ABSTRACTS | GROW EAST CONGRESS
Prof. Arnold Schuh - Vienna University of Economics & Busniess
Mag. Tobias Schediwy - GfK Austria Consumer Tracking
Doz.-FH Mag. Alf Netek - Kapsch AG
Abstract of the WU Vienna Presentation |
Prof. Arnold Schuh
18.11.2010 at 09:00 a.m. at the Wiener Konzerthaus
Central and Eastern Europe was the hardest hit region of the world by the recent financial crisis. Several years of increase in prosperity were erased. There are several lessons from this crisis. First, it is now clear that CEE is not a homogeneous region, the countries differ in their reform progress and economic development. Second, we have learned that there is really an inherent risk of doing business in emerging markets – therefore, risks have to be assessed and factored in as a premium. Third, the good news is that the investment model for CEE is still valid: market potential, skilled labour and vast resources are still there and at the same time costs have gone down. The general economic 2011-12 outlook is positive and companies in many industries turn optimistic again. Western consumer goods companies bet on innovation and on their strong brands. CEE companies thrive on their natural advantage, namely lower costs and a better understanding of local consumers. Business models targeting the price-sensitive segments (DIY markets, discounters) provide attractive services for the consumer at low costs. Continuing pressure on prices is also favouring internet-based solutions such as online advertising. Forward looking companies position themselves now for the coming future upswing.
Abstract of the GfK Austria Presentation |
Mag. Tobias Schediwy
18.11.2010 at 10:15 a.m. at the Wiener Konzerthaus
The recession has led to a 'forced rationalization' of consumer behavior in CEE. Spendings on consumer durables, on traveling and clothing have suffered dramatically, while FMCG categories have been less affected, also thanks to the shift from out-of-home to inhome consumption (homing effect). Even though macroeconomic figures have improved in most countries, consumer confidence has not really recovered yet. As a consequence, shopping and consumption patterns in 2010 are still highly influenced by the consumers´ fear of unemployment and the uncertainty regarding their financial future. Consumers are not ready to experiment and show a strong price orientation, supported by heavy promotion activities of retailers. Value for money products, private labels and discounters continue to benefit from the pessimistic market sentiment. However there are also clear signals that quality offers and premium products will be growing again substantially once consumer confidence is back to pre-crisis levels. The recession hasn´t changed the fundamentals of marketing, therefore the focus on brand value and USP as well as a deep understanding of consumer needs will remain the main success factors for brand manufacturers.
Abstract of the Kapsch AG Presentation |
Doz.-FH Mag. Alf Netek
18.11.2010 at 04:45 p.m. at the Wiener Konzerthaus
Interdependencies dominate our lives - as a person, as part of a social system, but also as a species in itself. Observation, understanding, insight, acceptance and true willingness to change are the key to a conscious interaction with interdependencies and a good basis for the success of people, enterprises, social groups and ultimately our species.
History and future, freedom and discipline, tolerance and consistency, value added and value enhancement, family enterprise and stock quotation, traditional values and modern dynamics, committed to the heritage and looking to the future, Austrian roots and global future … Interdependencies, which characterize our brand, our company and hence us. Ultimately, we are a result of interdependencies. And – following Aristotle’s words:
“The whole is more than the sum of its parts” – we are also an emergent phenomenon.
We call it: “The Kapsch Spirit.”
The Kapsch Group is synonymous with visionary and success-oriented thinking. For more than 100 years. What was in the past consumer devices, telecommunications systems, digital telephony, is today, for example, globally successful road traffic telematics solutions or forward-looking GSM-R communication for railway operators.
We know that only a consistent focus on crucial technological developments, on the needs and wants of our customers and being close to the main markets of the future ensure profitable growth. Therefore, we have been working in the Central & East European market for more than 20 years. And we are still consistently expanding our commitment.
Always one step ahead.
