyst Rich Third Quarter Likely To Deliver Strong Growth – Dine-in sales are likely to benefit significantly from pent-up customer demand. Additional growth is expected as 60% of the footprint that was operating with limited hours reverts back to the 24/7 schedule. The launch-to-date success of the virtual brands indicates a possible new leg of growth.”, Seeking Alpha, October 14, 2021

“Domino’s Pizza Enterprises Ltd celebrates official 3000th store opening – – in Dresden, Germany. In 2021 the Company has opened 206 new stores and has acquired its 10th market Taiwan and over the next 3-5 years plans to open new stores at a rate of 9-11% of the network annually.”, Dominos Australia, October 7, 2021. Compliments of Jason Gehrke, Managing Director, The Franchise Advisory Centre, Brisbane

“Why Founders Sold $2.1B Home Instead After Resisting for Years – ‘It’s different, that’s for sure,’ said co-founder Paul Hogan when reached in late September, about his life after selling Home Instead to Honor Technology in August. How hard was it to decide to sell the homecare franchise that he and his wife, Lori, built from zero in 1994 to $2.1 billion in systemwide sales in 2020? ‘It was like this Olympic wrestling match with this decision.’”, Franchise Times, September 30, 2021

“KFC will go Straight” – The (Russia) network launched its own delivery – High rates of food delivery aggregators are forcing large fast food chains to develop their sales channels. KFC, five years after an unsuccessful attempt to create such a service, again decided to launch its own delivery. KFC has launched its own delivery in Moscow and St. Petersburg, the company itself told Kommersant. They added that in the near future the service will work in other cities with a population of over one million, which ‘will increase the volume of orders by 15-20%.’”, Kommersant.ru, October 10, 2021. Compliments of Paul Jones, Jones & Co., Toronto

“Why Tropical Smoothie Cafe is Bucking the Ghost Kitchen Trend – The 1,000-unit brand is letting franchisees dictate the path forward…… Ghost kitchens? CEO Charles Watson says they are not a part of the chain’s sizable growth plans. For Watson, it comes down to the brand’s roots as a franchisee-led organization. Since operators haven’t expressed overwhelming interest to jump in, it’s likely not in the company’s path forward. But the reasons go beyond that.”, QSR Magazine, October 6, 2021

Articles, Podcasts & Studies For Today And Tomorrow

I was featured in a Global Chamber podcast last week which can be heard at this link: Globinar Featuring Bill Edwards on “Global Business Recovery from the Trenches”

“Charting the Continued Rise of Remote Jobs – When the pandemic first took hold in 2020, and many workplaces around the world closed their doors, a grand experiment in work-from-home began. Today, well over a year after the first lockdown measures were put in place, there are still lingering questions about whether remote work would now become a commonplace option, or whether things would generally return to the status quo in offices around the world.”, LinkedIn Work Force Report, September 2021

“What matters most? Five priorities for CEOs in the next normal – The pandemic has both revealed and accelerated a number of trends that will play a substantial role in the shape of the future global economy. In our conversations with global executives, they have identified five priorities. Companies will want to adopt these five priorities as their North Star while they navigate the trends that are molding the future.”, McKinsey, September 8, 2021

“The World’s 100 Most Valuable Brands in 2021 – In 2020, the global economy experienced one of the worst declines since the Great Depression. Yet, while the ripple effects of COVID-19 have thrown many businesses into disarray, some companies have not only managed to stay afloat amidst the chaos—they’ve thrived. Using data from Kantar BrandZ, this graphic looks at the top 100 most valuable brands of 2021.”, Visual Capitalist, October 6, 2021

“Over the last 70 years, the global population has gotten older. Since 1950, the worldwide median age has gone from 25 years to 33 years. Yet, despite an overall increase globally, not all regions have aged at the same rate. For instance, Europe’s median age has grown by 14 years, while Africa’s has only increased by 1 year. Today’s animated map uses data from the UN Population Index to highlight the changes in median age over the last 70 years, and to visualize the differences between each region. We also explain why some regions skew older than others.”, Visual Capitalist / UN Population Index / Statista, July 10, 2020

“E-books are certainly not a new phenomenon. In fact, they’ve been around longer than the internet.  Yet, while the emergence of e-books dates back to the early 1970s, they didn’t hit the mainstream until the 2000s, when big companies began launching their own e-book readers, and digital libraries started to become more accessible to the public. Around this time, sales for e-books started to soar, and by 2013, e-book sales made up 20%of all books sales in America. Many wondered if this was the end for print books. But fast forward to 2021, and e-books haven’t made print books obsolete. At least, not yet.”, Statista / Visual Capitalism, October 2021

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William (Bill) Edwards, CFE, is CEO and Global Advisor of Edwards Global Services (EGS). He has 4 decades 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.

Bill recently was published on Franchising.com in an article about how global franchise supply chain management is critical for international success. Read the full article here: https://bit.ly/3io0BuK

Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS) provides a complete International solution for companies Going Global. From initial global market research and country prioritization, to developing new international markets, providing in-country operations support and problem solving around the world. Our U.S. based executive team has experience living and working in many countries. Our Associate network on the ground overseas covers 40+ countries.  EGS has twice received the U.S. President’s Award for Export Excellence.

www.edwardsglobal.com

Download our latest 40 country ranking chart at this link:

July 2021 GlobalVue™ Country Ranking Chart

For global market research, operations and development support across 40 countries, contact Mr. Edwards at bedwards@edwardsglobal.com or +1 949 224 3896. 

https://calendly.com/geowizard/30min  Click here to schedule a call with Bill Edwards to discuss how to succeed in developing your company around the world.

EGS Biweekly Global Business Newsletter Issue 39, Monday, September 20, 2021

Words of Wisdom from Others

“You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.:, A. A. Milne

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”, Eleanor Roosevelt

“’Grit’ – Possessing the indomitable spirit, having a drive for achievement regardless of upbringing or situation. Earning success in the trenches through hard work.”, Etsy

Highlights in issue #39:

• Which Vaccine Passport App Should I Use?
• Italy Braces for Pasta Inflation Amid Soaring Durum Wheat Prices
• The rise of eastern Europe is a forgotten economic success story
• Costa Coffee dishes out 5% pay rise to 14,500 staff in return for pandemic hard work
• The 20 Fastest Growing Jobs in the Next Decade
• China Stumbles –  China’s economy is in the midst of a mid-year stumble
• Brand News Section: Baskin Robbins®, Costa Coffee®, Del Taco®, Pizza Inn®

Our Mission and Information Sources

Bolded article titles are live links, if available without subscription

Our biweekly global business update newsletter focuses on what is happening around the worldthat impacts new trends, health, consumer spending, business investment, economic development and travel. We daily monitor 30+ countries, 40+ international information sources and six business sectors to keep up with what is going on in this ever-changing environment. Our GlobalTeam™ on the ground in 27 countries 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.

My First International Business Trip Since February 2020

Over the past ten days, I have travelled on business through Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and the United Kingdom. This meant taking 6 separate COVID tests and completing 10+ separate COVID-19 related forms for the four countries. The company we visited in the Netherlands even wrote a special letter stating that our visit was ‘essential business’ to ensure we did not have to quarantine in Amsterdam before we could meet. The multiple forms – mostly completed online – were needed not only to enter a country but to not have to quarantine because we come from a country with a fully vaccinated population of 53% (USA!) versus most EU countries and the UK which are 60-75% vaccinated. Despite higher vaccination levels, as of this date, none of the people from these countries are allowed to enter the USA!

On the positive side, everyone we met in the various countries were very positive about the future of their businesses, their economies and making new investments. Typical is a comment by EGS’ Spain Associate that Europeans are “learning to live with Covid-19 like the seasonal flu”.

Over my 4+ decades of doing international business and living in other countries I have seen numerous natural, economic and political disasters across all regions. But businesses tend to be forward thinking and opportunistic. That is certainly the case in much of the world we survey today. Having said that, certain parts of the world are recovering at different rates. Asia is still largely shutdown and/or suffering from pandemic challenges either real or caused by government inaction or mistakes. Vaccination rates in Asia Pacific countries average 15-30% including developed countries like Australia, Japan and New Zealand. Business shutdowns remain frequent, travel is very limited.

The Americas have also been slow to recover due to low vaccination rates and/or choosing the wrong ‘free’ vaccines to start with. Fully vaccinated populations are overall at a low level so far in this region. Middle Eastern countries are at 50+% vaccination levels and are reopening at an increasing rate. The winner so far in 2021 – and probably into 2022 – have been the European Union countries and the United Kingdom with higher vaccination rates and progressive business reopening policies. But even in this region airport traffic is between 30-50% of 2019 levels. As stated above, country entry policies and requirements are high.

Bottom Line: After my trip and as a result of communication with our Team around the world I am very optimistic about business recovery in 2022.

Interesting Data and Studies

“Mapping The Biggest Companies By Market Cap in 60 Countries – Tech giants are increasingly making up more of the Fortune 500, but the world’s biggest companies by market cap aren’t so cut and dry…..The world has 60+ stock exchanges, and each one has a top company. We looked at the largest local company, since many of the world’s largest firms trade on multiple exchanges, and converted market cap to USD.”, Visual Capitalist, September 16, 2021

Supply Chain – Worldwide Issues

“Supply chain crisis will leave permanent scar, UPS warns – Delivery group’s international head says manufacturing and assembly will become more regional. multinational retailers and manufacturers were making a “big push” towards regionalising their supply chains, said Scott Price, president of UPS International.”, The Financial Times, September 13, 2021

“Ikea (UK) struggles with supply problems due to driver shortage – Furniture giant Ikea is struggling to supply about 1,000 product lines as a shortage of HGV drivers continues to hit businesses. The company said the shortage of products, including mattresses at some stores, was down to Covid and Brexit. Businesses ranging from flu vaccine suppliers to food and drink firms have also been suffering from supply issues.”, BBC News, September 5, 2021

“‘Just Get Me a Box’: Inside the Brutal Realities of Supply Chain Hell – Logistics managers are battling the pandemic, a labor shortage, and huge demand to get goods to your front door. It’s mid-August, and logistics manager RoxAnne Thomas’s phone won’t stop pinging. Her faucets, sinks, and toilets are waylaid near Shanghai, snagged in Vancouver, and buried under a pile of shipping containers in a rail yard outside Chicago. As U.S. transportation manager for Gerber Plumbing Fixtures LLC, a unit of Taiwan’s Globe Union Industrial Corp. that’s based in Woodridge, Ill., Thomas is trying to overcome the biggest shock wave to unsettle global trade since the dawn of container shipping almost seven decades ago.”, Bloomberg, September 16, 2021

“Why skippers aren’t scuppered. Supply chains are adapting, not failing…..firms are neither twiddling their thumbs nor abandoning global supply chains. Instead, they are improvising. Some retailers, like Walmart, have taken to chartering entire ships exclusively for their own cargo. Passenger aircraft are being refitted for freight…..Soaring shipping fees themselves help adjust the flow of goods. Higher freight costs scarcely affect the price of expensive electronics which can be crammed into containers, but matter more for bulky, low-value goods like garden furniture.”, The Economist, September 18, 2021

“M&S closes French stores over supply chain concerns – The company has a further nine franchised stores in partnership with Lagardère Travel Retail in airports and stations, which it said would continue to trade pending discussions over ‘a sustainable future business model’. At its full-year results in May it confirmed that the “lengthy and complex export processes” after Brexit were “significantly constraining” supplies from the UK to Europe, with a knock-on effect on performance.”, The Times of London, August 24, 2021

Global, Regional & Local Travel Updates

“UK Aviation Industry Welcomes Revision of International Travel Restrictions –  The U.K. government will abolish its much-maligned “traffic light system” for international travel to England starting in early October. In an announcement released on Friday, the government said it will replace the current system that has been in effect since May 17 with “a single red list of countries and territories and simplified travel measures for arrivals from the rest of the world.” In recognition of the vaccination rollout around the world, travellers who meet the U.K. definition of “fully vaccinated” will not be required to undertake expensive PCR tests upon arrival and in some cases departure to destinations.”, Airline Geeks, September 19, 2021

“Which Vaccine Passport App Should I Use? While you might have first heard of coronavirus vaccination apps for international travel, like the European Union’s Green Pass or airline-favorite VeriFly, the United States has not designated any one technological standard for proof of vaccination. While many destinations and businesses are accepting Centers for Disease Control (CDC) vaccination cards as proof of vaccination, it can be unnerving to walk around with your original coronavirus vaccine certificate. For those who want a digital option instead of always whipping out their vaccine card, there are plenty to choose from.”, Conde Nast  Traveler, September 2, 2021

“Emirates Airlines: 3,500 New Employees for Operations Ramp Up – If you are looking for a job in the air transport sector Dubai (DXB) is the place to go as Emirates Airlines (EK) is offering 3,000 positions to future cabin crew and 500 to frontline personnel to be employed in its DBX hub.”, Airways Magazine, September 19, 2021. (Editor’s note: I saw an Emirates 380 take off from Heathrow on September 19.)

“Indian Recovery Continues With Domestic Capacity Increase – The Government of India provided some relief to Indian airlines, announcing that domestic flight capacity has been increased to 85% of pre-COVID levels. The decision comes as COVID cases in India fall and demand for air travel grows steadily.”, Simple Flying, September 20, 2021

Global Vaccine Update

“Asia’s Covid-19 Success Stories Warily Ponder Post-Vaccination Moves – As vaccination rates climb, countries such as Singapore and South Korea consider how fast to ease strategies that have minimized infections and deaths. Widespread vaccination was meant to usher in a long-awaited march back to normal. But for Asia-Pacific countries that tamed Covid-19 by enforcing tight controls, entering a post-vaccination world is complicated.”, The Wall Street Journal, September 14, 2021

“43.3% of the world population has received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. 5.95 billion doses have been administered globally, and 28.87 million are now administered each day. Only 1.9% of people in low-income countries have received at least one dose.”, Our World In Data, September 20, 2021

“Tracking EU Vaccination – The European Union recently announced that 70% of adults in the bloc were fully vaccinated against COVID-19, thus achieving the goal Brussels established at the beginning of this year. This milestone makes the European Union one of the most successful political entities in the world in terms of rolling out COVID-19 vaccines…..vaccination rates are well below the average in some member states, especially in Eastern Europe.”, Stratfor, September 6, 2021

Country & Regional Updates

Argentina

“Argentina 2021 economic growth forecast raised to 7.2% – central bank survey – inflation in 2021 is seen at 48.4%, 0.2 points percentage above last month’s estimate, according to 42 respondents to the Market Expectations Survey (REM) by the Argentine central bank on Aug. 27-31.  Latin America’s third-largest economy has suffered from high inflation for several years and has been in recession for three years. These economic woes deepened since the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic.”, Reuters, September 4, 2021

Australia

“Australians urged to plan ahead for Christmas shopping amid ‘dramatically bad’ global supply chain crisis. Covid shutdowns of major international ports are putting extreme pressure on retailers to fill orders and keep shelves stocked. The “dramatically bad” global supply chain situation in Asia could also see major Australian retailers dumping Black Friday sales as they are left with limited stock.”, The Guardian, September 4, 2021

“Jim’s Group gives free merchandise to fully vaccinated Australians – Iconic franchising company Jim’s Group has some special freebies lined up for all Australians who get themselves double vaccinated against Covid-19. Chief executive Jim Penman announced via the company’s TikTok account on Monday that the company would be distributing a one-of-a-kind shirt and bucket hat for fully vaccinated Aussies.”, New.au.com, September 7, 2021. Compliments of Jason Gehrke, Franchiseadvice.com.au

China

“China Stumbles –  China’s economy is in the midst of a mid-year stumble.  That was confirmed Wednesday when data showed retail sales growth slumped in August and both industrial output and investment also slowed. The big question: Is this a hiccup for an otherwise healthy economic recovery, or is the unrelenting regulatory crackdown taking a toll? The answer: It’s a bit of both.”, Bloomberg, September 15, 2021

“UBS: China’s consumer spending to grow by US$5.3 trillion in the next decade, driven by female consumers. A recent UBS report suggests that consumer spending in China is expected to grow by US$5.3 trillion in the next 10 years. As the income of women continues to increase, they will become the key driver of the consumption boom. UBS predicts that the jump in China’s household consumption in the next decade means that China will contribute about 27% of global consumption growth by 2030, compared with 19% for the US.”, Fung Business Intelligence, September 16, 2021

Eastern Europe

“The rise of eastern Europe is a forgotten economic success story – While the west focuses on political backsliding, manufacturing prowess is propelling the region forward. Today eastern Europe shares with east Asia the one proven key to long-term growth: manufacturing prowess. Because it can generate regular export income, which can be reinvested in new factories and roads, manufacturing can become a self-sustaining growth engine.”, The Wall Street Journal, September 13, 2021

India

“Foreign direct investment into India to stay robust – Deloitte survey – International investors remain confident of India’s short- and long-term growth prospects and are readying plans to make additional and new investments in the country, according to a survey of 1200 business leaders released by Deloitte. The survey conducted at the peak of the second wave of the pandemic showed 44% of the respondents across the United States, UK, Japan, and Singapore said they were planning additional or first-time investments in India.”, Reuters, September 14, 2021

Italy

“Italy’s economy could grow this year by more than 5.8% and post better than estimated deficit and debt ratios, Economy Minister Daniele Franco said on Sunday. Since April, the outlook has gradually improved and Italy’s parliamentary budget watchdog (UPB) said last month it expected the country’s economy to grow by 5.8% in 2021. ‘A strong recovery is underway and we cannot exclude that the GDP growth will be stronger than estimated by UPB,’ Franco said. ‘It is important that the recovery is quick, but the most important challenge is achieving a structural stronger growth.’”, Reuters, September 5, 2021

“Italy Braces for Pasta Inflation Amid Soaring Durum Wheat Prices – ‘Our family has been in this business for 110 years, but we have never experienced a situation like this’, Giuseppe Ferro, chief executive officer of La Molisana SpA, one of the country’s biggest pasta producers, said in an interview with Il Sole 24 Ore on Friday. According to Ferro, big pasta producers are already rushing to stock grain, which can be stored for up to two years. Still, he says, wheat semolina, which is essential for pasta making, cannot last longer than a month.”, Bloomberg, September 10, 2021

New Zealand

“Vaccinate, vaccinate, vaccinate – With more than 53,000 doses of the Pfizer vaccine administered on Saturday, 73.1 per cent of eligible Kiwis have now had at least one jab. In Auckland, 78 per cent of those eligible have had their first dose. Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield was the first to publicly voice a vaccination target of 90 per cent and NZME – publisher of the NZ Herald – has thrown the weight of its print and radio offerings behind this cause with The 90% Project.”, NZ Herald, September 19, 2021

Singapore

“As Singapore pauses reopening, experts suggest ‘bolder’ COVID-19 strategy –  Singapore is ramping up COVID-19 testing and has warned it would not rule out reimposing tighter curbs as infections rise – moves some experts see as too cautious for the vaccine frontrunner that is preparing to live with the virus as an endemic disease.”, Reuters, September 9, 2021

United Kingdom

“Appetite for eating out hits retail sales in August – Martin Beck, senior economic adviser to the EY Item Club, the forecasting body, said that the decline in retail sales was a sign that “spending patterns continue to normalise” after most restrictions were removed on July 19. People holidaying in Britain over the summer made the most of being able to eat out and spend their money on experiences again.”, The Sunday Times of London, September 18, 2021

“UK inflation posts record jump to hit 9-year peak in August – Britain’s inflation rate hit its highest in almost a decade last month after a record jump that was largely fuelled by a rebound in restaurant prices which were artificially pushed down a year ago by government subsidies.”, Reuters, September 15, 2021

“Two in five British businesses are struggling to find workers – Almost a third, 30 per cent, of hospitality businesses said that vacancies were proving more difficult to fill than normal. Official estimates suggest that about 100,000 EU citizens left the UK during the pandemic and the migrant workforce has not recovered to its pre-pandemic size. This has constrained the supply of labour, as has the absence of almost 2 million people who are still on furlough and high levels of economic inactivity among young people, who are disproportionately represented in hospitality jobs.”, The Times of London, September 13, 2021

“Factories remain optimistic despite supply disruptions – Supply chain issues continue to drive up input prices for Britain’s manufacturers but factories remain optimistic about their prospects and the outlook for jobs. The manufacturing purchasing managers index for August dipped to 60.3 from 60.4 in July, dropping to its lowest level in five months, but was well above the 50 mark that separates expansion from contraction.”, The London Sunday Times, September 1, 2021

United States

“(US) Retail Sales Rebound in August With 0.7% Gain – Consumers delivered an unexpected increase in sales despite the delta variant and supply-chain bottlenecks that have hurt auto production. The Commerce Department reported Thursday that retail sales rose 0.7% last month after a revised decline of 1.8% in July.   Sales rebounded even though purchases of motor vehicles fell 3.6% amid a global semiconductor shortage that has slowed production. Online retail sales surged 5.3% after tumbling 4.6% in July.”, CFO.com, September 16, 2021

“Sentiment Index Shows Record High (USA) Startup Intentions Within Six Months – Entrepreneurs who agree or strongly agree that “now is a good time to start a business” were 67.9% in August, up slightly from July, but down from the record level of 76.9% reached in June 2021. Nonetheless, a record 78.2% aspiring owners anticipate starting their businesses within six months. FranchiseInsights.com compiles monthly the Small Business Startup Sentiment Index™ (SSI) of individuals who have recently inquired about businesses for sale.”, Franchiseinsights.com, September 8, 2021

“Where Americans Live – Everyone gets a dot. You get a dot. And you get a dot. And you. – Each dot represents a person — 331,449,281 of them — and is randomly placed within their block. So you get a highly granular map of population density.”, Flowingdata.com, September 19, 2021

“SpaceX Launch of Inspiration4 Is a Giant Leap for Space Tourism – SpaceX successfully launched four civilians into space Wednesday evening in the first spaceflight staffed wholly by commercial astronauts—that is, not a government-backed crew—to orbit Earth.”, Barron’s, September 16, 2021

Vietnam

“Covid restrictions force some retailers to rethink Vietnam as a manufacturing hub – Prolonged shutdowns in Vietnam because of the coronavirus pandemic are becoming a bigger headache for retailers. The worries led Wall Street research firm BTIG to downgrade shares of Nike last week, citing serious production issues since the sneaker maker last reported earnings.”, CNBC, September 16, 2021

Brand News

“Baskin-Robbins Opens in Casablanca, Its First Restaurant in Morocco –  Baskin-Robbins has opened its first-ever restaurant in Morocco, in Casablanca City. Galadari Ice Cream Company, one of the brand’s largest franchisees, will own and operate the new restaurant, adding to their portfolio of nearly 1,000 Baskin-Robbins locations around the world.”, Franchising.com. September 17, 2021

“Costa Coffee dishes out 5% pay rise to 14,500 staff in return for pandemic hard work – The company also says it will hire a further 2,000 staff to cope with rising demand for coffee following the end of lockdown restrictions in July. The changes will not affect staff working at Costa’s 1,200 franchised coffee shops. The company also said it would hire a further 2,000 staff to cope with rising demand for coffee following the end of lockdown restrictions in July – and a raft of new locations that are slated to open in the coming months.”, Sky News, September 9, 2021

“Leading Mexican QSR+ Chain Leaps Forward with Advanced Consumer Focused Technology – Del Taco®, the nation’s second largest Mexican quick service restaurant, has introduced its new loyalty app, Del Yeah! Rewards, in partnership with Cheetah Digital. The new app will offer an engaging reward platform where guests can earn more free food, experiences and more and level up in the app’s new tiered system. The new Del Yeah! Rewards loyalty program features four tiers that unlock exciting offers, rewards and experiences, which increase along with usage of the app.”, Franchising.com, September 16, 2021

“Pizza Inn Inks Multi-Unit Franchise Agreement in Palestine – Pizza Inn has announced an international development agreement with Principal Partners Ziad Suwan and Ibrahim Sawan of Z.I.S. General Trading Company, who will open three new locations in Palestine. The first store is projected to open in the city of Ramallah/Nablus in March 2022.”, Franchising.com, September 18, 2021

Articles & Studies About Doing Business Going Forward

“Creating Healthy Boundaries Between Family And Business –  Whether directly or indirectly, a family has an impact on the business’ ability to be successful, profitable, and very importantly, scalable…..We get a lot of questions about how to create boundaries between family and business.  What we usually get asked first is if there is a way to create a separation between family and business.”, Franchising.com, September 2021

“The 20 Fastest Growing Jobs in the Next Decade – The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects there will be 11.9 million new jobs created from 2020 to 2030, an overall growth rate of 7.7%. However, some jobs have a growth rate that far exceeds this level. In this graphic, we use BLS data to show the fastest growing jobs—and fastest declining jobs—and how much they each pay.”, Visual Capitalist, September 13, 2021

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William (Bill) Edwards, CFE, is CEO and Global Advisor of Edwards Global Services (EGS). He has 4 decades 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.

Bill recently was published on Franchising.com in an article about how global franchise supply chain management is critical for international success. Read the full article here: https://bit.ly/3io0BuK

Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS) provides a complete International solution for companies Going Global. From initial global market research and country prioritization, to developing new international markets, providing in-country operations support and problem solving around the world. Our U.S. based executive team has experience living and working in many countries. Our Associate network on the ground overseas covers 40+ countries.  EGS has twice received the U.S. President’s Award for Export Excellence.

www.edwardsglobal.com

Download our latest 40 country ranking chart at this link:

July 2021 GlobalVue™ Country Ranking Chart

For global market research, operations and development support across 40 countries, contact Mr. Edwards at bedwards@edwardsglobal.com or +1 949 224 3896. 

https://calendly.com/geowizard/30min  Click here to schedule a call with Bill Edwards to discuss how to succeed in developing your company around the world.

EGS Biweekly Global Business Newsletter Issue 37, Monday, August 23, 2021

By William (Bill) Edwards, CFE, CEO of Edwards Global Services, Inc. (EGS)

Key Trends This Issue

By Mid-October, Emirates Airlines plans to be operating at 90% of the level pre-pandemic.  This issue starts a new section on supply chain. How to sell your products and services in China today. A few rembrances of a business trip to Kabul.

Words of Wisdom from Others

“You will either step forward into growth or you will step back into safety.”, Abraham Maslow

“Let go of what’s gone. Be grateful for what remains. Look forward to what’s coming.” Compliments of Pinterest.

“Your business is the body. Your brand is the soul.”, Ashley Chymiy

Highlights in issue #37:

• “Surging shipping prices and bottlenecks threaten global recovery

• This is what people think about trade and globalization

• Why US business expansion is powering ahead in China despite tensions

• You can sell in China – 5 ways – Selling in China, It’s an adventure

• “(U.S.) MENU PRICES MAKE THEIR BIGGEST MONTHLY JUMP SINCE 1981”

• Just 1 in 5 (U.S.) companies plans to work fully in person this fall

• U.S. small business optimism drops as labor shortages persist

• Brand News Section: Checker & Rally’s®, IHOP®, KFC®, Nando’s®, On The Border®, Papa John’s®, Pieology®, Pret a Manger®, Taco Bell®, Tim Horton’s, Wendy’s®

Our Mission and Information Sources

Please note: Article titles are live links depending on non-subscription availability.

Our biweekly global business update newsletter focuses on what is happening around the world that impacts new trends, health, consumer spending, business investment, economic development and travel. We daily monitor 30+ countries, 40+ international information sources and six business sectors to keep up with what is going on in this ever-changing environment. Our GlobalTeam™ on the ground in 27 countries 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, Remembrances of Kabul

In December 2012, I was asked by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to join other four international franchise executives for a 3 day trip into Afghanistan. The goal of our trip was to assess the potential to bring U.S. franchise businesses to the country to create much needed new infrastructure and many trained new jobs for the young, educated population.

In a Blomberg article after our trip, here is how I characterized what we found: “There’s a need for Western business. There’s a market, there’s consumers, there’s funding, there’s capital. But there’s all the other challenges, of course. Let’s not be too Pollyannaish. This is going to be a challenge, but it’s definitely an opportunity.”    https://bit.ly/EdwardsKabul

The many young people we met were very impressive. Half of them were women. Almost all had university degrees. All of them were entrepreneurs who wanted to stay in their country to build up their diverse society. The government officials we met from several provinces wanted to find a way to grow their country through structured businesses that offered a proven structure and training.

Over the past few weeks, I have often thought about those young men and women and the potential their country had.

Interesting Data and Studies

“Optimism about the global economy has moderated but remains the predominant sentiment among executives, according to the latest McKinsey Global Survey on economic conditions. 1 Seventy-one percent expect improvement in the next six months, down from 81 percent in June, breaking the streak of increasingly positive views that began at the start of 2021”, McKinsey, July 28, 2021

“This is what people think about trade and globalization – A recent Ipsos survey has measured support for globalization and trade in 25 countries around the world. A majority think that expanding trade is a good thing, but more also agreed than disagreed that more trade barriers were needed. The survey also showed that support for the benefits of globalization had fallen since 2019., “ World Economic Forum, August 19, 2021

“By 2025, the world’s population will reach over 8.1 billion people. Most of that population growth will be concentrated in cities across Africa and Asia. To help paint a detailed picture, this map uses data from the United Nations to rank the top 20 fastest growing cities in the world in terms of average annual growth rate from 2020 to 2025. The majority of the world’s fastest growing cities are located in Africa—in fact, 17 of the 20 are located on the continent, with four of the 20 cities being located in Nigeria specifically.”, United Nations / Visual Capitalist, August 13, 2021

Supply Chain and Blockchain

William Edwards’ comment: The world’s supply chain is moving away from ‘just in time’ shipping and inventory due to the pandemic among numerous innovations. Blockchain has the potential to streamline shipping as we come out of a time of disruption.  

“Surging shipping prices and bottlenecks threaten global recovery – The price of sending a container from China to the US west coast jumps tenfold.  The anguish of one UK freight company highlights the pain felt by exporters and importers as soaring shipping costs throw global supply chains into turmoil. As we report today, the price of moving a 40ft container from China to the US west coast has jumped to almost $16,000 — a tenfold increase on pre-pandemic levels and up by half on last month. The rise in costs and bottlenecks at ports — made worse by Covid-based closures of key Chinese facilities — have added to existing problems such as the global semiconductor shortage and rising prices of raw materials.”, The Financial Times, August 16, 2021

“What have we learned about supply-chain disaster-preparedness? When covid-19 hit in 2020, many businesses and their globally interconnected supply chains were underprepared. As the crisis exposed the fragility of such complex and interdependent systems, executives wondered how resilience could be improved against further shocks. As part of The Economist Events’ Global Trade Virtual Week, a panel of business leaders gathered in June 2021 to discuss disaster-preparedness in supply chains and what businesses fear could be next.”, The London ‘Economist” and Ernst & Young, June 28, 2021

“Real-World Supply Chain Resilience – The COVID-19 crisis has been a wake-up call for supply chain managers. For years, companies have focused on eliminating redundancy in sourcing to reduce fixed costs and promote efficiency. Greater efficiency, however, came at the expense of diminished flexibility and effectiveness—a tradeoff the pandemic-induced supply chain disruptions have made painfully clear. Now, leading companies are seeking to avoid that tradeoff, using innovative capabilities such as risk-focused analytics engines, simulation, and end-to-end transparency to design supply chains that are both cost effective and resilient.”, Boston Consulting Group

“Obsolete tech is clogging up global trade. Here’s how to unblock it – Outdated logistics systems are unable to keep up with increased demand for goods in the pandemic recovery. Both trade’s physical infrastructure and software systems are lagging behind. Digital technology can increase freight efficiency in a myriad of ways.”, World Economic Forum, August 9, 2021

“An Overview of Blockchain in Supply Chain: What’s the Link? Forward-thinking companies are now investigating blockchain as a technology that could potentially revolutionize supply chain as we know it.  Analysts predict that blockchain technology is capable of improving the contemporary supply chain structure by increasing supply chain trust, efficiency, and transparency.”, Foley & Lardner LLP, August 11, 2021

For supply chain issues related to China, see the China country section below.

Global, Regional & Local Travel Updates

“Heathrow records busiest month since before the pandemic as 1.5M travelers pass through airport – A bustling Heathrow is an encouraging sign that the travel recovery is taking shape, but the airport still has a ways to go. Consider this: Heathrow’s July numbers are still down 81 percent from the passenger traffic it experienced in July 2019. The airport is also back to using all four terminals again as Virgin Atlantic and Delta are back in their Terminal 3 space.”, The Points Guy, August 15, 2021

“Emirates ramps up flights from Dubai to 29 cities including UK and US – By mid-October, Emirates plans to restore capacity across 29 cities and be flying to more than 120 destinations worldwide. This will mean the airline is operating at nearly 90 per cent of its pre-pandemic network.”, The Nation’s News, August 11, 2021

“Qatar’s Hamad Airport Dethrones Singapore’s Changi to Be Named World’s Best, Survey Says. Qatar’s Hamad International Airport has been named the world’s best airport, snatching the crown from Singapore’s Changi Airport, which had held the top spot for eight years, according to the 2021 Skytrax World Airport Awards. Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport ranked highest among the Chinese mainland’s airports, jumping 16 spots from last year to 14th while also earning the title of the world’s most outstanding in the 35 million-to-45 million passenger category, according to Skytrax.”, Caixing Global, August 11, 2021

“Aeroméxico Launches Routes to Europe, South America – Aeroméxico announced its new route between the Monterrey, Mexico and Madrid, which will begin on Dec. 16 with three weekly frequencies…….Aeroméxico will also be launching non-stop flights to Madrid from its secondary hub in Guadalajara, Mexico beginning December 15. Aeromexico will fly its Boeing 787 Dreamliner jets three times weekly from Mexico’s second-largest city to the Spanish capital.”, Airline Geeks, August 19, 2021

“British Airways Doubles India Flights Amid Strong Demand – Starting this Monday, BA is flying 20 weekly flights from five cities: New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and Hyderabad. The Indian government has offered British carriers 34 weekly flights from India, with the remaining 14 going to Virgin Atlantic.”, Simple Flying, August 19, 2021

“U.S. Slashes Inbound Chinese Passenger Flights to 40% Capacity – U.S. aviation authorities have forced four Chinese carriers that fly to the country to slash their passenger capacity by 60%, after Beijing imposed a similar restriction on four United Airlines routes to China.”, Caixing Global, August 19, 2021

“Norwegian Cruise Line extends 100% vaccination requirement through year’s end – Norwegian is the only line that has committed to 100% vaccination of both passengers and crew for all sailings from the United States.”, The Points Guy, August 18, 2021

Global Vaccine Update

“When Will Your Country Recover from the Pandemic? This chart (below uses) data from the OECD anticipates when countries will economically recover from the global pandemic, based on getting back to pre-pandemic levels of GDP per capita….At the top, China and the U.S. are recovering at breakneck speed. In fact, recovering is the wrong word for China, as they reached pre-pandemic GDP per capita levels just after Q2’2020. On the other end, some countries are looking at years—not months—when it comes to their recovery date. Saudi Arabia isn’t expected to recover until after Q1’2024, and Argentina is estimated to have an even slower recovery, occurring only after Q2’2026.”, OECD / Visual Capitalist, August 17, 2021

“32.4% of the world population has received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, and 24.4% is fully vaccinated. 4.93 billion doses have been administered globally, and 34.25 million are now administered each day.  Only 1.4% of people in low-income countries have received at least one dose.”, Our World in Data, August 21, 2021

“In Covid-19 Vaccination Push, Latin American Nations Are Catching Up to the U.S. – There is less vaccine hesitancy in the region, which has been hit hard during the pandemic. The progress in Latin America is built on two factors that have gotten little attention: In many countries, people are eager to get vaccinated and largely trust vaccines, more so than in many richer countries, including the U.S. At the same time, vaccine supply problems are being slowly overcome. Far greater numbers of vaccines are now arriving from the U.S., U.K., Russia and China, allowing local health officials to pick up the pace.”, The Wall Street Journal, August 17, 2021

Country & Regional Updates

Australia

“‘What gets measured gets done’: Domino’s boss backs vaccination targets – (Australia)Domino’s Pizza boss Don Meij has backed the federal government’s vaccination targets and the path out of lockdowns as the pizza seller’s growth continues to soar off the back of the pandemic. Defying a downbeat retail market caused by continued COVID lockdowns, the pizza chain said its total sales for the 2021 financial year rose 14.6 per cent to $3.7 billion, with earnings jumping 30 per cent to $188 million. The results were largely in line with market expectations as Domino’s is seen as less affected by the pandemic than many of its retail peers, thanks to delivery and online being a core part of its business.”, The Brisbane Times, August 18, 2021. Compliments of Jason Gehrke, Founder, The Franchise Advisory Centre, Brisbane

Canada

“Canadian Government To Require All Airline Employees To Be Vaccinated – The government of Canada has announced that significant measures will be enacted from as early as the end of September requiring all federal employees to be vaccinated against Covid-19.”. Airline Geeks, August 15, 2021

China

“You can sell in China – 5 ways – Selling in China, It’s an adventure – Ten years ago, just showing up, a company at least had a chance to sell something in China. Now, however, China is far savvier, more competitive, and, in many ways, less predictable. So today, more than ever, selling in China comes with risk – But when chasing the world’s fastest-growing market, you cannot expect something for nothing. Instead, know that the potential benefits of selling in China can outweigh the risks, at least for many companies.”, Chris Wingo, Founder and CEO, China Sage Consultants, LinkedIn, August 11, 2021

“China-U.S. Container Shipping Rates Surge – Container shipping rates from China and Southeast Asia to the U.S. exceeded $20,000 per twenty-foot equivalent unit, according to state broadcaster CCTV, citing the global container freight index. The surge in shipping rates was driven by multiple factors including changes in the calculation method, increasing surcharge fees by major global shipping companies such as Maersk and Mediterranean Shipping, and expansion of China-U.S. trade.”, Caixing Global, August 14, 2021

“China Port Congestion Worsens at World’s Third-Busiest Container Terminal – The partial closure of the world’s third-busiest container port is worsening congestion at other major Chinese ports, as ships divert away from Ningbo amid uncertainty over how long virus control measures in the city will last. In nearby Shanghai and in Hong Kong, congestion is once again increasing after dropping due to the reopening of Yantian port in Shenzhen, which shut in May for a separate outbreak.”, Caixing Global, August 18, 2021

“Why US business expansion is powering ahead in China despite tensions – Major US financial institutions are expanding in China, despite strained US-China relations and Beijing’s tightened control over the economy. And, whatever their differences, both Washington and Beijing seem to welcome the expansion efforts.”. South China Morning Post, August 17, 2021. Compliments of Paul Jones, Jones & Co., Toronto

India

“With the second wave behind them, Indians are back to thinking about international travel – With several countries easing travel restrictions for Indians, people in the country are gearing up to fly. ‘Search inquiries for travel to international destinations have seen an average increase of 45-50% in the first week of August 2021 as compared to the same time last month,’ said Aloke Bajpai, co-founder and group CEO of Gurugram-based ixigo.”, Quartz India, August 19, 2021

Italy

“Japan – Japan’s economy rebounds in Q2, COVID clouds outlook – The world’s third-largest economy grew an annualised 1.3% in April-June after a revised 3.7% slump in the first quarter, preliminary gross domestic product (GDP) data showed on Monday, beating a median market forecast for a 0.7% gain.”, Reuters, August 15, 2021

South Korea

“South Korea to get more Moderna COVID shots in boost to vaccination effort – South Korea’s health ministry said on Sunday that Moderna Inc (MRNA.O) will supply the country with 7.01 million doses of coronavirus vaccines by the first week of September, following a government request to speed up delivery. As of Saturday midnight, 50.4% of the 52 million population have had at least one dose of vaccine, while just 22.5% have been fully vaccinated, government data showed.”, Reuters, August 22, 2021

Singapore

“With 70% of its population fully vaccinated, this country is starting to ease its COVID restrictions – Singapore today began easing some of its COVID rules, allowing dining in to resume and raising group sizes to five for those who’ve been fully vaccinated. Work from home rules are expected to ease next week. Singapore will also ‘very soon’ be able to offer vaccinations to short-term visa holders who have been living in Singapore, Health Minister Ong Ye Kung said in a Facebook post.”, Fortune, August 9, 2021

“Singapore Based Carriers Mandate Employee Vaccinations – Singapore Airlines, Scoot, & Jetstar Asia singing from the same vaccination songbook. “All Singapore-based Singapore Airlines frontline staff, including pilots and cabin crew, need to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by 1 September 2021,” Singapore Airlines spokesperson Karl Schubert told Simple Flying.”, Simple Flying, August 20, 2021

South Africa

“South Africans form long queues as COVID-19 jabs opened to all adults – South Africans formed queues hundreds of metres long to get their COVID-19 shots on Friday, after the government made vaccinations available to all adults in order to hasten a rollout beset by challenges and delays. About 8% of South Africa’s population of 60 million is fully vaccinated, and 14% have received one shot.”, Reuters, August 20, 2021

United Kingdom

“Businesses will get help from army of trade experts to seize post-Brexit opportunities in new deals – An army of international trade experts is being bolstered to help small businesses seize the post-Brexit opportunities offered by new trade deals. Fifty-four ‘export champions’ from across England will help businesses boom by looking to new markets, Liz Truss (U.K. Secretary of State for International Trade )said. (S)he wants to encourage more British firms to export – with just one in ten currently selling overseas.”, The London Daily Mail, August 16, 2021

“(U.K.) Inflation slows to 2% – The figures will be a boost to economists who claim rising inflation this year will be “transitory” and will pass as the impact of the Covid-19 crisis eases. However, it also emphasises how volatile the data could be. The Bank of England has warned that inflation could hit 4 per cent later this year, double its 2 per cent target.”, The Times of London, August 18, 2021

“UK employers have strongest hiring plans in over 8 years, survey shows – British employers plan to increase staff numbers by the most in more than eight years over the coming months and few intend to make staff redundant when government furlough support ends next month, a survey showed on Monday.”, Reuters, August 15, 2021

United States

“Restaurant sales rebound to pre-pandemic levels in June, with service setting apart top performers – While check growth is high, industry faces declining guest counts, according to Black Box Intelligence. Restaurants posted a fourth consecutive month of same-store sales growth, primarily fueled by unusually high check growth, and are performing much better than they were in 2019. But while sales are solid, the industry’s challenge is declining guest counts. Traffic results for June highlight the significant gap between current performance and full recovery.”, Nation’s Restaurant News, July 26, 2021

“(U.S.) MENU PRICES MAKE THEIR BIGGEST MONTHLY JUMP SINCE 1981 – Quick-service restaurants took the largest price hike of all segments, according to new data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Restaurants continue to raise prices at levels not seen in decades as operators face mounting pressures from labor, commodities and more. Restaurant menu prices rose 0.8% on a month-to-month basis in July—the largest monthly increase since February 1981, according to data released Wednesday by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.}, Restaurant Business, August 11, 2021

“Apple Delays Return to Work Until 2022 Due to Covid Spread – The tech giant was one of the first companies to delay its return to work, telling employees in July they won’t be asked to return until October, initially planning an early September return. Apple has now further pushed back the return, reportedly telling staff in a memo Thursday they won’t be required to return until 2022.  The company doesn’t expect to close offices or retail stores, the report added.”, Barron’s, August 20, 2021

“U.S. small business optimism drops as labor shortages persist – Small business owners across the United States grew less confident in the economic recovery in July as labor shortages remained an issue, according to a survey released on Tuesday. The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) Optimism Index fell 2.8 points to a reading of 99.7 in July, almost erasing all of June’s gain. Six of the 10 index components declined, three improved and one was left unchanged.”, Reuters, August 10, 2021

Brand News

“Checkers & Rally’s Attracting Franchisees, Experiencing Growth, and Maximizing Technology – Iconic burger brand Checkers & Rally’s is coming off a banner year and racing through the new one. The drive-thru chain known for its “craveable” food, famous fries, and exceptional value was virtually unaffected by the Covid-19 pandemic and, in fact, saw an uptick in business thanks to its drive-thru lanes, walk-up windows, and e-commerce capabilities.”. Franchising.com, August 11, 2021

“Boozy Brunch at IHOP May Finally Be in Your Future – The chain is testing mimosas and other alcoholic beverages at three locations. The International House of Pancakes recently announced that alcoholic beverages will now be a part of the chain’s menus nationwide. The libations are courtesy of IHOP’s new “Bubbles, Wine & Brews” menu, which is packed with several different types of drinks.”, Food Network, August 12, 2021

“KFC U.S. Expects To Achieve Net Growth This Year And It Will Do So With A More Diversified Portfolio Of Restaurants – KFC’s cylinders seem to be in overdrive. Consumers stuck at home have been gravitating toward its family-friendly buckets and heavy drive-thru portfolio, while the brand’s new native digital channels have created a major tailwind. On a two-year basis, versus that “normal” 2019, the chain’s sales increased 11% and 19% in the first and second quarter, respectively.”, Forbes, August 16, 2021

“Nando’s forced to close 50 (U.K.) restaurants due to supply chain disruptions – The maker of peri-peri chicken said that the UK’s supply chain was struggling to cope. The peri-peri chicken maker, which operates some 400 sites around the country, also said it would lend some of its staff to its suppliers to help “get things moving” again after its business was rocked by shortages.”, Sky News, August 17, 2021

“On The Border Signs 60-Unit Master Deal for South Korea – On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina has signed a 60-store master franchise agreement with JRW Inc., making the Korea-based franchisee its master franchisor across South Korea. JRW has 12 operating locations in South Korea and is expanding its brand presence with On The Border under a corporate franchise agreement to grow that number to 28 JRW-operated stores, in addition to the upcoming 60 sub-franchised locations.”, Franchising.com, August 22, 2021

“Papa John’s To Open 220+ New Restaurants in Latin America, Spain, Portugal, & the U.K. – Papa John’s International has announced an expanded partnership with its largest franchisee, Drake Food Service International (DFSI), to open more than 220 Papa John’s restaurants by 2025. The agreement encompasses more than 170 restaurants across Latin America, Spain, and Portugal, where DFSI already operates more than 280 locations.”, Franchising.com, August 19, 2021

“Pieology Enters the U.K. as Fast Casual Dining Returns – Tustin, California-based Pieology Pizzeria has opened its first location in the U.K. and is eyeing further expansion on the region. The new owners are Kim Nagpal and Gavin Sutharmasellan of Camyabco Ltd. ‘Pieology boasts a strong franchising team, a huge fan base, and a creative product for sale,’ said Sutharmasellan, who also cited the positive attractions of the brand’s personalized pizzas, salads, beverages, sides, and sweets.”, Franchising.com, August 2021

“Pret a Manger (U.K.) in post-pandemic plan to expand beyond big city centres  – Restaurant to open about 100 outlets and 100 franchises, as branches in regional towns ‘busier than ever’. Pret a Manger is plotting to expand outside London and other big city centres as large numbers of office workers continue to work from home, with plans to open 100 franchised shops, plus about 100 of its own outlets.”, The London Guardian, August 15, 2021

“Forget the double drive-thru. Meet the new Taco Bell Defy – With four drive-thru lanes, this new prototype promises to solve the bottleneck problem. Dubbed the Taco Bell Defy — because it will “defy norms and define the future” — the new design set to break ground in Brooklyn Park, Minn., later this month will be a 3,000-square-foot, two story restaurant with four drive-thru lanes. Three of those lanes will be dedicated to mobile or delivery order pickups, the company said.”, Nation’s Restaurant News, August 20, 2021

“Iconic Canadian coffee chain Tim Hortons’ China business set for U.S. SPAC debut – Tims China now boasts 200 outlets in ten Chinese cities including Beijing, Hangzhou and Chongqing…….Its backers…..hope to increase store count to 2,750 by 2026, making China the franchise’s largest market outside of Canada. To get there, says Tim Hortons China CEO Lu Yongchen, the chain plans to open a new store every 36 hours.”, Fortune, August 19, 2021

“Britain to get a greater taste of Wendy’s – The American fast-food chain, which opened the first of up to 400 burger restaurants in Britain this summer, has announced plans for 700 delivery kitchens across the UK, Canada and the United States by 2025.”, The Times of London, August 12, 2021

Articles & Studies About Doing Business Going Forward

“Just 1 in 5 (U.S.) companies plans to work fully in person this fall – The most popular office plan? A mix of options. About a third of the over 700 executives surveyed by PwC reported their companies are planning to have a mixed model that includes in person, fully remote, and a hybrid format with some days in the office and others remote.”, Fortune, August 20, 2021

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