205 episodes

Despite being the world’s most potent economic area, Asia can be one of the most challenging regions to navigate and manage well for foreign brands. However, plenty of positive stories exist and more are emerging every day as brands start to see success in engaging and deploying appropriate market growth strategies – with the help of specialists.

The Negotiation is an interview show that showcases those hard-to-find success stories and chats with the incredible leaders behind them, teasing out the nuances and digging into the details that can make market growth in APAC a winning proposition.

The Negotiation WPIC Marketing + Technologies

    • Business
    • 5.0 • 22 Ratings

Despite being the world’s most potent economic area, Asia can be one of the most challenging regions to navigate and manage well for foreign brands. However, plenty of positive stories exist and more are emerging every day as brands start to see success in engaging and deploying appropriate market growth strategies – with the help of specialists.

The Negotiation is an interview show that showcases those hard-to-find success stories and chats with the incredible leaders behind them, teasing out the nuances and digging into the details that can make market growth in APAC a winning proposition.

    Head of Global Marketplace ROW @ Coupang - Gerald Hoe | Navigating South Korea's E-commerce Boom

    Head of Global Marketplace ROW @ Coupang - Gerald Hoe | Navigating South Korea's E-commerce Boom

    In this episode of The Negotiation podcast, host Todd Embley welcomes Gerald Hoe, Head of Global Marketplace ROW at Coupang, one of South Korea's premier e-commerce platforms. 
     
    With its customer-centric and innovative approach, Coupang has cemented its position as a leader in the South Korean digital marketplace. Gerald provides a comprehensive overview of how Coupang has revolutionized the way Korean consumers shop online. He compares Coupang's robust ecosystem to other global internet giants, shedding light on its unique market position and the array of services that cater to a wide array of consumer needs.
     
    The conversation delves into the specifics of the Coupang online retail app, highlighting its distinctive features and the wide range of benefits for both consumers and merchants. Gerald discusses the success behind the platform's intuitive design, seamless user experience, and fast delivery systems that address the modern consumer's needs. 
     
    A significant focus is placed on the potential for international brands within the South Korean market, particularly given the country's success in exporting its own consumer brands. Gerald explores the growing appetite for overseas brands and outlines why Coupang is the ideal platform for international merchants looking to tap into this vibrant market.
     
    Moreover, Gerald provides a blueprint for foreign brands aiming to enter the South Korean e-commerce space, including strategic insights into livestreaming e-commerce's popularity and the hottest consumer sectors driving consumption in South Korea. The episode offers a deep dive into the cultural and lifestyle trends shaping consumer behavior, providing valuable guidance for brands looking to make their mark.
     
    Discussion Points:
    Overview of Coupang and its impact on South Korea's digital landscapeUnique features of the Coupang retail appThe market's appetite for importing international brandsThe advantages of becoming a merchant on CoupangStrategies for foreign brands entering the South Korean marketThe popularity and influence of live streaming e-commerce in South KoreaCurrent consumer sectors and lifestyle trends driving consumption

    • 21 min
    The APAC Playbook | Red Phoenix's Guide to Growing Western Sports Properties in APAC

    The APAC Playbook | Red Phoenix's Guide to Growing Western Sports Properties in APAC

    In this episode of The Negotiation podcast, host Todd Embley is joined by Leif Rogers and Gino Gordon of Red Phoenix Entertainment, a sports marketing agency facilitating the expansion of North American sports, athletes, and franchises into Asian markets. Leif, the Founder and CEO, alongside Gino, Chief Strategy Officer, share their unique insights and experiences in bridging sports cultures across continents.
     
    The conversation further explores the popularity of North American sports in China, with Leif providing an analysis of Chinese viewership trends, including interest in events like the Super Bowl and the particular appeal of various sports and athletes. Gino—who previously played professional American football in Japan—contrasts these insights by discussing the sports landscape in Japan, noting the differences and similarities with China. He also shares his perspective on the Shohei Ohtani phenomenon and its broader implications for sports marketing and athlete endorsements.
     
    Leif discusses the intricacies of international sports sponsorships, exemplified by the partnership between LingLong Tire and the Tampa Bay Lightning, delving into hockey's growing popularity in China. He reflects on the NHL's past engagement in China and offers strategic advice for future endeavours, emphasizing the potential missed opportunities and advocating for a more aggressive re-entry into the Chinese market.
     
    Together, Leif and Gino highlight notable campaigns and the commercial prospects surrounding the upcoming Summer Olympics. They conclude with a compelling argument for why Western sports entities and athletes should consider Asia as a fertile ground for growth, underlining the vast opportunities awaiting in this dynamic market.
     
    Discussion Points:
    The founding and mission of Red Phoenix EntertainmentGino's transition from professional football in Japan to sports marketingThe popularity of North American sports in China and the Super Bowl's receptionDifferences in the sports landscape between Japan and ChinaThe impact of Shohei Ohtani's move to the Dodgers and sports marketing dynamics in JapanThe partnership between LingLong Tire and the Tampa Bay Lightning and hockey's popularity in ChinaThe NHL's engagement strategy in China and potential future directionsNotable campaigns and the role of individual athletes in expanding into the Asian marketCommercial opportunities around the upcoming Summer OlympicsThe value proposition for sports entities and athletes eyeing expansion into Asia 

    • 1 hr 1 min
    Justin Downes - President @ Axis Leisure Management | The Booming Ski Industry In China

    Justin Downes - President @ Axis Leisure Management | The Booming Ski Industry In China

    Global skiing participation is on the decline—but in one crucial market, skiing is perhaps the hottest recreational pastime, with millions of people taking up the sport in the last few years. 
     
    That market is China. In this episode of The Negotiation, host Todd Embley welcomes back Justin Downes, who has led efforts to develop snow resorts across China over the last two decades. 
     
    As President of Axis Leisure Management, Justin has played a crucial role in growing China’s ski industry and developing the infrastructure for the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing. He is the pre-eminent expert on China’s ski industry.  
     
    Justin provides an overview of his work in the Chinese ski industry, detailing its development and operational challenges. He analyzes the current state of skiing in China, including participation rates and the number of skiing venues, which both rank among the highest in the world. He also looks at the average Chinese skier, including income levels, where they live, how often they ski, and the drivers behind broader participation.
     
    Reflecting on the 2022 Beijing Olympics, Downes shares insights on its impact on China's ski industry. He discusses the state of elite competitive skiing in China post-Olympics, the performance of Chinese athletes in international competitions, and the significance of China hosting the recent FIS Freestyle World Cup.
     
    The episode also explores developments in resort construction and the potential for China to emerge as an international skiing destination. Additionally, Downes assesses opportunities for ski equipment and winter apparel brands in the Chinese market.
     
    Listen to this episode for an in-depth discussion on the growth and future of skiing in China with industry expert Justin Downes.
     
    Discussion Points:
    Justin Downes' role in developing China's ski industryOverview of skiing in China, including participation and venue comparisons globallyThe 23-24 ski season's success in ChinaDemographics and characteristics of the average Chinese skierImpact of the 2022 Beijing Olympics on the ski industryThe state of elite competitive skiing in China and notable athletesThe FIS Freestyle World Cup in ChinaTrends in ski resort development and indoor skiing facilitiesChina's potential as a skiing destinationOpportunities for ski equipment and winter apparel brands in China

    • 44 min
    Mark Dreyer, Founder of China Sports Insider | Messi Drama in HK, F1 Is Back in Shanghai, Women's Tennis, the Skiing Boom, and All Things China Sports

    Mark Dreyer, Founder of China Sports Insider | Messi Drama in HK, F1 Is Back in Shanghai, Women's Tennis, the Skiing Boom, and All Things China Sports

    In our latest episode of The Negotiation podcast, we're excited to welcome back Mark Dreyer, a luminary in the world of sports in China. 
     
    With the Paris Olympics on the horizon, Mark gives us a sneak peek into the key stories and athletes poised to make headlines for China in the upcoming summer games, and whether China is expected to dominate the medal table. 
     
    Mark highlights the feel-good story of Zheng Qingwen and her remarkable performance at the Australian Open, as well as the rising popularity of F1 racing in China, evidenced by the anticipation surrounding the Shanghai F1 and the hype around homegrown talent Zhou Guanyu.
     
    Additionally, we touch upon the cultural phenomenon of Lionel Messi’s stardom in China and the recent drama surrounding him sitting out a friendly match in Hong Kong. Mark also provides insights into the current state of Chinese men's and women's football. 
     
    Finally, Mark highlights the noticeable upswing in recreational sports participation fueled by a growing focus on health and wellness, including the explosion in ski participation in the wake of the 2022 Beijing Olympics.
     
    Join host Todd Embley and guest Mark Dreyer for a comprehensive exploration of China's dynamic sports landscape in this must-listen episode of The Negotiation.
     
    Discussion Points:
    High-level takeaways from the 2022 Beijing Olympics and its impact on ChinaThe burgeoning ski scene in China, from elite competition success to recreational skiingInsights into China's performance and expectations for the Paris OlympicsThe inspiring journey of Zheng Qingwen at the Australian OpenThe growing popularity of F1 racing in China, spotlighting the Shanghai F1 eventMessi’s recent PR crisis around a Hong Kong-friendly matchThe current landscape of Chinese men's and women's footballThe rise in recreational sports participation among the Chinese populationNotable recreational sports gaining traction in China

    • 1 hr 1 min
    Crystal Tai - Senior Managing Editor @ Jing Daily | Canadian Brands Enjoying Success in China (and Why) & The Top Chinese Fashion Trends For 2024

    Crystal Tai - Senior Managing Editor @ Jing Daily | Canadian Brands Enjoying Success in China (and Why) & The Top Chinese Fashion Trends For 2024

    In this episode of The Negotiation podcast, we're excited to have Crystal Tai, Senior Managing Editor at Jing Daily, rejoin us for a deep dive into evolving fashion and lifestyle trends in China. 
     
    Jing Daily is the premier source for insights into China's digital consumption trends and luxury market, and Crystal brings her extensive expertise back to our listeners, offering a fresh perspective on what's currently shaping the market.
     
    Crystal brings us up to speed on the burgeoning popularity of Canadian athleisure and winterwear brands within China. She discusses the impressive traction gained by giants like Lululemon, Canada Goose, and Arc’teryx, alongside smaller players such as Rudsak and Nobis. Her recent analysis sheds light on how the changing lifestyles of Chinese consumers are driving demand in this space. She also explores whether functionality trumps fashion in this sector and what this burgeoning demand signifies for Canadian brands across other market segments.
     
    Moreover, Crystal provides an exclusive overview of five fashion trends poised to dominate 2024, offering valuable insights for brands aiming to connect with Chinese consumers. From the revival of “Chinese style” to trends like Asian Baby Girl, Kidulthood, Quiet Luxury, and the nostalgic return of Y2K fashion, she unpacks the cultural shifts and societal changes driving these trends. Each trend reflects a nuanced understanding of the evolving priorities among Chinese consumers, underscoring the importance for brands to stay ahead of the curve.
     
    Additionally, Crystal shares her latest findings on Chinese tourism and travel consumption trends. With over a year passed since the lifting of Covid restrictions, she paints a vivid picture of the current tourism market in China. Where are Chinese tourists heading, and what motivates their travel choices now? Crystal's reporting offers a comprehensive look at the post-pandemic recovery of the tourism sector and the new destinations capturing the imagination of Chinese travellers.
     
    Join host Todd Embley and Crystal Tai for this insightful conversation, exploring the intersection of culture, lifestyle, and consumer behaviour in China's dynamic market. 
     
    Whether you're a brand looking to navigate the complexities of the Chinese market or simply keen on understanding the latest trends, this episode promises a wealth of knowledge and intriguing discussions.
     
    Key Discussion Points
    ·      The increasing popularity of Canadian athleisure and winterwear brands in China
    ·      The impact of changing lifestyles on consumer preferences in China
    ·      The balance between functionality and fashion in the athleisure and winterwear market
    ·      The significance of Canadian brands in China and their influence across various sectors
    ·      An overview of Jing Daily as a premier source for luxury, retail, and lifestyle trends in China
    ·      The five fashion trends set to shape 2024 and their reflection on societal changes in China
    ·      The revival of the "new Chinese style" and its cultural implications
    ·      Insights into trends such as Asian Baby Girl, Kidulthood, Quiet Luxury, and Y2K fashion
    ·      The evolution of Chinese tourism and travel consumption post-Covid restrictions
    ·      Destination preferences among Chinese tourists and the motivations behind their travel choices

    • 35 min
    Filip Zieliński | China's EV, Education, & Start-up Landscapes

    Filip Zieliński | China's EV, Education, & Start-up Landscapes

    In this episode of The Negotiation, Todd sits down with Filip Zieliński, a seasoned entrepreneur and long-time China resident with a wealth of experience across various industries, including green energy, tech, F&B, retail, and education.

    The conversation starts with a deep dive into China’s booming green energy space. Filip has had a front-row seat to China’s EV revolution - shaking up the global auto industry - through his work for Green Cell, a leading green battery company. 
    Filip also shares details on his latest venture, which aims to help Chinese students gain admission to top global universities. He breaks down how China’s engagement with international education has changed in recent years with the disruptions of the pandemic and a more mature “consumer” of international education opportunities.

    Finally, we deep dive into China’s rapidly evolving startup ecosystem. Filip has an optimistic view of China’s start-up scene and highlights several sectors primed for significant growth, especially in biotech and hard tech. 

    Listeners will find much to learn from Filip's fascinating business journey in China.

    Topics Discussed and Key Points: 
    A glimpse into China's green energy and education sectors.The allure of Shenzhen and China's diverse local business environments.Green Cell and the electric vehicle revolution in China.Entrepreneurial challenges in China's education sector.Thriving industries in China, including biochemistry, pharmaceuticals, and battery production for electric vehicles.The evolution of retail technology in China.Global immigration through startup visas.The role of intensive preparatory services.Data-driven decision making in college applications.The power of networking in education.

    • 48 min

Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5
22 Ratings

22 Ratings

John Schumacher ,

On the ground China market analysis.

Great Show!

Steph Troughton ,

Good interviews great content

Great variety of interview guests with a breadth of experience. Hard to find this kind of content elsewhere. Edits are smooth and intro music is fire.

edtabakman ,

Interesting stuff

Todd does a great job hosting. Guests so far have been pretty insightful too!

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