ShanghaiZhan: All Things China Marketing, Advertising, Tech & Platforms
Ali Kazmi & Bryce Whitwam
ShanghaiZhan is a raw, lively, and regular debate about China tech, advertising, creativity & the intersection of it all. Join hosts Ali Kazmi and Bryce Whitwam, for timely discussions on all things China marketing, coming to you directly from Shanghai!
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Top 10 ShanghaiZhan: All Things China Marketing, Advertising, Tech & Platforms Episodes
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Time for Brands to Do a Discount Detox? With Jacques Roizen
ShanghaiZhan: All Things China Marketing, Advertising, Tech & Platforms
11/15/24 • 41 min
We’re unpacking a critical issue affecting luxury and prestige brands operating in China’s discount-heavy e-commerce landscape. With platforms like Tmall and JD and emerging competitors like Douyin and Pinduoduo, brands are constantly pressured to use aggressive discounting strategies to boost sales and visibility.
Jacques Roizen, managing director of China Consulting at Digital Luxury Group, joins us as an industry expert who guides some of the world’s top prestige and luxury brands through these challenges. Together, we’ll explore the long-term impact of discount culture on brand equity, why some brands are starting to ‘detox’ from discounts, and how the rise of the gray market is reshaping consumer expectations.
1. How did you enter the e-commerce luxury business in China?
2. Give us the history of premium/luxury e-commerce and how it evolved from its early days.
3. How important is e-commerce for new consumers to learn about new brands?
4. Where's the pressure for brands to discount so much?
5. Is GMV still an effective measure of performance in e-commerce?
6. How can brands discount detox?
7. Who in the organization can orchestrate a discount detox?
8. What should brands do to improve brand equity? Is livestream a way to do this?
Jacques on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquesroizen/
About DLG: http://www.digitalluxurygroup.com/
For everything ShanghaiZhan: http://zhanstation.com/
Got a Question? Access Our Mailbox: https://syracuseuniversity.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6StjsljIEPkXt3M
ShanghaiZhan Theme Music: by Bryce Whitwam
https://soundcloud.com/bryce-r-whitwam/bad-cough-syrup?si=cfb30a6e0c0e459da78b912bf60825ac
Got a Question? Access Our Mailbox: https://syracuseuniversity.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6StjsljIEPkXt3M
ShanghaiZhan Theme Music: by Bryce Whitwam
https://soundcloud.com/bryce-r-whitwam/bad-cough-syrup?si=cfb30a6e0c0e459da78b912bf60825ac
Bryce on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brycewhitwam/
Ali on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alikazmi/
Jacques Roizen, managing director of China Consulting at Digital Luxury Group, joins us as an industry expert who guides some of the world’s top prestige and luxury brands through these challenges. Together, we’ll explore the long-term impact of discount culture on brand equity, why some brands are starting to ‘detox’ from discounts, and how the rise of the gray market is reshaping consumer expectations.
1. How did you enter the e-commerce luxury business in China?
2. Give us the history of premium/luxury e-commerce and how it evolved from its early days.
3. How important is e-commerce for new consumers to learn about new brands?
4. Where's the pressure for brands to discount so much?
5. Is GMV still an effective measure of performance in e-commerce?
6. How can brands discount detox?
7. Who in the organization can orchestrate a discount detox?
8. What should brands do to improve brand equity? Is livestream a way to do this?
Jacques on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquesroizen/
About DLG: http://www.digitalluxurygroup.com/
For everything ShanghaiZhan: http://zhanstation.com/
Got a Question? Access Our Mailbox: https://syracuseuniversity.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6StjsljIEPkXt3M
ShanghaiZhan Theme Music: by Bryce Whitwam
https://soundcloud.com/bryce-r-whitwam/bad-cough-syrup?si=cfb30a6e0c0e459da78b912bf60825ac
Got a Question? Access Our Mailbox: https://syracuseuniversity.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6StjsljIEPkXt3M
ShanghaiZhan Theme Music: by Bryce Whitwam
https://soundcloud.com/bryce-r-whitwam/bad-cough-syrup?si=cfb30a6e0c0e459da78b912bf60825ac
Bryce on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brycewhitwam/
Ali on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alikazmi/
China CRM Redefined: Navigating Clienteling with Aurelien Rigart
ShanghaiZhan: All Things China Marketing, Advertising, Tech & Platforms
09/23/24 • 63 min
Welcome to the world of Clienteling: it's a world where the brand manages the client relationship. It's an online/offline integration ecosystem that is alive in China, but the West has no equivalent. In the clienteling world, retail sales become online sales associates, and brands promote their products directly to the customer database, all possible thanks to WeChat. Aurelien Rigart, managing director and co-founder of Shanghai-based digital transformation consultancy IT Consultis (ITC), takes us on this journey. When will Clienteling come to the rest of the world?
Listen and discover!
1. What are the biggest challenges for foreign brands embracing digital transformation in China?
2. Is there an equivalent to the Chinese ecosystem in the West? Will WhatsApp catch up?
3. Is Clienteling only for luxury and high-end brands? Will it work for FMCG?
4. How do you calculate ROI in Clienteling? Answer: It depends
5. Are there more luxury buyers, or have luxury brands kept their loyal followers?
6. Who owns the data in a Clienteling relationship?
7. Is there a separate Clienteling app for store personnel, or do they all connect through WeCom?
8. How do the stores get involved, and what's the social media connection?
9. Is Xiaohongshu more for awareness and WeChat more for the bottom funnel?
10. I don't have much money; where do I start?
11. Why are brands still behind in digital transformation? It's China!
12. Should the CRM manager run the sales department?
13. A/B Test: Ye all the way! (sorry, Taylor)
Aurelien on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aurelienrigart/
About IT Consultis: https://it-consultis.com/
Clienteling White Paper: https://it-consultis.com/blog/empowering-digital-transformation-for-elevated-clienteling-in-china/
For everything ShanghaiZhan: http://zhanstation.com/
ShanghaiZhan Theme Music: by Bryce Whitwam
https://soundcloud.com/bryce-r-whitwam/bad-cough-syrup?si=cfb30a6e0c0e459da78b912bf60825ac
Bryce on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brycewhitwam/
Ali on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alikazmi/
Listen and discover!
1. What are the biggest challenges for foreign brands embracing digital transformation in China?
2. Is there an equivalent to the Chinese ecosystem in the West? Will WhatsApp catch up?
3. Is Clienteling only for luxury and high-end brands? Will it work for FMCG?
4. How do you calculate ROI in Clienteling? Answer: It depends
5. Are there more luxury buyers, or have luxury brands kept their loyal followers?
6. Who owns the data in a Clienteling relationship?
7. Is there a separate Clienteling app for store personnel, or do they all connect through WeCom?
8. How do the stores get involved, and what's the social media connection?
9. Is Xiaohongshu more for awareness and WeChat more for the bottom funnel?
10. I don't have much money; where do I start?
11. Why are brands still behind in digital transformation? It's China!
12. Should the CRM manager run the sales department?
13. A/B Test: Ye all the way! (sorry, Taylor)
Aurelien on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aurelienrigart/
About IT Consultis: https://it-consultis.com/
Clienteling White Paper: https://it-consultis.com/blog/empowering-digital-transformation-for-elevated-clienteling-in-china/
For everything ShanghaiZhan: http://zhanstation.com/
ShanghaiZhan Theme Music: by Bryce Whitwam
https://soundcloud.com/bryce-r-whitwam/bad-cough-syrup?si=cfb30a6e0c0e459da78b912bf60825ac
Bryce on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brycewhitwam/
Ali on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alikazmi/
The Rise of Female Automobile Power in China: Grey/AKQA's Janice Kok & Reiko Wu
ShanghaiZhan: All Things China Marketing, Advertising, Tech & Platforms
04/07/25 • 49 min
Over the past decade, women in China have become a driving force (pun intended) in car purchases, from compact EVs to high-end luxury vehicles. But how are brands adapting their marketing to meet the needs of female consumers? What trends are shaping their buying decisions?
To help us unpack this, we’re joined by Janice Kok, Head of Strategy, and Reiko Wu, Planning Director, both at GREY & AKQA China. Janice is a seasoned strategist with over 20 years of experience in brand and marketing strategy, particularly in the Chinese market. Janice and Reiko recently released a white paper, “Her Choice, Her Ride, The Rise of Female Automobile Power in China.”
1. What's the big macro trend in the Chinese auto market right now? Are Gen Z turning away from car ownership?
2. Can you tell us about the methodology of the study? Who did you talk to, and why did you release this report?
3. What are the essential things you focus on to appeal to women in advertising? How do you keep a gender balance?
4. How do you specifically communicate attributes to women in social media? What's the role of influencers?
5. Does domestic travel and China's discovery influence car purchase amongst women? What's the role of domestic well-being?
6. Are there some brands or particular models that are more female-oriented?
7. Foreign brands are taking a beating in China, can targeting specific groups improve sales?
8. How are Chinese consumers different from their counterparts in other parts of the world?
Janice Kok on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janicekok/
Reiko Wu on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reikowu/
White Paper Link: https://bit.ly/3XKHRtR
About GREY & AKQA CHINA: https://www.linkedin.com/company/grey-china/
For everything ShanghaiZhan: http://zhanstation.com/
Got a Question? Access Our Mailbox: https://syracuseuniversity.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6StjsljIEPkXt3M
ShanghaiZhan Theme Music: by Bryce Whitwam
https://soundcloud.com/bryce-r-whitwam/bad-cough-syrup?si=cfb30a6e0c0e459da78b912bf60825ac
Bryce on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brycewhitwam/
Ali on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alikazmi/
To help us unpack this, we’re joined by Janice Kok, Head of Strategy, and Reiko Wu, Planning Director, both at GREY & AKQA China. Janice is a seasoned strategist with over 20 years of experience in brand and marketing strategy, particularly in the Chinese market. Janice and Reiko recently released a white paper, “Her Choice, Her Ride, The Rise of Female Automobile Power in China.”
1. What's the big macro trend in the Chinese auto market right now? Are Gen Z turning away from car ownership?
2. Can you tell us about the methodology of the study? Who did you talk to, and why did you release this report?
3. What are the essential things you focus on to appeal to women in advertising? How do you keep a gender balance?
4. How do you specifically communicate attributes to women in social media? What's the role of influencers?
5. Does domestic travel and China's discovery influence car purchase amongst women? What's the role of domestic well-being?
6. Are there some brands or particular models that are more female-oriented?
7. Foreign brands are taking a beating in China, can targeting specific groups improve sales?
8. How are Chinese consumers different from their counterparts in other parts of the world?
Janice Kok on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janicekok/
Reiko Wu on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reikowu/
White Paper Link: https://bit.ly/3XKHRtR
About GREY & AKQA CHINA: https://www.linkedin.com/company/grey-china/
For everything ShanghaiZhan: http://zhanstation.com/
Got a Question? Access Our Mailbox: https://syracuseuniversity.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6StjsljIEPkXt3M
ShanghaiZhan Theme Music: by Bryce Whitwam
https://soundcloud.com/bryce-r-whitwam/bad-cough-syrup?si=cfb30a6e0c0e459da78b912bf60825ac
Bryce on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brycewhitwam/
Ali on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alikazmi/
Genesis Motor China CEO Markus Henne: Building a Luxury Auto Brand in China
ShanghaiZhan: All Things China Marketing, Advertising, Tech & Platforms
02/28/22 • 44 min
Meet Genesis Motor China's CEO Markus Henne as he describes his experience of building a luxury auto brand in China from the ground up. Markus joined Genesis Motor in 2019 from a distinguished career at Mercedes-Benz, and it has only been since October of 2021 that they have begun to distribute cars. How to build a luxury brand amongst all the competition? How to keep customers interested for 6 months after they have put down their deposits? Today's episode is sponsored by our friends of Campaign Asia.
1. How did you end up in China and what are you driving these days?
2. What's different about a Genesis, and what's it like working in the car industry these days? The advantage of a blank canvas
3. Hiring people outside of the industry is key to the Genesis Experience.
4. Advantage Direct-To Consumer model, especially in China
5. What aspects of the Genesis Experience can be exported from China?
6. Big brands want to go to Direct-To-Consumer but they are bound by tradition
7. How do you keep Chinese customers active before they can get their car?
8. NEV/EV - is there a difference in customer experience from regular petrol cars?
9. EV & Petrol: appeal to different consumer groups
10. Expect the big auto players to come back against the new NEV players, but it will take time
11. How do you define Genesis luxury? What is "Athletic Elegance"?
12. How do you define luxury in the after-sales world?
13. Any big differences working for a Korean company vs. a German?
14. Hong Xiao Rou or Schnitzel: It's Schnitzel!
For everything ShanghaiZhan: http://zhanstation.com/
Donate & become a ShanghaiZhan Patron: https://www.patreon.com/shanghaizhan
Campaign Asia: https://www.campaignasia.com/
ShanghaiZhan Theme Music: by Bryce Whitwam
https://soundcloud.com/bryce-r-whitwam/bad-cough-syrup?si=cfb30a6e0c0e459da78b912bf60825ac
Bryce on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brycewhitwam/
Ali on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alikazmi/
1. How did you end up in China and what are you driving these days?
2. What's different about a Genesis, and what's it like working in the car industry these days? The advantage of a blank canvas
3. Hiring people outside of the industry is key to the Genesis Experience.
4. Advantage Direct-To Consumer model, especially in China
5. What aspects of the Genesis Experience can be exported from China?
6. Big brands want to go to Direct-To-Consumer but they are bound by tradition
7. How do you keep Chinese customers active before they can get their car?
8. NEV/EV - is there a difference in customer experience from regular petrol cars?
9. EV & Petrol: appeal to different consumer groups
10. Expect the big auto players to come back against the new NEV players, but it will take time
11. How do you define Genesis luxury? What is "Athletic Elegance"?
12. How do you define luxury in the after-sales world?
13. Any big differences working for a Korean company vs. a German?
14. Hong Xiao Rou or Schnitzel: It's Schnitzel!
For everything ShanghaiZhan: http://zhanstation.com/
Donate & become a ShanghaiZhan Patron: https://www.patreon.com/shanghaizhan
Campaign Asia: https://www.campaignasia.com/
ShanghaiZhan Theme Music: by Bryce Whitwam
https://soundcloud.com/bryce-r-whitwam/bad-cough-syrup?si=cfb30a6e0c0e459da78b912bf60825ac
Bryce on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brycewhitwam/
Ali on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alikazmi/
(ENCORE PERFORMANCE): Evolving From KOLs to Chinese Influencer Groups: Julien Lapka
ShanghaiZhan: All Things China Marketing, Advertising, Tech & Platforms
01/10/23 • 33 min
Encore Performance: (Recorded, Feb 8, 2022) - Our #1 most downloaded episode from Season 1!
What's the future of influencer marketing in China? To insights expert Julien Lapka, successful brands focus on influencer groups rather than KOL powerhouses such as Austin Li. It comes down to uncovering unique insights not often found in databases. Julien is the founder of Inner Chapter, an agency that turns insights into commercial IP. Julien is also co-owner of Revolving Door, a speakeasy behind a small coffee shop located near XinTianDi in Shanghai.
1. Why open a speakeasy, and what's behind the name Revolving Door?
2. How e-commerce has dramatically how you uncover insights
3. Trends in Shanghai should not represent China trends.
4. The 2 Chinas: Those who work hard to survive & the others who can afford to "lie flat."
5. The rise and popularity of Dystopia
6. Insights Mining in 2022: Home Visits Still Work the Best
7. Home Visit Insight War Stories: Turning Tea Leaves into Skin Rejuvenation Post-Surgery Product
8. Data Looks at Past-Behavior - It doesn't predict the future
9. Do Chinese brands have the upper hand? In which categories?
10. Julien's favorite innovative Chinese brand: HeyTea
11. Building brands that will last needs more than KOLs but influencer groups
12. Connecting "spicyness" to behavioral psychographics - spicy as a stress reliever
Julien's Links:
1. Julien on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienlapka/
2. Inner Chapter Website: http://innerchapter.co/
3. The Revolving Door: https://www.thatsmags.com/shanghai/directory/1799099/revolving-door
For everything ShanghaiZhan: http://zhanstation.com/
Donate & become a ShanghaiZhan Patron: https://www.patreon.com/shanghaizhan
Campaign Asia: https://www.campaignasia.com/
ShanghaiZhan Theme Music: by Bryce Whitwam
https://soundcloud.com/bryce-r-whitwam/bad-cough-syrup?si=cfb30a6e0c0e459da78b912bf60825ac
Bryce on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brycewhitwam/
Ali on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alikazmi/
What's the future of influencer marketing in China? To insights expert Julien Lapka, successful brands focus on influencer groups rather than KOL powerhouses such as Austin Li. It comes down to uncovering unique insights not often found in databases. Julien is the founder of Inner Chapter, an agency that turns insights into commercial IP. Julien is also co-owner of Revolving Door, a speakeasy behind a small coffee shop located near XinTianDi in Shanghai.
1. Why open a speakeasy, and what's behind the name Revolving Door?
2. How e-commerce has dramatically how you uncover insights
3. Trends in Shanghai should not represent China trends.
4. The 2 Chinas: Those who work hard to survive & the others who can afford to "lie flat."
5. The rise and popularity of Dystopia
6. Insights Mining in 2022: Home Visits Still Work the Best
7. Home Visit Insight War Stories: Turning Tea Leaves into Skin Rejuvenation Post-Surgery Product
8. Data Looks at Past-Behavior - It doesn't predict the future
9. Do Chinese brands have the upper hand? In which categories?
10. Julien's favorite innovative Chinese brand: HeyTea
11. Building brands that will last needs more than KOLs but influencer groups
12. Connecting "spicyness" to behavioral psychographics - spicy as a stress reliever
Julien's Links:
1. Julien on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienlapka/
2. Inner Chapter Website: http://innerchapter.co/
3. The Revolving Door: https://www.thatsmags.com/shanghai/directory/1799099/revolving-door
For everything ShanghaiZhan: http://zhanstation.com/
Donate & become a ShanghaiZhan Patron: https://www.patreon.com/shanghaizhan
Campaign Asia: https://www.campaignasia.com/
ShanghaiZhan Theme Music: by Bryce Whitwam
https://soundcloud.com/bryce-r-whitwam/bad-cough-syrup?si=cfb30a6e0c0e459da78b912bf60825ac
Bryce on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brycewhitwam/
Ali on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alikazmi/
Civilization's Andrew Lok & the Business of Creativity
ShanghaiZhan: All Things China Marketing, Advertising, Tech & Platforms
01/27/23 • 47 min
Welcome to Season 2!
Today we are talking about creativity in the marketing and advertising industry, and we’re honored to have one of China’s most award-winning Creative Directors, Andrew Lok, on today’s show. He started his career in Singapore as a journalist for UPI, but decided it was more fun to create news than report it, so he joined the advertising industry. After stints raising the creative rankings of Ogilvy China, based in Guangzhou and Beijing, he moved to Shanghai, where he served as Executive Creative Director for BBDO. In 2012, he founded Civilization, based in Shanghai, now one of China’s top independent agencies. Andrew is among the most awarded Creatives in China and speaks Mandarin, English, and German.
1. What's with the name, "Loksmith?"
2. What's the most compelling work that you've ever done? The story of Visa & Pepsi's most famous ads
3. Should young Creatives consider China as a market to flourish? It takes a lot of luck
4. Andrew's beginnings started with telling stories
5. Is VR helping or harming creative stories, or is it telling too much?
6. How music has changed my perspective on storytelling
7. Has social media created greater intimacy for brand storytelling?: Andrew's story of fandom gone crazy
8. Has the style of China advertising evolved and changed as people have changed?
9. Can emotional ads survive the power of KOLs?
10. Origins of Civilization and surviving in China
11. A poem from "I am a Tourist" - about family
12. A/B Test:
About Andrew Lok:
Andrew on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-lok-b45b413b/
Andrew's book of poetry, "I am a Tourist": https://www.amazon.com/I-am-tourist-Andrew-Lok/dp/1466343877/ref=sr_1_1?crid=30UMH74JKID67&keywords=Andrew+Lok&qid=1674567881&sprefix=andrew+lok%2Caps%2C81&sr=8-1
Andrew's song, "Whatever": https://open.spotify.com/track/1oL4LalnvFNC7kNiVMeHJN?si=889953d9d9564893
About Civilization: http://www.civilization.link/en/
Pepsi's "Bring Happiness Home": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQ_B-Nh5bHk
For everything ShanghaiZhan: http://zhanstation.com/
Donate & become a ShanghaiZhan Patron: https://www.patreon.com/shanghaizhan
Campaign Asia: https://www.campaignasia.com/
ShanghaiZhan Theme Music: by Bryce Whitwam
https://soundcloud.com/bryce-r-whitwam/bad-cough-syrup?si=cfb30a6e0c0e459da78b912bf60825ac
Bryce on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brycewhitwam/
Ali on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alikazmi/
Today we are talking about creativity in the marketing and advertising industry, and we’re honored to have one of China’s most award-winning Creative Directors, Andrew Lok, on today’s show. He started his career in Singapore as a journalist for UPI, but decided it was more fun to create news than report it, so he joined the advertising industry. After stints raising the creative rankings of Ogilvy China, based in Guangzhou and Beijing, he moved to Shanghai, where he served as Executive Creative Director for BBDO. In 2012, he founded Civilization, based in Shanghai, now one of China’s top independent agencies. Andrew is among the most awarded Creatives in China and speaks Mandarin, English, and German.
1. What's with the name, "Loksmith?"
2. What's the most compelling work that you've ever done? The story of Visa & Pepsi's most famous ads
3. Should young Creatives consider China as a market to flourish? It takes a lot of luck
4. Andrew's beginnings started with telling stories
5. Is VR helping or harming creative stories, or is it telling too much?
6. How music has changed my perspective on storytelling
7. Has social media created greater intimacy for brand storytelling?: Andrew's story of fandom gone crazy
8. Has the style of China advertising evolved and changed as people have changed?
9. Can emotional ads survive the power of KOLs?
10. Origins of Civilization and surviving in China
11. A poem from "I am a Tourist" - about family
12. A/B Test:
About Andrew Lok:
Andrew on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-lok-b45b413b/
Andrew's book of poetry, "I am a Tourist": https://www.amazon.com/I-am-tourist-Andrew-Lok/dp/1466343877/ref=sr_1_1?crid=30UMH74JKID67&keywords=Andrew+Lok&qid=1674567881&sprefix=andrew+lok%2Caps%2C81&sr=8-1
Andrew's song, "Whatever": https://open.spotify.com/track/1oL4LalnvFNC7kNiVMeHJN?si=889953d9d9564893
About Civilization: http://www.civilization.link/en/
Pepsi's "Bring Happiness Home": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQ_B-Nh5bHk
For everything ShanghaiZhan: http://zhanstation.com/
Donate & become a ShanghaiZhan Patron: https://www.patreon.com/shanghaizhan
Campaign Asia: https://www.campaignasia.com/
ShanghaiZhan Theme Music: by Bryce Whitwam
https://soundcloud.com/bryce-r-whitwam/bad-cough-syrup?si=cfb30a6e0c0e459da78b912bf60825ac
Bryce on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brycewhitwam/
Ali on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alikazmi/
The Future of Brands, Creativity, & Technology: A Conversation with Ogilvy China CEO, Chris Reitermann
ShanghaiZhan: All Things China Marketing, Advertising, Tech & Platforms
04/28/23 • 54 min
We recently had the opportunity to speak with Chris Reitermann, the Co-Chief Executive of Ogilvy Asia and CEO of Greater China, about the role of AI in the advertising business in China. With an impressive 28-year career at Ogilvy, Chris has been instrumental in the successful rise of advertising in China. Ogilvy China is one of the country's largest and most respected agencies, and it was awarded Integrated Marketing Agency of the Year by Campaign Asia in 2022. So, what does Chris have to say about the future of AI in branding in China?
1. Are we at another crossroads with the rise of AI? How will AI impact the business of advertising in China? Are agencies still relevant?
2. Will AI fully automate the advertising process? What will be the human role in the creative process?
3. Once far ahead, is China behind the AI curve now?
4. The agency's role has fundamentally not changed, despite the mediums and tools that have changed.
5. Where will China evolve post-Covid, and how has this changed the country's optimism?
6. Where does work/life balance fit into post-Covid agency culture?
7. Is an agency a place for a new recruit, or should they join the brand side?
8. How does Ogilvy balance experts and integration under a single office network?
9. Good growth is just around the corner for both agencies and brands in China
10. Local clients vs. global client needs are different - it's the local clients that want brand building
11. What are the biggest challenges for Chinese brands going global?
12. What's the importance of technology for agency services in China?
13. What's your favorite David Ogilvy quote?
14. Hey, are you still in China? Is China a regional hub?
15. A/B Test: Creatvity, Shanghai, MidJourney & KFC
Chris Reitermann on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisreitermann/
About Ogilvy China: https://www.ogilvy.com/cn/eng#work
Ogilvy China on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ogilvychina/
For everything ShanghaiZhan: http://zhanstation.com/
ShanghaiZhan Theme Music: by Bryce Whitwam
https://soundcloud.com/bryce-r-whitwam/bad-cough-syrup?si=cfb30a6e0c0e459da78b912bf60825ac
Bryce on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brycewhitwam/
Ali on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alikazmi/
1. Are we at another crossroads with the rise of AI? How will AI impact the business of advertising in China? Are agencies still relevant?
2. Will AI fully automate the advertising process? What will be the human role in the creative process?
3. Once far ahead, is China behind the AI curve now?
4. The agency's role has fundamentally not changed, despite the mediums and tools that have changed.
5. Where will China evolve post-Covid, and how has this changed the country's optimism?
6. Where does work/life balance fit into post-Covid agency culture?
7. Is an agency a place for a new recruit, or should they join the brand side?
8. How does Ogilvy balance experts and integration under a single office network?
9. Good growth is just around the corner for both agencies and brands in China
10. Local clients vs. global client needs are different - it's the local clients that want brand building
11. What are the biggest challenges for Chinese brands going global?
12. What's the importance of technology for agency services in China?
13. What's your favorite David Ogilvy quote?
14. Hey, are you still in China? Is China a regional hub?
15. A/B Test: Creatvity, Shanghai, MidJourney & KFC
Chris Reitermann on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisreitermann/
About Ogilvy China: https://www.ogilvy.com/cn/eng#work
Ogilvy China on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ogilvychina/
For everything ShanghaiZhan: http://zhanstation.com/
ShanghaiZhan Theme Music: by Bryce Whitwam
https://soundcloud.com/bryce-r-whitwam/bad-cough-syrup?si=cfb30a6e0c0e459da78b912bf60825ac
Bryce on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brycewhitwam/
Ali on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alikazmi/
The China Entrepreneur Show: Jing-A Beer & the Making of a Local Brand
ShanghaiZhan: All Things China Marketing, Advertising, Tech & Platforms
01/11/24 • 55 min
What does starting a successful brand from ZERO in the Middle Kingdom take? We spoke to Alex Acker and Kristian Li, co-founders of Jing A Beer. Based in Beijing, Jing-A now has ten tap rooms in the capital, with one in Shenzhen. Jing-A is also available in Singapore.
Jing-A describes itself as a brewery that is in constant motion. Started by Kris and Alex in 2012, Jing-A is obsessed with hunting down rare ingredients and unexpected flavors to brew beers, intertwining its distinctive Beijing roots. Alex and Kris also collaborate with brewers from all over the world with the goal of making Beijing one of the great beer brewing capitals of the world. China is, after all, the world's largest beer market, generating $125.6 billion a year in sales.
Are there still entrepreneurial opportunities in China for expats? We talked to the experts!
1. Why did you first come to China, and how did two corporate guys quit their jobs and start a brewery?
2. Can you explain the meaning behind the name, Jing-A? It's the OG of Beijing.
3. How did you get started? What were some challenges for expats living in Beijing setting up a business? How did you overcome them?
4. What are the specific cultural nuances of drinking craft beer in China? Is beer drinking similar to how it is in the West?
5. What does it take to leap into entrepreneurship out of the corporate world? Be Conservative
6. What did the competition look like for you? How did you move people from the competition?
7. What marketing tips can you provide to brands wanting to start?
8. What is the difference between Shanghai's and Beijing's experiences?
9. The AQI beer idea: how to connect the culture to the product
10. What's the situation post-COVID? Has there been a return? How did COVID impact you?
11. Tell us about the 8 X 8 Brewing Project
12. If you did it all over again....would you still do it? How much did timing and luck impact your success?
13. A/B Test: Community, Worker Pale Ale, China 2008!
Jing-A Corporate History Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=muHDKlqHP6M
Jing-A Website: https://jingabrewing.com/
Alex on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-acker-475b14/
Kris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krisli/
For everything ShanghaiZhan: http://zhanstation.com/
ShanghaiZhan Theme Music: by Bryce Whitwam
https://soundcloud.com/bryce-r-whitwam/bad-cough-syrup?si=cfb30a6e0c0e459da78b912bf60825ac
Bryce on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brycewhitwam/
Ali on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alikazmi/
Jing-A describes itself as a brewery that is in constant motion. Started by Kris and Alex in 2012, Jing-A is obsessed with hunting down rare ingredients and unexpected flavors to brew beers, intertwining its distinctive Beijing roots. Alex and Kris also collaborate with brewers from all over the world with the goal of making Beijing one of the great beer brewing capitals of the world. China is, after all, the world's largest beer market, generating $125.6 billion a year in sales.
Are there still entrepreneurial opportunities in China for expats? We talked to the experts!
1. Why did you first come to China, and how did two corporate guys quit their jobs and start a brewery?
2. Can you explain the meaning behind the name, Jing-A? It's the OG of Beijing.
3. How did you get started? What were some challenges for expats living in Beijing setting up a business? How did you overcome them?
4. What are the specific cultural nuances of drinking craft beer in China? Is beer drinking similar to how it is in the West?
5. What does it take to leap into entrepreneurship out of the corporate world? Be Conservative
6. What did the competition look like for you? How did you move people from the competition?
7. What marketing tips can you provide to brands wanting to start?
8. What is the difference between Shanghai's and Beijing's experiences?
9. The AQI beer idea: how to connect the culture to the product
10. What's the situation post-COVID? Has there been a return? How did COVID impact you?
11. Tell us about the 8 X 8 Brewing Project
12. If you did it all over again....would you still do it? How much did timing and luck impact your success?
13. A/B Test: Community, Worker Pale Ale, China 2008!
Jing-A Corporate History Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=muHDKlqHP6M
Jing-A Website: https://jingabrewing.com/
Alex on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-acker-475b14/
Kris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krisli/
For everything ShanghaiZhan: http://zhanstation.com/
ShanghaiZhan Theme Music: by Bryce Whitwam
https://soundcloud.com/bryce-r-whitwam/bad-cough-syrup?si=cfb30a6e0c0e459da78b912bf60825ac
Bryce on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brycewhitwam/
Ali on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alikazmi/
The Temu + Shein Chinese E-commerce Invasion
ShanghaiZhan: All Things China Marketing, Advertising, Tech & Platforms
05/09/24 • 45 min
Welcome to the latest invasion; it's not TikTok but Shein & Temu!
It's hard to imagine that 4 of the top 8 U.S. iPhone App Store apps are from China. While TikTok and Capcut make the list, the two big surprises are e-commerce juggernauts Temu and Shein. These companies operate unique, manufacturer-to-customer business models and do not manufacture products; they simply work with armies of factories throughout China to use powerful algorithms to serve up a plethora of options. Shein reached an estimated $24 billion in revenue in 2022, while Temu reached 161 million users worldwide. What's the future of these two platforms? How will Amazon respond? Ali and Bryce discuss this phenomenon.
1. Why have these two platforms become so popular? How do they work? How are they different?
2. What makes these platforms uniquely Chinese? What things are similar to their Chinese platforms?
3. How is Temu disrupting the market, given that it doesn't sell recognized brands and people have to wait to get its stuff?
4. Advantage Shein: consumer-responsive fashion
5. Given its incredibly responsive manufacturing model, will Shein develop more up-market products or stay on the low end?
6. Morgan Stanley says that Temu's growth is non-sustainable. Will Amazon pick up the slack?
7. How will Temu impact China's manufacturing tiers? Will it enable them to sell name brands and compete against Amazon?
8. Does Temu need to deliver a group-buy model to survive against Amazon?
9. Will Costco-style value brands emerge from the Temu model?
10. The importance of time spent on the platform and how it will impact Temu/Shein's business performance.
For everything ShanghaiZhan: http://zhanstation.com/
ShanghaiZhan Theme Music: by Bryce Whitwam
https://soundcloud.com/bryce-r-whitwam/bad-cough-syrup?si=cfb30a6e0c0e459da78b912bf60825ac
Bryce on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brycewhitwam/
Ali on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alikazmi/
It's hard to imagine that 4 of the top 8 U.S. iPhone App Store apps are from China. While TikTok and Capcut make the list, the two big surprises are e-commerce juggernauts Temu and Shein. These companies operate unique, manufacturer-to-customer business models and do not manufacture products; they simply work with armies of factories throughout China to use powerful algorithms to serve up a plethora of options. Shein reached an estimated $24 billion in revenue in 2022, while Temu reached 161 million users worldwide. What's the future of these two platforms? How will Amazon respond? Ali and Bryce discuss this phenomenon.
1. Why have these two platforms become so popular? How do they work? How are they different?
2. What makes these platforms uniquely Chinese? What things are similar to their Chinese platforms?
3. How is Temu disrupting the market, given that it doesn't sell recognized brands and people have to wait to get its stuff?
4. Advantage Shein: consumer-responsive fashion
5. Given its incredibly responsive manufacturing model, will Shein develop more up-market products or stay on the low end?
6. Morgan Stanley says that Temu's growth is non-sustainable. Will Amazon pick up the slack?
7. How will Temu impact China's manufacturing tiers? Will it enable them to sell name brands and compete against Amazon?
8. Does Temu need to deliver a group-buy model to survive against Amazon?
9. Will Costco-style value brands emerge from the Temu model?
10. The importance of time spent on the platform and how it will impact Temu/Shein's business performance.
For everything ShanghaiZhan: http://zhanstation.com/
ShanghaiZhan Theme Music: by Bryce Whitwam
https://soundcloud.com/bryce-r-whitwam/bad-cough-syrup?si=cfb30a6e0c0e459da78b912bf60825ac
Bryce on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brycewhitwam/
Ali on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alikazmi/
Chinese Women in Tech with Dr. Susan Zhang
ShanghaiZhan: All Things China Marketing, Advertising, Tech & Platforms
10/17/24 • 39 min
What are China's technology opportunities for Chinese women? Are Chinese companies becoming more gender diverse, or are coveted STEM careers still largely avoided by Chinese women? We asked Dr. Susan Zhang about the state of Chinese women in tech. Dr. Zhang is a high-energy business executive and serial entrepreneur. Her journey has taken her to incredible heights in Australia, China, and the UK. She has inspired many young entrepreneurs with her legacy at Google, ByteDance (TikTok), Amazon, and Canva. She is the book author of 'Life Outside My Comfort Zone', a TEDx speaker, and an award-winning role model for Women in Leadership and STEM Education.
1. What's your career journey, and what are the milestones?
2. What's it like working in big tech companies? How did it impact your leadership style?
3. What's the difference between Western and Chinese work cultures?
4. Why do people want to work so late in a Chinese company?
5. What is stopping women from going into tech roles?
6. What is the importance of gender diversity in tech?
7. Tell us about your book, "Life Outside My Comfort Zone"
8. How should the next generation of women prepare themselves in an AI-tech world?
9. Any Chinese proverb to live by?
NEW SEGMENT: Shanghaizhan Mailbox: Listener Mail!
Dr. Zhang on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zhangsusan/
Susan's Website: https://www.xiaochenzhang.com/
"Life Outside My Comfort Zone": https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1794103422
For everything ShanghaiZhan: http://zhanstation.com/
Got a Question? Access Our Mailbox: https://syracuseuniversity.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6StjsljIEPkXt3M
ShanghaiZhan Theme Music: by Bryce Whitwam
https://soundcloud.com/bryce-r-whitwam/bad-cough-syrup?si=cfb30a6e0c0e459da78b912bf60825ac
Bryce on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brycewhitwam/
Ali on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alikazmi/
1. What's your career journey, and what are the milestones?
2. What's it like working in big tech companies? How did it impact your leadership style?
3. What's the difference between Western and Chinese work cultures?
4. Why do people want to work so late in a Chinese company?
5. What is stopping women from going into tech roles?
6. What is the importance of gender diversity in tech?
7. Tell us about your book, "Life Outside My Comfort Zone"
8. How should the next generation of women prepare themselves in an AI-tech world?
9. Any Chinese proverb to live by?
NEW SEGMENT: Shanghaizhan Mailbox: Listener Mail!
Dr. Zhang on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zhangsusan/
Susan's Website: https://www.xiaochenzhang.com/
"Life Outside My Comfort Zone": https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1794103422
For everything ShanghaiZhan: http://zhanstation.com/
Got a Question? Access Our Mailbox: https://syracuseuniversity.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6StjsljIEPkXt3M
ShanghaiZhan Theme Music: by Bryce Whitwam
https://soundcloud.com/bryce-r-whitwam/bad-cough-syrup?si=cfb30a6e0c0e459da78b912bf60825ac
Bryce on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brycewhitwam/
Ali on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alikazmi/
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FAQ
How many episodes does ShanghaiZhan: All Things China Marketing, Advertising, Tech & Platforms have?
ShanghaiZhan: All Things China Marketing, Advertising, Tech & Platforms currently has 80 episodes available.
What topics does ShanghaiZhan: All Things China Marketing, Advertising, Tech & Platforms cover?
The podcast is about E-Commerce, Marketing, Management, Advertising, Podcasts, Technology, Business and China.
What is the most popular episode on ShanghaiZhan: All Things China Marketing, Advertising, Tech & Platforms?
The episode title 'Pernod Ricard's Pierre Delfosse on 11/11: the Day After the Dust Settled' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on ShanghaiZhan: All Things China Marketing, Advertising, Tech & Platforms?
The average episode length on ShanghaiZhan: All Things China Marketing, Advertising, Tech & Platforms is 45 minutes.
How often are episodes of ShanghaiZhan: All Things China Marketing, Advertising, Tech & Platforms released?
Episodes of ShanghaiZhan: All Things China Marketing, Advertising, Tech & Platforms are typically released every 14 days, 8 hours.
When was the first episode of ShanghaiZhan: All Things China Marketing, Advertising, Tech & Platforms?
The first episode of ShanghaiZhan: All Things China Marketing, Advertising, Tech & Platforms was released on Nov 5, 2021.
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