A Deep Dive into Travel

T H E

M A G A Z I N E

F O R

A N G L O - F R E N C H

FRENCH CHAMBER OF GREAT BRITAIN  www.frenchchamber.co.uk

A DEEP DIVE INTO

TRAVEL ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:

Five minutes with Jean-Pierre Bertrand, CEO, Colas Rail UK; Insight and analysis with VisitBritain, easyJet, Expedia, Keolis, EU Smart Tourism and much more...

B U S I N E S S JULY / AUGUST 2018

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EDITORIAL

Estelle Brachlianoff President, French Chamber of Great Britain Senior Executive Vice President of Veolia UK & Ireland

I

n a world defined by mobility, travel is a pivotal factor in the future success of businesses, across a range of industries and sectors.

In the principal sectors of transportation and tourism, industry watchers are noting unprecedented

changes. In the context of globalisation, major trends in the industry include deregulation, consolidation, the continued rise of e-commerce and privatisation, with more questions being asked about performance and profitability.

Loyalty and brand recognition are increasingly important for consumers and businesses alike, with non-traditional marketing and communication strategies more dominant across the sector, both in terms of leisure and business travel.

There are major opportunities for companies to succeed with savvy digital offers and a finely tuned ear to the changing nature of their customers’ needs.

This edition of INFO will address some of the key issues that travel and transportation companies are

facing and, most importantly show how business leaders and disruptors are helping shape the travel sector of the future.

The twenty page Focus section is packed with comments from major industry players such as Keolis, Hyatt Hotels, Air France, easyJet and many others. It also features industry analysis by VisitBritain, KPMG, EU Smart Tourism and more.

As we enter the summer season, I am also pleased to report on our recent AGM, held once again in the offices of Reed Smith. Myself as President, and Stephen Burgin as Vice President are delighted to continue in our roles for another year. It is also particularly rewarding to have had the opportunity to reflect back on another very successful year of operation for the Chamber.

I wish to extend a thank you to the Chamber staff for their hard work, and for coming together to achieve success as a team under challenging circumstances. Looking ahead, the future of the Chamber continues to be a bright one.

In the meantime, I wish you a pleasant summer and hope you enjoy this issue of INFO. I

info

- july / august 2018 - 5

www.institut-francais.org.uk/projet-lumieres Caroline Drevait, Head of Development T + 44 (0)20 7073 1317

A DEEP DIVE INTO

TRAVEL 68

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CONTENTS

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8 INFO

T H E

M A G A Z I N E

F O R

A N G L O - F R E N C H

FRENCH CHAMBER OF GREAT BRITAIN www.frenchchamber.co.uk

45 48 49 50 51 52

Five minutes with...

Jean-Pierre Bertrand, Colas Rail UK Brexit: Analysis and Key Dates Business News Success Story: Blanc Reports and research

FOCUS | A DE E P DIVE INTO TR AVE L

24 Introduction 26 Infographic 28 Welcoming the World

Patricia Yates, VisitBritain 30 The Transportation Hub

Wendy Spinks, St Pancras Int 31 The Art of the Story

Arnaud de Saint-Expéry 32 The Brexit Effect

Will Hawkley, KPMG 34 Last Mile Connectivity

Alistair Gordon, Keolis 35 London Clubland

Andrew Richardson, Home House 36 Partenerships

Benedicte Duval, Air France-KLM 37 Influencer Marketing

Amanda Tran, JIN 38 Data in the Driver's Seat

Andreas Nau, Expedia 39 Innovation in the Air

Robert Carey, easyJet 40 Women in Aviation

Christine Ourmières-Widener, Flybe 41 Smart Tourism

European Commission 42 Personal Injury Abroad

Leane Shanks, Irwin Mitchell 43 What's Next

Culture: What's on Book reviews Le Crossing: Franco-British Festival L'Echo: Young Journalist Award Ladurée: A delicious history Wine Story by Thibault Lavergne

JULY / AUGUST 2018

CULTUR E AND LIFE S T YLE

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10 15 19 23

A DEEP DIVE INTO TRAVEL

BUSINE S S WOR LD

B U S I N E S S JULY / AUGUST 2018

A DEEP DIVE INTO

TRAVEL ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:

Five minutes with Jean-Pierre Bertrand, CEO, Colas Rail UK; Insight and analysis with Visit Britain, easyJet, Expedia, Keolis, EU Smart Tourism and much more...

AT THE CHAMBE R

54 55 56 58

Introduction by Stephen Burgin Chamber News Business Services: Vranken Pommery New Members

FORUMS & CLUBS

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HR Forum Business travellers in the UK Climate Change & Sustainability Forum Batteries in energy storage Finance Forum How to attract and retain talent Start-up & SME Club Working with corporates Digital Transformation & Innovation Forum The impact of social media on businesses Luxury Club Royal Academy of Arts Forthcoming Forums & Clubs

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The Entrepreneur's Journey Alexandre Mars, Bernadine Bröcker, Sasha Wilkins Retail Conference Report Past event highlights FPTA Seminar; Member 2 Member Cocktail; Baker & McKenzie Seminar; London Philharmonic; Dîner des Chefs Forthcoming events

CHAMBER EVENTS

Managing Director: Florence Gomez Editor: Jakob von Baeyer Cover & Graphic Design: Katherine Millet Sales Manager: Suzanne Lycett Editorial Intern: Alexandre Bouniol Contributors: Patricia Yates, Wendy Spinks, Arnaud de Saint-Expéry, Will Hawkley, Alistair Gordon, Andrew Richardson, Benedicte Duval, Amanda Tran, Andreas Nau, Robert Carey, Christine Ourmières-Widener, Leane Shanks, Thibault Lavergne, Stephen Burgin, Alexandre Bouniol, Suzanne Lycett

Advertise in INFO: Please call our sales team on +44 (0)207 092 6651.

Alternatively, please email: advertising@ccfgb.co.uk INFO is published every two months Printed by: CPI Colour Distribution: French Chamber members, Franco-British decision makers, Business Class lounges of Eurostar, Eurotunnel and Air France in London, Paris and Manchester

INFO is published by: French Chamber of Great Britain Lincoln House, 300 High Holborn London WC1V 7JH Tel: (020) 7092 6600 Fax: (020) 7092 6601 www.frenchchamber.co.uk

info

- july / august 2018 - 7

Five minutes with...

Jean-Pierre Bertrand CEO, Colas Rail UK

The rail boss talks to INFO about trends in the industry and the evolution of Colas Rail in the UK What does Colas Rail do in the UK? Our core business consists of the construction of rail infrastructure as well as the renewal of existing infrastructure

the Network Rail routes of Anglia, Kent and Sussex.

We see the alliance approach as a win-win approach, rather than strictly competition on the contractor’s side.

mainly for Network Rail. This includes everything from surveys and design to signalling, with core activities in track works. We

What are some of your other activities?

also have a division dedicated to freight – one of the few in the

In urban rail, I would highlight our work with the Midland

country – and some maintenance of the rolling stock.

Metro Alliance, where we are committed to deliver, along with

We are of course a subsidiary of a larger company based

our partners and sub-partners, a £1.3bn programme of tram

in France, the Colas Group, the world’s number one company

extensions across the West Midlands in the Birmingham area.

in road construction and maintenance. However we are a 100

The Alliance is now working with local business growth hubs,

percent UK oriented company, with a large employee base and

chambers of commerce and training academies in the area to

infrastructure based here, and we are focused on the railway

deliver a legacy of social and economic regeneration.

industry, further diversifying the group’s activities.

There is much more of course, but our main priorities are these programmes and approaches to doing business. We

What are your priorities for the business?

are also very proud of our safety record. We are absolutely

We believe that our leadership in the industry is linked to our

committed to safety throughout the business. Our record

attention to our customer’s needs. And in this respect, we are

includes a 60 percent improvement in our safety figures in the

dedicated to continuing to achieve success on this basis.

last 12 months, and more than 400 suppliers and client staff

Some of our current projects entail working collaboratively

being encouraged to report close calls on our sites.

with other parties, and we champion this kind of working approach. The S&C South Alliance, for example, involves a

How has the industry changed in your twenty year career?

partnership between Colas Rail, AECOM and Network Rail,

It is a very changing and dynamic industry, yet it is also

which delivers a complex programme to develop and maintain

heavily shaped by the land. Each project brings with it new

rail tracks as part of Network Rail’s track renewals programme.

and sometimes unique challenges and each often requires

The current 2014-19 funding period involves renewing more

specialist skills and experience.

than 7,000km of track and a £25bn investment programme to build a better railway for the country.

Other Alliances include the Wessex Capacity Alliance,

Apart from that, consolidation is and was a big trend – and we of course were part of that when Colas purchased SECORail in 2000, and SPIE rail in 2007. Colas Rail was formed

which is a collaboration between Colas Rail, Skanska, Mott

in 2008 with a merger of SCEO-Rail and SPIE Rail, who had

Macdonald, AECOM and Network Rail, delivering £400m

complementary activities. The merger brought together world-

of improvements for London Waterloo, the busiest railway

scale, high-end railway expertise through a single company.

station in the country. Also, we are in an alliance responsible for delivering the CP5 Plain Line track renewal framework for

8 - info - july / august 2018

In 2012, we acquired Pullman Rail, which brought more than 20 years of experience in technical expertise and

FIVE MINUTES WITH... JE AN - PIERRE BERTR AND

It is a very changing and dynamic industry, yet it is also heavily shaped by the land. Each project brings with it new and sometimes unique challenges and each often requires specialist skills and experience

quality workmanship. We work with them in our state-of-the-

renewable energy. But the electrification of railways will not

art facilities on the main rail line in Cardiff, from complete

be a simple task, and will require a huge amount complex

overhaul projects to repair and maintenance of boggies and

problem-solving to deliver the necessary power throughout

wheelsets. High-speed rail, light urban systems, high-output

the entire network of rolling stock and infrastructure, including

automated track maintenance and commercial rail freight are

track, signalling, etc.

all areas that have become increasingly important to the UK transport industry.

What does being a Patron member of the French Chamber mean for Colas Rail UK?

What has been the impact of new technology on the

As I mentioned, we are a hundred percent British oriented

industry?

company, but of course the Franco-British alliance is part of

The digitalisation of the railway is the biggest trend and one

our DNA. For us it is about being part of this community, which

that is ongoing. The idea of driverless trains will happen for

includes many of our partners in business, and many smaller

sure – it is only a matter of time. But the real revolution,

French companies setting up in the UK. Of course I am French,

which we have yet to see, will be in how we provide power

one of the few in my company in the UK, so here too there is a

to the rolling stock. There are all kinds of solutions based on

tie to the French community. I Interview by JVB

The idea of driverless trains will happen for sure – it is only a matter of time

COLAS GROUP

COLAS RAIL UK

• Global sites: 1,400

• UK market share: 20 percent

• Global staff: 55,000

• Locomotives owned/operated in UK: 55

• Countries: 50

• Tamper fleet: 32

• Turnover: €13bn

info

- july / august 2018 - 9

Analysis and look ahead INFO looks at the latest news on Brexit and its impact on the Franco-British community

T

he EU withdrawal Bill passed through the Houses of Lords

rulebook for all goods’ and a ‘combined customs territory.'

and Commons but saw rebellion from all sides of the British

Consensus was short-lived as Brexit Secretary, David Davis,

political aisles. The primary point of contention? An amendment

was the first to express dissatisfaction through his resignation,

granting Parliament the power to direct the final stages of the

replaced by leave campaigner, Dominic Raab. Foreign Secretary,

exit talks. Theresa May says: ‘I can’t countenance parliament

Boris Johnson followed suit, sparking speculation of a leadership

being able to overturn the will of the people.’

challenge. What was ‘embarrassing’ is now ‘potentially a full-

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn encouraged abstention in the

blown crisis’ for May, says the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg.

vote to remain in the European Economic Area (a Norwegian

While internal political conflicts abound in the UK, France’s

style relationship with the EU). Eighty-nine of his members

charm offensive as an alternative investment location has paid

defied him, with 75 voting for this soft Brexit option and 15

off. A recent EY report found that France is now seen as the 2nd

against the winning option. Scottish National Party members

most attractive place to invest for companies, above the UK.

staged a walk-out of Prime Minister’s Questions, demonstrating

Now past the two year anniversary of the Brexit vote, the

their displeasure at the speedy debate over the devolution

UK economy is 1.2 percent smaller in the first quarter of this

issues linked with Brexit.

year. As French Justice Minister Nicole Belloubet said at a recent

On to Chequers for a Cabinet meeting. Agreements were reached to maintain a ‘UK-EU free trade area’ with a ‘common

conference in London: ‘Things will no longer be the same after Brexit.’ I Suzanne Lycett

Key dates EU Summit

Conservative Party conference

Final EU summit of 2018

(October, 2018)

(September-October, 2018)

(December, 2018)

Negotiation deadline for withdrawal bill

The annual gathering of the Tory faithful

European Parliament is scheduled to

was set to ensure time for all to ratify

is the last before Britain is scheduled to

vote on final agreement.

the deal.

leave the EU.

If we do not have a customs union, there are sectors of manufacturing society in the UK which risk becoming extinct PAUL DRESCHLER, Outgoing President of the CBI, on potential future trade tariffs and regulations, 13 June

10 - info - july / august 2018

The United Kingdom decided to leave the Union.

We respect this democratic decision and we will implement it. The United Kingdom must assume the consequences MICHEL BARNIER, European Chief Negotiator, on the potential loss of EU benefits for the UK, 8 June

Sponsored by

The impact of Brexit on HR & Education The latest Brexit Forum was a joint session with our HR Forum, focusing on the impact of Brexit on HR and Education

T

he French Chamber was pleased to welcome Sarah Hancock,

lists, they are not permitted entry.

The second potential area of impact

unquestionably suffer’. Pointing to a recent study that shows that thirty-nine

Head of Employee Relations at EDF

is the movement of talents within the

percent of EU students say they are

Energy, Simon Mercado, Dean at ESCP

group on an international scale. ‘The

less likely to study in the UK as a result

Europe Business School (London) and

movement of people is critical for

of Brexit, he remarked that the effects

Kady Doumbia, Founder & Managing

reasons of career development, skills,

are already apparent. There is reason to

Director of King Stage. Pia Dekkers, HR

enhancement and access to the best

be optimistic: countries outside of the

Director at Chanel, Angela Hepworth,

talent to have access to a wide pool of

EU member group have found ways to

Corporate Policy and Regulations

skilled workers’ said Hancock. If Brexit

‘buy in’ to Erasmus+ and Horizon 2020.

Director at EDF Energy and Melanie

raises barriers in that way, it will be

Unless relations are seriously disrupted,

Stancliffe, Joint Head of French Group-

detrimental to the UK's image as an

we can largely anticipate such an

Employment & Partner at Irwin Mitchell

attractive place to build a career.

outcome.

LLP co-chaired the session.

The education sector

Green shoots?

International workforce

EU and UK universities are deeply

Kady Doumbia outlined certain

The session heard that the UK

connected thanks to joint programmes,

opportunities that Brexit could generate

immigration system is expected to

Erasmus+ (promoting student mobility),

for education and UK firms. She argued

change after Brexit, however the exact

and research collaborations. HEIs in

that the education system should adapt

nature is not precisely known as there

the UK are also heavily populated by

itself to teach relevant skills for the

remains a level of uncertainty about the

EU nationals working in professional

new economy and maintain the great

final agreement.

services and as members of faculty.

reputation of its universities.

The first potential area of concern

In fact 14 percent of all academics in

‘Universities in the UK are very

is jobs with significant proportions of

UKHE are EU nationals from outside of

influential’ said Doumbia. ‘They should

non-British nationals. In the case of

the UK. Brexit threatens the intensity

do more lobbying and discussion with

EDF Energy, Sarah Hancock stated

and security of these links especially

government to see how they can tackle

that the company needs ‘specific

if a hard brexit scenario emerges.

Brexit and push the government to act

skills’ to complete highly complex

Such an outcome may also threaten

with them.’

projects already underway, such as the

the income received by UK HEIs as EU

The aim is to train UK students

construction of Hinkley Point C [nuclear

nationals pay for their undergraduate

to fill the gap with apprenticeships,

power plant].

and postgraduate studies at institutions

specialisation skills, and niche skill areas.

increasingly popular with European

From the point of view of business, firms

restricted, there is currently no route

students.

should focus on projects in Fin-Tech

for ‘semi-skilled’ workers, such as

Professor Mercado remarked that

and investments to support key sectors

construction workers, to enter the UK

‘remaining in these programmes is a

which currently generate business

under the existing points-based system.

key issue for UKHEIs and without a

opportunities and jobs. I

If they are not on occupation shortage

solid basis for participation, we will

If freedom of movement is

The movement of people is critical for reasons of career development, skills, enhancement and access to the best talent to have access to a wide pool of skilled workers info

- july / august 2018 - 11

Britain’s reputation, Brexit and Europe Dr Stuart Thomson, Head of Public Affairs, Government and Infrastructure at the law firm Bircham Dyson Bell, explores Britain's post-Brexit standing

T

he UK’s exit from the European Union continues to

on securing trade deals around the world and seeking out

divide opinion and cause disruptions. Often depending

opportunities for British businesses abroad. The flip side is

on your view of Brexit, the UK either stands on the verge of

that all parts of the UK remain open for investment as well.

a bright new trading future or will suffer economically as we

The expectation of trade is that it is a two-way process. Britain

potentially alienate our largest market. But there is one simple,

cannot simply look to sell into countries if it is not open to

inescapable truth. Europe will still matter.

trade and investment itself.

Whilst some discussions focus on the worth of the UK’s

At the moment, the UK is placing a huge amount of

soft power, especially in an era of heightened international

emphasis on defence and security issues. It needs to

tensions, what is often ignored is that this also depends on

demonstrate that these transcend domestic politics, especially

reputation. Just as in any other walk of life, reputation matters.

in an age of heightened awareness of terrorism. They show

A strong reputation offers the potential benefits of trade deals,

that the UK is part of the international community, despite

open markets, enhanced trading relations and reciprocal

Brexit.

agreements. A poor reputation will lead to isolation just as it does for businesses and leaders who fail to consider the

The future Europe

implications of what they say and do.

Whilst much of the initial emphasis has been placed on securing trade deals around the world, the UK needs to

Reputation

remember that it still needs constructive relations with

What makes a reputation varies between countries and

Member States, especially France. This also applies to UK

companies. It could, for instance, relate to the quality of a

businesses.

product, how employees are treated, the responsiveness to a

Frankly, France and Germany, amongst others, have

crisis, or engagement with stakeholders. These expectations

suffered at the hands of the English tabloid press, so there is a

can be set by law, the behaviour of others, past performance

lot of ground to be made up.

and promises of future action.

Reputations can be complicated things to pin down so

Depending on the final nature of the Brexit deal, there may be areas of legislation and regulation that the UK has

companies, in particular, invest a huge amount in building,

to continue to adhere to. In which case, these new rules will

managing and protecting reputations. They take years to build

be decided and implemented by the member states and

and minutes, or even seconds in a social media age, to damage

European institutions without formal UK input. It will be up

or destroy. Once damage is inflicted then it can be a steep

to UK businesses to engage and lobby Brussels and member

challenge to rebuild again. In shorthand form, reputations can

states, if they are to have any sway. Engagement, in this

be summed up as ‘people’s opinions based on behaviour.’

scenario, just got a lot more complicated and a lot more

Britain is now facing a reputation challenge. In a post-

important. There is no guarantee that the UK government, or

Brexit era, it has to decide what its reputation looks like. There

civil servants, will have either the inclination or the resources to

is little doubt that its reputation has been damaged in the eyes

undertake such detailed engagement. For many UK businesses

of many. It has changed from being an outward-facing, driving

their international alliances and trade body memberships will

force in the creation of the Single Market, to a place which, for

become a more important part of their operations.

a long while, failed to reassure EU citizens about their rights once it leaves the EU. Much of the work being undertaken by Liam Fox MP, as Secretary of State for International Trade, may be focused

For UK-based business there is also the potential issue of having to comply with two different sets of regulations (domestic vs EU). They may have to choose to adopt the highest standards or to not sell into markets with higher

A strong reputation offers the potential benefits of trade deals, open markets, enhanced trading relations and reciprocal agreements 12 - info - july / august 2018

regulatory requirements. The later approach is more complicated, risky and costly.

Difficult decisions remain for the UK, as we approach the final stage of Brexit negotiations. Whatever the outcome of the deal there are potential strains on the future relations with Europe and its member states. It should not be forgotten, the EU will retain the power to act in unison. The UK’s relationship with the EU will not just be about the Brexit deal but about change and evolution over time.

Brussels will not disappear at the end of negotiations. That means many organisations will need to consider the shape of their engagement with Brussels post-exit. The tactics around how to make that engagement as effective as possible may involve considering the shape of dialogue with UK Ministers during negotiations. Engagement now could prove beneficial in the longer term.

If the UK follows the US example, its economic model will mean lower regulations. It is difficult to see where this agenda fits the future European model. For example, the recent US

not just part of the negotiations or ‘mood music.’ It is at the heart of the UK’s reputation. If the UK fails to respect citizens and their rights then this will cast a dark shadow.

The UK also has to address challenges such as the

example of the Environmental Protection Agency reducing

affordability of living in London and the South East. It remains

emission standards for cars and trucks is an anathema to the

the case that transport connections between London and

EU.

major European cities is often better than between London and many UK cities. Cities across the North of England have

Competition

very poor connections and whilst these are being addressed,

Many in the UK appear unwilling to accept that European

the timescales involved mean that European cities have a

companies may try to take commercial advantage of the

chance to entice businesses.

situation.

It may be financial services that are grabbing the headlines

The future

with the likes of Paris offering itself as a head office alternative

There is always speculation in the media that the UK

to London, but competition takes many forms. According

Government is not dealing with issues related to Brexit. They

to reports, many companies that submitted evidence to the

may not be conducting negotiations through the media but

Government’s consultation on future immigration, run by the

work is taking place. Government departments have been

Migration Advisory Committee, expressed fears about the lack

busy recruiting large Brexit policy teams.

of available workers for their operations in the UK. Add to this the more intractable challenge of what

The emphasis is on what the UK and its businesses can do differently and better after Brexit. The Government is listening

makes a city ‘liveable.’ There are lots of aspects that go into

to the views of those bringing business and investment into

making a modern, thriving city. The UK has a stable legal and

the UK as well. So business from home and abroad need to

political system, but so do many other countries. The English

engage now and make their views known.

language undoubtedly helps for international business, but will

The Government does want to engage with businesses. If

foreigners come to a country where they are not made to feel

it gets the Brexit deal and future relationships right, the UK’s

welcome? The issues of the status of EU citizens post-Brexit

reputation will be strengthened, and that can only be a good

(and more recently how we treat the Windrush generation) is

thing. I

info

- july / august 2018 - 13

NEWS

A ND

A N A LY S I S

Thales supports rollout of UK digital railway Thales wins the fitment and supply of European Train Control System (ETCS) onboard units for Class 43 high-speed train retrofit. Implementation will benefit passengers and freight operators by delivering additional capacity, improving performance, enhancing safety and reducing the costs of operating the national railway.

The new Thales onboard system will be integrated as part of the Digital Railway train control system, and will enable rolling stock to operate on ETCS-equipped infrastructure.

The onboard equipment is an evolution of Thales’s level 1 ETCS system that has been successfully deployed worldwide. I

Flybe engineers retain first place in fuel tank award

Pinsent Masons tops UK law firm ranking

A six-strong team of talented engineers employed by Flybe,

International law firm Pinsent Masons is named the UK's

Europe’s largest regional airline, retained a top award won

leading legal brand in an influential survey of senior in-house

last year, and placed third overall in the International Team

counsel.The 2018 Acritas UK Law Firm Brand Index is based

category out of the largest ever field taking part in the annual

on the opinions of over 485 senior in-house lawyers across

2018 Aviation Maintenance Competition. The prestigious

the UK and beyond, in organisations with revenues of $50m

event is regarded as the ‘MRO Olympics’ (Maintenance,

or more. It asks them to evaluate firms across a range of

Repair and Overhaul), incorporating both practical and

factors including brand awareness and favourability. I

theoretical tasks set to test skill and highlight technical prowess in aviation maintenance. I

Ladurée opens Saint Pancras station shop

Ardian sells its stake in Serma Group

Ladurée is pleased to announce the

Ardian, a world-leading private

official opening of its Ladurée store

investment house, announces on

at London St Pancras international

2nd May, the signing of an agreement

train station in June 2018. In addition

for the sale of its stake in Serma

to Ladurée's iconic macarons, the

Group to an holding controlled by the

shop will offer artisanal pastries, mini

management and Chequers Capital.

viennoiseries, candles, tote bags,

Serma is one of France’s leading

keyrings and ice cream collections

providers of specialist consultancy

made up of many delicious flavours. I

and expertise services for embedded electronic technologies and systems. I

info

- july / august 2018 - 15

BUSINE S S WOR LD – NE WS AND ANALYSI S

easyJet continues its decarbonisation strategy

Veolia introduces food waste collection services for J D Wetherspoon

easyJet, Europe’s leading airline, is today showcasing

To help the J D Wetherspoon pub chain reach their 100%

the Airbus A320neo at Glasgow Airport. The neo brings

diversion target, Veolia has implemented the food and coffee

significant environmental and operational benefits – up to

ground recycling scheme that will result in approximately

15 percent savings in fuel burn and CO2 emissions, and a

11,500 tonnes of food waste avoiding landfill. It will also

reduced noise footprint of 50 percent on take-off and landing

provide 3,4501 MWh of renewable energy each year -

phase. Crucially, this means the quieter aircraft minimises its

enough keep 1,641 beer fridges cool or power 35,937 lights

noise impact on local communities.

running for 24 hours a day all year round. This contributes

Since 2000 easyJet has reduced its carbon emissions per passenger, per kilometre by over 32 percent. Its current

to the UK’s renewable energy targets, while reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. I

target is a 10 percent reduction from its financial year 2016 performance by 2022, which would be a 38 percent improvement from 2000. I

EDF Group acquires offshore wind project in Scotland

The EDF Group, via EDF Renewables in the United Kingdom, a joint subsidiary of EDF Energy and EDF Energies Nouvelles, has bought the Neart na Gaoithe wind farm project from global wind and solar developer Mainstream Renewable Power, following a competitive bidding process. The wind farm will generate up to 450 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy, which is equivalent to the annual electricity provision of around 375,000 homes. It is a fully consented offshore wind project which is located in the Firth of Forth off the east coast of Scotland.

Moore Stephens supports the VR Awards 2018

Moore Stephens is delighted to be sponsoring the ‘Innovative VR company of the Year’ category at the second annual VR Awards 2018. The prestigious awards, being held in London on 16 October 2018, celebrate the contribution made by immersive technology businesses and champions the projects that are furthering the adoption of VR within industry.

SPIE wins Pirbright Institute contract

SPIE has been awarded a contract with The Pirbright Institute, a world leading centre of excellence in research and surveillance of virus diseases of farm animals and viruses that spread from animals to humans. The work, which is valued at circa £2 million, entails the design, installation and commissioning of the internal fit out of a new Specific Pathogen Free (SPF) laboratory.

16 - info - july / august 2018

Air France-KLM strengthens trans-Atlantic partnership

Air France-KLM, Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic Limited have today signed definitive agreements paving the way forward for their expanded trans-Atlantic joint venture. The Joint Venture Agreement sets out the governance as well as the commercial and operational terms of the expanded trans-Atlantic Joint Venture.

Upon completion, Air France-KLM will acquire a 31 per cent stake in Virgin Atlantic currently held by Virgin Group for £220 million.

Virgin Group will retain a 20 per cent stake and Chairmanship of Virgin Atlantic. Delta will retain its 49 per cent stake. I

ENGIE shows transformation of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

ENGIE is continuing its new communications programme, #ENGIEHarmonyProject, launched on 27 April, with the airing of a third advertising film entitled ‘ENGIE x Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.’

Shot in the United Kingdom with ENGIE teams and its partner The London Legacy Development Corporation, the Group’s latest advertisement tells the story of the challenge to transform the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, in London, initially built for 2012 Games, into an eco-responsible and sustainable metropolitan area. I

Capgemini wins 'program of the year'

Capgemini has received the 'Program of the Year' award at Skillsoft’s Perspectives Innovation Awards held in Las Vegas, USA. Capgemini was recognized for its Outstanding Women in Leadership program, demonstrating the strength of the Capgemini University’s innovative learning programs and its commitment to further developing the capabilities of its female leaders. I

Moore Stephens wins tax investigation award

Moore Stephens has won the award for Best Tax Investigation Team at the prestigious Tolley’s Taxation Awards 2018. The win is a remarkable success given the specialist team was only launched in 2013. Since then it has establishing itself as a leading force in a competitive market. The team now offers clients a wide range of services, including help with tax investigations, tax disclosures, tax dispute resolution and consultancy.

JCDecaux awards open data challenge to transit start-up

JCDecaux awarded startup Nextérité, a collaborative platform providing real-time information on transit conditions, as winner of its ‘Open Data for new urban services’ challenge, launched on 6th March. Five finalists had the opportunity to pitch their solutions on stage at VivaTech before the jury of data and smart-city experts chose Nextérité for the inventiveness of its solution and the ambition of its team to transform cities into more connected spaces.

Airbus and Dassault team up for new fighter jet

Airbus and Dassault Aviation have signed an initial agreement to cooperate on Europe’s Future Air Combat System (FCAS) even though the two are rivals and have not yet said which one of them would lead the project.

Airbus builds the Eurofighter, while Dassault has the Rafale jet. The new fighter jet project, as part of the FCAS, will eventually replace the current generation of Eurofighter and Rafale fighter aircraft by around 2035-2040. info

- july / august 2018 - 17

AXA unveils new forklift safety initiative

Edenred launches employee recognition tech

AXA and partner VUE are offering video and telematics

Employee benefits and motivation experts, Edenred,

technology that allows companies to monitor forklifts and

are releasing new employee recognition SaaS technology

driver behaviour much more closely. ‘Our work as an insurer

designed to enable increased motivation, better

goes much further than selling products and paying claims.

performance, alignment to company values and a stronger

Our aim is to make sure our policyholders minimise their

employee value proposition. ‘Connect’ empowers employers

risks and, more importantly, stay safe. Forklift truck accidents

to improve the effectiveness of their existing recognition

can result in life changing injuries for employees and have a

programmes and help those looking to use recognition to

lasting impact on their families,’ says Douglas Barnett, Head

support their wider people and strategic goals. I

of Mid-Market and Customer Risk Management. I

BNP Paribas named best CSR banking group

BNP Paribas has been named ‘Best Corporate Social Responsibility Banking Group Europe 2017’ by Global Banking & Finance Review. The award is in recognition for BNP Paribas efforts in engaging with clients, employees, the community and wider society on key sustainability topics including climate change and corporate engagement.

Richemont acquires watchfinder.co.uk

Richemont, the Swiss luxury goods group, is pleased to announce that it has reached agreement to acquire 100 percent of the share capital of Watchfinder.co.uk Limited, the leading pre-owned premium watch specialist, in a private transaction with its shareholders.

Keolis secures contract for Welsh railway network

Transport for Wales, the organising authority for mobility in Wales, entrusted KeolisAmey – a joint venture created

by Keolis and the British infrastructure management specialist Amey – with the operation, maintenance and renovation of the Wales and Borders railway network (32.3m annual journeys – 247 stations). The 15-year contract will generate a cumulative turnover of 6bn euros.

AccorHotels acquires leader in management solutions

AccorHotels announces the acquisition of Adoria, the SaaS platform that enables the catering industry to optimize supply management. This modular suite guarantees that all stakeholders in the catering chain provide a quality service, from producer through to consumer, and ensures their profitability.

18 - info - july / august 2018

SUCCE S S S TORY – BUSINE S S WOR LD

A cleaner clean A fast-growing West London dry cleaner is leading the charge for a more eco-friendly way to wash clothes

L

udovic Blanc is revolutionising dry

quickly from a single shop in Marlybone,

cleaning in London. His company,

to three West London shop fronts, a

Blanc, offers an eco-friendly alternative

warehouse where clothes are cleaned

to traditional dry cleaners.

and altered, a small fleet of vans, and a

Blanc

has

replaced

the

toxic

chemicals used to dry clean clothes with

We want to be synonymous with taking care of yourself and your environment

staff of 45 people.

Blanc was voted one of the best

following

dry cleaners in the city by the Evening

and staff uniforms. It is not unusual to

trends in America, Scandinavia and

Standard newspaper. It has also won

see clothes from labels such as Hugo

France, who have banned the cleaning

the Laundry and the Dry Cleaning News

Boss, Ralph Lauren and Louis Vuitton

chemical Perchlorethylene, proven to

Award for ‘Best Sustainability Policy Dry

being worked on in their warehouse

pollute the environment, and with fumes

Cleaner.’

cleaning facility, which they refer to as

biodegradable

detergents,

extremely harmful for people.

Alongside the core cleaning business,

their atelier.

‘Blanc is a clean living brand,’ says

in London, the company has launched

‘The big brands know that they can

Blanc. ‘We want to be synonymous

a line of products — Blanc Home —

trust us with their clothes, and that we

with

taking

and

which aim to offer a more sophisticated

have both the skills to tailor and alter

your

environment.

is

alternative to mainstream eco-brands.

their garments, but also work with

carcinogenic and toxic, as well as

Sales of Blanc Home currently make up

them in a eco-friendly way, which is very

irritating for the skin.’

about 10 percent of annual revenue,

important to them,’ says Blanc.

care

of Dry

yourself cleaning

He founded Blanc with his wife Mathilde in 2013 after leaving his job as a vice president at JP Morgan and

and are continuing to grow rapidly.

Plans for the future include building more B2B partnerships with luxury and

FASHION FORWARD

fashion brands. There are also plans to

Another growing part of Blanc’s

open a new shop in White City, further

business is working with some of the

consolidating their presence across

Paired with this new eco-approach,

city’s top fashion brands, to clean, tailor

West London. I

Blanc also offers a 24/h delivery and

and alter their haute couture creations

studying

French

eco-launderettes

before launching the business.

collection service – further disrupting the traditional business model in a sector

BY THE NUMBERS

dominated by stores with set opening and closing times.

It is an offer which has caught on quickly in the capital. After an initial round of seed money, the company

• Locations: 4

• Delivery vans: 3

• Staff: 45

• Items cleaned per day: 1,000

raised £1m in investment and grew

info

- july / august 2018 - 19

JIN wins French PR Consultancy of the Year

A

t the EMEA SABRE Awards, JIN won the prestigious award for French PR Consultancy of the Year in recognition of JIN’s rapid development, the quality of its campaigns, the agency’s international scope and culture of digital innovation. The major prize is the result of the work of teams in Paris, London, Hamburg and New York, who work together on all agency budgets. The award confirms JIN's position as a leading player in digital influence and public relations in Europe. JIN now has more than 55 employees, just 5 years after its creation. I

My Cocoon to launch colour pop-up

D

uring London Fashion week and the London Design Festival in September, My Cocooon will launch two pop ups at Westfield Stepherd’s Bush and Westfield Stratford. The ‘Colour Energy Pop up’ stores will show how to provide a ‘colour experience’ to retail customers. I

Signature launches sister brand Collaï

S

ignature is proud to announce a sister brand, Collaï, which will specialise in strategic facilitation services. Based on 20 years of facilitation experience for many prestigious corporate clients, Collaï delivers state of the art facilitation service, including visual facilitation, for strategic meetings. I

Scale-ups showcase retail tech at PwC and AngelsCube event 150 retailers and sector exports attended the Scale | Commerce 2.0 executive evening to explore the latest B2B innovation in the retail and hospitality sector. Previous participants in PwC’s Scale programmes have raised over £295 million in equity with companies now valued collectively at over $1bn.

Aexandre Covello, CEO of AngelsCube, said: ‘We are partnering with PwC to help the most successful innovative companies and technologies in the retail and commerce space make headway with traditional businesses. The programme gives first-hand access to a multi-disciplinary network of industry experts, mentors and some of the world’s biggest brands. I

Bateaux London & Windsor announces redesigned fleet

B

ateaux London & Windsor, provider of lunch and dinner cruises, is currently undergoing a massive renovation program to bring the cruise experience in the 21st century.

The close to £3m programme includes a redesigned fleet by the British designer Tom Dixon. I

Home in London launches sales support service

M

ore and more residents in London are considering selling their property, either because they plan to leave the UK or need to meet family requirements. Responding to a new need expressed by the international community in London, Home in London continues to support its customers and offers a new sales support service to sellers. I

20 - info - july / august 2018

BUSINE S S WOR LD – SME NE WS

Epic receives 1% pledge from poet and director

F

rench slam poet and film director Grand Corps Malade is placing social justice at the heart of his work by signing the Epic Sharing Pledge, a commitment to support the carefully selected social organizations of the Epic Portfolio by donating money in a way that embraces the donor’s economic model. By signing the pledge, Grand Corps Malade commits to donating 1 percent of the profits from his upcoming album and 2018 tour to Epic. In accordance with Epic’s model, 100% of the money received will be distributed to their portfolio organizations supporting children and youth globally.

At Epic, we advocate for solutions tailored for each person’s circumstances to make giving a systematic, painless and optional experience. Thanks to this engagement, Grand Corps Malade combines his art, time and energy with his passion to fight for social justice. It adds purpose to his work,’ says founder Alexander Mars. I

Coorpacademy recognised for corporate learning platform

C

oorpacademy, the leading user-centric corporate digital learning platform, has been recognised in the Gartner Market Guide for Corporate Learning Suites report as a ‘representative vendor,’ with the study evaluating the landscape of corporate learning suite suppliers for the enterprise.

We feel the analysis highlights the importance of a focus on the learner’s experience, reflecting the reality of how people learn, always available remotely, increasingly via mobile, and at the learner’s convenience and own pace – as well as proven engagement techniques such as video, gamification, collaboration,’ said Jean-Marc Tassetto, Founder of Coorpacademy. I

The London Wealth Practice advises on Asperger technology

T

he London Wealth Practice, who advises companies in their development, recently worked with an Anglo-French group on the development of a bracelet with an Antistress application dedicated to improve the employability of people affected by the Asperger syndrome. I

Merci Maman partners with l’Occitane

M

erci Maman have partnered with the award-winning beauty brand l’Occitane en Provence to celebrate the opening of the new flagship store on London’s Regent Street.

Inspired by French roots, both brands bring high-quality, carefully made products to customers in the UK and around the world. I

Déménagements de qualité grande expérience & toujours à l’heure

Weekly Service from: Londres - France France - Londres 0208 226 5256 0794 636 9670

E: info@bravoremovals.com www.bravoremovals.com info

- july / august 2018 - 21

E DUC ATION – NE WS

NEOMA reforms its Master in Management programme Offering diversified and customised courses, adapting the programme to the latest professional developments, and offering students an innovative learning experience are the pillars of NEOMA Business School’s Master in Management reform centred on the notion of collaborative excellence. From September 2018, the new formula combines academic excellence and experimentation to allow students to construct a coherent personalised curriculum.9. I

HEC Paris joins childhood obesity project HEC Paris’ researchers will contribute to the behavioral component of the €10m project, 16 nations and 31 research, advocacy and governmental organizations.

The STOP project (Science and Technology in childhood Obesity Policy) is this year’s second major EU-funded initiative launched as part of the Horizon 2020 research program for Sustainable Food Security. According to WHO figures, the total percentage of all children obese or overweight in the European region has risen from 21 to 35 percent in the past two decades. I

ESSEC develops a partnership for Silicon Valley start-ups

Toulouse School of Economics students win energy prizes

ESSEC Business School, Schoolab and UC Berkeley Sutardja Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology join forces to offer students from ESSEC and any other university the opportunity to launch their startup in Silicon Valley. Le Bridge programme is a 10 month-long curriculum that gives students, from any university, a deep understanding of innovation and the entrepreneurial process, and the unique opportunity to build a team and launch their project in Silicon Valley. I

Lycée International Winston Churchill opens English programme

Students from the Toulouse School of Economics won first and second place in the Energy Trading Challenge 2018 organized by the ESCP Europe in London. The teams worked hard over two 6-hour days on professionally-crafted trading scenarios representing two full months in the energy industry. I

EDHEC recognised in FT ranking The international management consulting firm Bain & Company is a strategic partner for the recently established Master's programme in ‘Strategy and Digital Business’ at Lycée International de Londres Winston Churchill is pleased

the ESCP Europe Business School in Berlin. Bain supports

to announce the creation of its new English International

the programme by offering its expertise in digitalisation and

Programme opening in September 2018 from Year 7 (6e).

strategy, which results in an ideal combination of teaching and

The new programme will welcome English speaking students

practical experience. Applications welcome until early August

in Years 7, 8 and 9 interested in an international education.

2018. I

The programme will run alongside the current Baccalauréat Français Bilingue. I 22 - info - july / august 2018

R E PORT S & R E SE ARCH – BUSINE S S WOR LD

A selection of research papers and reports produced by Chamber member companies and partners

Deloitte: 2018 travel and hospitality industry outlook Travel and tourism is one of the world’s fastest-growing sectors, with bookings hitting close to $1.6tr in 2017. A strengthening global economy lies at the heart of industry growth. Each year, the global traveler pool is flooded with millions of new consumers from both emerging and developed markets, many with rising disposable incomes and a newfound ability to experience the world.

This report explores the forces poised to drive revenue for hotels, airlines, restaurants, and other players in the travel ecosystem. As always, success isn’t guaranteed in 2018.

Each of the travel segments have unique hurdles to overcome, but driving innovation and exploring new possibilities around the travel experience are some of the challenges that transcend the sectors.

Deloitte: 2018 travel and hospitality industry outlook Available at: https://bit.ly/2j4ovK6

Expedia: Unpacking Bleisure Travel Trends New research by Expedia Group Media Solutions builds on its initial ‘bleisure’ study to further explore an emerging category of travellers who are extending business trips for leisure. Looking across multiple countries, the research reveals the influences, preferences, priorities, resources, financial factors and more of these travellers.

Expedia: Unpacking Bleisure Travel Trends – 2018 Available at: https://bit.ly/2NbnFLV

PwC: Best placed to grow? European cities hotel forecast for 2018 and 2019 The 7th edition of PwC’s European cities hotel forecast for 2018 and 2019 analyses past trading trends and provides econometric forecasts for 12 cities, all national or regional capitals of finance, commerce, culture or tourism. PwC also looks at some key challenges facing hotels, including profitability erosion, responding to changing guest needs, the threat of overtourism and the sharing economy. Finally the report also looks at what the record trading metrics mean for deals and investment.

PwC: Best placed to grow? European cities hotel forecast for 2018 and 2019 Available at: https://pwc.to/2tQQ1Sz

/ august info -info july -/ july august 2018 -2018 23

- 23

A DEEP DIVE INTO

TRAVEL

I

n recent years, the travel industry has been enjoying record highs.

The latest figures from the ONS show a record number of people visiting the UK, as well as a record number of Britons travelling abroad. In total, overseas residents visited the UK to the tune of 38.9m, while 70.8m UK residents travelled abroad, more than an 8 percent increase on previous years.

This means big money, too. Overseas residents spent ÂŁ24bn on visits to the UK in 2017, an increase of 2 percent compared with 2016. The majority of these trips were for personal reasons or holidays.

In business, the latest figures show that the number of business trips made by UK residents grew modestly – up by just 7,000 to 7.1m in 2016, a rise of 0.1 percent. This falls a long way behind the historical average annual growth rate of 2.8 percent experienced since 1980. At the same time, the ONS reports that in 2016 overseas residents made 9.1m business trips to the UK, up by 322,000 from 8.8m the previous year.

But numbers don’t tell the whole story. Key trends in the industry include a shift in perspective by travel brands, which are moving away from tradition models to offer more experiential and personalised services. Individuality 24 - info - july / august 2018

and personal fulfilment continue to be key drivers across the industry, especially for millennials and the emerging generation Z. At the same time mergers and acquisitions are on the rise, with many brands consolidating and sharing infrastructure and business ledgers at unprecedented levels. While cost and profit-sharing is still important, many of these new partnerships are more focused on strategic innovation, including greater service and crucially, connectivity.

As you will discover across the Focus’s 20 pages, the travel industry is facing new challenges, from customers focused on ease of mobility to negotiating new digital environments. The section is brimming with insight and analysis from established travel brands such as Air France-KLM, easyJet, Expedia, and Hyatt Hotels, as well industry experts like VisitBritain, KPMG, St Pancras station and many more.

Our aim is to provide a snapshot of travel and transport as it currently exists, while also looking to the future of the sector as mobility enters a new age of connectivity. I info info- -july july//august august 2018 2018

- 25

TRAVEL IN NUMBERS UK holiday market, 2018

26.6m

34m

UK adults intend to take an overseas holiday

UK adults intend to take a UK domestic holiday Source: Kantar TNS

Main European domestic markets

175m

164m

124m

124m

40m

40m

Germany

Spain

UK

Italy

Poland

(all trips, one night or more)

France

Source: Eurostat/GB Tourism, 2015

World's busiest airports

Domestic & international passengers (% increase, passengers in millions)

3%

5%

7%

8%

5.5%

1%

1%

3%

10%

0.3%

104m

94m

84m

81m

80m

78m

76m

70m

66m

66m

Atlanta

Beijing

Dubaï

Los Angeles

Tokyo

Chicago

London Heathrow

Hong Kong

Shanghaï

Paris CDG

Source: ACI, 2016 survey

Top 10 inbound markets All visits

% change

France

4.1m

US

3.5m

Germany

3.3m

Irish Republic

2.9m

Spain

2.4m

Netherlands

2.1m

Italy

2m

Poland

1.9m

-3%

By spending

£ per head

£3.35bn

US

6%

Germany

3%

France Australia

£1.49bn £1.37bn

£971 £446 £330

£1.06bn

£1.079

Irish Republic

£1.06bn

£366

Middle East*

£1bn

11%

Spain

£992m

£414

12%

Italy

£980m

£492

£896m

£1.250

10% 9% 9%

Belgium

1.05m

-11%

Asia**

Australia

0.99m

-6%

China & HK

£819m

£2.189

£1.560

*Excluding UAE **Excluding China, Japan, India, Sri Lnaka, Thaïland Source: ONS, 2016 survey

26 - info - july / august 2018

PASSENGERS (MILLIONS)

UK airport passenger numbers 271m

+7%

% change year on year

240m

180m

211m

251m 238m

122m 1994 1996 1998 2000 2002 2004 2006 2008 2010 2012 2014 2016 All passengers, outbound, inbound & domestic, to nearest million. Source: Kantar CAA

‘ Cultural investment can have a transformative impact on communities. It helps attract inward investment, with businesses drawn to vibrant, exciting towns and cities’

Michael Ellis, Minister for Arts, Heritage and Tourism

Bleisure traveler profile Occupation Technology/IT/Software > 24% Manufacturing > 13% Finance > 12% Healthcare > 8% Education > 6%

Business Trip Frequency 36% > Once every 2-3 months 23% > Once or twice a month 20% > Once every 4-6 months 9% > 3+ times a month 7% > Once a year 5% > Once a week

Source: Expedia group, media solutions

Fastest-growing European hub airports (percentage growth year-on-year)

11% 9% 8% 2% 0% -0.5% -2%

Barcelona (44m) Amsterdam (64m) Madrid (50m) Heathrow (76m) Paris CDG (66m) Frankfurt (61m)

‘By inspiring visitors to come to our great city during quieter periods like autumn and to find hidden gems off the beaten track, we can ensure that the projected growth in visitor numbers is sustainable and that the tourism and cultural industries work for everyone’

Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London

Istanbul (60m)

Source: ACI, 2016 survey

info

- july / august 2018 - 27

WELCOMING THE WORLD Inbound travel and investment in Britain is expected to reach record highs, says Patricia Yates, Director of VisitBritain, the country’s leading tourism authority

T

ourism is one of the UK’s most valuable export industries

buildings and monuments, having a vibrant city life and natural

and growing faster than many other sector.

beauty. When considering its overall brand, the UK ranked third

Worth £127bn to the economy overall, the UK’s tourism

out of 50 nations, a position it has held since 2011.

industry represents 9 percent of GDP and supports 10 percent of all jobs. It is full of innovators, and is an industry which spans

French connection

the country, where small changes have a big impact on our

France is one of the UK’s largest and most valuable inbound

economy. Tourism does not require

visitor markets, worth £1.4bn in visitor

a trade deal, and it can attract large

spending and delivering about four

inbound investment from around the

million visits annually. It is an incredibly

world.

important market for VisitBritain. It is

More visitors are coming to the

one of our GREAT markets, we have

UK than ever before. Last year saw a

a team and office in-market and we

record 38.9m overseas visits to the UK

invest more in the country. We know

with inbound visitors spending £24bn,

that our contemporary culture is rated

also a record. And growth looks set

highly by the French, who rated the UK

to continue in 2018. VisitBritain has

3rd out of fifty nations for this attribute

forecasted 41.7m inbound visits to

in the 2017 NBI. Cultural attractions

the UK this year with visitors spending

and the ease of getting to the UK are

£26.9bn.

the two most mentioned reasons why

These numbers are not only testament to tourism’s importance

visitors from France come here.

as a driver of economic growth,

International appeal

they represent people from across

VisitBritain

the globe who come to enjoy our

internationally as a visitor destination

culture, heritage and countryside.

as part of the UK Government’s global

They are a reminder of the crucial

GREAT Britain campaign, boosting

role that tourism has in offering a

inbound tourism and driving growth

warm welcome to the many millions of

promotes

the

UK

across the country.

visitors who come to our shores. They also show our continued

Earlier this year we launched our new global campaign ‘I

ability to compete internationally for visitors in what is a fiercely

Travel For…’ to promote destinations across the UK, shining

competitive global industry.

the spotlight on unexpected experiences and less-explored

In a further endorsement of our industry, the UK ranked

destinations, alongside our globally renowned and iconic

third globally for tourism in the 2017 Anholt-GfK Nation Brands

landmarks and attractions. ‘I Travel For’ aligns the passions that

Index (NBI) equalling its highest ever rank and up two places

motivate people to travel with experiences that can only be had

from 2016. The NBI considered attributes including historic

in the UK, inspiring them to book a trip right now. By shining a

28 - info - july / august 2018

A DE E P DIVE INTO TR AVE L – FOCUS

Last year saw a record 38.9m overseas visits to the UK with inbound visitors spending £24bn, also a record

spotlight and telling the stories of Britain, we want to inspire even more visitors from France to book a trip right now.

France is one of the UK’s largest and most valuable inbound visitor markets, worth roughly £1.4bn in visitor spending and delivering about four million visits annually

The sector is high performing, our International Conference and Convention Association (ICCA) ranking of 3rd globally,

We are integrating a strong value and welcome message

attests to that. Through our Events are GREAT programme,

into our campaigns. We are working with commercial partners

part of the UK Government’s GREAT Britain campaign, we are

in market including Expedia and EasyJet in France, to amplify

positioning our nations and regions as the destination of choice

our marketing reach and drive bookings, as well as developing

for international meeting and incentive planners.

new products that make it easier for visitors from France to book and explore all of the UK.

Business focus

With our global transport connections, ease of access through regional gateways and increased airline routes as well as world-class venues, the UK has much to offer international business events. Added to this is our world-renowned research

A key priority for VisitBritain is to grow the UK’s valuable

in top universities and centres of industrial excellence from life

business events and incentives sector, marrying our business

sciences, technology, and advanced engineering to business

and academic expertise with our world-class destinations and

and professional services and creative industries. I

venues.

info

- july / august 2018 - 29

St Pancras:

Redefining the transport hub Wendy Spinks, Commercial Director at HS1 Ltd, the company which owns and operates St Pancras International, discusses how the station has become so much more than a transport hub and the positive impact it has had on the surrounding King’s Cross area

W

ith the original design by William Barlow, St Pancras International opened in 1868 as an engineering marvel,

providing one of the grandest entrances into London.

Today, following an £800m restoration and reconstruction in 2007 to accommodate a new terminus and high-speed line, the station’s classic Victorian architecture has been transported into the 21st century.

In its 150th anniversary year, St Pancras stands tall as a global rail icon and a buzzing retail destination in its own right.

Rail to retail

Travel retail is a booming industry and of the 50 million people who visit the station every year – one in six of these visitors is not a passenger UK’s first high speed rail line, has also had a critical impact on the regeneration of the surrounding King’s Cross area, bringing world class transport to businesses, tourists and commuters from the South East as well as the continent.

Once notorious for its red-light district, King’s Cross has

The move to become not only a transport hub but also an

been transformed into a cultural and technological hub, home

enticing alternative to the traditional high street has been

to Google, the British Library, University of the Arts, the Francis

no accident. HS1 Ltd has worked hard to bring together a

Crick Institute as well as a host of galleries, museums, and a

fantastic mix of well-known high street names and boutique

booming social scene.

independent retailers to create a unique shopping experience for our customers.

Best of British

Travel retail is a booming industry and of the 50 million

HS1 Ltd holds the concession for both the line and St Pancras

people who visit the station every year, one in six of these

International until 2040. In this time we want to continue to lead

visitors is not a passenger. They are coming specifically to take

the way in making rail an increasingly more attractive form of

advantage of the diverse retailers and food and drink that is

transport and developing the station’s offer.

on offer.

Regeneration

St Pancras has been voted one of the nation’s favourite stations by Passenger Focus in every year since it reopened.

This, we believe, is a result of our commitment to strike the

150 years of history will of course inevitably change any area –

correct balance between running a modern rail hub, an

especially in a rapidly growing city such as London. However, the

excellent retail location and protecting a very important part of

2007 reopening of St Pancras, as well as the introduction of the

the UK’s heritage. I

In its 150th anniversary year, St Pancras stands tall as a global rail icon and a buzzing retail destination in its own right 30 - info - july / august 2018

A DE E P DIVE INTO TR AVE L – FOCUS

The art of the story Storytelling is now an integral marketing strategy for travel and hospitality brands, says Arnaud de Saint-Exupéry, Area Vice President Hyatt UK & Ireland and General Manager of the Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill

Could you explain about this new trend in storytelling?

As a General Manager what is your role in terms of

It is hard to believe that storytelling was not an essential part

leadership at the level of storytelling?

of every marketing strategy until quite recently. Now, more

In my role as a leader, I feel a great responsibility to lead by

than ever, many successful brands seek to connect with their

example and be part of the process of bringing our story to

audience via storytelling, as it is a way to evoke an emotional

life. In order to be successful in telling our story to the world,

connection. Similarly, across our Hyatt family, storytelling is

it is important to first embrace our story from within. I strive

central to the way we share our values and aim to resonate

to ensure that the full team is engaged and inspired by our

with our guests.

concept as it is they who bring this to life on a daily basis. But,

At Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill, we are fortunate

to be truly honest, most of the time they are an inspiration to

to have Sir Winston Churchill as the inspiration to our brand

me and an incentive to further focus on what differentiates us

identity, as the hotel architect was a great admirer of the

in each property we operate!

former Prime Minister. The source of our inspiration is vast given Churchill’s life achievements. His personality, his passion

Will these stories adapt and change over time?

for art, photography and literature, as well as the love for

Stories always evolve and adapt as they are constantly passed

his wife Clementine, gives us a wealth of stories to tell in

on, shared and customised by our guests’ own personal

everything that we do – from the design to the menu, and not

experiences and interactions with our brand. We always seek

least reflected in our service.

to better understand our customer needs, and we feel that is the only way to remain current in our business. We actively ask

How does this impact your business outside of marketing

for our guests’ feedback and recommendations whilst taking

communications?

the time to observe changing behavioural patterns and the

It is crucial that every part of the business is aligned and works

attitudes of a new generation of traveller.

towards the same goal. As much as we know it is important

By investing in new technology, operational systems and of

to share these stories when connecting with our guests, it is

course staff training we are constantly adapting and improving

equally important that our team understands the origins of

our service and our products to meet the ever-changing

them and why they are such a vital part of the fabric of our

environment in which we operate, whilst staying true to our

hotel. Naturally we do, along with the rest of the industry,

brand values and our unique concept.I

experience staff turnover, especially since Brexit, so this requires more focus on training and coaching at times. We believe that the experience and our message need to be consistent across our team to truly be able to deliver our values, mission and vision.

In order to tell a story, brands need to have a clearly defined concept and identity, and use storytelling to deliver this info

- july / august 2018 - 31

The BREXIT effect You don’t have to look nearly two years ahead to see Brexit pressures on the travel and hospitality sector, says Will Hawkley, Global Head of Leisure and Hospitality at KPMG

F

orecasting the future is hard enough when we have to

International tourism defies the odds

consider the weather, terrorism, and consumer spending

However, Brexit hasn’t been all doom and gloom. Far from it.

trends. The potential impact of Brexit just makes it even

Inbound tourism is on the rise. London’s hotels were booming

harder. We are now more than half-way between the UK’s vote

up until the end of 2017, and the pound’s slide led to the

to leave the European Union and the March 2019 exit date, and

number of overseas visits almost reaching an all-time high. And

it is still far from certain how Brexit will turn out, especially for

that brings secondary benefits for luxury retailers who gain

the travel and leisure sector. From a UK perspective, there are

from sales in everything from homeware to handbags, not to

vast numbers of EU nationals working in the sector, supplier and

mention hospitality.

commercial contracts with European entities to review, and the

Yet despite this lift in earnings, some domestic players

attractiveness of the UK as a tourist destination is also under

are beginning to cast doubts. They are unsure as to whether

the spotlight. All of these factors could affect operations and

this Brexit-driven boost to UK business can be sustained. One

revenues of leisure proprietors.

high-end department store in central London is thinking about

UK consumers feel the pinch

Ramadan 2019 and the impact any Brexit cliff-edge chaos might have on tourists from the Middle East. US visitors tend

The impact of Brexit on consumer spending won’t be uniform

to plan European trips around six months in advance, bringing

across the globe. European tour operators have seen a

the important Christmas shopping period in 2019 into Brexit

softening in demand from British holidaymakers avoiding

range. Asian visitors to Europe book even further ahead, so it is

‘imported inflation’. They still value their summer holiday and

clear that any Brexit ripples impacting the tourism industry will

won’t give it up lightly but they may approach it differently, for

continue to be felt for some two years to come, at least.

example, by selecting cheaper and new destinations or opting for shorter holidays. The weak pound has made trips abroad

The labour market faces challenges

more expensive and as a result some are even turning to

As Britain’s official withdrawal date from the EU looms closer,

‘staycations’ instead, especially for their secondary holiday.

cost pressures for leisure businesses are also mounting behind

A slow-down in real wage growth has also hit the pockets of

the scenes. Staffing will become one of the biggest issues for UK

many British consumers. With less disposable income, cautious

leisure companies, partly because each pound is worth less at

UK customers are tightening their purse strings across the board,

home for EU citizens, partly because some people say they feel

abstaining from both overseas travel and leisure activities closer

less welcome, but mostly because people don’t have certainty

to home. When it comes to eating out, for example, pub and

over their future.

restaurant revenues are at risk. For several months now, growth

The sector is reliant on EU nationals, who comprise a

figures have remained largely stagnant, with some companies

significant proportion of the workforce. Business leaders are

even tipping into the red, and facing multiple site closures.

probably right when they say ‘I expect things won’t change

Forward-thinking executives of pubs and restaurants are

that quickly,’ but does that give enough comfort if workers

taking heed from retailers who are varying their product mix

are trying to decide whether to put down roots, buy a home

to suit different budgets. Menu engineering, for instance, is a

or start children in school? While it’s clear some people are

viable strategy. Reformulating product size or incorporating less

leaving, the far greater impact is those who have decided not to

expensive ingredients can alleviate the squeeze on margins

come. It is important for UK leisure businesses to review their

and lead to lower-priced dining options for cash-strapped

communication with their EU citizens as continued engagement

customers.

will be vital.

32 - info - july / august 2018

A DE E P DIVE INTO TR AVE L – FOCUS

Brexit hasn’t been all doom and gloom. Far from it. Inbound tourism is on the rise. London’s hotels were booming up until the end of 2017, and the pound’s slide led to the number of overseas visits almost reaching an all-time high

A depletion of the talent pool is forcing leisure companies

An optimistic outlook

to compete with other sectors for candidates, which places

Up against a number of obstacles, a diverse range of national

upward pressure on wages. Furthermore, revisions to the

leisure companies appear to be caught in the Brexit headlights,

national living wage and new pensions requirements are set to

defaulting to business as usual as they struggle to predict the

push labour costs even higher.

long-term impact of Brexit on customers, employees and the

Businesses are innovating to stay afloat Finding creative ways to increase productivity can offset these

bottom-line. But even consciously deferring a decision is a more active strategy than crossing one’s fingers and hoping for the best.

challenges. For example, in casual dining, the implementation

Some businesses are looking to adjacent sectors such

of table-top ordering would enable consumers to order food

as retail from which they can borrow a few tips, such as

and drinks via an app from a mobile device. This streamlines

reassessing their value chain. Others are thinking of innovative

the workload of waiting staff and reduces the number required.

ways to balance supply and demand more effectively, as they

For hotels, alternative operational and pricing strategies such

recognise the importance of keeping both customers happy

as swapping twice-daily room cleans for a free drink at the bar

(and therefore, spending), and making sure employees from

could also increase operational efficiency.

the continent, who are worried about their status and security

However, leisure companies will still need to invest in

in the UK, feel welcome and reassured.

measures to retain top talent. Entry-level turnover in hospitality

But ultimately for the leisure sector to combat this seismic

costs billions each year. Access to training and development

shake-up, and safeguard future revenue and profit, agility

opportunities and generous staff benefits can counteract

will become the name of the game. Whether it’s pubs and

attrition. For example, one coffee chain has pledged to help

restaurants, hotel groups, tour operators, or other hospitality

their employees combat the rising costs of accommodation,

vendors, being willing and prepared to adapt will be a key

offering them interest free loans. In return, if employees feel

differentiator that determines success in the face of the

more valued, they may demonstrate more loyalty to their place

unknown. I

of work and choose not to leave the UK but to stay put instead – a win-win for them and their employer.

info

- july / august 2018 - 33

Last mile connectivity Technology is key to delivering first-and-last-mile public transport says Alistair Gordon, Chief Executive of transport operator Keolis UK

F

ar from being immune to the kind of technological disruption that’s

impacting many traditional industries, public transport has to adapt to keep pace with new entrants to the market.

Disruptive mobility providers like Uber and Lyft have revolutionised the way people travel in just a few short years.

This is raising consumer expectations for a more personalised, accessible approach to getting from A to B. These services have thrown a new focus on an old challenge for transport operators – that of first-and-lastmile journeys. This is best defined as

Making accessible provision for the first and last mile of a customer’s journey will boost convenience and ultimately reduce the need for private vehicles

providing customers with travel options for the entirety of their journeys, such as between their homes or work places

to London’s Olympic Park – the first

integration is difficult to achieve, in

and transport hubs, or travelling around

time the technology had been freely

comparison with mainland Europe where

major destinations, like airport terminals,

available to the British public. The trials

whole multi-modal networks are often

university campuses, business parks or

demonstrated how automated vehicles

operated by one provider, like Keolis.

large tourist attractions.

can integrate with wider networks.

However, it’s by no means unachievable.

Making accessible provision for the

In north east France, the city of Rennes

first and last mile of a customer’s journey

Location-based tech

will boost convenience and ultimately

Across the Keolis group we are also using

in place since 2006. The KorriGo card

reduce the need for private vehicles.

location-based technology to provide

is used by around 85,000 people

our customers with a more personalised

and unites multiple transport modes

must lie in integrating traditional

service. In Sydney, Australia, Keolis has

administered by three separate

transport modes and innovative on-

trialled an ‘on demand’ bus allowing

transport authorities - including Keolis’

demand services such as ride-sharing.

passengers to pre-book a shuttle bus

STAR network, the regional SNCF train

from their homes. Passengers use an

service, the interurban coach network

app to book a bus from their doors by

and Renne’s cycle-hire scheme.

At Keolis, we believe the solution

Automation

has had a multi-partner smart card

Naturally, automation will play a part in

matching routes with other customers

this. Keolis has been at the forefront of

travelling in the same direction. This

operators, technology companies and

innovation in this field. In early 2016,

aims to reduce the number of individual

government bodies can work together to

we formed a partnership with Navya,

vehicles on the road by providing a

create sustainable and smart transport

a French company specialising in

door-to-door service, which can take

networks that will support every stage of

autonomous systems, to help promote

passengers to larger transport hubs for

a passenger journey. I

the NAVYA ARMA shuttle for use within

the next stage of their journey.

public transport. Able to reach speeds

Of course, for first-and-last-mile

Through collaboration, traditional

International transport group Keolis has

of 28 mph and carry up to 15 people,

solutions to be truly effective, they

a presence in 16 countries worldwide,

this fully-autonomous, electric vehicle

must be able to offer integrated smart

with extensive operations in France

represented a significant leap forward

ticketing, so that the convenience of the

providing integrated transit services in

for automated technology’s use in public

passenger experience isn’t interrupted

cities such as Lyon, Bordeaux, Dijon,

transport.

by the need to buy new tickets when

and Lille. The business has been in the

switching between modes.

UK since 1997 and manages some of

These shuttles have now been used all over the world, in cities including Las

In the UK, the deregulated bus

Britain’s busiest transport services,

Vegas, Paris, Lyon, Sydney and Singapore.

system is often cited as one of the

including the Docklands Light Railway

Late last year we brought a Navya shuttle

reasons why this kind of multi-modal

and Manchester’s Metrolink.

34 - info - july / august 2018

A DE E P DIVE INTO TR AVE L – FOCUS

London Clubland

A social revolution Andrew Richardson, Managing Director of Home House, honoured as the four-time winner of London’s Members’ Club of the year, explores the impact of the increasingly globalised economy on the hospitality and travel industry

L

ondon’s arcane world of private members’ clubs has transformed dramatically from its incarceration,

synonymous for the conservative, old-money elitist, all-male bastions, where ‘Club-able’ gentry deliberated politics and worldly affairs over a brandy in rarefied smoking rooms.

Whilst a few of these long-standing establishments endure, London, now marked as a magnet for its burgeoning global wealth and the ubiquitous influence of a transient and entrepreneurial society, has brought about a new wave of contemporary clubs.

Moving on from the clubs aristocratic in flavour, the end of the 20th century saw the rise of the nouveau riche and celebrity culture, rock stars and those of social influence, as opposed to gentlemen becoming part of the ‘it’ crowd, gaining membership to clubs of a more liberal nature.

Whist Home House, a trailblazer in the industry,

the need for a hybrid, where the business elitist can work and establish refined connections amongst the discerning

approaches its 20th anniversary, it remains an exclusive venue

global entrepreneur and investment community, within an

to enjoy some real fun with a hint of debauchery, contending

environment marked with opulence, as one would expect from

the stereotype of the traditional club which has been loved

a private members’ club,’ says Richardson.

and loathed in equal measure. The landscape of London’s

Over the years, what remains apparent is the sense of

21st century economy presents an array of opportunity as

belonging and the mutual reinforcement by fellow members

we experience a new wave of modern wealth, driven by an

fundamentally linked to many of London’s clubs, an attained

increasingly robust global entrepreneurial culture. Over the

membership being a token to a societal sphere.

last ten years we have seen the number of SMEs increase by

'Gone are the days when it was easy to build friendships

almost a third in the UK and the diminishment of the 9-to-5

in a bar. Given international travel movements, you just don’t

worker.

know when you will see that person again, unlike in a club,

In parallel to the entrepreneurial zeitgeist of our time, a

where faces return. As operators and members of a global,

business hungry society manifested on longer working hours,

as opposed to local, community, it’s our responsibility to

24/7 operations, global stakeholders and better technology,

curate an inclusive environment where relationships flourish

has prompted the proliferation of coworking spaces and the

organically,’ says Richardson.

emergence of modern-day business clubs. As we enter into

Despite the evolution the sector has undergone, the allure

a new era, the need for permanent offices is becoming less

and accolade of a private members’ clubs, both in the social

prevalent, with many drawn to a mobile approach, where

and corporate sphere, remains. Be it due to the associated

networking manifests in an enjoyable manner without such

exclusivity, waft of celebrity and notoriety or in-built networks,

segregation of business and pleasure. Hence the concept for

the capital’s members’ clubs remain havens for society and

Home Grown, Home House’s answer to all orders of business,

business to be celebrated and the unique phenomenon

set to open its doors in January 2019, was conceived.

continues to grow with the times. I

In this day and age, it’s those at the forefront of the entrepreneurial ecosystem who are championed as the

Home Grown is now accepting a limited number of

modern-day rock stars.

applications for founder members. We will be arranging

‘In the current market, members’ clubs either tend to be socially-orientated or of a work-space nature. We saw

presentations to individuals who register their interest at www.homegrownclub.co.uk

Gone are the days when it was easy to build friendships in a bar. Given international travel movements, you just don’t know when you will see that person again, unlike in a club, where faces return info

- july / august 2018 - 35

Strategic partnerships on the rise Joint ventures between major airlines are becoming the norm in a global aviation industry that calls for greater connectivity, says Benedicte Duval, General Manager for Air France-KLM in the UK and Ireland

I

n May this year, Air France-KLM signed an agreement with Delta Airlines and

Virgin Atlantic paving the way forward for their expanded trans-Atlantic joint venture.

The agreement strengthens the links between Air France-KLM and partners Delta Airlines and Virgin Atlantic, with the goal of offering passengers increased connectivity and better service through a greatly expanded network of hubs and destinations.

The deal involves Virgin Atlantic selling a stake of the company to Air France-KLM. Subject to regulatory approvals, Air France-KLM will acquire a 31 percent stake in Virgin Atlantic.

Currently Air France-KLM and its partners Delta Airlines and Alitalia operate the biggest trans-Atlantic

These partnerships mean that the two companies involved share revenue and costs on the routes in scope

joint-venture with more than 270 daily flights.

'Once we receive regulatory approval and the terms

‘These partnerships mean that the two companies involved share revenue and costs on the routes within the scope.

become effective, this joint venture will further strengthen

Joint ventures create opportunities for synergies and greater

the Group's position in the UK market,' says Benedicte Duval,

customer benefits,’ says Duval. ‘The risk is clearly there, you

General Manager for Air France-KLM in the UK and Ireland.

need to choose your partners wisely. And this is exactly what

Air France-KLM is also a member of the SkyTeam alliance

we have done.’

which has 20 member airlines, offering customers access to a

Indeed this type of joint venture is not unusual for Air

global network of over 16,600 daily flights to more than 1,070

France-KLM, which has similar JVs in place from Europe to

destinations in 177 countries.

others markets across the world.

The airlines’ expanded joint venture will become the

These joint ventures include China Eastern Airlines,

preferred choice for customers travelling across the Atlantic

serving the Chinese market, Kenya Airways, serving the African

offering the most comprehensive route network, convenient

market, and GOL, serving Brazil. On average, Air France-KLM is

flight schedules, competitive fares and reciprocal frequent flyer

investing around €2bn a year, part of which is used to support

benefits, including the ability to earn and redeem miles across

these strategic partnerships.

all carriers.

Air France-KLM is the leading Group in terms of

Customers will also benefit from the co-location of facilities

international traffic on departure from Europe. In 2018,

at key hub airports to improve connectivity and access to each

it offers its customers access to a network covering 314

carrier’s airport lounges for premium passengers.

destinations in 116 countries thanks to its five brands Air

The deal also represents a growing trend in the aviation

France, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Joon, Transavia and HOP!

industry. According to research from global management

Air France. With a fleet of 537 aircraft in operation and 98.7

consulting firm LEK, joint ventures of this kind made up only 5

million passengers carried in 2017, Air France-KLM operates

per cent of global long-haul airline traffic a decade ago, yet by

up to 2,300 daily flights, mainly from its hubs at Paris-Charles

the end of 2016 it was 25 per cent.

de Gaulle and Amsterdam-Schiphol. I

36 - info - july / august 2018

A DE E P DIVE INTO TR AVE L – FOCUS

The influence of influencers Amanda Tran, Managing Director of the digital PR and influence agency JIN, outlines the growth of influencer marketing in the travel sector

W

hat was once a hobby for snap-happy holiday-goers has

travellers aged 18-33 prioritise ‘Instagrammability’ when

grown into a multi-billion dollar industry over the past 5

choosing their next holiday spot according to a study

year period, with social influencers having taken over as a top

undertaken by Schofields Insurance. This figure is backed

source of inspiration for consumers.

by Expedia Media Solutions, who discovered more than 50

Amanda Tran, Managing Director of JIN UK, says that

percent of travellers said that promotional social content

this is ‘thanks to the technological innovations such as the

influenced their travel decisions. Micro-influencers are growing

development of more image-centric social networks, the

as an authority in the marketing field, with 82 percent of

increasing use of mobile phones with improved photo

consumers questioned in a Kellar Fay Group survey saying

features, and the change of customers' purchasing habits.'

they would follow the advice of a micro-influencer.

In the travel sector specifically, Tran says that traditional

The growing market reflects recognition of influencers’

hotel brands, flight or car hire companies are no longer the

significant impact on consumer choice. Influencer marketing

only ones to use influencer marketing.

spend is predicted to reach $101bn by 2020 (Association of

‘We are witnessing the emergence of niche brands -

National Advertisers and PQ Media) and the average ROI from

including planning and map apps or collaborative car and

influencer created and shared content was 11 times higher

bicycle platforms - who are partnering with influencers to

than the average display ad over a 12 month period, according

develop brand awareness or promote products and services.'

to Nielsen Catalina Solutions.

For consumers, more than 40 percent of UK millennial

Unlike a traditional marketing strategy, the interconnectivity and trust between consumers, the brands themselves, and the influencers is key to a successful campaign. In order to connect with travellers, the story of the brand must match with that of the influencer and, as a byproduct, their followers - they must have similar objectives and characteristics.

Rather than appearing overly promotional in content, dissuading potential consumers of how genuine the content is, the influencer becomes a brand ambassador. The importance of this is reflected in a 2015 Crowdtap survey: 44 percent of influencers are more likely to work with a brand if it’s relevant for their audience, with 58 percent saying their priority in choosing projects is creative freedom. I SL

CASE STUDY: EUROPCAR Under the supervision of JIN as their digital coms agency, a series of videos featuring Finnish instagrammers Samuel and Daniel Taipale was released on Europcar’s Facebook, YouTube and Instagram channels as well as a specially created website (www.movingsamsway. com). The aim of the partnership was to change the perception of the car hire firm from a ‘service’ to a ‘lifestyle,’ encouraging potential consumers to buy into the story rather than the functional aspect of car rental and inspiring a lasting connection with a digital audience.

The collaboration combined entertainment with product

placement and destinations, and a competition to develop consumer engagement. The Taipale brothers travelled the world on a 'perfect road-trip' quest, meeting local influencers who chose filmed based on their own lives and brand values. A clue was hidden in each video for the next destination. The audience member who guessed all the destinations would have the chance to win £10,000, amongst other prizes.

And was it a success? With 10,000 new fans, and nearly 6.4m video views, all KPIs indicated good engagement across the board.

info

- july / august 2018 - 37

Data in the driver's seat Andreas Nau, Managing Director Europe at the tech travel company Expedia, details data-driven trends in the sector

T

oday’s travellers are time poor and tech savvy, they expect customisation and instant

interaction. Travel providers already need to be one step ahead, but the ideal is how to be two or three steps ahead of the game.

For more than 20 years, Expedia has been invested in the tech travel sphere.

We’ve made hypothesising a traveller’s booking and planning experience our business. From musing vacation destinations based on social media posts to booking on the go through mobile apps and AI interfaces, techie travellers are transforming travel at an unprecedented rate.

A person’s unique experience of travel starts well before they set foot out their front door. It begins in the dreaming, and then the planning stages of their trip. So how can we

62 percent of global consumers are comfortable with an AI application responding to their query and providing fast, efficient results

gaze into their crystal ball before they

consumers are comfortable with an

As an example of how we are

even know what they’re looking for?

AI (artificial intelligence) application

listening to our travellers and helping

By understanding data-driven insights.

responding to their query and providing

to bring their next trip within reach, we

The Expedia Innovation Labs allow us

fast, efficient results. Digital assistants

know that near half of people prefer

to track behaviour patterns and to test

are on the rise, in not just travel but

to book their flight first and then their

and learn new technologies to better

fashion, food, and just about every

hotel a little later. They want to make a

improve the consumer experience.

other industry.

decision on where to visit taking a little

Inside our labs, we use cutting-

Chatbots play a big part in our new

more time to decide where to stay but

edge technologies such as facial

tech travel world. As the name suggests,

whilst still being able to benefit from

electromyography (fEMG) and eye-

chatbots are essentially machines—

bundle savings.

tracking equipment to observe our

messenger apps—with which customers

consumers as they interact with our

seem to have conversations.

products. This allows our innovation

Chatbots are already enabling

Expedia’s Add-On Advantage is a new way to unlock guaranteed access to discounts from hundreds of thousands

team to make modifications to product

deeper and easier traveller

of participating hotels for travellers who

interfaces based on on-site analytics,

communication—and they are

book a flight, car, or package on Expedia

affording us the time to modify the

expanding constantly to different

up until their trip starts.

interface before real consumers are

mediums: chat, social channels, voice

interacting with them.

assistants and more. With increased

travel world will continue to evolve as

Technological innovations in the

Test and learn environments

personalisation, we can now connect

we strive to stay ahead of the needs

and broader research studies afford

with consumers in broader and more

of techno-dexterous consumers and

Expedia the ability to adapt to the

meaningful way.

adventurous, travel-bound millennials.

consumer’s desire for technologies that

With hyper-personalisation, comes

In the next five years, the travel industry

provide instant responses, answers

hyper-understanding. We can now

can expect extraordinary developments

and solutions to their queries and

make sure the customer sees the most

in AI functionality, mobile capabilities,

purchasing requests.

relevant deals first, but if we don’t

and curated, experience-led activities

understand how they want to book,

as unique as the people who booked

we’re missing a beat.

with us. I

Part of that solution lies in machine learning. Today, 62 percent of global 38 - info - july / august 2018

A DE E P DIVE INTO TR AVE L – FOCUS

Innovation in the Air easyJet’s European network — 1,000 routes in 33 countries – serves more than 300 million Europeans who live less than an hour away from an easyJet hub, says Group Director Robert Carey

L

ast year we launched Worldwide by easyJet, the first

easyJet holds its biggest base in Europe. The new self-boarding

global airline connections service by a European low

technology identifies each passenger and verifies that their

fares airline. Legacy airlines have traditionally offered

passport, face and boarding card all match – a process which

connectivity through costly and complex agreements and

takes less than 20 seconds. The trial is be the first and most

procedures. Worldwide by easyJet will replicate these types of

extensive of its kind in the UK and targets rouhgly 10,000

agreements through a digital, virtual hub, offering the same sort

passengers flying to 43 Gatwick routes.

of connectivity but more simply and efficiently.

Customers can now connect easyJet flights to long haul

Energy efficiencies

services across the globe with six long haul airline partners. This

Thanks to a series of initiatives, we also manage to be one

new network also enables passengers to connect two easyJet

of the most carbon efficient airlines in Europe, helped by

flights.

the introduction of NEO aircrafts offering 50 percent noise

The customer appetite for this kind of service is clear.

reduction and 15 percent fewer CO2 emissions.

easyJet flies on more of Europe’s 100 largest routes than any

By flying modern Airbus aircraft efficiently, we have reduced

other airline. More than 150m passengers currently fly inter-

the carbon impact of our flights by a third since 2000. We strive

continentally starting or ending at an easyJet airport. Of those,

to do this in the right way by reducing our carbon and noise

70m are currently making at least one transfer and could do

impact on the environment and local communities.

so via London Gatwick, Amsterdam Schipol, Paris Charles de

A recent collaboration with US company Wright Electric

Gaulle, and Milan Malpensa airports, which represents a new

supports the goal for short haul flights to be operated by all-

market segment for the airline.

electric planes. Wright Electric has set itself the challenge of

New tech We’re also trialling new technologies in the airport to facilitate and improve customer experience so that passengers can get onto their flight as quickly as possible.

Earlier this year, we announced the UK’s first trial of endto-end biometrics in partnership with Gatwick Airport, where

building an all-electric commercial passenger jet capable of flying passengers across easyJet’s UK and European network within a decade.

Big data Data analysis continues to play a key factor in our operations, including in the engineering of our planes.

We recently announced a five-year predictive maintenance partnership programme with Airbus to forecast aircraft technical faults before they occur. The technology relies on Airbus’ Skywise data platform which will allow easyJet’s engineers to intervene early and replace parts before the component’s failure, thereby preventing passengers from experiencing delays and cancellations.

The move is part of easyJet’s aim of eliminating delays caused by technical issues. These have come down from 10 per 1000 flights in 2010 to just over three per 1000 flights today on easyJet’s newest aircraft – and the airline’s long-term aim is to get to zero. I

easyJet’s brand is core to attracting customers in the European short-haul market and is based on its customer proposition of an attractive network, excellent service and market-leading digital tools. We’re extremely pleased that for the first time, easyJet is the most considered airline brand in the UK, moving ahead of British Airways and reaching our highest score to date — Robert Carey, Group Director Strategy and Network info

- july / august 2018 - 39

Women in aviation Christine Ourmières-Widener, CEO of Flybe and newly-appointed to the board of the global aviation governing body, speaks about gender equality in top jobs in aviation

A

recent meeting of the

these subjects and go on to achieve the

International Air Transport

relevant qualifications needed. They are

Association (IATA) highlighted the

then armed with what they need to rise

importance of bringing more women

up through their chosen profession,

into key positions in the industry.

alongside their male counterparts. It’s

Here, INFO speaks with Christine

all to do with creating early expectations

Ourmières-Widener, CEO of Flybe,

and persuading girls that they have

who was appointed to its Board of

exactly the same abilities as boys. It’s

Governors in June, about the issue.

also important to provide good role

She is one of only two women on

models and mentors to encourage

the 31-member body which heads

and support them to not only become

the influential trade association that

pilots and engineers, but also to take

represents some 290 airlines, equating

on management roles throughout the

to 82 percent of the world’s total air

industry.

traffic. IATA is critical in supporting

Flybe prides itself on the diversity of

many areas of aviation activity, helping

our workforce and we have women in

to formulate industry policy on critical

every role from our engineering hangars

aviation issues, including promoting

to the boardroom. And 7.9 percent of

gender diversity amongst its members.

our pilots are female – this is higher playing field. This would mean it’s a case

than the 5.26 percent industry average.

Will gender equality issues be part of

of hiring the best person for the job –

I’m not satisfied with this so we are not

your work with the IATA?

we have a number of females in senior

resting on our laurels and there’s clearly

Amongst other critical industry issues,

positions and they were all appointed

room for improvement. Also, by having

of course! This is an important issue for

because they were the best candidate.

a larger pool to choose from, this would

me and it is also one that IATA wants to

be one way to help solve the worldwide

focus on and improve. We clearly have

What are some of the solutions?

work to do, but I think it is positive that

I have always been a very vocal advocate

we are having this debate as previously

of the need to encourage women to

Will it be possible to address

this wasn’t an issue people focused on

work in science, technology, engineering

the issue with global or regional

as much.

and mathematics (STEM) roles as well as

solutions?

in senior corporate roles.

The exact means of promoting gender

Should targets be introduced?

We can start early through nurturing

shortage in these areas.

diversity will naturally vary across

Targets can often be quite a blunt

the same basic expectations and

countries, but the overall ambition of

mechanism and don’t address the more

education with both girls and boys. It’s

improving it is the same around the

important underlying issues. What we

never too early to start motivating and

world and bodies such as IATA can take

need is a large and diverse pool of

interesting girls in STEM subjects, so

the lead in highlighting the issue and

qualified candidates as well as a level

they are then enthused to later pursue

ways to address it. I

40 - info - july / august 2018

A DE E P DIVE INTO TR AVE L – FOCUS

European capital of Smart Tourism A new EU initiative seeks to reward innovation and boost smart development of tourism in European Cities

O

n the initiative of the European

products and services; equal

Parliament, the European

opportunities and access for all visitors;

Commission launched the

sustainable development of the local

European Capital of Smart Tourism, a

area; and support to creative industries

competition to recognise outstanding

and local talent.

achievements by European cities.

Two European cities that

The initiative, managed by the

demonstrate innovation, creativity

European Commission Directorate

and excellence in four categories –

General for Internal Market, Industry,

accessibility, sustainability, digitalisation,

Entrepreneurship and SMEs, aims to

cultural heritage and creativity – will be

promote the smart tourism offer and

awarded the title of European Capital of

showcase innovative, inclusive, culturally

Smart Tourism 2019.

diverse and sustainable practices to

Winners of the European Capital of

tourism development by European

Smart Tourism 2019 will receive expert

cities.

communication and branding support

Tourism is the EU’s third largest

for a year, a marketing video, a purpose-

against a set of established assessment

socio-economic activity – it represents

built sculpture for their city centre, and

criteria by a panel of independent

almost 10 percent of EU GDP and

tailor-made promotional actions.

experts. The panel will shortlist up to 10

supports 25 million jobs. By rewarding

In addition, four European cities

cities which will be invited to Brussels to

exemplary practices of smart tourism,

will receive thematic European Smart

present their candidature for the Capital

the European Union seeks to encourage

Tourism Awards for their outstanding

title in front of a European Jury during

innovation at the level of tourism

achievements in the four main

September 2018. The Jury will select two

destinations, culturally diverse and

categories.

European Capitals of Smart Tourism for

inclusive tourism offers and highlight

The competition, which launched

the year 2019.

the multi-faceted contribution of

in April 2018, is open to cities in the EU

tourism to sustainable development.

with a population of over 100,000. In

be presented in a special exhibition

The awarded achievements will

Smart tourism responds to

countries where no city has more than

at an award ceremony in Brussels on

new challenges and demands in a

100,000 inhabitants, the largest city is

7 November 2018, organised on the

fast-changing sector, including the

eligible to apply.

European Day of Tourism. I

expectation of digital information,

Eligible applications will be evaluated

A CAPITAL OF SMART TOURISM IS: ACCESSIBLE Physically accessible to travellers with special access needs, regardless of age, social or economic situation, with or without disabilities. Easily reachable through different means of transport and with a strong transport system within the city.

SUSTAINABLE Working to preserve and enhance the natural environment and resources while maintaining economic and sociocultural development in a balanced way.

DIGITAL Offering innovative tourism and hospitality information, products, services, spaces and experiences adapted to the needs of the consumers through ICT-based solutions and digital tools.

CULTURAL AND CREATIVE By making resourceful use of its cultural heritage and creative industries for an enriched tourism experience.

info

- july / august 2018 - 41

Personal injury abroad Leane Shanks, Senior Associate International Personal Injury at Irwin Mitchell, outlines how to deal with accidents and injuries while on holiday or business travel

I

t is that time of year when we can

of scheduled airline failure, not

look forward to digging out our

otherwise normally covered under

summer clothes from the back of

the ATOL consumer protection

the wardrobe and booking a well-

scheme.

earned holiday. France remains the most popular tourist destination in

Business Travel

the world, counting more than 89

Under English law, if the accident

million visitors in 2017, with visitors

happens in the course of an

from the UK topping the list.

employee’s work, it may be that

In the UK, more than 65

the employer will be liable to

percent of visitors come from

compensate the employee, even

within the EU, with tourists from France second only behind the USA in visitor numbers to London, helped by the ease with which one can now travel by train been France and the UK. The vast majority of those

A study found that 86 percent of UK companies surveyed do not use or were unaware of the need for a pre-travel risk assessment for their employees

if the accident happened many thousands of miles away from the employer’s premises. In 2016 the family of an investment banker won the right to claim compensation from his London-based employer following his tragic death in a helicopter crash in the Peruvian

visitors to France and England will have an uneventful trip and return home as planned. Some

Andes where he had been sent to observe progress on a billion

unlucky travellers will however not be so fortunate.

dollar hydro-power project.

Holidays

to take any steps to check the safety and risks involved in the

Thanks to the Recast Brussels Regulation, for those accidents

proposed flight. It is interesting to note that a study found that

occurring in the EU involving parties from the EU, it is possible

86 percent of UK companies surveyed do not use or were

in many cases for the injured victim to bring his/her claim in the

unaware of the need for a pre-travel risk assessment for their

courts of the country where the victim lives. This includes road

employees. Employers’ liability insurance is one of the few areas

traffic accidents, the main cause of injury involving visitors from

in the UK where insurance is compulsory (another is for motor

the UK to France.

vehicles). It is however important to check that the policy covers

If a hotel, campsite or excursion has been booked as part

The Court of Appeal found that the employer had failed

employees who are working abroad.

of a package holiday, another possibility is to pursue the claim

French nationals injured abroad in any incident qualifying

directly against the tour operator under the Package Travel

as a criminal act are provided additional protection. They are

Regulations, as the tour operator will normally be responsible

able in certain circumstances to seek compensation through

(subject to certain criteria) for any wrongdoing on the part of the

the French Guarantee Fund, no matter where in the world the

local supplier of the holiday.

incident occurs and where they live.

If payment was made by credit card, for those living in the

The equivalent UK scheme applies only to incidents

UK further assistance might also be found in s75 of the Credit

occurring within the UK, with one notable exception for victims

Card Act 1974, which provides that the credit card provider is

of terrorism abroad who under certain circumstances can

jointly and severally liable with the supplier. A payment by credit

claim compensation through the Victims of Overseas Terrorism

card also provides protection for flight only bookings in the case

Compensation Scheme. I

42 - info - july / august 2018

A DE E P DIVE INTO TR AVE L – FOCUS

INFO presents the best long-reads and long listens to explore the world of travel…

READ Elizabeth Becker: Overbooked: The Exploding Business of Travel and Tourism (2016) Becker describes the dimensions of this industry and its huge effect on the world economy, the environment, and our culture.

Employing one out of twelve people in the world, the travel and tourism industry exploded at the end of the Cold War. In 2012 the number of tourists travelling the world reached one billion.

Lonely Planet: The Solo Travel Handbook (2018) Developed with Lonely Planet's expert travel writers, The Solo Travel Handbook explains how and why individual travel is such a valuable and rewarding experience. Packed with tips and advice for before and during your travels, The Solo Travel Handbook gives you the confidence and know-how to explore the world on your own, whether you're planning a once-in-alifetime adventure or short city break.

WATCH

The Expedia Channel The Expedia Channel features the most useful tips from travel experts, their staff and their customers.

Listen here: https://bit.ly/1MQ8LVD

Leigh Gallagher: The Airbnb Story, How to Disrupt an Industry, Make Billions of Dollars … and Plenty of Enemies (2018) This is the first, definitive book to tell the remarkable story behind Airbnb in all its forms – cultural zeitgeist, hotel disruptor, enemy to regulators – and the first in-depth character study of its leader Brian Chesky, the company’s curious co-founder and CEO. It reveals how Airbnb got where it is today, and where they are going next.

Ed Stafford: Adventures for a Lifetime Paperback (2018) An inspiring selection of hand-picked adventures, chosen by Ed Stafford. For those who don’t mind a bit of discomfort in order to experience the wilder side of our amazing planet. Stunning photography, sketch maps, as well as Ed’s commentary throughout to inspire adventurers to create their own expeditions.

Harvard Business Review: The Data on Who Takes 'Bleisure' Trips (2016) The Harvard Business Review's short video explains the bleisure trend, a mix between business and leisure travel.

Watch here: https://bit.ly/2Kyxju6

CLASSIC READ Jan Morris: A Writer's World: Travels 1950-2000 (2004) In a wonderfully evocative collection of her travel writing and reportage from over five decades, Jan Morris - a constant traveller - has produced a unique portrait of the twentieth century. Ranging from New York to Venice, Sydney to Berlin, and the Middle East to South Africa, Jan Morris was a witness to such seminal moments as the Eichmann trial, the first ascent of Everest, the fall of the Berlin Wall and the handover of Hong Kong.

info

- july / august 2018 - 43

PRACTICAL REFLECTIONS ON THE FRENCH AND BRITISH IN BUSINESS

“Fascinating bilingual guide... full of shrewd insights into both sides’ codes.”

- The Financial Times

£6

Meetings may not start until the most senior person arrives.

Meetings start on time.

A meeting is a debate.

A meeting is a process.

Latecomers enter, shake hands with everyone present, and then sit down.

“Non c’est impossible” – often means “start convincing me”.

• ••

Latecomers slip in quietly, apologise and sit in the nearest available seat.

“No, I’m afraid that it really is impossible” usually means just that. Non-negotiable.

•••

Contact us: publications@ccfgb.co.uk

CULTURE – WHAT'S ON A SELECTION OF RECOMMENDED CULTURAL EVENTS

T H E T H E AT RE ROYA L H AYM A RK E T, LO N D O N Tartuffe

©Helen Maybanks

Los Angeles, pesent day. French media tycoon Orgon has fallen under the seductive spell of Tartuffe, a radical American evangelist. So comprehensively has Tartuffe hoodwinked Orgon that he looks set to steal his fortune, drive away his son, seduce his wife and marry his daughter.

This thrilling new adaptation of Molière’s classic comedy, penned by Academy, BAFTA and Olivier award winner Christopher Hampton (ART, Dangerous Liaisons, Atonement), is the West End’s first ever bilingual theatre production, alternating between English and French with surtitles throughout. The production stars Paul Anderson (Peaky Blinders, The Revenant), Audrey Fleurot (Spiral,The Intouchables), Sebastian Roché (The Man in the High Castle, Vampire Diaries) and George Blagden (Versailles, Vikings). I From 25 May 2018 to 28 July 2018 / From £18

TAT E B RI TA I N, LO N D O N

©Tate (Seraphina Neville) 2018

©Tate (Seraphina Neville) 2018

The Squash: Anthea Hamilton

Tate Britain's The Squash is an immersive installation combining performance and sculpture by 2016 Turner Prize nominee Anthea Hamilton. The Squash has been created for the annual Tate Britain Commission, supported by Sotheby’s, which invites contemporary British artists to create new artwork in response to the grand space of the Duveen Galleries.

Anthea Hamilton has transformed the heart of Tate Britain into an elaborate stage for the continuous 6-month performance of a single character, dressed in a colourful squash-like costume. More than 7,000 white floor tiles have been laid to span the length of the Duveens and encase a series of large structures that serve as podiums for a number of works of art from Tate’s collection, chosen by Hamilton. I From 22 March until 7 October 2018 / Admission free

info

- july / august 2018 - 45

T H E N AT I O N A L GA L L ERY, LO N D O N Take One Picture

©The National Gallery, London

This year's exhibition takes you on a magical odyssey of creativity, encountering women of power and mythical sea creatures.

For the 23rd annual Take One Picture exhibition, primary schoolchildren have responded to Pintoricchio's Penelope with the Suitors. From studies in portraiture and printmaking to flag designs and depictions of voyages, the exhibition celebrates the work of children from 27 schools across the UK. Their creative responses reflect the richness of Homer's epic story of Odysseus and Penelope, which children discovered in Pintoricchio's painting. I From 9 May until 12 August 2018 / Admission free

ROYA L AC A D E MY O F A RTS, LO N D O N 250th Summer Exhibition

© Royal Academy of Arts. Photography: David Parry

© Royal Academy of Arts. Photography: David Parry

Each summer, the galleries are jam-packed with contemporary art made by artists from all walks of life.

A world-famous show unlike any other, the Summer Exhibition draws together works by internationally renowned artists, exciting new talent and first-time exhibitors.

This summer, Grayson Perry RA coordinates the biggest, brightest and most colourful Summer Exhibition yet, in the 250th annual celebration of “art made now”. With over 1,200 works on display, you’ll see art you love, art you hate, art that leaves you thinking and art that simply puts a smile on your face.

As always, most of the art is for sale and purchases help raise money for the non-profit making areas of the Academy, including the Royal Academy Schools. I From 11 June until 19 August / Tickets available from £11

Above: Gallery view of the 250th Summer Exhibition, showing Young Academician, by Yinka Shonibare RA Left: Gallery view of the 250th Summer Exhibition, showing Royal Valkyrie by Joana Vasconcelos

46 - info - july / august 2018

CULTUR E – WHAT ' S ON

M USEU M O F LO N D O N, LO N D O N London Nights

© Photographer Damien Frost

Fusing portraiture, documentary, conceptual photography and film, London Nights reveals the capital at night. Museum of London displays over 200 photographs by 50 artists, ranging from the late 19th century to the present day, some never seen before. Contributors include: Alvin Langdon Coburn, Bill Brandt, Rut Blees Luxemburg, Tish Murtha and Nick Turpin.

London Nights will be open until late every Friday of the exhibition run. I From 11 May until 11 November 2018 / Tickets available from £10

Bourgeoisie from Night Flowers, 2014

D ES I G N M USEU M , LO N D O N Azedine Alaïa: The Couturier

© Mark-Blower-Alaia-Design-Museum

© Mark-Blower-Alaia-Design-Museum

© Mark-Blower-Alaia-Design-Museum

Conceived and co-curated with Monsieur Alaïa before his death in November 2017, the exhibition charts his incredible journey from sculptor to couturier, his nonconformist nature and his infectious energy for fashion, friendship and the female body.

Rather than a retrospective, the show interlaces stories of his life and career alongside personally selected garments, ranging from the rare to the iconic and spanning the early 1980s to his most recent collection in 2017. I Until 7 October 2018 / Tickets available from £10.75

info

- july / august 2018 - 47

LIFE S T YLE – BOOK S

THESE BOOKS, RECENTLY PUBLISHED IN ENGLISH, WERE SELECTED BY THE FRENCH INSTITUTE IN THE UK

THE YEARS

SMOKING KILLS

by Annie

by Antoine

Laurain Books Translated by Louise Lalaurie Rogers Original title: Fume et tue

Ernaux Published by Fitzcarraldo House UK Translated by Alison L. Strayer Original title: Les Années

Published by Gallic

Considered by many to be the iconic French memoirists

How far would you go to enjoy a cigarette? In this witty black

defining work, The Years is a narrative of the period 1941 to

comedy, Laurain’s anti-hero can only make smoking pleasurable

2006 told through the lens of memory, impressions past and

by committing the ultimate crime.

present, cultural habits, language, photos, books, songs, radio,

When head-hunter Fabrice Valentine faces a smoking ban at

television, advertising and news headlines. Annie Ernaux

work, he decides to undertake a course of hypnotherapy to rid

invents a form that is subjective and impersonal, private and

him of the habit. At first the treatment works, but his stress levels

collective and a new genre the collective autobiography in order

begin to rise when he is passed over for an important promotion

to capture the passing of time. At the confluence of autofiction

and he finds himself lighting up again – but with none of his

and sociology, The Years is 'a Remembrance of Things Past for our

previous enjoyment.

age of media domination and consumerism' (New York Times),

Until he discovers something terrible: he accidentally causes a

a monumental account of twentieth-century French history as

man’s death, and needing a cigarette to calm his nerves, he enjoys

refracted through the life of one woman. I

it more than any other previous smoke. What if he now needs to kill every time he wants to properly appreciate his next Benson and Hedges?. I

VERNON SUBUTEX 2

by Virginie

Despentes

Published by MacLehose

Press Translated by Frank Wynne Original title: Vernon Subutex 2

HISTORY OF VIOLENCE

by Edouard

Louis

Published by Harvill

Secker Stein Original title: Histoire de la violence Translated by Lorin

Rock star Alex Bleach may be dead, but he has a secret. The only person who can unlock it is Vernon Subutex, former record shop proprietor turned homeless messiah and all-round guru, last seen hallucinating and feverish in the parc des Buttes Chaumont.

‘I met Reda on Christmas Eve 2012. I was going home after a

Aïcha wants to know the truth behind the death of her mother,

meal with friends, at around four in the morning. He approached

Vodka Satana. And she finds the bastards responsible; she wants

me in the street, and finally I invited him up to my apartment.

to make them pay. The Hyena wants to use the Bleach tapes to

He told me the story of his childhood and how his father had

her advantage. She doesn’t want Laurent Dopalet to discover how

come to France, having fled Algeria.’

badly she has double-crossed him.

‘We spent the rest of the night together, talking, laughing. At

Laurent Dopalet wants the Hyena to find and destroy the

around 6 o'clock, he pulled out a gun and said he was going to

tapes. He wants to forget he ever knew Vodka Satana. He wants

kill me. He insulted me, strangled and raped me. The next day,

people to stop writing ludicrous allegations in graffiti on his

the medical and legal proceedings began.’

apartment with. Above all he wants people to understand: none of this is his fault. I

History of Violence retraces the story of that night, and looks at immigration, dispossession, racism, desire and the effects of trauma in an attempt to understand, and to outline, a history of violence, its origins, its reasons and its causes. I

48 - info - july / august 2018

LIFE S T YLE

THE BEST OF FR ANCO - BRITISH Vivendi, the content media and communications giant, will hold a Franco-British festival of culture in London’s King’s Cross

A

new, cross-Channel festival of culture is coming to London’s King’s Cross in

September 2018.

Le Crxssing is an avant-garde celebration of the Entente Cordiale and creativity in all its forms, with festival strands spanning British and French music, comedy, cinema, gastronomy, art and fashion. It will be held at the University of the Arts London’s renowned Central Saint Martins site near St Pancras International station – the place where Paris meets London.

The festival is the brainchild of French content, media and communications group Vivendi – whose companies include Universal Music Group, CANAL+ Group, StudioCanal, Gameloft and Havas – and is supported by The French Chamber of Great Britain.

‘Now seems a prescient time to remind people of the

U-Live, Universal Music.

While Le Crxssing 2018 will largely be invite-only, a number of tickets will be made available to the public through

creative powers of collaboration – across borders and across

competitions and giveaways. Quickly becoming one of the

genres. As well as a geographical closeness, France and

most unique events in London, Le Crxssing is expected to

the UK have a rich shared cultural history,’ said Arnaud de

become an annual, ticketed festival from 2019.

Puyfontaine, Chairman of the Vivendi Management Board ‘Le Crxssing will showcase the best of each country and the amazing things that happen when we come together.’

The first wave of performers announced include ‘Franglais’

The festival takes inspiration from the UK and France’s shared rich cultural heritage and a friendship forged through collaboration and creation. Whether it’s marveling at French romance or obsessing over British rock ‘n’ roll, both countries

comedian Paul Taylor, Scottish comedian Fern Brady,

admire the other’s ability to break the boundaries of creativity

‘Frenchie’ founding chef Greg Marchand and musicians

– and Le Crxssing plans to celebrate the two countries’ special

The Kills, Eddy de Pretto and Jordan Mackampa – with

relationship while challenging perceptions of creativity and its

many more acts across each of Le Crxssing’s strands to be

limitations.

announced in the summer.

‘ Le Crxssing seeks to go beyond the boundaries of

A popular follow-up

creativity, by bringing together a variety of artists, from a variety

The debut of the festival at this new, larger-capacity venue

of disciplines, and gives artists a unique opportunity to create

follows 2017’s successful pilot at London’s iconic Abbey Road

and collaborate together, thereby pushing their own ideals of

Studios. Central Saint Martins – specifically The Street, the

creativity,’ said Lucien Boyer, Chief Marketing Officer of Vivendi.

large, open-plan performance area at its heart – allows for a substantially increased capacity this year.

‘The showcase edition of Le Crxssing was a real success,

In addition to the Chamber’s support of the one-day event, Le Crxssing is supported by a group of Co-Founders, including Google, Eurostar and Blue Solutions, with a dozen new

highlighting the quality and diversity of talent which exists in

partners joining Le Crxssing for 2018 including, The St Pancras

France and the UK. Bringing these talents together, in such

Renaissance Hotel, Central Saint Martins, LionTree, Urban

an iconic location as Abbey Road Studios, was very special,’

Partners, King’s Cross General Partnership, Atout France, Sassy

said Sally Davies event co-organiser and Managing Director of

Cidre, Cylo, Ascential and Master & Dynamic. I

Now seems a prescient time to remind people of the creative powers of collaboration – across borders and across genres

info

- july / august 2018 - 49

Talent spotting A recent completion by London’s L’Echo magazine recognised two young journalistic prodigies

L

’Echo

for

submissions for the prize. For the completion next year, Camps

francophone expatriate families in London, has announced

magazine,

the

general

interest

magazine

said the magazine plans to open the completion to University

the winners of the 2018 Young Journalist Award, recognising

students and to offer training by established journalists as part

aspiring young writers and reporters.

of the prize.

Writing on the theme of ‘Altruism and Humanitarian Action’,

In her article Hope Meets Art: Quand l'art rejoint l'espoir,

the winners were Joséphine Pierre (French High School Charles

Joséphine Pierre writes about her meeting with the president of

de Gaulle of London, college category) and Charlotte Imbert

London charity Hope Meets Art, which helps street children in

(Sevenoaks School, high school category). They received their

Dakar. Charlotte Imbert submitted Deux Pénélopes au Grand

awards from the journalist Frédérique Bedos, founder of the

Cœur, an article which takes a charity angle on the Rose des

Imagine Project and sponsor of the contest.

Sables, the famous women-only car race across the Moroccan

It was the fourth edition of the Young Journalist competition

desert.

open to young Francophone students from French and English

The winners received their awards at The Exhibitionist

schools, from 4th to 12th grade. Candidates could submit either

hotel in South Kensington, in front of an admiring crowd which

an article or a photographic report. The only rule was that the

included Claudine Ripert-Landler, cultural advisor and director

article had to be a field investigation supported by interviews

of the French Institute, and Paul Dorville, deputy headmaster of

and testimonies.

the London International High School Winston Churchill.

A panel of jurors, consisting of high-profile professionals

In addition to the diplomas they received, Charlotte and

from media and journalism, included Jon Henley, correspondent

Joséphine have the opportunity to participate in journalism

for European Affairs of the Guardian, Libération correspondent

workshops at MediaSchool ECS-IEJ in London, an observation

Sonia Delesalle-Stolper, and Marie-Hélène Martin de L'Obs.

internship with one of the jurors, and a meeting with the

Marie-Blache Camps, editor of L’Echo, described this

Imagine Project team in Paris. I

year’s competition as a ‘total success,’ with a high calibre of

The new ECHO Magazine was launched in December 2007. Allophone magazine (French-language press body published in the United Kingdom) recognized on the London market, ECHO Magazine is aimed at French-speaking, expatriate or installed families in London. ECHO Magazine works in complete editorial independence, and It maintains close partnerships with many French or bilingual schools and the associative world (Federation of French Associations of Great Britain, associations of parents of students, etc.).

50 - info - july / august 2018

LIFE S T YLE

A DELI CIOUS HISTORY The iconic Ladurée macaron enjoys a rich history and it continues to evolve under the stewardship of its President David Holder

T

he story of the Ladurée macaron starts in the middle of the 19th

century with Pierre Desfontaines, who first thought of taking two macaron shells and joining them with a delicious ganache filling. The recipe has not changed since.

Ladurée’s refined atmosphere, charged with history, drew the attention of David Holder and his father Francis Holder, founder of the Holder Group, which includes bakeries and patisseries Chateau Blanc and Paul.

In 1993, they bought the Parisian institution, with the intension to promote and enlarge the famous ‘Maison.’ The Holders imagined a location on the most beautiful avenue

names in French luxury items had

society. Along with the chic restaurants

in the world that would reflect the

already taken up residence in this

around the Madeleine, they became the

refinement and authenticity of the tea

neighbourhood.

showcases of the capital.

room on the rue Royale.

They also continued the tradition

In 1871, while Baron Haussmann

The beginning of this century

was giving Paris a ‘new face,’ a fire at

found Paris wrapped up in a frenzy

of celebrating sweets and pastry

the bakery opened up the possibility

of entertainment and going out on

innovation. Twice a year, Ladurée

of transforming it into a pastry shop.

the town. Parisians flocked to the

imagines news desserts, such as the

The decoration of the pastry shop was

Universal Exposition. Women were also

Rose Religieuse, the Rose- Raspberry

entrusted to Jules Cheret, a famous

changing. They wanted to make new

Saint-Honoré, the Liquorice Millefeuille

turn-of-the-century painter and poster

acquaintances, but literary salons and

and the Blackcurrant-Violet Macaron.

artist.

literature circles were outmoded.

Cheret sought inspiration from the

Louis Ernest Ladurée’s wife, Jeanne

Early beginnings

painting techniques used for the ceiling

Souchard, had the idea of mixing styles:

The history of Parisian tea rooms is

of the Sistine Chapel and the Garnier

The Parisian café and pastry shop gave

intimately tied to the history of the

Opera House. By integrating them into

birth to one of the first tea rooms in

Ladurée family. It all began in 1862,

his work, he added depth and relief

town. The ‘salon de thé’ had a definite

when Louis Ernest Ladurée, a man from

to the ceilings decorated with chubby

advantage over the cafés: women could

France’s southwest, created a bakery in

cherubs, notably the ‘Pastry Angel’ who

gather in complete freedom.

Paris at 16 rue Royale.

was later to inspire the House’s graphic

The same year, the first stone of

identity.

the Garnier Opera House was laid, and

Today you can find Ladurée stores across the world in Singapore, Florence, Bucharest, Miami, Bangkok, Brussels,

the area surrounding the Madeleine

Café culture

Azerbaijan, Dubai, the Philippines, and

was rapidly developing into one of the

Under the Second Empire, cafés

Luxembourg – to name just a few of

capital’s most important and elegant

developed and became more and more

their global locations. I

business districts. The most prestigious

luxurious. They attracted Parisian high

LE T THEM E AT M ACA RON! The newest innovation at Ladurée are personalised macaron, which can bear a name, monogram, logo or design on their tops. The company usually requires 48 hours’ notice (and minimum quantity of 20) to produce the bespoke treats. They recommend printing on the lightest flavors such as Vanilla, Orange Blossom, Rose, Pistachio, or Caramel for maximum impact.

info

- july / august 2018 - 51

LIFE S T YLE – WINE

THE GA M AY Wine Story Thibault Lavergne of Wine Story explores fresh red wines perfect for this hot summer

T

here is not other grape variety which epitomises the joie de vivre of the rural French country side as well of the Gamay. The local appellations (AOC) are Chinon in Loire Valley and Pommard in Burgundy. They are not a grape variety, they are villages. (The

famous ‘Bistro Lyonnais’ showcases the full variety of these popular grapes.) For red drinkers in summer time, a slightly chilled Gamay is the perfect companion for hot evening dinner.

Gamay is a purple-colored grape variety used to make light bodied red wines, most notably grown in Beaujolais and in the Loire Valley around Tours. Its full name is Gamay ‘Noir à Jus Blanc.’ Gamay Noir is a very old Burgundian variety whose name first appeared in an official ban promulgated by the Duke of Burgundy Philippe le Hardi in Dijon in 1395.

He referred to the Gamay as a ‘disloyal’ varietal, as he viewed it taking up valuable soil which could otherwise be producing the superior Pinot Noir.

Legend or not, the banishment of the Gamay vine plantation in the Dukedom of Burgundy is the explanation given to why the noble Pinot Noir grape is still dominant today in the North of the region, and the Gamay in the South.

The high level of acidity is softened through carbonic maceration, a winemaking process that also allows the vibrant youthful fruit expressions reminiscent of bright crushed strawberries and raspberries, as well as deep floral notes of lilac and violets.

Gamay-based wines are typically light-bodied and fruity. The most famous of the light-bodied Gamay is of course the Beaujolais Nouveau, produced by fast whole-berry maceration. But the grape is much better than this famous ‘coup marketing’ of the third Thursday of November. Wines meant to be drunk after some modest aging and more traditional winemaking tend to have more body than the ‘En Primeur’ Beaujolais.

They are produced mostly in the designated 10 'Cru Beaujolais' such as Morgon or Fleurie where the wines typically have the flavor of sour cherries, black pepper, and dried berry, as well as freshcut stone and chalk. You may remember from a previous INFO wine column, that the Gamay with the Cabernet Franc and the Cot (Malbec) is one of the three grapes of the signature red wine of the Touraine- Amboise appellation near Tours and Montlouis in the Loire Valley, the Cuvee Francois Ier. At the extreme east of the Loire Valley, almost at the source of the river, we find light bodied and delicate Gamay in the Saint-Pourcain AOC, such as the Cuvee Les Grandes Brieres of the biodynamic vineyard Domaine des Berioles.

The Gamay-based wines are ideal with casual cheese boards and cured meat. For the more adventurous foodies, few pairings can be better than a ripe and medium bodied Morgon from the Cotes de Py and an Andouillette pork tripe sausage. The light-bodied style of the Gamay makes these wines very popular in the more trendy natural wine bars – and a reminder that the natural wine winemaking movement started in the Beaujolais region with visionary winemaker such as Jules Chauvet in the 1950’s and Marcel Lapierre in 1981. In fact, in the unorthodox natural wine bars it may be a sign of pride today to celebrate a grape banned by the establishment back in medieval times! I Next month: Wines from Corsica Thibault Lavergne

TO ORDER THE ABOVE-MENTIONED WINES AND OTHERS, CONTACT: E: thibault@winestory.co.uk T: +44 (0)7921 770 691 W: www.winestory.co.uk

52 - info - july / august 2018

e

RP

m

P r

o

w a r d

R

e

g r a m

To thank our members who act as ambassadors for the French Chamber we are pleased to announce our new Reward Programme

Reward programme For introducing a new Active member: 1 free ticket for a ‘Rendez-Vous Chez’ For introducing a new Corporate member, choose from: 1 free ticket for a ‘Breakfast With...’

1 free ticket for a ‘Current Affairs Update’ a classified advertisement in INFO magazine For introducing a new Patron member, choose from: 1 free ticket for a ‘Dîner des Chefs’ exclusive access to a Patron Event 1 month free advertising banner on the Chamber’s website Please do get in touch with the Membership team at: membership@ccfgb.co.uk / 020 7092 6600

Reward is redeemable upon completion of new member’s membership, further terms and conditions may apply.

AT THE CHAMBER A

s I am sure many of you have

are also important to the growth of

a fantastic beginning to the year, with

seen, our web presence has

our network. We are pleased to have

a host of well-attended events, for

taken a huge step forward with the

signed a new partnership with the

which we have received tremendous

launch of a newly-designed website.

media group French Morning London,

feedback. I would like to thank all of

We have received great feedback on

further enhancing our portfolio of press

our members for your enthusiastic and

the fresh new look, the ease of use

and media relationships.

valuable participation with everything

and the simplified orientation of the

We are developing our knowledge

that we do. In the second semester, we

site. The new site represents a huge

sharing through our Forums & Clubs,

are delighted to offer another fabulous

achievement by the team and everyone

with the announcement that most

programme of events, and I look

involved. Over the next few weeks we

of our Forum & Club sessions have

forward to seeing you all soon.

will be retuning the site and rolling out

received CPD accreditation. We are

a suite of enhanced functionalities.

proud to bring an additional dimension

note, at the time of writing, both

Similarly we seek to continuously

I would also be remiss if I didn’t

of value to our members through this

England and France had reached the

bring value to our membership –

accreditation, which is compatible with

semi-finals in the World Cup. It’s the

we value your feedback in how we

global CPD principles. Attendees will be

kind of Franco-British success that we

evolve to meet the needs of all of our

able to add their attendance to their

are very much accustomed to at the

members. We continue see ourselves

personal global training programmes.

Chamber – and we hold out for the

as a home for our members, especially

As we enter the summer months,

during such turbulent days, not least

we at the Chamber wish everyone a

in the context of Brexit. Partnerships

restful and peaceful break. It has been

54 - info - july / august 2018

possibility of a France-England final! I SB

NE WS – AT THE CHAMBE R

ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL YEAR Our AGM for 2017 celebrated the success of the Chamber under challenging conditions

D

espite a forecast of rain, the

events in 2017: ‘The only thing we

Members. Directors re-elected were:

London skyline was bathed in

haven’t organised is the Royal Wedding!’

Peter Alfandary, Head of French Team,

Brachlianoff joked.

Reed Smith LLP, Brian Gosschalk, Head

sunlight as the Annual General Meeting of the French Chamber of Great Britain

For 2018, Burgin says that a primary

of President’s Office Ipsos, Helena

took place on the 32nd floor of the

aim is ‘making sure we are delivering

Kavanagh, Managing Director, JCDecaux,

Reed Smith Offices for the ninth year in

added value as a Chamber to every

and Arnaud Vaissié, Co-Founder,

a row on 12 June.

category of member and to make sure

Chairman & CEO, International SOS.

that we are being not only inclusive but

New Directors appointed in 2017

Developing & connecting

we’re also taking an opportunity to give

and approved at the AGM were Sadia

Estelle Brachlianoff, President of the

the right level of focus to each of those

Ricke, Chief Country Officer Head of

French Chamber of Great Britain,

levels.'

Coverage and Investment Banking,

commenced proceedings by thanking

Nicolas Ribolet then presented the

Société Générale and Fabienne Viala,

Reed Smith for once again hosting the

accounts, with a 2 percent increase

Chairman, Bouygues Construction.

meeting.

in turnover as compared to 2016.

She drew attention to the headline

He noted that the Business Support

Economic observations

of the Annual Report: Developing

department of the Chamber has made

To close the official segment of the

and connecting French and British

gains and is only marginally behind the

evening, Jean-Christophe Donnellier,

businesses. ‘We are not so clear

membership department in terms of

Minister for Economic Affairs,

where the UK will be to be in a year,

overall percentage of the turnover.

introduced himself to all assembled

or two or three, so connecting people

The Chairs of the Forums & Clubs

and highlighted the importance

and allowing relations to be built is

then gave accounts of their activities.

that the Embassy places in the

absolutely critical,' she said.

Last year saw six joint sessions, from

Chamber’s ‘activities, huge network and

Stephen Burgin, Deputy President

Finance & Brexit, to Digital & HR,

engagement’ within the Franco-British

of the French Chamber, then presented

demonstrating the broader relevance

community. He noted that the Embassy

an overview of the Chamber’s year in

of the themes, and drawing parallels

was also ready to engage, in kind, with

2017. The membership department

between the aforementioned keyword

the French Chamber and their activities.

coordinated many initiatives to improve

of ‘connectivity.'

services to members, including

His final comments were pertaining to Brexit where he stated that we,

Feedback and Welcome to the Chamber

Directors

unfortunately, ‘have to be prepared for

sessions. The Chamber also organised

Peter Alfandary, Senior Vice President

a bad outcome. We have to be clear

42 Forum & Club sessions and 52

of the Chamber, led votes on the Board

about the ambiguities and that will not be easy’.

‘The French government is considering the opportunity to launch a communications campaign, asking especially small and medium-sized companies to make a risk assessment on the ‘no-deal’ situation.] If there is no solution, there could be a lack of a regulatory platform.'

‘I think there is a strong risk that this will require more common engagement on both sides for the French Chamber and Embassy to influence both public opinion and the business community for these outcomes.’

Guests then enjoyed the spectacle of the setting sun, over drinks and a selection of cheeses and charcuterie, provided by Reed Smith. I

info

- july / august 2018 - 55

GROWING IN THE UK M ARKET:

The Implantation Service

The French Chamber’s Implantation and Accountancy department helps companies set up, develop and succeed in the UK. INFO speaks with one of our clients: Gaylord Sequeira, Finance & Administration Manager at Vranken Pommery UK

What initially brought you to use the services of the

- Getting the company started;

French Chamber?

- Guarantying the compliance with UK Laws;

Mr Cyrille Laupie who set up Vranken-Pommery UK Ltd,

- Staying up-to-date on latest issues and topics thanks to the

knew very well the French Chamber and Naser back in 2013.

various forums and clubs (Brexit, HR matters, GDPR...);

When, the Group decided to activate the subsidiary, Cyrille

- working with key trusted partners and suppliers;

knew that working with the French Chamber would help the

- Increasing our visibility by showcasing our portfolio

company in getting started quickly and effectively thanks

through sponsorships of events organised by the French

to all the support provided. After a year coordinating the

chamber;

set-up, Cyrille was appointed in the Headquarters in Reims

- Growing our business by gaining B2B customers that are

and he chose the recruitment services from the Chamber to

members of the French Chamber family.

find a suitable replacement. That’s how I got the position in Vranken-Pommery UK.

What does being a member of the Chamber mean for Vranken Pommery?

Over the years, we have worked with you in a number of

Owned by a French group and proud of producing one of

areas: set-up, accountancy, VAT and compliance. What

the best Grand Marque Champagnes, we believe that it’s

are your main areas of activity with us now?

essential to be part of the French Chamber community to

That’s right, I see the French Chamber as the one-stop shop

stay connected, visible and informed in an ever changing and

for successfully conducting our business in the UK. The

fast-paced business environment.

French Chamber has helped us in the early day thanks to

Naser Nashaat and his team have always been very

their expertise and also by introducing us to other members,

supportive and communicative with us. It feels that they

i.e auditor (Byrne & Palmer), solicitor (Browne Jacobson), HR

are always available for us and keep providing high quality

(Entente Partners) and bank (HSBC). By working with other

customer service in all the areas we work with them at all

French Chamber members, we feel part of hub that is easily

times.

accessible and allows us to work more efficiently.

The French Chamber support us for the VAT returns,

I feel that we are part of a big family at times when we meet on a regularly basis at events organised by the

HR matters (payroll & P11d), recruitment services, and

Chamber. Those events allow us to casually catch-up on any

ad-hoc business support. It’s essential for me to work

matter in great venues (Hotels, restaurants, Rendez-vous

with the French chamber on these areas to ensure data

Chez, etc).

completeness, correctness and compliance with the UK laws.

It gives me a peace of mind.

Would you recommend our services to other companies?

Absolutely! Without a doubt! For SMEs like us here in the UK,

How has working with the Chamber helped your business

I feel that the French Chamber is a key partner to establish

in the UK?

a business securely and permanently in the UK as well as an

The French Chamber has helped us in several areas,

essential platform to boost your sales. I

including:

By working with other French Chamber members, we feel part of a hub that is easily accessible and allows us to work more efficiently 56 - info - july / august 2018

NE WS – AT THE CHAMBE R

New Chamber website takes shape

T

he Chamber is pleased to announce an improved design, communication and layout on our website. During the month of June, we will continue to implement the full scope of functionalities and improve the overall user experience. Please get in touch with the team with your comments. And stay tuned for the full roll out of the website’s functionality soon. I www.frenchchamber.co.uk

Forums & Clubs receive CPD accreditation

O

n 12 June, the Chamber received the Certificate of membership from the Continuing Professional

to their global training programmes.

The CPD Certification Service is an independent company

Development (CPD) Certification Service for most of our

specialised in learning activities for professionals. CPD

Forums & Clubs. The Accreditation will run for one year.

Certification Service’s role is to engage and to develop people’s

At the end of each session organised by the Chamber, each attendee will be delivered an official certificate, according to the topic of the forum. This certificate will be compatible with global CPD principles and attendees will be able to add it

abilities as well as to enable learning to become conscious and proactive, rather than passive and reactive.

This certification is delivered to increase standards of CPD provision to professionals in relevant market sectors. I

Award for Rosie Gorman

T

he Chamber congratulates Rosie Gorman on receiving the Ordre National du Mérite. Gorman has been the Head of Protocol for the Embassy of France in the United Kingdom since 2004. I

info

- july / august 2018 - 57

NEW MEMBERS 2 NEW PATRON MEMBERS KAMET VENTURES SAS – A Company that Creates Companies in the Insurance, Protection and Assistance Space Represented by Michael Niddam, Director

Kamet is an insurtech startup studio. Kamet was launched early 2016 and is fully (100%) backed by AXA with an initial investment of 100m€. It is a 'startup' which builds startups with seasoned entrepreneurs, a company that creates companies in the insurance, protection and assistance space. The underlying hypothesis for building Kamet was that while incremental innovation can be done within the 'Core' of a large organisation like AXA, more 'disruptive' innovation is difficult to achieve outside of a truly entrepreneurial framework. www.kametventures.com

MARCUS WAREING RESTAURANTS – Contemporary British Restaurants

by Marcus Wareing

Represented by Marcus Wareing, Chef & Restaurateur Comfort in the familiar, hunger for the new. 3 unique restaurants, bound by the same values: excellence without pretence, inspiring rooms with a friendly welcome, the next generation of talent led by an ambassador for British cooking. Marcus Wareing Restaurants cooks contemporary British food to evoke and create memories: from Marcus’s northern roots to the global influences that shape our national cuisine; from childhood encapsulated in a simple dish to humble ingredients elevated and transformed. www.marcuswareing.com

3 NEW CORPORATE MEMBERS IMPULSE PARTNERS Startup Accelerator for Construction, Real Estate, Infrastructure Represented by Simon Bergeron, Head of Ecosystem Development Impulse Partners accompanies corporate executives and start-ups in the construction, energy, real estate and industrial sectors.

Impulse Partners develops and manages start-up accelerators on a variety of themes: Construction & Energy, Digital Construction & Robotics, wellbeing through real estate (immowell Lab), Mobility and Infrastructures, Social Housing and disruptive real estate. www.impulse-partners.com MAJENCIA Furniture Office Represented by Inès Relano, International Business Developer UK A French leading company specialising in workplace consulting, design & build, office furniture to re-inspire living spaces.

Workplace design must be able to offer solutions for social and technological changes and new ways of working, putting people back at the heart of it all and helping businesses meet their strategy. www.majencia.com VACHERON CONSTANTIN Luxury Timepieces, Retail Represented by Christophe Ramel UK, Brand Director Founded in 1755, Vacheron Constantin is the world’s oldest watch Manufacture in continuous production for over 260 years, faithfully perpetuating a proud heritage of watchmaking excellence and stylistic sophistication through generations of master craftsmen.

At the pinnacle of high horology and understated elegance, the Maison creates timepieces with unique technical and aesthetic signatures, and an extremely high level of finishing touches. www.vacheron-constantin.com 58 - info - july / august 2018

NE W ME MBE R S – AT THE CHAMBE R

14 NEW ACTIVE MEMBERS ABL Recruitment – Multi-lingual International Recruitment - www.ablrecruitment.com Represented by Tracy Durrant, Managing Director AGILY3 Ltd – Business, Customer Experience and Workplace Transformation - www.agily.io Represented by Bruno Vinel, CEO Coaching Assembly Ltd – Recruitment Platform - www.coachingassembly.com Represented by Thomas Viguier, CEO Cross Consulting - Ambroise Conseil SAS – Conseil aux Entreprises - www.crossconsult.fr Represented by Noellyne Bernard, Présidente MLV Comms Ltd – Consulting in Corporate Communications Represented by Marie-Laure Vaganay, Founder Perenity Solutions Ltd – Coaching and Advisory Services for Families - www.perenitysolutions.com Represented by Sybille Sciamma, Director Prodesign Parquet – Sales and Laying of Wood Flooring - www.prodesignparquet.com Represented by Vincent Coignet, CEO Rome de Bellegarde – Luxury Cognac / Champagnes / Wines / Art - www.romedebellegarde.com Represented by David Smeralda, Founder, CEO SanCheng Digital – Digital Marketing Cross Cultural Networking - sancheng.com Represented by Ian George Jefferies, Owner Scutum International UK – Security Systems & Fire & Monitoring Services - www.scutum.fr Represented by Gill Prates, Head of Marketing & Communications Smart Cookie Media – Modern Media and Marketing Agency - smartcookiemedia.com Represented by Somi Arian, Founder/Director Les Vergers de la Silve – Apple Juice, Sparking Apple Juice 0% Alcohol - www.les-vergers-de-la-silve.com Represented by Gilles Tessier, CEO & Founder WanSquare – Online Business News Media - www.wansquare.com Represented by Marie-Amélie Fauchier-Magnan, Correspondante à Londres - Rédactrice en chef adjointe The Westbury Mayfair Hotel – Five Star Hotel - www.westburymayfair.com Represented by Anne Dugenetay, Director of Sales & Marketing

info

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HR FORUM

Business travellers in UK The latest HR Forum was focused on the taxation issues of the business travellers in UK

T

he Chamber welcomed Sarah Robert, Tax Director and Charlotte Firth, Tax Manager at James Cowper Kreston

any 12-month period’ Certain sectors will need to review their business travellers

and Lucy Langham, Human Resources, Compliance and

very closely as they may be coming from countries with no DTA

Systems Manager at Mechadyne International. Pia Dekkers,

– for example, the Oil and Gas sector. The method of counting

Human Resources Director at Chanel and Melanie Stancliffe,

days is also very important for compliance. It is based on the

Partner – Employment at Irwin Mitchell co-chaired the session.

OECD ‘days of physical presence method’ from the arrival

Taxes & Business travellers Business travellers are a highly mobile workforce, visiting the UK on one of more business trips, which can last from

day to the departure day and counts every day in between as being on UK territory. Bank holidays, week-ends, sickness days are also taken in account.

Reporting requirements will depend on time spent in UK:

one day to six months. Employers - and not employees – are

- From 1 to 30 days, there are no requirements from

responsible in the first instance for managing UK withholding

HMRC.

tax for these travellers. ‘PAYE’ is often underestimated by the

- From 31 to 59 days, HMRC require a list of names of

firms and non-compliance risks penalties, interest and wider

business trravellers.

investigations. HM Revenue and Customs recognise employees

- From 60 to 90 days, HMRC require the following: full

will move between offices, but they have placed employers

name, last known UK and overseas address, nature of duties

under greater scrutiny when it comes to their mobile

undertaken, dates of work, country that tax return covering

workforce. In certain circumstances, employers can relax strict

worldwide income is submitted to, employer statement

PAYE requirements by applying the terms of the Short-Term

confirming that the UK company does not ultimately bear the

Business Visitors Agreement (STBV), as detailed below.

costs of the employee’s remuneration/function during the visit.

Short-Term Business Visitors Agreement

- From 91 to 150 days, HMRC require all of the above and a certificate of residence from the home country.

If an agreement is put in place, the relaxation of strict PAYE

- From 151 to 190 days, an individual application must be

rules can be self-assessed by employers and withholding tax

made to HMRC.

does not need to be operated, as long as conditions are met: - Business travellers are ‘resident in a country with a Double

Social security for Business travellers

Taxation Agreement with the UK under which the Dependent

Social security for Business travellers is out of the scope of the

Personal Services article is applicable’

Short-Term Business Visitors Agreement for employers and

- They are ‘coming to work for a UK company or UK

employees. National Insurance contributions in UK depend on

branch or legally employed by UK employer but economically

two things:

employed by separate non-resident entity’

- The terms of an agreement between the UK social security

- They are ‘expected to be in the UK 183 days or less in

and the home country social security, if there is one.

- The time spent by the overseas employees in UK Social security agreements have been made between countries, for example between UK and EU/EEA, but also bilateral agreements with the United States, Switzerland, Canada or Japan.

Brexit considerations For the moment, the impact of Brexit on business travellers is uncertain. But as the STBV agreement is based around double taxation treaties, which means that the agreement is in force between two countries and not between the EU and UK, there is no reason this will change in the short term. However, there is likely to be increased monitoring of overseas workers in the longer term. I

60 - info - july / august 2018

CLIMATE CHANGE & SUSTAINABILITY FORUM

The future of batteries in energy storage The Climate Change & Sustainability Forum explained why and explored the future opportunities of batteries in energy storage

T

he French Chamber was pleased

is not an optimal economic solution.

to welcome two guest speakers

On the plus side, battery storage

Alastair Davies, Head of Strategic

can offer opportunities to generate

Analysis & Modelling at EDF Energy

energy in a smarter way, not only for

and Richard Thompson, Partner

peak generation. Batteries can also

at Foresight Group. Jean-Philippe

play a role in the energy transition to

Verdier,

Founding

Partner

of

Verdier & CO. Corporate Advisory, chaired the session.

To a low-carbon electricity system

sustainable solutions.

Battery storage will offer many opportunities to generate energy in a smarter way and will help to develop the energy transition

Behind-the-meter storage According to Richard Thompson, ‘Behind-the-meter’

storage

is

a

disruptive method compared to the

In 2016, more than fifty percent of

‘historical energetic model’, which

electricity generation in the UK came

relies on battery storage system,

from fossil fuels. After the COP 21 in Paris, there is momentum

charged by centralized power plants. That model is based on

towards reducing reliance on non-renewables, as part of a pact

three major pillars:

to reduce emissions and greenhouse gas.

According to Alastair Davis, EDF Energy forecasts that wind power will represent between fifty and sixty percent of the total energy mix by 2030 – the UK being a windier country than it is sunnier. However, the energy giant also plans to build solar power plants, to take advantage of the sunny periods of the year.

- BTM storage is decentralized, because storage could be directly next to the demand, which is much more flexible and efficient as the destination point is closer.

- BTM storage is low-carbon effective, and therefore congruent with the goals of energy transition.

- BTM storage disrupts former business models. Batteries can be charged at anytime, especially when the electricity price

Nuclear power will remain at a stable level in order to respond to current and forecasted demand. Although nuclear

is lower (not during a peak generation). This could lead to a decrease in price volatility, and revenues could be optimised.

is not a renewable energy, it is a still low-carbon option. For

BTM storage has also many technical advantages. For

EDF Energy, the strategy is clear: reduce the CO2 emission and

instance, it expands the energy market arbitrage for suppliers, it

develop green energy.

enhances the frequency response, and it simplifies the network

Batteries vs. conventional storages

constraint management.

This system could already be applied to current lithium-ion

Today, battery storage is ‘underdeveloped’ compared to other

batteries. Researchers are also working on flow-state batteries

conventional energy storage methods, like coal stockpiles, oil or

which could improve the efficiency of batteries. There is little

natural gas. Battery storage is more expensive than the other

doubt that BTM storage is coming. I

means, in terms of Watt per hours generated, and therefore

CO N V EN TIO N A L ENERGY STOR AG E

CA PACIT Y

• Coal stockpiles

142,000,000 MWh

• Oil

91,000,000 MWh

• Liquid fuels

65,000,000 MWh

• Natural gas (inc. Rough)

47,000,000 MWh

• Electricity pumped storage

9,000 MWh

• Battery storage

25 MWh

info

- july / august 2018 - 61

FINANCE FORUM

How to attract and retain talent In a joint session of the Finance and the HR Forums, members heard about attracting, engaging and retaining talent in the financial world

T

he Finance Forum organised a joint session with the

have five key sustainable engagement drivers: trust in senior

HR Forum welcoming Angela Paul, Research Lead at

management, relationship with supervisors, clear goals and

Willis Towers Watson and Jessie Zhu, Career & Professional

objectives, workload and flexibility, and the image and integrity

Development Programme Lead at London Business School. The

of the employer.

session was co-chaired by Pia Dekkers, HR Director at Chanel,

Trust in senior leadership is the most important driver

John Peachey, Managing Director - CFO Global Markets at

for those working in finance. Workload and flexibility are

HSBC Bank Plc and Melanie Stancliffe, Partner – Employment

predominant in the financial services compared to the other

at Irwin Mitchell LLP.

areas. And employees with alternative and flexible work

The overview Employers do not attract and retain employees in the same way

arrangements are more engaged, and are at a lower risk in terms of retention.

as before. Demographic diversity is bigger than ever. Millennials

Millennial expectations

are increasingly becoming leaders and the Z generation is

According to Jessie Zhu of the London Business School,

entering the labour market. By 2022 a quarter of the workforce

millennials are the leaders of today and tomorrow. Retaining

will be 55 or older.

them is a key issue for employers – therefore they have to

‘Despite all the changes to the market, it remains important

understand who they are. What keeps millennials engaged at

for management to manage humans and not just to be strategic

work? Career progression tops the list, followed by opportunity

and lead operations,’ said Angel Paul of Willis Towers Watson.

to exercise influence, recognition of individual achievements

In general, attraction and retention are governed by the

and personalised training.

same motivations: to get paid, to have the opportunity to get

Zhu identified four main things to consider when attracting

paid more in the future, to have a challenging work, and to have

millennials to your company. First, employers have to promote

the ability to be flexible in your work.

a sense of purpose and identity. Customisation totally fits with

To achieve desired outcomes (to attract and retain talent),

the millennial expectations. Then they must articulate the

employers must address the drivers of sustainable engagement,

opportunities for career growth and learning as well as promote

which means creating an attachment to the company and work

innovation efforts. This generation wants to solve concrete

environments that support productivity, performance and

problems and learn while doing it. Finally, employers should

provide well-being while on the job.

show that they care about people and culture. Work is not their

A Willis Towers Watson study shows that talent in finance

only priority. I

Despite all the changes to the market, it remains important for management to manage humans and not just to be strategic and lead operations

62 - info - july / august 2018

START-UP & SME CLUB

The art of working with corporates The latest Start-up & SME club focused on building business relationships with corporates

T

he French Chamber welcomed guest

‘The aim of a collaboration is not to fit

speakers Jeff Pearson, Supply Chain

their expectations with your product

over 2/3 of which are SMEs. The Regional manager is the first

Director UK & Ireland at Veolia and

but to fit your product with their

point of contact for collaboration. They

Soline Kauffmann-Tourkestansky,

expectations’ argued Pearson. Start-

are the ‘first filter who can drive you to

global Head of Ecosystem at Early

ups and SMEs are more flexible and

key stakeholders,’ says Pearson.

Metrics. The session was co-chaired

are expected to find solutions to the

by Jeanne Monchovet, Founder &

corporate issues. To adapt does not

specific conditions to be considered by

Principal Consultant of Olystix and

mean to oversell the product. A trustful

Veolia: to be local; to be efficient; to be

Sebastien Goldenberg, CEO & Co-

relationship is essential to working

specialised; to be innovative. Pricing is

Founder of TheHouseShop.com.

sustainably with corporates.

also a key criteria, but the corporate

Step one: who faces in front of you?

Step three: lead the dance!

Doing business with corporates

of innovation. ‘It is also almost as

First thing that Start-ups & SMEs

requires being proactive. Networking

important as pricing,’ said Pearson. I AB

should know before beginning a new

events are crucial, as they are the best

relationship with a corporate is to know

way to integrate a relevant community

Past Session On 8 March, the Start up &

who faces on the other side of the

and generate business opportunities.

SME Club covered the topic 'Navigating

desk. Researching the history of the

If a business opportunity materialises,

Funding Options.' Guest speakers were

corporate, its history with other start-

it also pays to be proactive in the

James Shaw, Co-founder and Partner

ups, their budget and their challenges,

negotiating phase, including having a

of Jag Shaw Baker, and David Szekely,

is essential. Both of the speakers agree

lawyer review the contract. ‘If in doubt,

Investor & Advisor at Columbvs. Shaw

on another point: pitching to the right

start small, prove your value then up-

gave a presentation about funding stages

stakeholder. Kauffmann-Tourkestansky

sell and scale with intensity’ argues

and current structures and Szekely offered

identified three main stakeholders: the

Kauffmann-Tourkestansky.

information on how to prepare for a

end user, the budget owner and the

SME suppliers have to meet

has a long-term perspective on what an SME can bring to the table in terms

successful fundraising round. Takeaways

decision-maker. Anticipating this can

Case study: VEOLIA

save time and money.

Veolia is a decentralised company and

on businesses with co-founders rather

locally anchored due to its circular

than single founders. Disruptive business

economy focus in water, energy

models are good and the ideal business

Corporates have their own vision of

and waste management. The firm

plan should have global aims.

their development and their challenges.

subcontracts to many local companies –

Step two: fit the same vision

include how investors look favourably

info

- july / august 2018 - 63

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION AND INNOVATION FORUM Sponsored by

The impact of social media on businesses

The latest Digital Transformation and Innovation Forum underlined the role of social media on digital transformation and explored their impact on businesses

T

he latest session on 21 June welcomed two guest speakers Claire Roqueplo, Senior Marketing Manager at

Merci Maman and Amanda Tran, Managing Director at JIN. Christophe Chazot, Managing Director at HSBC chaired the

Staying flexible and not being afraid to delete or amend content are key reflexes to remain on the top of a social media strategy

session.

The unavoidable social media Social media is omnipresent. The numbers of social media

tool to generate leads through social selling, targeted advertising

users are increasing exponentially across the world – with more

and inbound marketing.

than one million new users joining a platform every day over the

The last opportunity concerns HR strategy. Social media

past twelve months. More than three billion people around the

and especially LinkedIn expand the ways to recruit talent and to

world now use social media each month.

target more specific profiles.

As part of this growth, a larger number of older users are joining social media too. On Facebook alone, the number

Smart use of smart technology

of users aged 65 and above has increased by almost twenty

Created in 2007, Merci Maman firm employs more than 40

percent in the past twelve months. Social media is now regularly

people all over Europe and has a website translated in four

used by every generation and it has become required activity

languages to reach people who talk in German, Spanish, French

across business.

or English. The success story of Merci Maman is due in particular

The importance of social media to businesses

to a targeted use of social media.

The company uses four main social media platforms:

Amanda Tran identified four main opportunities social

Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram. Its social media

media provides businesses. These four opportunities are the

strategy relies on two pillars. The first purpose is to generate

pillars of a smart social media strategy for brands looking to

engagement from followers.

develop their digital reach and develop their business.

The other is to achieve conversions. They do not hesitate

The first one is about reputation. For many consumers,

to invest in social media for its development. 40 percent of

social media is one of the primary means by which they

their total marketing budget is dedicated to social media, which

encounter brands and their messages. It is a way of increasing

underlines the prominence of social media in its strategy.

brand recognition, building brand awareness and delivering a

Furthermore the brand uses different accounts in different

more unified brand experience.

markets and countries, to be closer to their customers and

Secondly, as a rule, brands must always be switched on

understand their particular expectations.

to how their brand is perceived. Monitoring what people say

Experimenting is also important as social media is a relatively

about your brand online is crucial, especially to avoid ‘bad buzz’

new phenomenon. Claire Roqueplo argued that ‘nothing is set

and potential crises. Social media can help businesses improve

in stone, even though some content works better than others.’

the customer experience, by leveraging this readily available customer feedback and data.

The third opportunity is sales. Social media is an excellent 64 - info - july / august 2018

‘Staying flexible and not being afraid to delete or amend content are key reflexes to remain on the top of a social media strategy,’ she said. I

LUXURY CLUB

A visit to the Royal Academy of Arts The latest meeting of the Luxury Club was treated to an exclusive tour of the newly re-designed RA

A

t a breakfast meeting of the luxury club, attendees were given an

exclusive tour of the newly renovated spaces in the Royal Academy of Arts set for the celebration of their 250th anniversary.

Luxury Club chair Tom Meggle, welcomed the group to and introduced Charles Saumarez Smith, Secretary and Chief Executive of the Royal Academy of the Arts, who give the tour.

Saumarez Smith is a British cultural historian specialising in the history of art, design and architecture, and is known for his contributions as a commentator, an author of books and articles, and an academic, with regular appearances on television and radio.

With paint still drying and final

north and south entrances. It will be a

preparations being made, Saumarez

third parallel thread through this city

Smith gave a personal and informative

block, joining those of the Burlington

of the Royal Academy of the Arts,

take on the architectural redesign, the

Arcade and the Albany.

was welcome to speak about the

hanging of rarely seen pieces from the

One characteristic of the resigned

floor of Burlington Gardens.

Jo Prosser, Commercial Director

new relationship between the RA and

Academy’s collection, and thoughts on

include a grand amphitheatre in the

retail. The RA Shop, offers a range of

the relevance of the building for the

space originally occupied by a lecture

books, stationery, homeware, jewellery

surrounding community.

theatre. Saumarez Smith noted that

and gifts inspired by our artists

Chipperfield also paid ‘a scrupulous

and exhibitions. The Newstand has

selected to connect Burlington House

respect for the character of the original

magazines, cards and RA-designed

on Piccadilly, built from the 17th century

building.’

stationery, while Personal Shopping

The architect David Chipperfield was

as an aristocratic house but the RA’s

‘The plans were not too specific

home since 1867, with 6 Burlington

about the uses of the available rooms

Gardens, the substantial palazzo

in order to allow a degree of flexibility

galleries used to be called secondary

behind. This latter was originally London

for the future; and restoring the Senate

spend,’ said Prosser. ‘I have fought

University’s Senate House and later

Rooms, while respecting their original

against this idea. Retail in these spaces

served as the Museum of Mankind.

decorative treatment.’

needs to relevant and connect to the

A budget of £50 million was spent

facilitates special orders.

‘Retail and catering in museums and

After the tour, attendees were

broader environment -- these spaces

new gallery space and on a route

welcomed to a breakfast reception in

should be places where you want to

between the two frontage streets. This

the new Senate Room, a restaurant

spend time.’

opens up parts of the complex never

is an elegant space located within the

The session concluded with a lively Q&A,

seen by the public and will connect the

Dorfman Senate Rooms on the first

coffee and pastries. I

The plans were not too specific about the uses of the available rooms in order to allow a degree of flexibility for the future

info

- july / august 2018 - 65

FORTHCOMING FORUMS & CLUBS By application only

5

BREXIT FORUM

11

START-UP & SME CLUB

‘The impact of BREXIT on UK Regions’ Sept Guest speakers: Andrew Sentance CBE, Former Member of the Bank of England's 08.30 - 10.30 Monetary Policy Committee and Senior Economic Adviser to PwC and second speaker TBC Co-chairs: Angela Hepworth, Corporate Policy and Regulation Director, EDF Energy and Neil Sherlock CBE, Partner, Corporate Affairs, PwC Sponsored by ESCP Europe Business School

‘Attracting and Acquiring Clients: Business Development Offline and Online’ Sept Guest speakers: TBC 08.30 - 10.00 Co-chairs: Sébastien Goldenberg, CEO & Co-Founder, TheHouseShop.com and Jeanne Monchovet, Founder, Olystix

25

CLIMATE CHANGE AND SUSTAINABILIT Y FORUM

Sept

‘Construction: looking at retrofitting & refurbishment to quickly and efficiently 08.30 - 10.30 lower carbon footprint’ Guest speakers: Hervé Mariage, Heat Pump Sales Manager at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Group and second speaker TBC Co-chairs: Richard Brown CBE, Chairman of the Franchise Advisory Panel for the Department for Transport and former CEO and Chairman of Eurostar and Jean-Philippe Verdier, Founding Partner, Verdier & Co, Corporate Advisory

26

RETAIL FORUM

‘Champions of e-commerce and social media’ Venue: Browne Jacobson LLP, 6 Bevis 08.30 - 10.30 Marks, London EC3A 7BA Guest speakers: Julien Callede, co-founder, MADE.COM and other speakers TBC Co-chairs: Alain Harfouche, General Manager, L’Occitane and Catherine Palmer, Legal & Administrative Director, Joseph Sept

27

HUMAN RESOURCES FORUM

‘Innovative Employee Engagement Practices’ Guest speakers: Yves Duhaldeborde, Senior Director - Talent & Rewards, Willis Towers 08.30 - 10.00 Watson and Anne Donald, Associate, Evolution Coaching Europe LTD Co-chairs: Pia Dekkers, Human Resources Director, Chanel and Melanie Stancliffe, Partner - Employment, Irwin Mitchell LLP Sept

4

DIGITAL TR ANSFORMATION & INNOVATION FORUM

Oct

‘Cyber Security’ Guest speakers: TBC 08.30 - 10.30 Co-Chairs: Christophe Chazot, Managing Director, HSBC Bank Plc and Lucien Boyer, Chief Marketing Officer, Vivendi Sponsored by ESCP Europe Business School

10

FINANCE FORUM

31

CLIMATE CHANGE AND SUSTAINABILIT Y FORUM

‘Shaping the future: Embracing fintech to develop and thrive’ 08.30 - 10.00 Guest speakers: TBC Chair: John Peachey, Managing Director CFO Global Markets, HSBC Bank Plc Oct

Oct

‘Food and Carbon Footprint: a cocktail event’ 18.00 -20.00 Venue: Home House Guest speaker: Raymond Blanc, OBE Co-chairs: Richard Brown CBE, Chairman of the Franchise Advisory Panel for the Department for Transport and former CEO and Chairman of Eurostar and Jean-Philippe Verdier, Founding Partner, Verdier & Co, Corporate Advisory

All sessions, excluding the Retail Forum, Luxury Club and the Women's Business Club, take place at the French Chamber. For more information, please contact: Ophélie Martinel at omartinel@ccfgb.co.uk or 0207 092 6634

66 - info - july / august 2018

PAST EVENTS HIGHLIGHTS

ACCELERATING TO SUCCESS An evening of inspirational stories detailing the entrepreneur’s journey was held at the Microsoft Accelerator in April

I

n a lively and informative session, three successful entrepreneurs from

different corners of the entrepreneurial world shared their stories with a packed audience at the Microsoft Reactor in London.

Warwick Hill, CEO-in-Residence of the Microsoft Accelerator, hosted the evening and moderated the panel consisting of Bernardine Bröcker, Founder and CEO of Vastari, Alexandre Mars, Founder and President of EPIC, and Sasha Wilkins of LibertyLondonGirl.

Each presenter spoke about their journey as an entrepreneur, from the inception of their business, through to

From left to right on stage: Warwick Hill, Bernardine, Sasha, Alexandre

the difficult early days and their eventual success. In a lively Q&A with the

missing a global digital platform to

platform to encourage non-wealthy

assembled audience, each also reflected

connect collectors, museums and

donors to give to good causes. The

on the many challenges that they faced

exhibitors.

foundation was started in 2014 and now

along the way.

The event also featured pre- and

Using a business model based on three pillars: subscriptions fees, referrals

post-networking sessions for Chamber

and premium services, Vastari has built

members and attendees.

a network of more than 6,000 cultural

Bernardine Bröcker – CEO of Vastari

has 25 employees across five global offices.

institutions and more than 700,000

Sasha Wilkins – LibertyLondonGirl

words of art.

Wilkins began her career as a journalist, working for Vogue and the Wall Street

ago in order to connect directly to

Alexandre Mars – Founder and President of EPIC

collectors and Exhibitions Producers.

The serial entrepreneur Alexandre

saturated media landscape it is today.

In the early stages of the company,

Mars has been called the ‘French Bill

In 2006 she was writing an anonymous

Bernardine shared ownership in order

Gates.’ He started his first company at

blog in New-York in parallel her career as

to secure investments – however this

the age of 17, and generated a massive

a freelance culture and style journalist.

led to a situation where she would

amount of success in the early days of

In a bold move she gave up her

lose control of the company and was

the computing boom, creating over five

successful (and stable) gig as a journalist

forced to dissolve it. Starting again, and

online and mobile marketing companies,

to focus on her lifestyle blog. It could not

with this lesson now learned, Bröcker

selling one to Publicis Groupe and

have come at a better time. Wilkins was

restructured and repositioned the

another to Blackberry. Mars now runs

a pioneer in what might now be called

company – this time retaining majority

Epic Foundation, a non-profit that aims

influencer marketing – though Wilkins

control and the ability to take decisions

to ensure 100% of philanthropists'

does not offer product placement or

quickly and easily without seeking board

money reaches their charity of choice

receive fees for writing positive reviews –

consent.

(with Mars fronting all the operational

and has been named as one of London’s

costs). Now it wants to encourage

most influential people with the Evening

success, and quickly positioned itself

businesses to donate 1 percent of their

Standard newspaper. I

as a key disruptor in an industry sorely

profits to charity and launch a new

Bröcker launched Vastari 6 years

Her company soon began to enjoy

Journal. She was an early adaptor to blogging – before it became the ultra-

info

- july / august 2018 - 67

'adapting to the new consumer: business models, touch points and technology'

Experts, pioneers and industry leaders shared their sectoral insight at this immersive one day conference

T

he Retail Conference on 16 May, held on the eighth floor

sponsor, and Bonne Maman, Bfast System, French Tech

of Havas Luxhub, was the setting for a full day of speeches,

London, HEC Paris, Ladurée, L’Oréal Luxe and Your Sommelier

presentations and discussion, with 180 participants and

were partners.

40 speakers overall.

Including a diverse mix of experts, pioneers, and industry

Tech and digital

leaders in both the audience and on stage, this full day event

The theme of technology and the digital market circulated

covered the overarching theme of ‘Adapting to the new

throughout the conference content, with emphasis on its

consumer: business models, touch points and technology.’

potential for connectivity and disruption in equal measure.

This was examined across panels on technology, the future of

Julian Callede, Co-founder of Made.com, highlights that

payment, the retail workforce, consumers, and the subscriber

before the digital era, it was almost impossible for manufacturers

economy.

to enter the market directly due to the high cost of entrance

Main sponsors of the event include CBRE, Econocom, Facebook, HSBC, and PwC. Browne Jacobson was supporting

barriers. These have been alleviated through digital retail requiring less finance than a physical store.

Jacqueline Windsor, Partner, Retail, Consumer & Leisure Strategy Practice, PwC, comments on retail trends Gold Sponsors

68 - info - july / august 2018

Silver Sponsor

E VE NT S – AT THE CHAMBE R

However, a broad sentiment was expressed throughout

wellbeing of employees.

the day that the high street is not dead. Sian Doyle, Executive

This has a business motivation. Cedric Voix, HR Director UK &

Director and Head of UK Business Development for Retail at

Ireland at L’Oréal Luxe & Retail, says that a high turnover can create

CBRE, says that now ‘shops are not only a selling place’ but have

a negative brand image and in store atmosphere, as well as disrupt

evolved to create a consumer experience or ‘brand centre’,

relationships that employees have with customers.

where people can try, feel, smell and touch.

The importance of these relationships is evident in the semantic

Olga Kotsure, Co-founder and CEO of Mercaux, says that

shift of the ‘seller’ label to ‘advisor’, says Voix. The role now

in store value creation through digital customer shopping

requires an emphasis on personalisation for consumers,

experiences as opposed to cost differentiation is key.

linking with the transformation of the store from ‘salesplace’ to

The

interconnectivity of digital and physical, in this instance, supports the continuing role of the physical store

‘showroom.’

These changes are influenced by consumers themselves,

Demonetisation, the creation of a cashless society, would

who now assume a social role over economic, according to

have a strong impact on an economic but also social scale,

Helen Dickinson, Chief Executive of the British Retail Consortium.

according to Philippe Henry, Global Head of Corporates,

Jacqueline Windsor, Partner, Retail, Consumer and Leisure

financials and Multinationals at HSBC Bank Plc. However, this

Strategy Practice at PwC, says that consumers exert a pull

concept gives rise to solutions for a frictionless experience for

influence, moving from mass consumption to personalisation,

consumers and a higher probability of a sale.

from global to local, from the linear economy to the circular

For example, Bink integrates payment with loyalty point

economy.

collection in one card; Fingopay integrates biometrics with

The millennial generation exacerbates this change, as they

account access; Mishipay allows in store payment with no need

do not consume as other consumers, says Liza Bate, Client

for cashiers. In this context, the ‘trust of the consumers in the

Partner Luxury & Apparel at Facebook. Retailers must adapt

payment solution and data protection’ is key, according to Ian

their approach, by being visual and fast in content creation, and

Benn, Managing Director, Northern Europe at Ingenico.

utilising different channels popular with millennials for visibility,

The human element

such as Instagram.

The subscriber economy has had to adapt to new means of

The technology focus was juxtaposed with the human element

consumption, according to Chris Labrey, managing Director UK

of retail, both on the side of consumers and behind the scenes

& Ireland at Econocom. It has diversified from product to service,

within the retail industry.

from ownership to ‘use’, from standardised to personalised.

59 percent of roles within the wholesale and retail sector

These stimulating topics provided much food for thought

have a high chance of being automated. In response, Beatrice

for participants and plenty of material to discuss during the

de Montille, Founder and Creative Director of Merci Maman,

networking sessions interspersed throughout the day and well

says that retailers should focus on the human, through the

into the evening. I SL

Above left: Liza Bate, Client Partner, Luxury & Apparel, Facebook, on retail in the age of discovery Above right: Olivier Robert-Murphy, Global Head of New Business, Universal Music Group, presents on the 'Brave New World' of retail

Partners

info

- july / august 2018 - 69

CONFERENCE IN NUMBERS • The retail market is growing between 1-2% per year. But the industry profitability is falling.

The profitability average is now between 4-5% — Helen Dickinson, British Retail Consortium • Retail represents 11% of the UK economy and 29% of this is in the EU — Josh Hardie, CBI • Physical stores still represent 88% of sales in UK — Sian Doyle, CBRE

Sue Rissbrook, Partner, UK Retail Leader, PwC, and Tom Meggle in conversation

• 80% of world mobile payments is made in China — Florence Diss, Google • 21% of consumer discretionary purchases are made by millennials globally — Liza Bate, Facebook

Josh Hardie, Deputy Director General, Policy & Campaigns, CBI, gives keynote speech

w

Evolving concepts in the retail space • Advisors – In store ‘sellers’ are now ‘advisors’

Helen Dickinson, CEO, British Retail Consortium, gives first keynote

who personalise consumer experiences

• Brand centre – Shops are no longer just for selling, but creating a full experience where people can try, feel, smell, touch • Demonetisation – Growth of alternative means of payment creating a cashless society •

Human focus management – Contrary to growing automation trends, management should focus on the wellbeing of employees to maintain in store equilibrium

• Millennials – Retailers must work to reach this new segment of society who have never known a world without smartphones or the internet • Subscriber economy – An evolved focus from product to service, from ownership to use, from standardised to personalised

70 - info - july / august 2018

E VE NT S – AT THE CHAMBE R

FRANCE’S INVESTMENT PROSPECTS: A CHANGE IN SENTIMENT A seminar at the law firm FTPA explored new opportunities in France under Macron

O

n 22 May, the FTPA London office overlooking St Paul’s

timings with the SEC are reduced and set for certain situations,

Cathedral was the setting for an evening of talks around

so as not to block corporate transactions.

the topic of ‘The changing legal landscape for doing business in

France under Macron.'

Dismissals now have a standardised approach, with less risk that

Sponsored by FTPA, the speakers comprised Jean-François de Clermont-Tonnerre, Owner, AUM Asset Management; Alexandre Ebtedaei, Partner, Head of Employment Practice, FTPA; Eniga de Montfort, Partner, Solicitor of the Senior Courts of England and Wales, FTPA; and Coralie Oger, Partner, Paris Bar, FTPA.

Macron mania

3. Dismissals and predictability

the final ruling would be deemed unfair, a harmonised statute of limitations and clarity in potential employer costs.

Tax and other reforms

Coralie Oger highlighted Macron’s main tax-based reforms whereby the corporate tax rate will be reduced from 33.33 percent to 25 percent by 2022 and a 3 percent tax on dividends

France has been perceived as having strict labour codes, high

will be removed, with a new tax applicable those with a global

taxes, and a strong level of bureaucracy, deterring foreign

turnover of more than €1bn.

investment, according to Eniga de Montfort.

For individuals, a flat tax on income from capital now applies

Emmanuel Macron’s election as President in 2017 prompted

to all at only 12.8 perecent (income) and 17.2 percent (social),

a ‘change in the sentiment in France’ and renewed optimism for

crucially applicable to non-French tax residents, and, rather

investors. The slogan ‘#ChooseFrance because we are open for

than a wealth tax, a new real estate wealth tax over 1.3m euro

business’ reflects Macron’s ambitions to use Brexit as leverage in

will apply, with the aim to ‘develop entrepreneurs and to help

creating a more welcoming environment for foreign investment,

investors to invest in France and not to be penalised.'

she says.

‘We have other [non tax based] reforms to develop

A dinner gathering business leaders in early January was

investment in France’, added Oger, with the aim ‘to simplify all

demonstrative of this goal, with Facebook, Toyota and Google

the information given to the shareholder [and] to try to reduce

amongst others announcing future investment and job creation.

democracy and help small companies to develop.'

Labour reforms

An entrepreneur’s perspective

demonstrating Macron’s goal of social transformation alongside

restrictions to investment are uncertainty, the attitude of the tax

legislative reform:

authorities, and, for the French, the language.

Alexandre Ebtedaeui outlined three executive orders

1. Favouring labour relations

Jean-Francois de Clermont-Tonnerre said that primary

When making the decision to move people to another

Employers, previously bound by labour codes and a sectoral

country, ‘none of us are going to move significantly if we are not

collective bargaining agreement (CBA) which ruled almost any

sure that for the next 10 years we have visibility,' he says.

aspect of employer-employee relations, can now have a code

The English already have an advantage in speaking the

tailor made to their business, bypassing Trade Unions, with only

international language and the HMRC has a system well-

limited exceptions.

adapted to the understanding of the international structure. Tax

authorities in France need to develop a better understanding

2. Reorganisation and simplification

Various committees were united under the Social and Economic

of how situations differ at an international scale, adapting their

Committee (SEC), enhancing efficiency through fewer meetings

perceptions and knowledge accordingly.

and ensuring informed decisions on collective agreements negotiated directly with local SEC representatives. Consultation

Jean-François is optimistic on that count: ‘The French feel more comfortable with the world, with Macron.' I SL

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MEMBER 2 MEMBER

COCKTAIL AND EXHIBITION

The French Chamber and its members met on the top floor of Bush House for the annual Member 2 Member event

C

ollaboration was on show at the Member 2 Member Cocktail and Exhibition event – now entering its 19th year.

Spread across two main rooms, nearly 200 guests had the

chance to mingle and discover 18 exhibitors with an array of different products and services on display, on an evening filled with food & drink, and fun & games.

TRAD, FTPA, and Irwin Mitchell.

Topped off with a bonus prize of two tickets to the Chamber’s Summer Champagne Reception event in July, very few participants walked away empty handed!

Created to launch the Member 2 Member Offers Programme each year, the event reflects the collaborative spirit

Selfie booths provided mementos and a mini table tennis

of the offers programme and creates a platform through which

table saw guests competing against one another. Other stands

our extensive member base can interact and the exhibitors can

not only offered some goodies for those who visited, but

demonstrate their expertise, products and services.

also the chance to win a range of prizes: Institut Français (a

Pop-up banners at each stand provided by the event’s print

30 hour language course and 2 classic memberships to their

partner, Paragon Service Point, tied the event together under

Mediatheque), PAUL UK (a bread masterclass for two), Paragon

this umbrella M2M branding.

Service Point (a pop up banner), Vranken Pommery (a magnum

The Chamber looks forward to hosting this successful

of Champagne from the Pommery range) and Decathlon (a mini

event again next year, when we will be celebrating its 20 year

table tennis table), as well as champagne offered by CBRE, HL

anniversary I SL

MEET THE 2018 EXHIBITORS BFAST Capture CBRE Decathlon Econocom FTPA Haseltine Lake HL TRAD HSBC Institut Français Irwin Mitchell Keley Consulting Lycée International Winston Churchill Moore Stephens Paragon Service Point PAUL UK Renault-Nissan Consulting Vranken Pommery Top right: Stephen Burgin, Deputy President, French Chamber of Great Britain, welcomes guests Bottom left: Print partner Paragon Service Point, represented by John Arnold, Charlie Barlow and Janice Sheridan Bottom right: Econocom's team with Jean-Marc Caparros, Amanda Milne and Mark Orchard

MEMBER O

F

F

E

R

S

MEMBER 2

0

1

8

-

2

0

1

9

The Member 2 Member Offers 2018-2019 programme features over 60 offers which incentivise members to make use of the various services and products offered by their fellow members. Updated throughout the year, any member can benefit from free visibility by submitting their own discounted rate or exclusive offer for inclusion.

For more information, contact Justine Kaouane, jkaouane@ccfgb.co.uk To boost your visibility, contact Suzanne Lycett, slycett@ccfgb.co.uk www.frenchchamber-memberoffers.co.uk Print partner : Paragon Service Point

72 - info - july / august 2018

E VE NT S – AT THE CHAMBE R

SEMINAR WITH BAKER & MCKENZIE Members of the Chamber were welcomed by Baker & McKenzie to their offices for an evening of informative discussions on the topic of the moment: GDPR

T

he Data Protection Act UK is a bill intending to regulate how

Data Protection Counsel, Chanel UK; Tarun Khimani, Hybrid

information pertaining to individuals is processed and to

Consultant, Talan & Santander Global Corporate Banking; Eve-

address direct marketing processes in this context, as well as

Christie Vermynck, Lawyer Senior Associate, Baker & McKenzie;

other similar instances. The broad experience and expertise

and Julia Wilson, Partner, Employment & Data Protection - Baker

of the speakers on this occasion offered the 35 participants

& McKenzie.

a unique opportunity to gain an understanding of this

In real terms, breaches in GDPR can lead to fines of up

impactful requirement. Participants heard from: Susan Mann,

to €10m or 2 percent of total worldwide annual turnover of preceding financial year for a tier 1 violation (e.g. Infringement of obligations regarding data protection by design or by default), or up to €20M or 4% of total worldwide annual turnover of preceding financial year for a tier 2 violation (e.g. Infringement of basic principles for processing, including conditions for consent and data subjects’ rights).

However, as highlighted in the presentation, the UK Information Commissioner, Elizabeth Denham, says ‘The GDPR is not about fines, it’s about putting the consumer and citizen first. We can’t lose sight of that. Voluntary compliance is still the preferred route’.

The Chamber would like to thank Baker & McKenzie LLP for

Seminar participants at Baker & McKenzie

their sponsorship of this event. I SL

PATRON EVENT WITH THE LONDON PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA Chamber Patron members enjoyed a musical evening in the company of the London Philharmonic Orchestra

O

n 18th April, thirty Patron member representatives

Orchestra, guests were treated to a selection of French

gathered at the Royal Festival Hall, at the heart of the

Masterpieces.

Southbank Centre complex, for an evening of music. With

Stravinsky’s Symphony in C opened the programme, swiftly

champagne and canapés on arrival in St Paul’s Pavilion offering

followed by his Tango. Andsnes on piano then took on Debussy’s

views over the Thames, Timothy Walker AM, Chief Executive

Fantaisie, with a finale of Shostakovitch’s Symphony No. 6 after

and Artistic Director of the London Philharmonic Orchestra,

the interval, where guests partook in further refreshments for a

welcomed the guests and introduced the LPO.

networking session.

Led on this occasion by Principal Conductor Vladimir Jurowski and accompanied by the celebrated Leif Ove Andsnes

The Chamber wishes to thank Timothy Walker and the London Philharmonic Orchestra for hosting this event. I SL

on piano as well as the full clout of the London Philharmonic

Timothy Walker, Chief Executive, Artistic Director of the London Philarmonic Orchestra info

- july / august 2018 - 73

DÎNER DES CHEFS

ROUX AT THE LANDAU

Members were treated to an evening of refined cuisine from the kitchen of Michel Roux Jr.

N

estled in a corner of Marylebone and within the prestigious

of the customer’, he says. The recently refurbished Roux at The

and luxurious exterior of the Langham, London, Michel

Landau successfully walks the path between excellent five-star

Roux Jr hosted the largest Dîner des Chefs to date at Roux at

cuisine and an informal and friendly interpretation of fine dining.

The Landau on 7th June. Ninety guests filled this high ceilinged dining space, for the 19th edition of the series.

Roux proved a good sport in answering probing and diverse questions from his audience, with topics ranging from football

XL Orkney scallop carpaccio with dashi jelly, pickled shimenji

(he will be supporting France in the World Cup) and wine and

and cucumber; Grilled Buccleuch beef fillet à la provençale with

culinary preferences (both white and green asparagus has its

Bercy sauce; caramelised peanut parfait with lime and milk sorbet. The menu reflected the Roux family’s iconic gastronomic heritage, with creations which executed classic French cooking techniques in a simplistic yet refined manner. As Roux himself explains, it’s ‘contemporary food but lets the ingredients shine.’

A special menu deserving of a special introduction, Roux announced that dinner was served in inimitable style with the clinking of silverware.

Such a fine dining experience would not be complete without fine wines, Champagne and spirits. Guests were greeted with Perrier Jouët Blanc de Blanc Champagne and indulged in a post-meal Cognac Martell, both kindly provided by Pernod Ricard and represented by Laurent Pillet , Managing Director of Pernod Ricard UK, on the evening. Chateau Bouscot kindly provided wines to accompany and complement each course, represented by Laurent Cogombles, owner of Château Bouscot.

The Langham. Illustration by IDS Creative - www.idscreative.com

Following the main course, Stephen Burgin, deputy

merits; English wine has a long way to go but can produce fine

President of the Chamber, introduced Michel Roux Jnr, with

sparkling and still vintages), to his junk food sentiments (he

highlights from his extensive career, from military service to

had his last McDonald’s in October 1990 - as a last resort, he

television personality and fine dining consultant.

hastened to add).

Roux gave a genuine and personable speech, thanking the

And the family name? Although the Roux family is as close

kitchen and front of house teams, saying: ‘Great food is only as

to royalty as can be in the world of culinary arts, Roux reveals

good as how it is served and I think that service is so important,

that the name refers to those who used to work with iron and

not just in my industry but in every industry’.

metals, the equivalent of the common English name ‘Smith’ in

He then explained why The Langham London was such a good fit for collaboration. ‘We have the same values, that the customer is king and that we should exceed the expectations 74 - info - july / august 2018

its origin.

A common name, perhaps, but a Dîner des Chefs that provided a decidedly uncommon experience. I SL

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

4

September 18.30 - 21.00

CLUB @ CBRE At Henrietta House, Henrietta Place, London, W1G 0NB Hosted by CBRE Free of charge - open to all members

For further information, contact Wassime Haouari at whaouari@ccfgb.co.uk or 020 7092 6642

11

September 18.30 - 21.00

PATRON EVENT – “IN CONVERSATION WITH MARCUS WAREING” At George’s Bar, St Pancras Renaissance Hotel, Euston Road, London NW1 2AR Free of charge - open to all members and their spouses (main representatives) By invitation only

For further information, contact Anne-Claire Lo Bianco at alobianco@ccfgb.co.uk or 020 7092 6670

September

COCKTAIL DE LA RENTRÉE At Browne Jacobson’s officies, 6 Bevis Marks, London EC3A 7BA Free of charge - open to all members

18.30 - 21.00

For further information, contact Wassime Haouari at whaouari@ccfgb.co.uk or 020 7092 6642

12

info

- july / august 2018 - 75

FORTHCOMING EVENTS

24

September

SEMINAR WITH FTPA – FREE EVENT At FTPA’s offices, Octagon Point, 5 Cheapside, St.Pauls London EC2V 6AA Free of charge - open to all members

18.00 - 21.00

Food partner:

For further information, contact Wassime Haouari at whaouari@ccfgb.co.uk or 020 7092 6642

25

September 18.30 - 20.30

INTERNATIONAL TASTING: WINE, SPIRITS & BEER At Chelsea Football Club, Stamford Bridge, Fulham Rd, Fulham, London SW6 1HS Open to all members and non-members Cost: Members: £30+VAT; Non-members: £40+VAT

For further information, contact Wassime Haouari at whaouari@ccfgb.co.uk or 020 7092 6642

76 - info - july / august 2018

A SH OWCASE O F O PEN I NN OVATI O N

A showcase of partnerships between corporates and start-ups Where corporates meet the innovators who offer the solutions they need Where start-ups meet the key stakeholders at corporates

For further information, contact David Johnson at djohnson@ccfgb.co.uk or 020 7092 6636

Event partners:

Supported by:

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