Executive review (2/2004)

Felix Hess / Christian Androschin

2004

Right now, Russia has one of the fastest growing economies in the world. A buoyant domestic market, a wealth of raw materials, a highly skilled, low-cost workforce and considerable scientific potential are just some of the reasons why investors from around the globe are waking up to what Russia has to offer. A word of caution, however: Tapping the Russian market is a game that has to be played by its own rules.

Our cover story, "Not a game of Russian roulette", looks at the specifics of the prospering Russian market and the key success factors for doing business there. In our interview, Wilfried Jakob, member of the management board of Schuler AG, explains how engineering companies can improve their earnings despite falling sales. He also reports on his experience with efficiency-boosting and restructuring projects.

"Revamping your global network" outlines various examples of how automotive suppliers can improve their presence in a large number of markets. "Ignore follow-up costs at your peril!" looks at how to sell high-quality plant and machinery at adequate prices, even against the odds.