China Bizz is an independent podcast dedicated to exploring opportunities and challenges for multinational companies in China.
We come to you from inside China and invite only experts and thought leaders with hands-on experience leading and advising MNCs in China.
My name is Jacob Johansen. I've lived and done business in China for 25 years. I am a strategy and business transformation consultant with PwC China, but China Bizz is my private project and opinions shared here, don't represent my employer.
If you have ideas or recommendations, find me on WeChat (15900761226) or connect with me on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobjohansen/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobjohansen/)
How can AI unlock new paths to growth for multinationals in China? How are Chinese retailers able to produce a thousand videos in the time it takes global brands to create just one? Why are 95% of corporate AI projects failing—and could “shadow AI” be the secret weapon of the 5% that succeed? Is it really true that investing in AI doesn’t have to be expensive? And most provocatively of all - why does one of my guests call AI the digital equivalent of a nuclear weapon?In this episode of ChinaBizz, Jacob Johansen engages with Etienne Charlier, Partner, 2DIY AI, and Ling Fan, Founder and CEO, Tezign, to explore the transformative potential of AI for multinationals operating in China. They discuss the current state of AI development, the competitive landscape between the US and China, and the various sectors where AI is being implemented effectively. The conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities for multinational companies in adopting AI technologies, emphasizing the importance of a growth mindset and the need for compliance in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. (http://landscape.Link)
Link (http://landscape.Link) to ink to the AI Master Course announcement mentioned by Etienne Charlier in the podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/etiennecharlier_ai-master-class-activity-7370061044498694144-5jzU (https://www.linkedin.com/posts/etiennecharlier_ai-master-class-activity-7370061044498694144-5jzU)
28 May 2025
Navigating people strategy in China
Mira Lioleva from Mercuri Urval discusses people strategy in China with host Jacob Johansen, exploring how multinational corporations attract and retain top talent in a rapidly evolving market in this interview.
11 May 2025
100 days of Trump vs MNCs in China
100 Days of Trump and MNCs in China Why is a fast reaction no longer the winning strategy in China’s new risk landscape? Is the US failing to accurately read the situation on ground in China? Why does Washington’s belief that China is on the verge of collapse risk backfiring? Why are Chinese consumers largely indifferent to escalating US tariffs? And is it now the right time for MNCs to raise their priorities directly with Chinese legislators?
Dive straight into the eye of the geopolitical storm: Trump’s second term – the first 100 days, and what they mean for multinationals operating in China. Turbulent, chaotic, disorienting? Yes. But also a brutal masterclass in leadership under uncertainty.
Guests: Anne-Sophie Zerlang Karlsen, Head of Operations in Asia Pacific for Maersk with her finger on the pulse of multinational operations across borders. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-sophie-zerlang-karlsen-a63b0b1/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-sophie-zerlang-karlsen-a63b0b1/))
Kenneth Jarrett, Senior Advisor with the Albright Stonebridge Group, a Washington DC-based consultancy and former U.S. career diplomat for 26 years, with multiple assignments in China. He also served as president of the American Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai for five years. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenneth-jarrett-58134911/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenneth-jarrett-58134911/))
Connect with me on weChat: 15800761558 or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobjohansen/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobjohansen/)
23 Apr 2025
The end of branding in China?
Does it spell the end of branding in China when Chinese consumers say they prefer functionality over pure emotional appeal, and 92% trust user-generated content over what brands say?
Listen in when two branding and advertising heavyweights, Jenny Chan and Stephen Drummond, guest on China Bizz in this episode.
For an extensive op-ed article on MNC branding in China, turn to my LinkedIn article:
And feel free to connect with me on WeChat: 158007612286
31 Mar 2025
Can MNCs still compete in China
- Are Chinese brands outpacing multinational giants?
- Has functionality overtaken brand prestige in China?
- Do MNCs genuinely understand the difference between a customer and a user—or is this blind spot costing them the market?
- Is tradition holding global brands back, or is sheer arrogance eroding their competitive edge?
- And here’s a bigger question—is the global auto industry on the verge of collapse?
Tune in to this episode of China Bizz with automotive expert and longtime China insider Bill Russo.
For a comprehensive article, "Are multinationals qualified to compete in China?" go here:
For ideas or comments, connect with me on WeChat: 15800761226
20 Mar 2025
H&M: Liberating fashion in China for the many
Why does H&M double down on China when other multinationals are playing wait-and-see? What's behind the bold bet on brick-and-mortar stores in the world's most digitally advanced market? And why can't numbers alone explain China?
Guest: Saed El-Achkar, President of H&M Group Greater China Retail
For a comprehensive article about fast fashion in China - check this link: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/fast-fashion-china-ultimate-test-global-retail-jacob-johansen-tuucc (https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/fast-fashion-china-ultimate-test-global-retail-jacob-johansen-tuucc)
For feedback - connect with me on WeChat (15800761226) or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobjohansen/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobjohansen/)
13 Mar 2025
Don’t underestimate or extrapolate China - with Joerg Wuttke
Few people know China like Joerg Wuttke. Former Chief Representitive of BASF and President of the EU Chamber with over 35 years of experience in the country.
His insights into China's business landscape are unmatched—and his opinions? Sharp as ever!
Wuttke emphasizes the importance of understanding the local market, the danger of over-localization, and the potential for China to serve as a global learning centre for businesses.
He also addresses the unpredictability of global relations and the necessity for MNCs to adapt to changing dynamics in the market.
Takeaways
Never underestimate China and do not extrapolate China.
China is a fitness centre for global business.
Localization is a must, not just in China but over-localisation leads to lost opportunities.
China has economic headwinds but still produces global champions.
Diversity drives innovation and new ideas.
Don't just be focused on China as an export market.
The best brains in engineering are in China.
You have to steady your supply chain.
Engage in associations to help your region develop.
Understand the culture you're working in.
2 Mar 2025
China’s Fitne$$ Boom
- Is China’s booming sports and wellness industry the next big opportunity for global brands?
- How do two multinationals tap into China’s $35 billion outdoor sports market?
- Can they survive the rise of local sportswear giants?
- And how do multinational brands resonate with Chinese consumers through localisation and community strategies?
Summary In this episode of China Bizz two leaders of multinational sports brands; Taylor Price, GM of Specialized and Robin Trebbe, former GM at InterSport and VP at Adidas explore the dynamic growth of the wellness industry in China, focusing on the evolving consumer behaviour, the importance of authentic community building in sports, and the strategies brands must adopt to succeed in this unique market.
Takeaways
· The wellness industry is booming in China, with a significant rise in health-conscious consumers.
· Building authentic communities in sports requires more than just organizing events; it demands ongoing engagement.
· Consumer behavior in China has evolved, with a growing interest in health and fitness activities.
· Brands must participate in communities rather than trying to own them to foster loyalty.
· The commercial success of sports brands in China reflects the booming market and increased consumer spending.
· Navigating brand strategies in China requires a deep understanding of local consumer preferences and behaviors.
· Physical retail spaces are evolving to provide experiences rather than just transactions.
· The premium market in China is thriving, with consumers willing to invest in high-quality products.
· Adapting products for the local market is crucial for international brands to succeed in China.
· Listening to consumers and gathering insights is essential for brands to remain relevant and competitive.
Links: China’s Fitness Boom Spells Opportunities for Multinational Brands:
WeChat: 15800761226 (Jacob Johansen)
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobjohansen/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobjohansen/)
Disclaimer: Jacob Johansen is a strategy consultant with PwC China and a board member of the Danish Chamber of Commerce in China. However, China Bizz is a personal, independent and non-profit imitative.
#ChinaSportsBoom #FitnessInChina #ChinaWellnessMarket #SportsBusinessChina #ChinaRetailTrends #MultinationalChinaStrategy #ChinaEcommerce #BrandLocalization #ChinaFitnessIndustry #CyclingInChina #WellnessEconomy #ChinaHealthTrends #SportswearMarket #OutdoorSportsChina #RetailInnovation #CommunityEngagement #ChinaBizzPodcast #HealthyChina2030 #ActiveLifestyleChina #MNCsInChina
18 Feb 2025
From Malls to Meeting Places - with Joyce Zhu, President of INGKA Centres China
Get ready to rethink retail. In this episode, Joyce Zhu, President, of INGKA Centres China and Jacob Johansen dive into the future of shopping in China, where traditional malls are making way for vibrant meeting places that blend lifestyle, community, and innovation. Discover how cutting-edge user experiences, curated tenant mixes, and a focus on emotional well-being are reshaping the retail game. Plus, they explore the surprising role of e-commerce in driving demand for spaces that spark real human connection. Tune in for a fresh take on how retail is becoming more than just shopping—it's about creating spaces where people live, connect, and thrive!"
Key takeaways
- China's retail landscape is rapidly evolving with new opportunities.
- Meeting places focus on user experience beyond shopping.
- Designing retail spaces requires understanding user needs.
- Tenant mix is crucial for attracting diverse visitors.
- Community engagement enhances the retail experience.
- E-commerce offers convenience but lacks emotional connection.
- Physical spaces are essential for human interaction.
- Long-term strategies are vital for retail success.
- Retailers must adapt to changing consumer behaviours.
- Creating a welcoming environment fosters repeat visits.
#Chinaretail #meeting places #e-commerce #userexperience #tenantmix #community #Chinamarkettrends #multinationalcompanies #MNC #MNCinchina #consumer behavior #Chinesecinsumers #INGKAcentres #Livat #LivatChina #JoyceZhu
13 Feb 2025
How DeepSeek changes the game for multinationals in China
Is DeepSeek friend or foe? Does DeepSeek really have the potential to impact the world as much as Covid? How will DeepSeek change the market for multinationals in China, and what about the compliance issues?
Welcome to China Bizz - an unscripted podcast dedicated to exploring opportunities and challenges for multinational companies in China.
We come to you from inside China and invite only experts and thought leaders with hands-on experience leading and advising MNCs in China.
In this episode: Mark Tanner—founder and CEO of China Skinny - a leading consumer insights and trend forecasting agency in Shanghai.
My name is Jacob Johansen. I've lived and done business in China for 25 years. I am a strategy and business transformation consultant with PwC China, but China Bizz is my private project and opinions shared here, don't represent my employer.
If you have ideas or recommendations, find me on WeChat (15900761226) or connect with me on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobjohansen/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobjohansen/)
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