Executive review (1/2005)

Axel Schmidt

The development and consequences of globalization are dominating economic debates and, with them, summit agendas, both economic and political. Our latest issue of executive review looks at what this means to business. Globalization does not just mean European companies moving into the rest of the world – the rest of the world is also moving into Europe. Our lead article, "Chinesen erobern westliche Märkte" ("China conquers the West"), shows what can happen to European companies when Chinese companies become more active in Europe.

In our interview, Manfred Grundke, Chairman of the Management Board of Bosch Rexroth AG, tells of his experience with internationalization strategies and how he sees impending trends. Sourcing from low-cost countries can save on costs, unless companies themselves have to fight against resistance from within. The article "Interne Widerstände minimieren" ("Minimizing internal resistance") shows what has to be done if such initiatives are to succeed.

"Der Schlüsselkunde ist Kaiser" ("The key customer is king") shows why companies should concentrate on their key customers, especially in stagnating markets, and provides tips on how to do this.

Please note that our Executive review is published in German only.

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