Focus
The Magazine of the French Chamber of Commerce in Singapore
January 2012
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www.fccsingapore.com
Innovation as a Strategy
French Companies Fuel Singapore with Innovations | How to Finance Your Innovation? | Anticipating Customers’ Needs with Innovation | Innovations Towards a Greener World | Consumer Engagement Through Innovation
FOCUS MAGAZINE
CONTENTS
January 2012
EDITORIAL
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SHORT NEWS
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Air France Launches Additional Flights on Singapore Route Arkadin receives Frost & Sullivan's 2011 Asia Pacific Growth Leadership Award GDF SUEZ LNG and GDF SUEZ Trading Have Opened a Shared Office Bouygues Construction Wins Two Contracts in Singapore Accor Signs Sofitel So Hotel in Singapore Hermès opens a new store in Scotts Square Paul Opens a Bakery-Restaurant in Takashimaya Chef Laurent Peugeot Opens LP+Tetsu in Singapore New Book Promises to Tell the Full Story of the French Community in Singapore The Club V.I.E Singapore News
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COVER STORY - INNOVATION AS A STRATEGY
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Innovation: the Key to Success A Culture of Innovation Bringing a New Touch! How to Finance Your Innovation? Innovation: the Key to the Future Anticipating Consumers’ Needs with Innovation Magic Made a Miracle! Innovations Towards a Greener World The Innovation Paradigm in Retail Design Consumer Engagement Through Innovation Innovation & History French Innovation in Singapore
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FCCS HR & TRAINING SERVICES
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We Help You to Recruit Talents! FCCS Training Catalogue 2012
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FCCS BUSINESS SERVICES
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They Rely on Us… And Testify on Our Services Newly Set Up Companies through the FCCS Business Support
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FCCS CLUB EVENTS
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La Paulée de Singapour - A Friendly First Edition! A Genuine French Marché in Plaza Singapura Asia Committee CEO Series Sustainability Committee Finance Committee Human Resources Committee Entrepreneurs Committee Marketing & Communication Committee ICT Committee R&D Committee Legal & Tax Committee Welcome to Singapore FCCS Events Futsal Tournament Pétanque Tournament FCCS New Members FCCS Privilege Card
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FCCS PATRON MEMBERS
FOCUS MAGAZINE January 2012
The French Chamber of Commerce in Singapore would like to thank its Patron Members for their continuous support.
FCCS Focus Magazine is published by the French Chamber of Commerce in Singapore (FCCS). The views and opinions expressed in its columns do not necessarily reflect those of the FCCS members and management.
director of publication Carine Lespayandel chief editor Nicolas Avril editorial contributor Virginia Ng design & layout Nirina Ragomaharisoa Jia En Teo advertising Nicolas Avril Florence Baret colour separation & printing NPE Print Communications Pte Ltd
January 2012 3,500 copies MICA (P) N째045/09/2010
THE FRENCH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IN SINGAPORE 541 Orchard Road #09-01 Liat Towers Singapore 238881 Tel: +65 6735 5523 Fax: +65 6735 5394 www.fccsingapore.com info@fccsingapore.com
FOCUS MAGAZINE
EDITORIAL
January 2012
French Companies Fuel Singapore with Innovations ver the last few years innovation has been frequently associated with high technology and a bunch of geniuses generating a series of patented products. However, innovation must be seen from a wider perspective.
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It may be in a new business process, a new business model, a new way of presenting products, or of course a new service or product. Innovation is about disruptive ideas that will change the way we see our environment and the world, the way we work, interact and act. Generating innovations requires an open mindset and people who are ready to think out of the box. Innovations usually take place when a competitor is trying to find a way to challenge the leader, or when an issue needs to be addressed. It requires early stage adopters, financing to fuel it, iterative trials and adaptation to its market. Singapore now plays a strategic role in Asia by enabling innovations whereas the neighboring countries keep an eye on what is happening here. Thanks to the long-term strategy adopted by the government, Singapore successfully managed to attract and grow locally world-class blooming ideas and promising concepts. The efficient government agencies, such as EDB, IDA, MDA, or SPRING, fuel innovations thanks to numerous funding schemes. The City-State also managed
to attract and train talented workforce, develop necessary infrastructures, and grow business networks in order for innovators to meet their consumers. In 2009, thanks to an emphasis on science education and a highly talented workforce, Singapore ranked well ahead of the U.S. as innovation leaders. Singapore is also a great test-bed, where the population rose from 3 million in 1990 to more than 5 million in 2011. The multicultural Singapore, where East meets West and where Chinese, Indian, South-East Asians and westerners share the same environment, brings another interesting aspect. It represents a significant market for innovators wishing to test their products and services. Singapore with its modern infrastructures, its financial and business hub and world-class universities represents an ideal nest for moving innovation to success. In this special issue, you will read several experiences from different French companies sharing a strong common emphasis: the innovation as a strategy.
Laurent Fabry Director, Digital Content Technologies Technical Director, Alioscopy Singapore Vice-President, R&D Committee, The French Chamber of Commerce in Singapore
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FOCUS MAGAZINE
SHORT NEWS
January 2012
French Companies in Singapore
Air France Launches Additional Flights on Singapore Route comfortable beds on the market - Multiple positions with the new relaxation position, with legs extended on the new fixed footrest including during the take-off and landing phases, among the most highly appreciated - Simpler and more practical controls - New, more spacious storage areas
Starting on 28 May 2012, Air France will be operating three additional round-trip flights between Paris and Singapore, giving travellers more options and flexibility.
gers in a 4-cabin configuration: - First - 4 seats - Business - 49 seats - Premium Voyageur – 24 seats - Voyageur - 170 seats
The three new flights are in addition to the daily round-trip flights currently operated by Air France between Paris and Singapore and will increase flight frequency to ten times a week.
The aircraft is equipped with the new Air France Business Class seat. With a fixed shell seat guaranteeing the passenger’s privacy, the seat structure and environment have been redesigned to offer: - A seat bed whose dimensions make it one of the most spacious and most
The Boeing 777-200ER seats 247 passen-
The aircraft also offers a raft of other innovations, including an inflight entertainment system (IFE) developed exclusively for Air France and new bar areas in each cabin. “The launch of the new flights is a step forward for Air France in strengthening its position in Singapore. We see great potential in Singapore and Asia, and we will continue to capitalise on opportunities to provide travellers with the best options and services,” said Paul Rombeek, General Manager Singapore, Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand, Air France KLM. F
Arkadin receives Frost & Sullivan's 2011 Asia Pacific Growth Leadership Award for Audio Conferencing Services Asia Pacific, Arkadin continued to exhibit outstanding performance in revenue growth and customer retention,” says Jessie Yu, Industry Analyst from the Asia Pacific ICT Practice of Frost & Sullivan.
For the second year in a row, Frost & Sullivan recognized Arkadin Global Conferencing, with the 2011 Asia Pacific Growth Leadership Award in the Audio Conferencing Service Market. Arkadin’s outstanding performance in revenue growth and customer adoption and retention were cited as key factors through Frost & Sullivan’s comprehensive research and analysis of leading audio providers in the region.
“During 2010, the company expanded its footprint in the emerging markets of China and India, and witnessed greater adoption in key markets of Japan, Australia and Singapore. The timely identification of opportunities in distinct customer segments and the partnership with SingTel proved to be a critical factor for Arkadin in attracting new customers to adopt its services, especially mid-to-large enterprises.”
“As the recipient for the second continuous year of the growth leadership award in
“This back-to-back award is a testament to our success in expanding our footprint
in Asia Pacific – a highly strategic region for long-term growth,” said Serge Genetet, Arkadin’s Executive Vice President, Asia Pacific. “We’ve succeeded with an unrivaled audio platform and service strategy which results in close local relationships with customers in each market. Additionally, our partnership with SingTel, for their WorldConference brand, has significantly broadened our penetration in Singapore and positions us well for continued momentum in the region.” In making its selection, Frost & Sullivan used primary and secondary research to compare the performance of audio providers to identify the leader in several critical areas, including: market potential, technological innovation, customer adoption, go-to-market strategy, geographical coverage and product features and benefits. Serge Genetet, Executive Vice President, Arkadin Asia Pacific, accepted the award at a banquet hosted by Frost & Sullivan in Singapore. F
FOCUS MAGAZINE
SHORT NEWS
January 2012
French Companies in Singapore
GDF SUEZ LNG and GDF SUEZ Trading Have Opened a Shared Office in a Quickly Developing Region The combination of GDF SUEZ’s LNG and trading expertise in medium- or long-term sales contracts will also increase our added value for our customers. GDF SUEZ Trading also aims to develop its own customer base in this region with high economic potential, a region that is eager to reexamine its energy mix.
This new office in Singapore aims to support the LNG business development strategy in the Asia-Pacific basin, which is a fast-growing and high-potential market. According to Philip Olivier, President of GDF SUEZ LNG, “GDF SUEZ is the largest importer in the Atlantic Basin
and is now an LNG supplier in Asia. It was therefore logical to establish a point of entry in the region, after we signed the first contracts with Kogas, CNOOC and Petronas. This brings us closer to our customers. The opening of a GDF SUEZ Trading office will also boost our LNG business.”
“Singapore is the ideal location for expansion,” said Pierre Chareyre, CEO of GDF SUEZ Trading. “It’s the energy marketplace in Asia and a platform that opens the door to the region’s extraordinarily dynamic economies.” F FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Mr Pierre Chareyre (CEO, GDF SUEZ Trading); Mr Philip Olivier (President, GDF SUEZ LNG); H.E. Olivier Caron (Ambassador of France to Singapore); Mr Eric Robial (Chief Representative, GDF SUEZ Trading Singapore Branch); Mr Alex Bower (Chief Representative, GDF SUEZ LNG Singapore Pte Ltd)
Bouygues Construction Wins Two Contracts in Singapore Dragages Singapore, a subsidiary of Bouygues Construction, has recently signed two contracts.
development that will benefit from financial aid from the local government to promote home-ownership among Singaporeans.
Located in Ardmore Park, one of the most exclusive districts of Singapore, the tower will comprise 35 apartments on 36 levels.
The company will construct a residential complex called Blossom Residences, consisting of three buildings of 16 to 18 floors. These buildings are part of a housing
Dragages Singapore has also signed a contract with the property developer SC Global for the construction of a prestigious high-rise apartment block in Singapore.
Both of these projects subscribe to the principle of sustainable construction, and will be granted Green Mark certification by the Singapore authorities. These new successes are proof of the versatility of Bouygues Construction’s offer. It is capable of producing high quality buildings adapted to the needs of the affordable housing sector as well as those of property developers requiring luxury features. The Group is currently building the Sports Hub in Singapore, a multisport facility which is the world’s large public-private partnership in the sport sector. Bouygues Construction has operated in Southeast Asia for roughly 25 years. The region constituted 13% of its consolidated sales in 2010 (Pacific included). F
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SHORT NEWS
FOCUS MAGAZINE
French Companies in Singapore
January 2012
Accor Signs Sofitel So Hotel in Singapore Accor is expanding its network of Sofitel So hotels with the signing of the Sofitel So Singapore, the world’s third Sofitel So label hotel. The new hotel is located at 35 Robinson Road, an heritage building within
walking distance from the Marina Bay area and close to premier shopping belt, Orchard Road. Sofitel So Singapore will have 134 guestrooms including 23 suites and is owned by Royal Group Holdings, a
Singapore-based organisation that focuses on the development of hospitality projects at unique locations with historical relevance. The development at 35 Robinson Road commenced in late 2011, while Sofitel So Singapore is schedule to open in the first quarter of 2013.
“We are proud and excited to have our first Sofitel Luxury Hotels footprint in Singapore with Royal Group” stated Markland Blaiklock, Senior Vice President of Sofitel Asia Pacific. “The 35 Robinson Road building with its iconic façade is an ideal place to showcase Sofitel So, the label that brings together the essence of design and city soul.” F
Source: asiatraveltips
Hermès opens a new store in Scotts Square On 9 December 2011, Hermès celebrated the opening of a new address in Singapore, located at Scotts Square. The 195m2 store is an important addition to the neighbouring shops at Liat Towers and Takashimaya, as well as to Hermès at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. Its long and vibrant street façade of striped red and orange screen-printed glass, punctuated by eye-catching show windows, is highly visible along Scotts Road and from its intersection with Orchard Road. Once past the door, Hermès’ characteristic ex-libris set onto “Faubourg Mosaic” offers a
warm welcome. The discovery of the house’s craftsmanship and exceptional know-how then unfolds, as the different 16 métiers come into full expression. The store’s first space presents Hermès silk, perfumes, enamel and fantasy jewellery, leather, equestrian, art de la table and art de vivre collections. Continuing the visit, cherrywood tables and leather benches present jewellery and watches and announce more intimate areas at the rear hosting women’s and men’s ready-to-wear, which can be accessed by a second entrance within Scotts Square. The Hermès’ Scotts Square store has been design
by RDAI, the Parisian architectural agency responsible for all Hermès stores worldwide. At the occasion of the inauguration the Parisian house collaborated once again with renowned French urban artist Kongo, who created the store’s window displays. F BOTTOM LEFT Kongo, French urban artist bursts out from a photo booth, inspired by the Graff Hermes silk carré which he designed BOTTOM RIGHT Hermès at Scotts Square
FOCUS MAGAZINE
SHORT NEWS
January 2012
Singapore News
Paul Opens a Bakery-Restaurant in Takashimaya Paul takes pride in its claim to be a “Maison de qualité fondée en 1889”. This can be seen on their shop fronts and is the result of a history written by five generations of people all sharing the same passion: let’s flip through the pages of a family album celebrating 120 years of quality…
of his father. He creates the famous “Paul” black shop fronts and is the first baker to have the idea of bringing the ovens into the view of customers whenever it is feasible. In 1998 his son Maxime joins the bakery before taking over in 2006.
2011 marks the year of the opening of Paul in Singapore’s superb Takashimaya Shopping Center. Their team welcomes you to their bakery-restaurant and is very happy to share a part of France’s traditional culinary heritage. Bienvenue chez Paul. F
1889, Charlemagne Mayot is a baker in Croix, near Lille. His son Edmond-Charlemagne will later take over with the help of his wife Victorine. In the 1930’s their daughter Suzanne marries Julien Holder, also a baker. A few years later, the couple buys a bakery in Lille from the Paul family, and sets up shop. They retain the name “Paul”. In 1955 their son Francis joins the family bakery and takes over after the sudden death
Chef Laurent Peugeot Opens LP+Tetsu in Singapore For a taste of Michelin-starred cuisine, there’s no need to travel far and wide. LP+Tetsu, a French-Japanese smart casual dining restaurant, has just opened its doors in the heart of town. A collaboration between award-winning Chef Laurent Peugeot and Japanese joint Tetsu (Tetsu is owned by the Food Junction Group), is a casual-smart dining concept where Michelin-starred cuisine is served at very attractive prices. At LP+Tetsu, all of the five senses – sight, smell, hearing, touch and taste – will be stirred. Chef Peugeot’s signature style – creative and playful – is like a breath of fresh air in a
culinary world steeped in tradition. Using only the best ingredients in the market (such as pop-in-your-mouth algae from Okinawa), he never hesitates to break any traditional culinary rules to create exciting, luxurious nouveau creations. Expect daring combinations of FrenchJapanese flavours that speak volumes of invention, tradition and refinement. For Chef Peugeot, LP+Tetsu is a space where breathtaking sensations and rousing emotions will be experienced. He shares: “What I want my guests to feel is awe when the dish is presented to them, and to be speechless when they first taste my creation.”
Plating and presentation are also of utmost importance. For Instance, Iberico Buta No Misozuke, Marinated Kuroputa Pork Loin with a slab of peanut-miso paste on top served with a miso marinated Egg Yolk, garnished with Kinpira. Chef Peugeot explains: “How a dish is presented can affect its taste – and the experience of eating it.” F BOTTOM LEFT From Left to Right: H.E. Mr Yoichi Suzuki Ambassador of Japan; H.E. Mr Olivier Caron Ambassador of France; Chef Peugeot of LP+Tetsu; Mrs Olivier Caron and Mrs Yoichi Suzuki BOTTOM RIGHT Interior of LP+Tetsu
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SHORT NEWS
FOCUS MAGAZINE
French Companies in Singapore
January 2012
New Book Promises to Tell the Full Story of the French Community in Singapore for the First Time The French in Singapore: An Illustrated History (1819 – today) was launched at an intimate event at the French Embassy on Friday 9th December. Written by Maxime Pilon and Danièle Weiler, and published by Editions Didier Millet, it is the first book dedicated to the history of the French in Singapore. Ever since Stamford Raffles took control of the port of Singapore on behalf of the British East India Company in 1819, diverse groups of people, including many French men and women, have come to join the indigenous population. The French presence in colonial Singapore was significant, if not in numbers then certainly in deeds. Missionaries, merchants, planters, industrialists, professionals and other pioneers tried their luck in the fledging island port. Be inspired and entertained by the colourful stories of personalities such as J. Casteleyns (who built the first hostelry, the Hotel de l’ Europe, in 1857), Father JeanMarie Beurel (who constructed the Cathe-
dral of the Good Shepherd and St Joseph’s Institution), and Alfred Clouët (who started the well-known Ayam Brand canned sardines business). Today, the French community has grown to almost 10,000 people and its contribution to the development of Singapore continues in myriad sectors - from electronics, to banking, to transport. With the community steadily growing, French institutions are constantly engaged with new and exciting projects, ensuring an active and effervescent French presence continues to flourish in Singapore. Through anecdotes, original documents and copious illustrations, photographs, paintings, sketches and maps, The French in Singapore is the first book to relate the story of this community and its legacy to the ‘Lion City’ over the past two centuries. It will appeal to French visitors and expatriates, Francophiles, and anyone with an interest in the history of Singapore.
The French in Singapore is available in both English and French editions at Kinokuniya and other leading bookstores. F
The role of the Club V.I.E is to bring together an active community of current and former V.I.E. to engage with the network in three primary areas:
To join the Club V.I.E: Former VSN, CSN, and V.I.E / V.I.A.: Go register on the website of the Club V.I.E.: www.clubvie.fr
The Club V.I.E
The Club V.I.E (www.clubvie.fr) is the official network of ex VSN, CSN, V.I.E/A in France and around the world. Today, we have 2,500 registered on our website. The Club V.I.E in figures: - More than 10,000 members, including almost 2,500 active members to date - 80,000 former VSN, CSN and V.I.E/A around the world - More than current 6,500 VI in contract per year. - A network present in more than thirty countries in all continents - More than 60 members involved in developing and running the Club.
• Community: Building the network by creating and facilitating events and meetings • Professional: Develop professional meetings with our partners, companies which recruit internationally and others of high rank in our pool of experienced talent. • Solidarity: Promotion of the V.I.E with the graduates Mentoring programs Between "Junior" and "Senior" members Support to solidarity associations working for the education and youth. F
Former VSN, CNS, V.I.E, V.I.A and current VI working in Singapore: Join us on our Linkedin Group.
An event will take place early in 2012 for the official launch of the Club in Singapore. Be Ready!!
Contact: Thomas, singapour@clubvie.fr
FOCUS MAGAZINE
SHORT NEWS
January 2012
Singapore News
Singapore's Economy Grew 4.8% in 2011 The pace of growth of the Singapore economy eased in the fourth quarter of 2011. According to advance estimates the economy grew by 3.6% on a year-on-year basis in the fourth quarter of 2011, compared to the 5.9% growth in the third quarter. On a seasonally adjusted quarter-on-quarter annualised basis, the economy contracted by 4.9%, following the 1.5% gain in the previous quarter. For the whole of 2011, the economy is estimated to have expanded by 4.8%, in line with the Ministry of Trade and Industry’s growth forecast of around 5.0% for the year. F Source: Ministry of Trade and Industry, 31 Dec. 2011
Gross Domestic Product at 2005 Prices 4Q10 2010 1Q11 2Q11 3Q11 4Q11* 2011* Percentage change over corresponding period of previous year Overall GDP 12 0.9 3.6 12 9.1 5.9 4.8 Goods Producing Industries Manufacturing 25.5 29.7 15.8 -6 13.4 6.5 6.9 Construction -2 6.1 1.4 1.7 2.4 0.5 1.5 Services Producing Industries 8.8 10.5 4 3.7 3.2 4.6 7.7 Quarter-on-quarter annualised growth rate, seasonally adjusted Overall GDP 3.9 -5.9 -4.9 14.5 26.6 1.5 4.8 Goods Producing Industries Manufacturing 0.7 29.7 -22.3 -21.7 6.9 92.7 10.1 Construction -10.2 12.8 6.1 13.5 -10.6 -6.7 1.5 Services Producing Industries 5.6 -0.2 10.5 10.5 -0.5 3.4 4.6
*Advance estimates
Port of Singapore Still World's Busiest
Other vital statistics such as container throughput and bunker sales are also expanding despite the global slowdown. Port authorities plan to spur growth even further with terminal expansions and a $1-million port technology contest.
economy. For the first 11 months of this year, our port registered 10.2% year-on-year growth in vessel arrival tonnage. This has enabled Singapore to maintain our position as the world's busiest port by vessel arrival tonnage. Over the same period, container throughput has also increased by about 4.8% to 27.3 million TEUs. As the world’s top bunkering hub, we have sold 39.3 million tonnes of bunkers up till November this year and are set to surpass last year’s record of 40.9 million tonnes in annual bunker sales." said Mr. Lui Tuck Yew.
"The crossing of two billion gross tons in annual vessel arrival tonnage reflects the strong growth achieved by the Port of Singapore, in spite of the current uncertainty in the global
"To sustain our hub port leadership, Singapore will continue to invest to grow capacity with the expansion of Pasir Panjang Terminal. We have also launched a new Port Operations Control
Strong year-on-year growth of 10.2% for the first 11 months pushed the annual vessel arrival tonnage over the 2 billion GT level for the first time ever, said Mr. Lui Tuck Yew, Minister of Transport, in a speech.
Centre at Changi to enhance the safety of navigation as demand on our port and shipping lanes grow. These initiatives will ensure that the Port of Singapore can accommodate not just more ships but also the largest container ships which are coming on stream." he added. F Source: Singapore Business Review, 14 Dec. 2011
Singapore Tops Survey on Business Regulatory Environment Rankings on the Ease of Doing Business 2012 Rank
2011 Rank
Economy
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
1 2 3 4 5 7 6 15 13 8
Singapore Hong Kong SAR, China New Zealand United States Denmark Norway United Kingdom Korea, Rep. Iceland Ireland
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Singapore has again topped a survey measuring the business regulatory environment in 183 countries. The Doing Business 2012 study by the International Finance Corporation and The World Bank singled out the Republic for the sixth straight year.
improve, it continues to change," said Ms Sylvia Solf, lead author of the Doing Business Project, World Bank Group.
Singapore outperformed Hong Kong, New Zealand and the United States, which also ranked in the top five.
She cited the country's consistent improvement in e-government services, setting up one-stop shops for start-ups and fast-tracking approvals for construction and building permits. But many Asian countries are keeping up through the introduction of reforms to make them more "business friendly". F
"Singapore is an interesting case because despite being ranked No 1, it continues to
Source: International Finance Corporation and The World Bank
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COVER STORY Innovation as a Strategy
FOCUS MAGAZINE January 2012
Innovation as a Strategy
FOCUS MAGAZINE
COVER STORY
January 2012
Innovation as a Strategy
Innovation: the Key to Success By Stéphane Barrau, VP Operations Singapore Site Manager, Soitec Microelectronics Singapore Soitec is an international company, a world leader in generating and manufacturing revolutionary semiconductor materials at the frontier of the most exciting challenges for energy and electronics. Soitec’s products include substrates for microelectronics (most notably SOI: Silicon-on-Insulator) and concentrator photovoltaic systems (CPV). Since its creation in 1992, Soitec has continued to grow by cultivating innovation and focusing on developing differentiating technologies that add maximum value to end products. Soitec products have applications on an increasingly diverse range of markets that include computers and gaming consoles; imagers; radio frequency components used in telephones, PCs and smartphones; onboard microelectronic components for the automotive industry; and concentrating photovoltaic solar panels. Innovation is how we lead, grow and maximize value through incremental and breakthrough solutions for the electronics and energy industries. Innovation is the key to our success at Soitec – it is part of who we are. Our company was founded to develop and commercialize a breakthrough process, our Smart Cut™ technology. More recently, we added the leading-edge Concentrix™ concentrating photovoltaic (CPV) technology to our portfolio. From the founding of our company to our latest technologies, market-changing innovation has always been the pathway to success at Soitec.
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We invest over 10% of our sales in Research & Development.
Soitec has a rigorous and proactive industrial property policy designed to support – and protect – our innovations worldwide. Each year, we file more than 350 patent applications and regularly rank among France’s top 30 patent filers alongside some major corporations. Our exclusive Smart Cut™ technology is covered by several hundred patents protecting each change made to the technology as we expand its use to new products, improve certain steps of the process, or make adjustments that reduce costs. We invest over 10% of our sales in R&D to develop and perfect breakthrough materials technologies. Backed by a finely-honed ability to anticipate market needs, we have amassed a robust pool of industrial property, penetrated mass markets with a highly differentiated product line-up, and expanded into new markets like automotive electronics, imaging, photovoltaics, and lighting.
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From our historical R&D base in Grenoble (our headquarters), Soitec has developed a broad array of R&D partnerships with worldwide leading labs and universities. We take full advantage of the high-tech resources available in Singapore which is a major centre for microelectronics and is home to leaders in education, research, and industry. In our high volume Manufacturing wafer fab located in Pasir Ris and built in 2008, we are co-developing with our mother fab in France our future generation of SOI products. We are also building strong relationships with R&D institutes and local universities. Singapore is a great place for us for its very wide ecosystem in microelectronics and for its very secure IP protection policy. F BOTTOM LEFT Inside a production room BOTTOM RIGHT Colourful wafers, credits to © Christian Morel
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COVER STORY
January 2012
Innovation as a Strategy
A Culture of Innovation By Cyril Annarella, Chief Technology Officer and Asia Strategy Director, Gemalto
What is creativity, and how do you go about fostering it? How do you foster a culture of innovation within an established business, and how do you tell a good idea from a bad one? Is Singapore the right choice for creative R&D?
Some say creativity can be codified and taught. Gemalto believes that one needs to create an environment that fosters creativity and the ideas will flow naturally, especially through team initiatives. On a corporate level, a clear vision of what the company wants to accomplish needs to be communicated. As a leading innovator of digital security solutions, Gemalto’s vision is that Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) will continue to drastically change the way we work, travel, pay, travel and learn. We want to ensure that these new solutions will be secure, convenient, enjoyable and user-friendly. With this vision, Gemalto motivates and empowers employees to work towards this goal. In our Research & Development (R&D) department, regular contests are run where Gemalto’s engineers can submit their innovative ideas and stand a chance to be able to secure incubation and brings their ideas to fruition.
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Innovation is a core focus in the training courses offered to employees of all levels.
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We believe no idea is a bad idea. That said, the company has in place a stringent process for assessing ideas with a set of criteria that includes commercial viability, time to market, user-friendliness and barrier to entry. Winning ideas are then put through an incubation process with regular milestone reviews to allow the team to evaluate whether a project should be continued or stopped at each developmental stage. The third step in the creation of a culture of innovation is by encouraging creativity across the organisation. As one of our three core values (People, Customer and Innovation), Innovation is a core focus in the training courses offered to employees of all levels. We send our employees for internal and external courses such as Futuristic Innovation Leadership for senior managers. This helps to instil a culture of innovation and equips
employees with the tools to discover innovative opportunities far beyond operations. Internally, we also run training courses which focuses on developing our employees’ technical skills to face the latest challenges in digital security. Gemalto also places a high priority on instilling an innovative mindset in our new employees through the implementation of the Young Talent Transfer Program (YTTP). Young employees with leadership potential are identified and encouraged to take on international assignments to broaden their knowledge, skills and develop different ways of thinking. These inter-department transfers provide invaluable insights to the company as a whole. Annually, approximately 7% of the employees in Gemalto are transferred internally. To foster creativity in R&D, Gemalto believes that having a team comprised of people from diverse backgrounds - culturally or professionally - fosters a rich and 360 degree perspective on opportunities, challenges and technological applications. Gemalto’s 10, 000 employees hail from 90 nationalities, with operations in 45 countries. Of the company’s 1000 engineers, 200 are based in Singapore, of which there is a good mix of local, Indonesian, Indian, Chinese, Malaysian and French (amongst others) employees. The company also has a policy of equal treatment towards the treatment of all scientists and engineers in the lab, senior or novices, giving them a fair degree of auton-
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COVER STORY
January 2012
Innovation as a Strategy
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We believe Singapore is ideal for nurturing creative R&D.
omy in what they do. We believe that this will help stimulate creativity and innovation. In addition, the company also encourages small working groups to help stimulate the brainstorming and ideation process. The engineers are also encouraged to spend one day of their time away from regular planned tasks on a weekly basis, to develop new ideas.
point of contact between the service providers (such as the banks) and mobile operators, providing a secure channel for payments via NFC-enabled mobile phones. Crucially, the TTP eliminates the need for any service provider to establish separate technical connections with individual mobile operators, thus creating an interoperable infrastructure.
Multiple perspectives come alive when these diverse teams work on new technologies such as Near Field Communications (NFC), healthcare, machine-to-machine applications, etc. As an example of game-changing innovation, Gemalto’s eGo™ explores how people can smoothly and securely interact with objects around them in the future solely by touch and gestures as their interfaces. In combining innovative in-house and externally generated technologies, eGo™ is a groundbreaking approach that tackles dayto-day consumer issues in a practical and novel way.
All in all, our strategy and investment in innovation is paying off. Our efforts in instilling and investing a culture of innovation has earned industry recognition, with Gemalto winning the Sesames Award at CARTES in Paris and Asia, 2011 A.T. Kearney Best Innovator Award, 2011 CARTES &
As such, we believe Singapore is ideal for nurturing creative R&D. Its diversity, central location, hi-technology base and grants from the Singapore government are just some of the factors that create this conducive environment. One of the results is that today, Gemalto is leading a consortium consisting of banks (Citibank and DBS), transport operators (EZ Link) and mobile operators (SingTel, StarHub and M1) to develop an interoperable NFC ecosystem for mobile payment and services that will launch in mid 2012. This makes for the first nationwide NFC deployment globally. Gemalto will take on the role of Trusted Third Party (TTP), effectively the backbone of the entire infrastructure as it solves much of the business and operational requirements of mobile payments. The TTP serves as a single
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Identification IT Security Sesames award and the “2011 Industry Company of the Year” award from L’Usine Nouvelle. Our culture of innovation has helped to place Gemalto in a strong position to thrive over the coming years. The fast-paced evolution of our digital society requires us – as digital security providers – to stay abreast of the latest industry developments in order to protect consumers from malicious parties. F LEFT PAGE Cyril Annarella, CTO and Asia Strategy Director, Gemalto BELOW eGoTM - wireless bidirectional channels of communication between objects and users
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Innovation as a Strategy
Bringing a New Touch! By Mae Liew, Marketing & Communications Manager, Legrand Singapore Legrand is the world specialist in products and systems for electrical installations, data networks for the home and the workplace. Legrand offers complete solutions from home networks for the home automation right through the building automation.
THE TOUCH SCREEN GENERATION These new i-Pad applications extend the spectrum of those the Legrand Group already provides in its Arteor and Axolute wiring device ranges. The 1.2" touch screen controls a single function at a time, whereas the 3.5” version can control all of the home automation system in the house. Meanwhile, the 10" Multimedia Touch Screen simultaneously acts as a My Home system management touch screen, a video door entry phone, an MP3 player, a digital photo frame and a web content reader.
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Legrand chose touch screen technology because it reflects emerging user habits.
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PLACING CONTROL OF THE HOME AT YOUR FINGERTIPS As the global specialist in electrical and digital building infrastructures, Legrand develops home automation solutions for fingertip control. Now, Legrand is reaching into the field of digital tablets by launching the first i-Pad applications enabling control of a smart home equipped with the My Home Legrand or BTicino system.
INNOVATION… MADE SO EASY! Directly from their i-Pad, users can control a variety of functions: managing the lighting, heating or roller shutters, triggering scenarios, etc. A single touch can be enough to actuate several devices. For example, parents
Legrand chose touch screen technology because it reflects emerging user habits: whether on a digital tablet or a smartphone, it has become commonplace to touch an interactive screen in order to monitor and control.
can make their life easier by creating scenarios, quickly and easily. Leaving the house in the morning to take the kids to school, a single move is enough to turn off all the lights and close all shutters, set the heating to predefined levels by zone and by time slot, and disable any devices that would consume power on standby (e.g.: TV, DVD drive, etc.) via switched sockets. The key contribution made by the Legrand Group's Technology department helps to ensure that these iPad applications meet essential requirements by being userfriendly, intuitive to use, soberly presented and reliable in operation. That way, Legrand makes life easier, more practical and more comfortable for its customers. The possibility of controlling your entire home from an i-Pad is also the fruit of Legrand Group strategy in recent years. The Group developed an open communication protocol called OpenWebnet as far back as 2000, allowing communication between all of the functions in the My Home system and authorizing external gateways.
Patrice Soudan, the Legrand Group Deputy COO and Group Vice-President Wiring Devices & Home Systems Division, explains: "Touch screens are fundamentally changing the way we interact with our home, and there can be no doubt that increasing numbers of digital tablets will further boost this growing trend. Consumers are showing us the way, and we want to anticipate on their needs by providing continually enhanced comfort, security and simplicity." F TOP LEFT My Home by Legrand on iPad TOP RIGHT 10" Multimedia Touch Screens for the control on the house BOTTOM RIGHT 3.5" Touch Screen to control all BUS functions
Secure, convenient
solutions worldwide
Gemalto is at a the th heart rt of o ourr evolving digital society. s society . The freedom freedo om to communicate, bank, entertain and are communicat te, travel, shop, s b d work – in ways that t convenient, secure and enjoyable enjoyyable – has become becom me an integral part par t of what wantt and expect. And delivers. people wan d is exactly what Gemalto G Ge m al to : w o rld rl d le l e a de r in i n d i g i t al s ecu r i t y. y. www.gemalto.com www .gemalto.com
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Innovation as a Strategy
How to Finance Your Innovation? By Jean-Romain Dalle, Business Development Manager, Global Approach Consulting Global Approach Consulting is an international group specialising in innovation financing and international development. Its Singapore office helps securing and optimizing innovation tax credits for innovative companies with local presence in Asia Pacific.
related activities, including R&D expenditures, training and registration of Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs). For each qualifying activity, PIC grants companies up to 150% “base” tax deduction for an uncapped amount of eligible expenditures, as well as additional “enhanced” deductions comprise between 250% and 300% for the first $400,000 expenditures (See table).
CLAIMS FOR R&D EXPENDITURES As part of the six activities covered by the PIC scheme, companies are allowed to claim expenditures incurred during R&D projects, such as salary and prototype material. For innovation projects performed in Singapore, expenditures on R&D are eligible for 150% deductions, an additional 250% enhanced deductions capped to the first S$400,000 expenditure incurred. Under certain conditions, companies performing R&D overseas may benefit as well from PIC with 100% uncapped base deduction and 300% enhanced tax deduction capped to S$400,000 on qualifying expenditures. Innovation has been one of the main priorities set by Singapore government to boost its economy. Since 2000, the national budget for innovation has been steadily increasing with the objective to provide a favorable environment for world-class Research & Development (R&D) and attract foreign R&D investment. In this context, Singapore government aims the Gross Domestic Expenditure on R&D (GERD) to reach 3.5% GDP by 2015, topping other research-intensive countries. As part of this objective, the 2011-2015 Science & Technology (S&T) budget introduced in 2010 has been set at S$16.1 billion (€9.2 billion), a 20% increase from the previous S&T budget. This new budget includes various tax and
financial incentives eligible by companies investing in R&D, as well as government investment in competitive research programme, and multidisciplinary collaborative research projects. Among these incentives, the new Productivity and Innovation Credit (PIC) offers very interesting benefits for SMEs and MNCs involved locally with R&D projects.
PRODUCTIVITY AND INNOVATION CREDIT OVERVIEW PIC is a tax deduction scheme applicable for the period 2011-2015. Within this period, companies can benefit from enhanced tax deductions based on their innovation-related expenditures. Qualifying expenditures fall within six distinctive productivity and innovation-
CLAIMS FOR OTHER INNOVATIONRELATED EXPENDITURES For each of the five other innovation– related activities, companies can benefit from a PIC uncapped base deduction of 100%, and an additional 300% enhanced deduction capped to the first S$400,000. These eligible activities include expenditure for prescribed automation equipment (computers, mobile, industry machineries…), acquisition of intellectual properties, registration of intellectual properties, training of company employees, and approved design projects.
PIC OPTIONS PIC scheme includes several options benefiting companies for greater flexibility during their innovation investments.
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Innovation as a Strategy
• A combined expenditure cap has been introduced for the financial period 20112012 and 2013-2015. During these periods, eligible businesses can claim qualifying expenditures respectively up to $800,000 for 2011-2012 and S$1,200,000 for 2013-2015 for each activity. • To support small and growing companies with cash constraints, a cashout option allows companies to convert qualifying expenditures into non-taxable cash at a rate of 30%. Effective from YA2011 to YA2013, company may be able to cash-out a maximum of S$30,000 per year for the first S$100,000 of qualifying expenditure within all activities combined. For greater flexibility, eligible companies can convert up to S$200,000 of qualifying expenditures for the combined YA 20112012, allowing companies to enjoy a maximum of S$60,000 of non–taxable cash. • Under the PIC scheme, eligible companies can also benefit from the tax deferral option, applicable during the
PIC qualifying activities
Acquisition or leasing of automated equipment
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Innovation has been one of the main priorities set by Singapore government to boost its economy. where innovation is one of the keys to economic growth. Fiscal attractiveness, local world class infrastructure and worldwide renowned IP legislations are three main factors that Singapore promotes to boost R&D investment
As an illustration, a company X is investing S$60,000 in new R&D projects, qualifying under the PIC scheme, during the financial year 2011. If company X was assessed paying S$100,000 as corporate tax for YA2011, the deferral option would allow company X to defer the equivalent of S$60,000 in tax to YA2012, resulting in paying S$40,000 for YA2011.
However, Singapore is not the only country leveraging on innovation to stimulate its economy; other Asian countries compete as well in attracting foreign R&D investment via similar fiscal incentives, each country providing opportunities for specific industries. It is hence for the sake of every company developing R&D activities in Asia to be informed of such fiscal incentives implemented by local governments. F
The introduction of this PIC scheme places Singapore as a fiscally attractive environment for major companies and SMEs, in a current economic turmoil
“Base” “Enhanced “ deductions* deductions**
100%
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basis periods relating to YA2012 to YA2015. Using this option, a business can defer up to S$100,000 of their taxes for a current YA if an equivalent amount of qualifying expenditures has been incurred during the current financial year.
* Uncapped amount of eligible expenditures ** Capped to the first S$400,000
Overview of total eligible deductions per qualifying YA under PIC
300%
• 400% capital allowance or deduction on the first S$400,000 expenditures incurred in acquiring or leasing prescribed automation equipment • 100% capital allowance or deduction on qualifying expenditures in excess of the S$400,000 cap
Acquisition of IPRs
100%
300%
• 400% writing-down allowance on the first S$400,000 expenditures incurred in acquiring IPRs • 100% writing-down allowance on qualifying expenditures in excess of the S$400,000 cap
Registration of IPRs
100%
300%
• 400% deduction on the first S$400,000 expenditures incurred in registering certain IPRs • 100% deduction on qualifying expenditures in excess of the S$400,000 cap
Training expenditures
100%
300%
• 400% deduction on the first S$400,000 expenditures incurred in employees training • 100% deduction on qualifying expenditures in excess of the S$400,000 cap
150%
250%
100%
300%
100%
300%
Incurred R&D expenditures
locally Incurred overseas
Approved design projects
• 400% deduction on the first S$400,000 expenditures incurred in R&D • 150% deduction on qualifying expenditures in excess of the S$400,000 cap (R&D performed in Singapore) • 100% deduction on qualifying expenditures in excess of the S$400,000 cap (R&D performed overseas) • 400% deduction on the first S$400,000 expenditures incurred in design • 100% deduction on qualifying expenditures in excess of the S$400,000 cap
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Innovation as a Strategy
Innovation: the Key to the Future By Grant Bertoli, CEO, Ipsos in South-East Asia
Ipsos is an innovative, entrepreneurial, client-focused organisation, providing research services to clients on a global basis. With the recent acquisition of Synovate in 2011, Ipsos is now the third largest market research agency in the world covering 84 countries and one of the fastest growing agencies in Asia Pacific.
"Every two days now we create as much information as we did from the dawn of civilization up until 2003." - Eric Schmidt, former CEO of Google. A powerful statistic which illustrates how radically the amount of information available to companies and in fact to everyday people has expanded. Just a decade ago, marketers were able to control much of the communication that customers viewed about their brands. The amount of messages your customers saw was mostly pushed to them, at a relatively manageable level, reaching them
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We are moving towards a culture where information about most things becomes freely available.
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predominantly via mass media, remains a sound and viable strategy. Today, the amount and speed of information and innovation are quickly rendering the formula marketers have used over the past few decades ineffective.
The future will not slow down. Information will not be reduced; it will continue to increase exponentially and Marketers, therefore, must innovate, test, and create significantly more than ever before.
WELCOME TO THE NEW NORMAL Emerging trends fuelled by digital behaviours are becoming increasingly mainstream, leading to new challenges for brands and marketers. Where people are constantly connected – and “always on” is their default setting. Where we are accelerating towards the new singularity – a tipping point where the storing of a person’s life information will be in a single portable digital device. Where we will need to learn to cope with “super abundance”. Tools, choices, apps will
move to “one touch” actions combined with the visualization of information. Where we are moving towards a culture where information about most things becomes freely available. And where personalization via devices and applications will continue to quickly grow. It will be a world where behavioural networks will predict what you are going to do and recommend choices to you. As marketers we will be able to form neurolinks to the human brain and, hence, create products, messages, and experiences for them. Amazon is already predicting this for us and suggesting what books you would like, if you bought the latest business book! There is no doubt that social media is changing and evolving rapidly – and companies are constantly exploring new ways to make social media work for them. At the moment we are still in the learning phase and we are seeing lots of brands making some (very public) mistakes, as we test the boundaries of social technologies for consumer interaction. The pace of change will continue and static marketing is a thing of the past and company brands, advertising and messaging will be constantly moving, adapting to people’s needs. We are just at the tip of the iceberg with things like companies crowdsourcing their logos and
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Innovation as a Strategy
“ this will also continue to evolve. Brands will find a way to fit around what we want them to be, rather than the other way around. We will also see marketing in this environment appealing to more than two senses: sight and hearing. Why so limited? Marketing and brand building will go beyond these senses to strengthen the impression of the brand on its target audience. We will continue to see the retail environment changing - eBay, Amazon and Trip Advisor are the commerce model of the future, not a Tesco as we knew it. They will still exist but we will be studded with virtual stores in a virtual world, some selling virtual products. While the social space and the digital world evolves – traditional mediums such as TV are not dead! Many years ago we claimed TV may not be around, yet it still is and will continue to be a dominant medium. They will evolve and marketers
As with any innovation the key is to expect the unexpected.
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will continue to use them. The challenge for Marketers however will be reaching, and touching the lives of the right target audience at the right time with the relevant messages through the most appropriate mediums. As for products, everything is becoming even more commoditised with a heavier focus on efficiency, and design will be key in this new landscape. Another trend which will impact marketing is the aging population and we are living longer. We will be seeing the 70 year old with the Ipad watching their favourite shows or listening to the music on iTunes! As with any innovation the key is to expect the unexpected – influences coming out of markets / cultures/ countries that seem like out of left-field and in many aspects Asia is now leading the way. Think of the “Korean Wave” over the past few years in Asia – no one saw that coming. As global barriers blur, there will be more stories like it.
KEYS TO FUTURE
UNLOCKING
THE
New products will be tested and launched even faster than before and the innovation pipeline is the lifeblood of many of the industries and the respective developments. New products breathe new life into core brands, and bring fresh ideas for new developments, but, bringing to market new products is not an easy task, even in the best of times.
Consumers will become more and more demanding as they are exposed to many new products and brands every day. Marketers have to react to the changes to the New Normal and be prepared to react real time without being stifled by the process. We believe that the best way to predict the future is to create it. F
LEFT PAGE Grant Bertoli, CEO, Ipsos in South-East Asia
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Innovation as a Strategy
Anticipating Consumers’ Needs with Innovation By Claudia Ko, Assistant Branding & Promotions Manager, Brandt Asia Anticipating consumers’ needs has long been a pre-requisite in the home appliances industry to create opportunities for businesses to react preemptively to the consumers, influencing purchase decisions and thus move ahead of competition. De Dietrich is a visionary and customer-oriented brand which marries cutting edge technology with innovations in aesthetical design.
The driving factor for De Dietrich groundbreaking innovations originates from the 3 centuries of its dynamic legacy. From supplying guns and ornaments to the kingdom of France which secured a hunting horn trademark to De Dietrich products conferred by the King, creating the world’s first Mertzwiller Cooker in 1850 to designing the first De Dietrich-Bugatti car, De Dietrich brought design and technology to a higher level. As a master of innovations, De Dietrich proactively works on satisfying emerging consumers’ needs with unrelenting efforts in research and development. Among the outstanding and award winning innovations are the Pyroclean Ovens, a self-cleaning function incorporated in ovens which promises the ultimate convenience by reducing grease & dirt in the oven to fine ash! The patented Intelligent Control System that existed in the range in which electronic sensors automatically determines all cooking,
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More than 3% of the company’s revenue is spent on technological advancement projects.
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washing and cooling parameters, providing intuitive solutions for everyday life. You do not need to be a master chef to achieve gastronomic success! Other innovations include Low Temperature Professional Cooking Programme in ovens, Zoneless Continuum Induction Hob and the recently launched Full Zoneless Induction Hob, The Piano. The standards of Research and Development of the company have excelled every year; more than 3% of their revenue are spent on technological advancement projects. The Basque Culinary Center with De Dietrich as the main patron, opened in September 2011 in Spain is a great example of De Dietrich association with the culinary world and its dedication in Research and Development in gastronomic sciences.
De Dietrich continues to herald the upcoming trends in the realms of design and technological advancements with the long awaited new 2012 collection. The Premium Collection beautifully encased in chrome and adopted with the latest technology in ovens, hobs, hoods, dishwashers, washers, dryers, refrigerators. The new Tactilium Control Screen on the Multifunction Plus Pyroclean Oven displays a fully interactive wide screen TFT full colours panel with 16 million colours, a touchscreen that can be navigated vertically and horizontally. Coupled with the Intelligent Control System, a cooking guide, Low Temperature Cooking, Pyroclean and many other features, the oven is a desire for many years to come. The Piano Induction Hob is another De Dietrich’s masterpiece that offers unlimited cooking possibilities with a 100% “open space” cooking zone that can have up to 5 pots cooking at the same setting or work as three separate and independent cooking zones. It can also memorize settings and have the settings programmed automactially wherever the pot is moved to. Or be impressed with the Retractable Crescendo Hood, this gem in the kitchen impresses the guests with amazing aesthetics and performance. When not in use, the hoods are concealed immaculately in the kitchen cabinetry and when activated, the engine descends near to the cooking surface to effectively remove all traces of cooking fumes and smells. F
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Innovation as a Strategy
Magic Made a Miracle! By François de Moulliac, Managing Director, Denis Asia Pacific In food and canned fish, real innovations are rare! Ayam Brand™ has launched a new product in 2011, which has boosted the sale of tuna in Asia. In this article, we will approach the innovation in the food industry through a case study based in Singapore and Malaysia, where 95% of canned tuna lovers consume their favorite fish with bread. The challenge for Denis Asia Pacific was then to offer a new tuna for a much larger usage: rice! code which allows shopper to visit a dedicated smartphone website with YouTube videos, showing how simple is the usage of the product. Ayam brand Tunamagik™ is more than a new product. It is part of the brand strategy: • Ayam Brand™ will be 120 years old next year, but the brand is young and knows how to please and to adapt to the new generations of consumers. Tunamagik™ fits the needs of urban consumers, short of time or with limited cooking abilities. • The brand is focusing on quality food products with nutrition and health benefits. • The brand is ahead of its competitor in offering products, which are not only innovative, but also affordable and really useful.
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Sales have largely overcome the best expectations.
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Tunamagik™ is several times revolutionary: • An extraordinary convenience: you simply mix the content of the can with warm rice (everybody has a rice cooker at home) and you get a tuna fried rice without cooking, without frying, without waiting. • Unexpected health benefits: Compared to a classic nasi goreng, Ayam brand Tunamagik™ provides you with a low fat, reduced salt fried rice. Difficult to believe… The Singaporean Health Promotion Board endorses Tunamagik™ with the Healthier Choice logo. Tunamagik is also a source of all the tuna benefits like Omega 3 and selenium, among many other nutrients. • Surprising taste: Ayam brand
Tunamagik™ is really tasty and comes into two variant, Classic and Sambal, slightly spicier. Ayam brand Tunamagik™ was not that easy to create and has requested two years of Research and Development to develop and finalize the recipes at an affordable cost. The product is really a marketing product: despites of all its quality and benefits, it needed to be advertised to be recognized. Ayam Brand™ has done an extensive integrated marketing campaign with TV, cinema, newspapers, magazines, in-store demonstrations, Facebook, banners, search marketing… The labels are even equipped with a QR
The magik has come to a miracle as the sales have largely overcome the best expectations. As some new products are in the pipeline for 2012, more magic is expected. F
BELOW Scan the QR Code with your smartphone
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Innovation as a Strategy
Innovations Towards a Greener World Interview with Arnaud Mourgue, Area Operations Manager South-East Asia, Renault Singapore Innovation is a core Renault strategy. Each vehicle it designs features the latest in styling, comfort and technology. Renault’s innovation policy has also made it a standard-setter on safety and the environment. Renault will soon launch its Electric Vehicles in Singapore. Arnaud Mourgue, Area Operations Manager South East Asia, shares with us the latest trends on this innovative market.
WHAT ARE THE TRENDS OF ELECTRIC VEHICLE IN THE GLOBAL AUTO INDUSTRY? DO YOU SEE ELECTRIC CARS MAKING UP A LARGER SHARE OF THE MARKET? The part played by CO2 emissions in global warming is no longer a theory; it is a reality. The automobile is part of the problem (responsible for 35% of the land transport emissions in Singapore) so it must be part of the solution. Renault estimates that Electric Vehicles (EV) will account for 10% of the world market by 2020. The Renault-Nissan Alliance aims to be a key player in this new form of mobility with 1.5 million Renault and Nissan electric vehicles on the roads by 2016. There are several factors for Singapore (size, daily range, energy supply and moreover its will to be ahead) to become an EV leader in Asia. That is also why we decided to launch Renault EVs here as the first in Asia.
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Renault estimates that Electric Vehicles will account for 10% of the world market by 2020.
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Our strategy is to bring EVs for all; we developed not one but four real cars which are reliable, practical and economical. To do so, the Alliance is investing €4 billion in this Zero Emission (Z.E.) programme and deploying a 2,000strong team to work on electric vehicles. THE ADVANTAGES BROUGHT BY ELECTRIC VEHICLES ARE WELLKNOWN, BUT COULD YOU EXPAND ON THE CHALLENGES OF OWNING ELECTRIC VEHICLES AND THE WAY RENAULT ADDRESSES THEM? Well-known but still important to mention them, beside its strong participation toward CO2 emissions reduction (EVs are the only genuine
clean-break solution since they do not emit any CO2 during their use on the road): - The first surprise when you drive an electric vehicle is the silence when you are on the move. There is no engine noise, and careful attention has been paid to the cabin’s soundproofing to make the most of this new environment. - The second surprise is its electric motor. It is a unique, astonishing feeling, and perfectly suited to today’s mobility needs and driving challenges. Driving is as fun as it is reassuring. - EVs also signal the disappearance of exhaust fumes; no unpleasant smells, no more smoke... Clean and
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quiet, EVs will radically change the quality of life in built-up areas. Concerning the challenges, questions raised are mainly towards the range anxiety and the access to a charging point. With a combined cycle range of 185 km, Fluence Z.E. is well-suited to the majority of daily journeys. The average driving distances in Singapore are short, with the average passenger vehicle mileage estimated at less than 55 km per day. This is a key element of the success of EVs in Singapore. Our trials, in 9 countries with over 400 vehicles, revealed that customers do not even need to charge their battery every day, but only one time in two or three days. Moreover, in traffic jams, range is not affected when the vehicle is at standstill, except when the climate control system is being used. During constant stopping and starting, EVs efficiently recover deceleration energy. The concern of the infrastructure is related to the prior point. In reality, a one charging point per car is technically enabling an EV safe ride. But in order to make this ride stress free, we are discussing with shopping malls, public parking to dedicate lots to EVs equipped with charging points. Concerning the cost of the installation, we will propose to our customer a very affordable, safe and efficient charging solution.
Innovation as a Strategy
RENAULT IS POSITIONED ON TWO SEGMENTS WITH THE Z.E. CONCEPT: PASSENGER CARS AND UTILITY CARS. WHICH ONE IS THE MOST DYNAMIC FOR ELECTRIC CARS?
that the French community will lead this EV Revolution.
As I said before, Renault has developed four vehicles 100% electric: - Fluence Z.E.: all-electric three-volume saloon, champion of the 2011 Challenge Bibendum rally. - Kangoo Z.E.: all-electric van, awarded International Van Of the Year 2012 - Twizy: make city motoring easier and safe - Zoe: a Clio size EV ideal for city use.
Singapore was one of the first Asian countries to sign a Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) with the Alliance Renault-Nissan back in May 2009. The same year, they announced, that they will reduce energy intensity by 20% from 2005 levels by 2020 and by 35% from 2005 levels by 2030. As land transport forms 2nd largest CO2 emissions (19%) in Singapore, only behind industry sector (54%), measures have to be taken to reduce its carbon footprint. That is why the Inter-agency Electric Vehicle Taskforce, led by the Energy Market Authority (EMA) and the Land Transport Authority (LTA) worked with car makers, energy suppliers and charging service providers to build the right environment for EVs.
In the next few months, we will launch Fluence Z.E. and Kangoo Z.E. (already open for orders). The decision, to launch those cars in Singapore, has been easy to take as the market is mainly dominated by sedans and companies are looking for electric vans. Companies will be the first adopters of EVs not only for communication purpose or corporate targets to reduce their carbon footprint but also because they are use to apprehend the Total Cost of Ownership (selling price + running costs) of a car, rather than individuals who focus more on the upfront cost. Early adopters are the secondary target as they have this pioneering spirit which suit to EV. I will obviously include expatriates in this category as they can be more receptive, due to their past experience, to the impact of climate change. They know that we have to take action an the individual basis and I hope
HOW SUPPORTIVE HAVE THE RELEVANT AUTHORITIES BEEN?
Last November, we reached an agreement and signed a Definitive Agreement opening doors to the commercialization of Renault Z.E. cars. We have to demonstrate that EVs are suitable for Singaporeans and then potentially, the government could take the decision to implement dedicated tax structure. F LEFT Fluence Z.E and Kangoo Z.E BELOW Fluence Z.E
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Innovation as a Strategy
The Innovation Paradigm in Retail Design By Olivier Grometto, General Manager Asia and Pulkit Abrol, Brand Planning, Marketing Director, Open D Group Open D Group is an independent global design group with specialist services focusing on branding, identity, product, packaging, merchandising, retail architecture, interior design and retail strategy.
Today, retail is all about experiences physical and sensorial. Retail design is the creation of desire in limited confined spaces. This art or science of creating desire borrows heavily from different disciplines of mainstream design thinking forms, shapes, textures, functions, materials, textures and patterns. To create retail design, the list does not end here and these disciplines work in tandem with inventory planning, consumer psychology, buyer behaviour, colour research, advanced modelling, common sense and a whole lot of magic of creativity to deliver a near perfect store. Retail investments in Asia are rising and so is luxury consumption. Infrastructure is adapting to meet growing demands in several regions to advancing at a frenetic pace in others. All this simply means that these are important and opportune times for Asia’s retail industry and design as a function.
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Asia is unique – a single shelf does not fit all countries.
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over the years. Asia does requires a degree of hand holding in processes and execution while it does posses the best sources of design inspiration such as nature, art , culture, heritage and spirituality. Asia has its own way of blending the traditional with the modern and staying contemporary also means that design is inspired from the old making way for the new. .
entire population in some South-East Asian countries. Yet, in the same country there are 80 million people on the internet, but there are 300 million in media-dark pockets of the country. There is a power of the mobile to reach urban and rural audiences. Even today, we are increasingly seeing the use of digital technology to allow consumers to interact, search and discover better while in store.
INNOVATIONS IN RETAIL DESIGN Here are some emerging trends in retail which are being adopted by a few pioneering retailers and brands in the region. 1.A “Green” brigade: Natural materials (wood, grass, plants…) are increasingly being used to accentuate environments. The consumer propensity to feel at ease in healthier surroundings does play an important role in retail design.
However, there are several challenges; Asia is unique – a single shelf does not fit all countries, cultures, communities and regions and that is why the story of the innovation paradigm in design holds true today more than ever.
2.Natural inspirations: Round shapes, purity with see through concepts, natural lighting: we see these being frequently administered in retail environment with the objective of creating a familiar environment.
Coping with these challenges, we do see our clients adapt and become more aware
3.Technology as an enabler: There are more mobile consumers in India than the
4.The rise of the private labels: Enhanced packaging and superior offerings at competitive prices are raising the bar across many categories. Many retailers across many sectors – food, cosmetics and fashion are offering inventive packaging and competitive value propositions. Private label brand owners are hiring the best talent to make a serious challenge to the best brands in the world. 5.The experience quotient – electronically measured: The allure of the digital environment is gaining momentum in retail design. As consumers adopt more than one screen (TV, Laptop, Mobile, Internet enabled smart devices), information access and consumption needs also change. We not only see a proliferation of web links, QR codes, Twitter feeds, etc., but also the emergence of digital screen and content in retail. Consumers are being indulged and motivated to experience a digital environment where content and experience comes together. Products, promotions, features, knowledge and loyalty are being administered much more using such mediums. These trends enable a fertile ground for brands and retailers to stay ahead of the curve, appear contemporary and provide interactivity for sustained value creation.
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THE PARADIGM OF INNOVATION IN RETAIL Design innovation begins with making a case for design thinking in the most simplest of things. Design mandates that the process of demand be understood and evaluated from the user’s perspective – how the product is perceived, heard about, touched, felt, communicated and evaluated.
Innovation as a Strategy
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Innovate to simplify, to differentiate and to redesign.
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Design innovation is not about finding new products to make; it is about designing the new product - bottom up. Retail design is about innovating on the experience, how the consumer searches for the product, carries, stores and consumes it. Retail innovation is not about concept stores – it is about sustainable concepts deeply rooted in insights on human behaviour, product usage, consumption occasion and choice. Design innovation in retail can and does help retailers, landlords and brand owners unlock value by examining the total customer experience. The way to do so is to move the levers that generate design innovation.
the same haircut or the same dish? Chances are that you might not always. The difference in that realisation is that the restaurant has a process to serve you and knows your behaviour and makes the extra effort to please you.
1.New Markets and New Propositions: Consumers over time seek variety, excitement, indulgence and memorable expediences. This is an external force majeure. Internally, the retail value proposition or segment of the market that is targeted can change. Pure innovation is here.
After exhaustive analysis of our clients and their success stories, we propose a new paradigm of retail design innovation and elaborate on the road map that organisations can follow to generate retail design innovation.
2.Identity and appeal: Imagine a car in a flea market. What comes to mind? First, it is unlikely that it is there. Second, Even if it is there, it is most likely a fake. Third, it must have being sold part by parts or it is stolen. Now imagine the same car is a swanky dealership 20 miles away from the centre of town. Identity of a product comes greatly from how it is sold, displayed and merchandised. The subtle cues in your retail theatre offer enough sensorial messages for a keen consumer to select or de-select, perceive price and be persuaded to purchase. Try spending your marketing dollars on great advertising if you do not see sales, examine your retail presentation. 3.Process and experience: Do you have a favourite restaurant or a favourite salon? Chances are you might. Do you always get
- Innovate to Simplify: In early stages and in less differentiated propositions, retail design can innovate on principles of "simplification". An addition to a product line or clarifying existing propositions needs to manifest in design rooted strongly in being single minded and convey amplification for the proposition. Simplicity ensures organisational resources are better utilised and the message is clearly communicated to the shopper and easily acquired. - Innovate to differentiate: Retail presentation meant for differentiation adds incremental propositions by altering or adapting existing design ethos to reflect a newer contemporary avatar. Design does not push boundaries beyond achievable expectations and does not radically alter the experience.
- Innovation to redesign: Radical innovation to deliver new experiences. This innovation paradigm sequentializes the very DNA of experience. By deconstruction of each stage of the consumer experience, new patterns to innovate on emerge. This overhauls retail identity and presents an experience vs. a product. Open D Group and its agencies advise clients across the globe on delivering retail design experience. With over 11 years of experience in several design disciplines, the group has created and delivered innovation in retail across Asia. F
LEFT PAGE Innovation in Retail - Lancaster animation design incorporating a detailed journey and innovative digital and retail concepts. Lancaster’s legitimacy with innovations has also been highlighted through a milestone visual gathering the major innovations since 1971, from Sun care to Skincare TOP Left to right: Pulkit Abrol, Brand Planning and Marketing Director and Olivier Grometto, General Manager Asia, Open D Group
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COVER STORY
January 2012
Innovation as a Strategy
Consumer Engagement Through Innovation By Laetitia de Seroux-Gerhardt, Marketing Manager, JCDecaux Singapore JCDecaux, the nº1 outdoor advertising company in the world, entered Singapore in 1998 with a clear vision of creating a high quality outdoor advertising presence. In Singapore, JCDecaux Singapore is committed to delivering the best and most advanced media solutions both in town and at Changi Airport to meet customers’ needs. JCDecaux Singapore was recently voted Out-Of-Home Media Company of the Year for the 2nd consecutive year (Year 2010 and 2011) in an annual survey by Marketing Magazine.
40 YEARS OF INNOVATION For JCDecaux, a passion for innovation exists in every project, every country and every city. This innovative thinking and creativity has underpinned our entire business for more than 40 years. It all started in 1964, when Mr Jean-Claude Decaux invented the concept of “street furniture”, a solution combining a public service with advertising efficiency. Lyon was the first city of more than 100,000 inhabitants to be equipped with bus shelters, free of charge. Today, with 123,000 bus shelters around the world, the concept has been embraced by the entire planet. Always open to new technologies, the company launched Electronic Information Boards in 1981. For the very first time, JCDecaux made it possible for cities to broadcast messages in real time, 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. There are currently 2,100 electronic bulletin boards in service in 10 countries. In 1997, JCDecaux invented “Infobus”, a system providing users with real-time information about how long they will have to wait for the next bus. Three years later, JCDecaux launched displays on plasma screen in airports, and in 2003 created Aéo, the first TV media dedicated to passenger/airport relations, designed for and with Aéroports de Paris.
GOING BEYOND TRADITIONAL FORMATS Today, advertisers need to be more inventive to encourage engagement and recall from their campaigns. From interactive bus
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Today, advertisers need to be more inventive to encourage engagement.
shelters to show stopping spangley billboards, we deliver attention grabbing campaigns that inspire consumers on the street, where it matters most. With the advent of new technologies, we have added new digital media products, such as “U snap”, a mobile application based on image recognition technology, which enables advertisers to provide digital content directly to the consumer’s phone from a poster. This integration of mobile marketing into Outdoor advertising is pushing the boundaries of the medium and opening up new opportunities for advertisers. Once the application is downloaded, the user can take a picture of a poster, which will be immediately recognised by the application. The user is then automatically redirected to the content provided by the advertiser, be it information about a new product, discount vouchers or videos.
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A GROWING TREND FOR DIGITAL OUT-OF-HOME Digital Out-of-Home is experiencing ever growing revenues across the globe. According to new data released by PQ Media, a leading provider of media econometrics, global Digital Out-Of-Home media revenue generated by digital place-based network, billboard, and signage operators, grew by more than 16% in 2010 totaling more than $6.47 billion and is projected to expand by 16.9% in 2011. Not only does digital provide flexibility, timebased targeting and real-time information, but it also creates greater creative opportunities with the potential for eyecatching, clever and appealing ads. In line with this trend, JCDecaux now offers the most dynamic, emotive and flexible digital network across various media platforms. Our new digital networks at
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Singapore Changi Airport offer unrivalled innovation and interactivity in the most prominent and busiest locations. These new digital media will bring your ads to another level among consumers in a qualitative and captive environment.
ENGAGING CONSUMERS THROUGH INNOVATION To better understand how passengers live the Airport Experience across the globe, JCDecaux launched a worldwide research study in 2011. One of the key findings from the Airport Stories World research is that consumers are ready for even more engaging advertising solutions. JCDecaux’s expertise has already led to the introduction of charging stations, digital interactive networks, touch screens and sponsored game zones in airports. These are not only opportunities for advertisers but are welcomed by passengers who actively seek a more intimate relationship with brands. Synergy is crucial between brands and services to deliver a genuine brand association and to generate income to finance services such as free Wi-Fi access which is welcomed by 77% of respondents. Airport Stories reveals the powerful brand engagement that is delivered by digital media. At airports passengers have time to interact with digital media and welcome the opportunity to
Innovation as a Strategy
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The research underlines the key role airport advertising plays in creating online dialogue.
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download content and to connect with the brand. The study showed that: • 66% want to download entertainment, • 61% want to download offers and coupons. The research underlines the key role airport advertising plays in creating online dialogue as passengers are increasingly keen to interact with brands. In Western markets, such as Germany, UK, USA, advertising is expected to be more functional, offering engagement, sponsored & connected services. In Asian markets such as Singapore and China, advertising is usually more emotive and principally used to launch new brands and products.
ADVERTISING AT CHANGI AIRPORT Changi Airport is the seventh busiest airport for international travelers worldwide, with 42 million passengers passing through it in 2010. On 1st January 2011, JCDecaux Singapore was awarded the Changi Airport Advertising Concession. In the coming years, we will be
making a significant investment in new advertising sites across Terminals 1, 2 & 3 plus the Budget Terminal. A number of major product innovations have already been launched at Singapore Changi Airport in 2011: new 70-inch Digital Screens, new Digital Departure Landmarks and exceptionally impactful new backlit displays in Terminal 3 Retail and Terminal 2 Check-in areas. These new sites are highly visible sites for advertisers and JCDecaux will be working closely with Changi Airport Group to continue to improve our advertising offer. As the n°1 outdoor advertising company worldwide, JCDecaux is well-positioned to provide thought leadership and insight into the unique airport experience. Airport Stories reveals new synergies that harness the latest trends in social media and complement our digital, experiential and traditional airport offers. F LEFT PAGE 70’’ Digital Screen Network at Changi Airport TOP Check-in Gallery Digital Display at Changi Airport Terminal 3
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Innovation as a Strategy
Innovation & History Interview with Jean-François Milou, Director Studio Milou Studio Milou Architecture is a French architectural firm that specialises in the design of museums, and cultural spaces. The practice is currently in charge of the design of the National Art Gallery of Singapore. Gallery. Studio Milou was formally appointed the architect of this project in May 2008. The gallery promises to be an innovative combination of old and new, with 11,000 square meters of exhibition space that will utilise energy from the sun, and hopefully serve as inspiration to other architects and developers to take advantage of Singapore’s sun-drenched days. It designed a linear draped canopy supported by tree-like columns to link the two buildings at the roof level.
With the vision to become a global city for the arts, Singapore will open in 2013 the largest museum in Asia: the National Art
The design incorporates an extended staircase linking the basement to the upper levels, and makes use of solar energy to provide electricity. Fine metal mesh has been proposed to cover most of City Hall. The firm has a reputation for working on
adaptive reuse of historical and heritage buildings, seeking imaginative solutions while respecting the building’s historical fabric, meaning and surroundings. Studio Milou’s proposed design elegantly integrates the City Hall and former Supreme Court buildings. The design creates a unique blend between the old and the new – introducing contemporary architecture to rejuvenate the old, while maintaining a deep respect for the original architecture of these buildings.
“One of the main intent of the design was to keep the buildings as they are and not to change them, while in fact we change completely the experience of entering in the building.” Jean-François Milou says. F LEFT National Art Gallery
French Innovation in Singapore Interview with Michel Cywinski, Country Director Singapore & Brunei, Ubifrance WHY THE FRANCE-SINGAPORE INNOVATION DAYS? During the past few years in Singapore, we have seen quite a number of major infrastructure developments and transformations, all of which have integrated a fair amount of technological innovation. The proactive and hardworking population of Singapore also distinguishes itself in the most recent global rankings as one of the most tech-savvy nations. Most importantly, one should not ignore the numerous projects and investments from government bodies and international companies alike, who make and use Singapore as a test bed for future living. This is manifested through an increased use of ICT technologies from individual consumers to the mechanisms of complex organisations and structures.
That is the reason why, in 2010, Ubifrance, the French Agency for International Trade, launched for the first time, the FranceSingapore Innovation Days (FSID). The event attracted more than 20 of the most innovative French companies. During those 2 days, the participating companies had the opportunity to expose their products, services and technologies to a crowd of more than 100 high-level professionals, academics, researchers, and government bodies. Due to the success of the first edition, a second FSID was organised. This year, the theme of this forum was the City of Tomorrow. Why? Because according to the United Nations, in 2050, almost 70% of the worldwide population will be urbanised. It is an important stake which Singapore “the living lab” is already working on wherein France can make many contributions. That is why large enterprises
such as Veolia, Schneider, EDF, as well as several SMEs like Lumiplan or Socomec have strategically chosen to be in Singapore. This year’s event was a very good opportunity to bring more French innovating companies. COULD YOU SHARE WITH US A FEW FIGURES ABOUT THIS SECOND EDITION? 25 French operators and 3 clusters participated to the event, which lasted during 3 days and gathered 350 participants. More than 90 BtoB meetings with potential partners and 10 pitch sessions with ventures capitalists have been organised. The FSID is an event arranged in partnership with the most prominent Singaporean institutions (EDB, IDA, MDA, BCA, Green Building Council & SITF, and SVCA) but also with the support of the R&D committee of the French Chamber of Commerce in Singapore. F
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FCCS HR & TRAINING SERVICES
January 2012
HR & Training Sessions
We Help You to Recruit Talents! Our HR department recruits quality professionals for our clients, either on a permanent or a temporary basis. Our experience enables us to thoroughly understand our market thereby selecting the very best candidates for our clients. Some of them have decided to support us. “To recruit an account or a key account manager in a design agency is a difficult task. This job requires skills in various areas and above all a very particular state of mind. The FCCS Recruitment Service was instrumental in most of the key recruitment done this year and is now our main HR consultant partner. My primary contact, Nathalie Penndorf, delivered an outstanding service from initial appointment to the end of the recruitment process. I particularly appreciated her reactivity and the quality of the selection of candidates sent to me.” Olivier Grometto, General Manager Asia, Open D Group “Nathalie has been very good at quickly and precisely understanding our business stakes and our recruitment needs. She provided us with value added insight on the labor market in Singapore, and her analysis of the candidates and their abilities proved to be acute. Moreover, the recruitment process was managed promptly and at a competitive cost. For all these reasons, the recruitments we entrusted to the FCCS were fully satisfactory.” Ronan Le Saout, Regional Finance Manager - Asia Pacific, Brandt Asia Pte Ltd
A Customised Service… A Network of High-Quality Candidates… And Very Attractive Fees… For more information, please contact our HR Consultant at emploi@fccsingapore.com Employment Agency Licence No: C896201J
FCCS Training Catalogue 2012 Additional Training Modules and New Trainers! Further to the success of our last year Training programme and based on our members’ feedback, we are now launching our brand new Training Catalogue for the year 2012. We have diversified our offer with new modules and training partners. This comprehensive programme offers 24 modules from half day to full-day sessions – all conducted in English - that are suitable to all levels of your organisation and its various departments. By participating in our training sessions, you and your team will benefit from: • The experience of high-qualified trainers • Very attractive fees • A personalised training – Training sessions will be conducted in small groups (maximum 16 participants)
From Personal Development, to Management and Professional Skills, you and your team will obtain all the keys to succeed in a professional career.
Check our upcoming trainings on www.fccsingapore.com!
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FCCS BUSINESS SERVICES
January 2012
French Companies in Singapore
They Rely on Us… And Testify on Our Services The FCCS Business Support Unit provides fit to measure services such as potential Singaporean partner selection, company set-up, and last but not least, tradeshow participation to companies wishing to develop their business in the region. In the last few months, several business missions have been conducted for French companies in Singapore and some here provide a testimonial of our services.
Paris Region Economic Development Agency is the economic development arm of Paris Region metropolitan government. We are a non-profit agency helping foreign companies set up or expand their business into Paris Region (30% of French GDP i.e. 560 billions €, 40% of French R&D). We help foreign companies connect with French clusters, potential partners, professional associations and economic players in any field, with a strong focus on innovation. We also aim at promoting technological connections between French and foreign players in the economic, academic or research fields.
Optimus is a fundraising consulting agency specialised in charities and public interest causes in France and Europe. We work alongside non-profit organisations (associations, foundations, schools, universities, museums, hospitals ...) to help them develop strategies to raise private funds, primarily from individuals. Our references, include Sciences Po Paris Foundation, ESSEC, WWF France, Ballet Preljocaj, the Nicolas Hulot Foundation, the Association of Road Safety, Amnesty France, EAPN (European Network Against Poverty), the Association for Research on Cancer. From strategic consulting to operational
Like Singapore, Paris Region is a world city. Both are attractive and open to global leading companies and talents. As Singapore, Paris Region invests a large portion of its GDP (3%) into Research & Development programs. It made sense for us to come to Singapore to identify potential partnerships related to innovation and joint business developments. The FCCS was the most efficient way to help organize our business study in Singapore. They fully understood our strategy, they helped identify the right players for us to meet, they approached them to prepare our meetings and finally introduced us at every meeting we had. In quite a short period we managed to meet with the relevant targets: clusters, academic
implementation, Optimus offers a 360° service covering all the fundraising techniques including: direct marketing, online marketing and fundraising, sponsorship programs and database management. The development of philanthropy in Singapore (with over S$1 billion in private donations in 2010) led us to contact the French Chamber of Commerce in Singapore (FCCS) to help us approach the market, to determine its potential by identifing key contacts in Singapore for our company. Although not specialised in this specific sector, the FCCS business development team quickly implemented this mission within the schedule constraints that we imposed. In less than two months, the FCCS Business Development team was able to set up
players, governmental institutions, incubators and innovative start-ups. We truly enjoyed the high professional, flexible, business oriented approach they offered, which made our business study highly valuable. We returned to France deeply convinced that Singapore can be a safe and sound gateway to the big markets of South and East Asia and that Paris Region is a key partner for a knowledge-based Singaporean economy aiming at nurturing world class new entrepreneurs and cutting edge technologies. F Contact: Mr Denis TERSEN, CEO E-Mail: dtersen@paris-region.com Website: www.paris-region.com
appointments with 15 highly-qualified contacts, from potential clients (associations, foundations, and universities), to possible partners (marketing / communication companies) and to industry representatives (including public officials). The quality of appointments and the efficiency in the organisation allowed us to obtain a very clear idea of the level of professionalism in the sector and expectations of the different targets we met in three days. This mission was then a great success for our company and we might work again with the FCCS in the near future. F Contact: Mr Frédéric FOURNIER, General Manager E-Mail: ffournier@optimus.fr Website: www.optimus.fr
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FCCS BUSINESS SERVICES
January 2012
French Companies in Singapore
Newly Set Up Companies through the FCCS Business Support CleverGreen help their customers evaluate their actual energy consumption and support them in implementing an energy saving policy to reduce their carbon footprint and cut their energy costs.
Mediakeys is a full service communication agency broadcasting international media solutions within the world. Its founders fully own their 13 subsidiaries and they recently opened a new hub in Singapore to coordinate their Asia Pacific operations in collaboration with the already successful Beijing and Tokyo offices.
Created by professionals of experiences, all stemming from the world of the industry, the activity of Pro Expa is essentially centered on providing qualified staff in the oil and gas industry, but also in the energy, metallurgy and steelwork industries…without any restrictions regarding the professional activity or the project phase. The challenge for the Pro Expa team is to ensure that our services are provided to the
Established in France and internationally, Team Trade is a business consultancy and IT services company dedicated exclusively to the financial markets. We assist customers with the organisation and development of their information systems projects.
Based on a very innovative and proven software, we evaluate your actual energy consumption, develop a Smart Power Management strategy with you and support you in implementing an effective energy saving policy. CleverGreen is committed to help you cut your IT energy
bill by 50 to 80 percent annually. Besides, it will secure a return on investment in less than a year.
A truly international structure that gives the opportunity to reach the best local deals wherever in the world and to guarantee the same high standards on all kind of markets with a centralized and efficient coordination.
now a leading independent AND international actor in its field and keeps growing with new services as well as a stronger and stronger network.
Forward thinking, entrepreneurial and human sized, Mediakeys is also well known to adapt its structure to clients needs and expectations in order to deliver innovative and bespoke communication solutions.
Contact: Mr Norbert BINOT, CEO Website: www.clevergreen.sg
Mediakeys has two sister companies: a creative agency Adkeys and a digital agency Digikeys.
Established in 1994 in France, the agency is
Contact: Mrs Emilie TISSERAND, Managing Director Singapore, (+65) 9631 5450 Website: www.mediakeys.com
satisfaction of both our clients and staff. Our knowledge and experience of our clients requirements are paramount in sourcing the most suitable and best candidates for relocation on a worldwide basis, providing a winning partnership for all.
sector. That same year, he created Pro Expa Engineering in order to meet more specifically the needs in engineering, technical assistance and intellectual services. The two companies have since then progressed and become today the Holding Pro Expa group.
It is this state of mind which livens up me so that young graduates and experienced expatriates can carry outside of our borders our know-how and contribute so to the success of ambitious projects.
Since July 2011, our Group created Pro Expa Singapore to use as a platform for our regional base to expand our activities in Asia especially in ASEAN and APAC region.
In 2007, Pro Expatt was taken over by Jerome Salillas, himself an expatriate of the oil and gas
Contact: Mr Jérôme SALILLAS, Managing Director Website: www.proexpa.fr
We deploy our high added-value advisory services within corporate and investment banks, financial institutions, brokers and asset management companies, securities businesses and corporate treasury platforms.
consulting, support, software integration and infrastructure).
We handle the entire process of operational consulting, ranging from design (organisation, finding solutions, recommendations ) to delivery (business and technical
Contact: Mr Pascal RELLIER, Partner, Team Trade Group; Mr Sébastien AVOT, International Development APAC Website: www.teamtrade.com
Our assignments cover Front, Middle, Back Office and Risk control functions.
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FCCS CLUB EVENTS
January 2012
La Paulée
La Paulée de Singapour - A Friendly First Edition! On Sunday 4 December, the French Chamber of Commerce in Singapore (FCCS) together with L’Angelus launched the first edition of La Paulée de Singapour at Fort Canning Park! Originally from Meursault in the heart of Burgundy, la Paulée celebrates the end of the grape harvest. This celebration used to include wine markers, cellar workers and the surrounding community. It has since evolved to become an interrnational wine event and, this year, has been opened to the Singaporeans in the framework of the Voilah! French Festival Singapore. Under a sunny day, 250 happy guests enjoyed a typical French meal with excellent boeuf Bourguignon served by L’Angelus and a unique variety of French wines by the glass! We would like to thank The Regional Council of Burgundy who was our main sponsor, and our supporting sponsors: Alsco, Delifrance, Orangina, Perrier, Somerville Media, Taste of Tradition, Vittel and all the wineries who presented their exquisite wines.
Supporting Sponsors:
A special thanks to Nicolas Drouglazet, chef of L’Angelus who prepared all the meals and to Gabriel de Balasy and Philippe Hoyez for co-organising this successful event. We look forward to seeing you next year for the second edition of La Paulée de Singapour! F
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French Marché
January 2012
A Genuine French Marché at Plaza Singapura During a whole week in November, the French Chamber of Commerce in Singapore organised a French Marché at Plaza Singapura and brought some touches of our French Culture, taste of our French gastronomy! One could meet French Artisans, eat crepes, taste and buy regional products such as cheese, tapenades, foie gras, wines and liquors, discover French art living products and learn what a macaroon is all together…! Thanks to the French Association’s pictures contest, Singaporean visitors could also discover the beauty of our regions and enjoy numerous gifts kindly sponsored by our vendors! We would like to thank the Voilah! French Festival Singapore who was our main sponsor in this first edition of the French Marché and all the vendors who participated and contributed in making it marché real and lively for the Singaporeans to discover our gastronomy.
THE EXHIBITORS • Aequitas • Asia-Euro Marketing • Café Calva • Conseil Régional de la Bourgogne • Crêpes de France • Delicia • Carrefour Bio • La Fromagerie
• Laurent Bernard • Le Benaton • Lemongrass & Aubergine • Little Provence • Reflets de France • Spice village • Tefal • Vins Georges Duboeuf
Special thanks to Carrefour who supported this new project and to Delicia, Brandt and Tefal who allowed Chef Julien Bompard from Le Saint-Julien, Chef Nicolas Drouglazet from L’Angelus, Chef Damien Le Bihian from Deliciae, Chef Xavier Le Hénaff from The French Stall Bistrot and Chef Claudio Sandri from Brasserie Wolf to do culinary demonstrations every day! F
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FCCS CLUB EVENTS French Marché
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January 2012
Asia / CEO Series Committees
Repositioning Singapore’s Economy for the Future At this well-attended breakfast talk, we were much honored to welcome Dr Beh Swan Gin, Managing Director, Singapore Economic Development Board who shared his thoughts on “repositioning Singapore’s economy for the future”. Singapore has indeed transformed itself from a small port city into an economic powerhouse. Today, the city’s skyline is changing
dramatically, with the newly built Marina Bay Sands, Resorts World Sentosa and the new financial district with amazing skyscrapers. It is also a highly desired venue for many exciting world class events as evidenced by the hosting of the world’s only F1 night race, the inaugural Youth Olympics Games and more. With the growing economic importance of Asia, Singapore is posting a year of blockbuster growth and possibly becoming
the world’s fastest growing economy. What has this island nation done right, and why it is a leader in the global recovery? How is Singapore going to sustain its growth and anchor its position as a key Global-Asia hub? After Dr Beh’s presentation, a long Q&A session took place, allowing our 70 participants to better understand the current and future challenges of Singapore. F
CEO Series: Strategy of the ACCOR Group in Asia Pacific With the new world balance from West to East, the Asian subsidiaries of Global MNCs are gaining more importance and influence; their Asia-based leaders are getting more responsibilities and new challenges. The FCCS represents the perfect platform for these leaders to hear and exchange with other leading names in business. This new CEO Series provides them with a unique opportunity to share, compare and learn practical, actionable things from each other. The concept: every two months, a CEO of an APAC organisation presents to his counterparts the strategy of his company in Asia Pacific followed by a roundtable discussion. For the first event of this committee, we welcomed Mr Michael Issenberg, Chairman and
COO of Accor Asia Pacific who shared with our attendees the strategy of the Accor Group in Asia Pacific.
This first meeting was a great success, and our guests really appreciated this occasion to meet and share their visions. F
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January 2012
Sustainability Committee
Energy Efficiency & Green Building Buildings account for 40% of the world’s energy use, and the WBCSD (World Business Council for Sustainable Development) economic estimates that a 40% reduction could be easily reached, with a return on investment within 5 years for owners. Energy efficiency and green buildings are two key pillars of the Singapore Climate Change strategy for achieving the target of 35% reduction in energy intensity in 2030 versus 2005 levels. Moreover, Singapore has set a target of greening 80% of its buildings by 2030, allowing to improve building energy efficiency by over 30%. This ambitious policy creates a positive environment for companies offering products and services for green building and energy efficiency for buildings. The policy is also a trigger for all businesses to take steps for greener offices.
For this talk, the Energy/Infrastructure committee welcomed three talented speakers from French MNC’s. Mr Jackson Seng, Director South East Asia, Advanced Services (Energy Efficiency) of Schneider Electric, first gave a presentation on energy efficiency in co mercial building. Then, Mrs Audrey Perez, QSE and Maintenance Head, Sustainable Development
Head, Dragages Singapore, outlined the other aspects of green building like construction and management, and our third speaker, Mr Constant Van Aerschot, VP Construction, Sustainable Development and Public Affairs, Lafarge, presented the WBCSD and its green building initiatives. This very interesting talk ended with an active Q&A session. F
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January 2012
Finance Committee
Asian Infrastructure Market and Funding Infrastructure is a large part of economic activity, either industrial or public, it is necessary and costly to build for water, power, public transport, marine, trade, petrochemical, resources extraction and transport, health, education, government buildings, etc. Even if many cities in Asia, such as Singapore, had a rapid and efficient development of their infrastructure in the past years, the need for more infrastructures
is obvious, especially in emerging countries in the region.
infrastructure financing such as credit export. F
Mr Philippe Wind, consultant and infrastructure specialist, first made a presentation on challenges and opportunities of this market in Singapore and the region. Then, our second speaker, Mr Arnaud Dornel, banker, economist and financial specialist, talked about some key aspects of
Finance Casual Talk The Finance Committee gathered its members for a Finance Casual Talk at Le Carillon de l'Angelus. This event was a great opportunity for our Finance Members to share their views on current financial topics, to make a status
point on economic situation, or to talk about their own activity. The evening provided the ideal opportunity for our members to exchange on financial matters over a few glasses of wine. F
How do Corporate Deal with RMB Transactions Outside of China? After relaxing restrictions on cross-border RMB settlements, China’s RMB-based trade transactions in 2010 saw an impressive growth from a year earlier. In addition to the continuously increasing RMB use in international trade transactions, the Chinese government this year is also exploiting new opportunities for its local currency to function in RMB-based foreign direct investment and the financial market.
During this presentation, Mr Philippe Touati, Managing Director, Head of Origination & Client Coverage Singapore for Standard Chartered Bank, addressed the following topics: • Cash and Trade: dealing with your day-to-day flows in RMB • RMB Structured Products for corporate • Debt Capital Markets (RMB-denominated bonds issuance). F
Trends in Asia for 2012: Economic, Financial & Political This exceptional breakfast talk brought together two leading experts of economic and financial forecasting. Ms Chin Loo Thio, Senior FX and Interest Rate Strategist, BNP Paribas first presented the economic and financial trends for 2012. Then, Mr Hubert Testard, Minister Counsellor for economic and financial affairs, Embassy of France in Singapore, high-
lighted the ASEAN economic prospects for 2012. This event gathered regional and country managing directors, chief financial officers, finance directors and managers, as well as bankers, financial advisers and other consultants. A panel discussion gave our attendees the opportunity to interact with the speakers. F
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January 2012
Human Resources Committee
“The East Gravity”: Changes Faced or Anticipated in Your Organisation with the New World Balance from Europe to Asia The Human Resources Committee is composed of HR Directors from multinational companies who meet to exchange best practices and discuss HR trends and issues. We had the pleasure to welcome two experts to tackle this very interesting topic; Mr Chin Hwa Ho, Vice President, Human Resources, Asia Pacific, Essilor
and Mr Alexandre Gentot, Human Resources VP, Asia at Gemalto. After the presentation, this session ended with an active discussion between our HR professionals and our two speakers. Several questions were raised regarding the optimal organisation to adopt for a French MNC company based in Singapore. F
How to Develop Your Self-Esteem? This committee meeting brought together Mrs Graziella Chivallier, General Manager, Body with Soul Total Healthcare Network, Ms Shrimathi Swaminathan, Member, Singapore Psychological Society, Dr Tatiana Luebke, B.D.S., and Ms Alissa Gargano, Speech Language Pathologist who shared their insight on how to develop your self-esteem. F
Programme EVE, an Original Idea: Combining the Leadership of Women and Men to Build the Future In France, Danone co-organises a development seminar with the partnership of some other MNC’s such as L'Oreal, KPMG, Credit Agricole.
leadership based on listening qualities. The last edition gathered 200 managers (80% women and 20% men) and was a great success.
This seminar promotes a “different” approach for men & women to work better together, and aims at developing a
Ms Cécile Diversy, VP, HR, Asia Pacific at Danone, presented this programme before our HR specialists. F
Leading the Next Wave of Growth in Asia Asia has emerged as the new center of global economic growth, which is now being driven by rising consumption and increased innovation across the region. This portends major changes for business talent and leadership by 2025. For this breakfast talk, we welcomed three speakers from the Korn/Ferry Institute to talk about this new growth model: Asia 2.0.
Mr Indranil Roy, Managing Director and co-author of the whitepaper from the Korn/Ferry Institute animated this session with Ms Alicia Yi, Managing Director, Asia Pacific Consumer Market, Co-Leader, Human Resources Center of Expertise, Asia Pacific and Ms Rachael Pogson, Managing Director, Southeast Asia. F
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FCCS CLUB EVENTS Entrepreneurs / Marketing & Communication Committees
Casual Talk for Entrepreneurs The Entrepreneurs Committee organised a Networking Night with a presentation from of Mr Nicolas Seguy, Co-Founder of Feiyue Shoes. Feiyue, has become a major player on the sneaker market in France with an international expansion starting with the US, neighboring European markets and Asia Pacific from its Singapore office. Nicolas shared his insights and entrepreneurial experience with our Entrepreneur Members. This great presentation was followed by a networking session where our participants had the opportunity to mingle and exchange on their own experiences. F
Environmental Strategy of Veolia Water Solutions & Technologies Veolia Water Solutions & Technologies (VWS) is a provider of environmentally conscious and innovative water and wastewater technologies and solutions. As the global benchmark of water services, they ensure their customers the best possible solutions to treat and reuse wastewater whilst recover energy and lower the overall environmental footprint of water and wastewater treatment installations.
During this breakfast talk, Mr Yves Caouette, Executive Vice President, Veolia Water Solutions & Technologies, presented the pillars of this environmental commitment in the context of climate change and economic recovery. He also illustrated how to create value for industries in a case study with a global healthcare manufacturer. F
Raclette Party & Marketing Committee Network Event The Marketing & Communication Committee organises meetings and breakfast talks on new tools and trends related to the marketing & communication sectors. In October an evening of networking was organised with other Marketing and Communication professionals around a raclette grill. This casual event held at La Fromagerie was a great success. Our professionals not only had the opportunity to make new connections but also to help each other by exchanging on business metters. F
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ICT Committee
Be Prepared Against Cyber Attacks Regularly brought to light by medias through spectacular cyber attacks and frauds (Sony Cyber attack being the latest one), security is a growing concern for today’s companies. But despite this rising awareness, security issues are often poorly understood and managed. In introduction, Mr Eric Boissier, expert in IT Security went through global corporate security concepts and presented the associate good practices and tools. Our second speaker, Mr Emmanuel Roger VP Sales Asia Pacific & Japan at Qosmos explained why a second line of defense is required. He went through concepts, deployment models and some practical cases. F
Experience Feedback from the Implementation of CMA CGM Finance Shared Services Center Beyond the global objective of cost reductions, the implementation of a Finance Shared Services Center (SSC) is a significant opportunity to professionalise support services, improve internal control, homogenise accounting procedures and centralise information technology knowledge. Through the experience sharing of CMA CGM Finance Shared Services Center, the meeting presented by Mr Bertrand Le Guillou, head of the Finance and Accounting Shared Services Center of CMA CGM, and Mr Etienne Salvan, Manager at BC Consulting, provided the participants with a good overview of the different stages of a successful implementation. F
Demystifying the Cloud In the last few years, cloud computing has become a prominent part of many companies' IT strategies. But the rise of cloud computing has brought with it certain misconceptions about what the cloud actually is and the ways it can impact (or not) a company's operations. Cutting through the myths and understanding the truth is essential for making smart decisions about whether, when and how your
company should move to the cloud. For this special breakfast talk, our panel of speakers composed of Mr Christopher Yeo, CEO of aSpecial Media Pte Ltd, MrAaron Chipper, CTO at Friendster and Group CTO at MOL Global and Mr Arnaud Blandin, Vice President of Alliances for Intalio shared their insights on the cloud technologies through case studies. F
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R&D Committee
R&D Lunch: Discussion with the CNRS The R&D committee organised a lunch with two representatives of the CNRS (Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique), Dr Minh-Hà Pham-Delègue, Director, DERCI CNRS and Dr Chantal Khan-Malek, Deputy Director in Charge
of APAC, DERCI CNRS. The aim of this meeting was to present the CNRS activities and discuss how to strengthen the relations with Singaporean institutions and French industrials based in Singapore. F
R&D Committee Meeting
R&D Committee Meeting
The R&D committee invited Mr Thomas Vial, Export Counsellor new technologies, innovation and services, Ubifrance to present the French R&D landscape in Singapore. F
We had the pleasure to welcome Prof. Jean-Charles Pomerol, Former President of the University Pierre et Marie Curie for a meeting at the French Chamber of Commerce of Commerce. Prof. Pommerol shared his views and insights on the French R&D landscape and its evolutions. F
Site Visit: Danone Baby Nutrition R&D Centre The FCCS R&D Committee organised in November a site visit at the newly opened Danone Research Centre for Specialised Nutrition.
health, especially the impact of nutrition on gut bacteria, immune system and the overall growth and development of babies and children, to ensure a healthy start in life.
Danone Baby Nutrition, a leader in baby and child nutrition, recently opened a Research Centre for Specialised Nutrition at Singapore’s Biopolis Research Park.
The 20+ scientists at the new Danone Research Centre for Specialised Nutrition are directly connected to the 50+ Danone development experts in the Asia Pacific region to support and deliver local innovations.
The Danone Research Centre for Specialised Nutrition is the first in Asia Pacific to focus fully on child and maternal
Scientists at Danone Research Centre
studied the current unmet nutritional needs of children and pregnant/breastfeeding women in the region, and findings were shared during this presentation by Mr Laurent Clement, R&D Director Baby Nutrition Asia Pacific, Danone Asia. After the talk, our R&D members were invited to visit Danone’s laboratory. We take this opportunity to thank again Laurent Clément for this informative presentation and site visit. F
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Legal & Tax Committee
What Protection for Foreign Investments in Asia under Investment Treaties, and How to Structure an Investment to Enhance Investment Treaty Protection? Investment treaties are treaties in which States undertake to protect foreign investments in their territory. The protection guaranteed typically includes the obligation by the host State to treat the foreign investment fairly and equitably, not to discriminate against the foreign investment,
and not to expropriate the foreign investment without compensation. Ms Elodie Dulac, senior associate in King & Spalding’s Singapore office, discussed these points during a very interactive session. F
Acquisitions in China and India: Legal & Practical Issues Faced by Investors Sound investors quite naturally anticipate difficulties in relation to cultural differences and communication hazards while contemplating acquisitions in China and in India, the two most inhabited countries in the world. Unfortunately, these will not be their
only concerns as they might face practical issues that could have a deep impact at the very early stage of the discussions between sellers and purchasers. The Legal & Tax Committee invited
Mr Olivier Monange, Partner, DS Avocats, in charge of Asia, attorney at law at the Paris Bar and Ms Yi-Ta Hou Senior associate, DS Avocats, attorney at law at the Paris Bar to share their insights on this specific topic. F
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Welcome to Singapore
Welcome to Singapore 2011 Our annual “Rendez-Vous” brought together more than 180 persons this year, friends and new comers to Singapore. The gathering was a great opportunity for new expatriates to Singapore to get introduced to the French Business Community. Our event took place at “The Pod” of the National Library which offers a great panoramic view all over Singapore, a modern architecture, and a pleasant atmosphere. H.E. Olivier Caron, Ambassador of France to Singapore, was our Guest of Honor and we thank him again for his kind and precious participation. The informative session was led by Pierre
Verdière, President of the FCCS and Carine Lespayandel, Executive Director. It was above all the occasion to explain the essential role played the FCCS as the representative entity of the French business community towards Singaporeans and other International business ommunities. The activities and services provided by the FCCS were reviewed and the President highlighted the great benefits our members found in participating in our different committees, events and functions. A friendly buffet dinner followed the presentation: a well appreciated catering coupled with fine wines provided by Wine Connection. This friendly environment enabled the participants to create some
precious networking links and the event closed at 10pm.
We would like to thank particularly AGS Four Winds, CIC Banque Transatlantique, and GMC Services for their high and valuable support to our event. F
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FCCS Events
Our Networking Events There is no better time to start building long-term business relationships. Come and meet new people and new members in a relaxed atmosphere. Our networking events are a great opportunity to meet with other professionals across different industries.
Connect & Broaden your Network! This evening networking held at Jules & Jim in Club Street, was the perfect occasion to mingle in a relaxed atmosphere before summer break! F
"In the Shadow of Deities" by Thomas Pierre The FCCS and Mise en Seine invited FCCS Members and friends to the closure of the exhibition "In the Shadow of Deities", by Thomas Pierre, at Hollandse Club. Thomas Pierre is a French artist who lives and works in Cambodia and his work carries the stamp of this rich culture. “In the Shadow� of Deities showcased 17 paintings featuring the artistic motives of the Angkor temples. F
Connect with our Members This networking evening was held at Wine Connection on Robertson Walk, where our 40 participants broadened their network while enjoying white or red wines. F
Business + Gastronomy = FCCS Monthly Luncheons Every first Friday of each month, the FCCS organises a business luncheon in a French restaurant, every time in a new venue with a different menu. These informal networking luncheons create excellent opportunities to develop new contacts and exchange ideas on business issues while enjoying great French food.
Our last four luncheons took place at Absynthe Restaurant, Taratata Bistro, Keyaki Restaurant with the Japanese Chamber of Commerce in Singapore, and L'Angelus restaurant. F
Check on our website for our next business luncheons and broaden your network!
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Futsal Tournament
A Great Edition for our Third FCCS Futsal Tournament The third edition of the FCCS Futsal Tournament took place on Saturday 15th October at the Premier Pitch. We take this opportunity to thank all our players and supporters for their sporting attitude and team spirit during this friendly, yet challenging edition. Our 120 players, split into 15 teams, enjoyed a half day-long tournament on a hot day outdoors in a relaxed atmosphere. This third Futsal tournament was again a real success! Players gained forces for the afternoon by enjoying the buffet lunch. Then, play-off and finals separated the best teams. The prize ceremony took place at 2.30 pm, presented by Valérie Gaume, Head of Events and Members of the FCCS.
… And the 2011 Futsal Tournament winner team is… Michezo! The team was composed of Laurent Thomas, Laurent Panelli, Guglielmo Arena, David Maubon, Andre Sion, Francois-Xavier Bobbe, Benjamin Bringuier, and Samuel Obin. The silver medal goes for Bleus United: with Yohann Guilloux, Bertrand Buvat, Matthias Leterme, Pierre-Julien Roca, Luc Vuillete, Audouin Collignon, Nanda and AJ Tufte.
Khairuddin, Gary Lee, Andres Antas, Tom Poyner, Javier Escudero-Desimon, Cedric Louis, and Bruno Duchene. We sincerely congratulate our winners! This event would not have been possible without the support of AGS Four Winds and Alstom, we take this opportunity to thank them again for their support!
The Plate Tournament was won by Natixis: with Thomas Caron, Jean-Francois Le Guillou, Cedric Bourdy, Matthieu Garel, Jean-Christophe Cavanna, Sebastian Espinasse, Roslan Mohd Harim, and Justin Ong.
Special thanks go to Mr Pierre Rico from Football Passion who organised the tournament and to Clarins for the gifts.
The runner-up of the Plate Tournament was Alstom with Mark Morey, Khairil
The FCCS hope to see you again next year for another enjoyable Futsal Tournament! F
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Pétanque Tournament
A Fun & Sunny Edition for the 11th FCCS Pétanque Tournament! First of all we would like to thank all the players for their sporting attitude, team spirit and fair play. Our 160 players enjoyed a day-long tournament on a hot and sunny day outdoors in a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. Our annual 11th Pétanque Tournament took place on Saturday 19th November at the Rasa Sentosa. The tournament’s main ingredients for success are as follows: • 160 players • 52 teams (“triplettes”) • 17 fields • Over 150 pétanque balls • 160 FCCS 2011 Pétanque caps • 24 bottles of Ricard
at the Barnacles allowed players a well deserved lunch break on the beautiful lawn of the Hotel in front of the sea. The prize ceremony took place at 7pm just before dark, presented by Ms Valérie Gaume, Head of Events & Members and Mrs Carine Lespayandel, Executive Director of the FCCS. We sincerely congratulate our winners.
For the third time, all the competitors played with Petanque Balls generously offered by SDV Logistics.
Special thanks go to our three main sponsors for their financial and moral support:
Our winners enjoyed numerous gifts kindly sponsored by our generous contributors:
Everyone was very motivated, making this event a real success this year again! Some players even brought their own balls facilitating the organisation of the tournament. Players still found the time to enjoy a few glasses of Pastis, get some snacks and drinks all day long to gain forces for the afternoon. The great buffet lunch served by
PÉTANQUE TOURNAMENT 2011 - WINNERS MAIN TOURNAMENT WINNERS: 1st - Abani 2nd - Les 3 Boulesquetaires 3rd - Rhicon 4th - Les Tontons Flingueurs
PLATE TOURNAMENT WINNERS: 1st - Sentosa 2nd - 3 Bees 3rd - Open Détente 4th - Les 3 Fantastiques
We would also like to thank Pernod Ricard who sponsored the tournament’s energy drink – the Pastis – all day long!
The FCCS hope to see you next year for another swinging, thrilling and enjoyable Pétanque Tournament! F
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FCCS New Members
FCCS New Members We are very pleased to welcome the following new members who recently joined the French Chamber of Commerce. Please visit www.fccsingapore.com for more details.
CORPORATE MEMBERS ACCENTURE
LINXENS
Contact: Mr. Guillaume SACHET, Senior Executive Website: www.accenture.com Sector: Consultants
Contact: Mr. Olivier CASTAIGNEDE, Director, Strategy & Program Website: www.linxens.com Sector: Electric / Electronic / Telecom
AUDITOIRE
MANITOU ASIA
Contact: Mr. Bastien le LEVREUR, General Manager Website: www.auditoire.com Sector: Media / Communication
Contact: Mr. Antoine CHAZELLE, Managing Director Website: www.sg.manitou.com Sector: Handling Equipments
DELTA DORE
MARECHAL ELECTRIC
Contact: Mr. Christophe VENOT, Project & HR Director Website: www.deltadore.com Sector: Electronics - Information Technology
Contact: Mr. Justin TAN, Business Development Manager Website: www.marechal.com Sector: Electric / Electronic / Telecom
GDF SUEZ
MEDIAKEYS
Contact: Mr. Alex BOWER, Chief Representative Asia-Pacific, GDF Suez LNG Singapore Website: www.gdfsuez.com Sector: Energy
Contact: Ms. Emilie TISSERAND, Managing Director Website: www.mediakeys.com Sector: Media / Communication
GLOBAL APPROACH CONSULTING SINGAPORE Contact: Mr. Jean-Romain DALLE, Business Development Manager Website: www.gac-sg.com Sector: Consultants
GRAITEC Contact: Mr. Pascal BERGOUGNOU, Managing Director, Asia-Pacific Website: www.graitec.com Sector: Information Technologies & Computer
INGELIANCE SINGAPORE Contact: Mr. Philippe STOREZ, Business Development Manager Website: www.altep.fr Sector: BTP / Environment / Transportation
KROLL ASSOCIATES (S) Contact: Ms. Penelope LEPEUDRY, Managing Director / Financial Investigations Website: www.kroll.com Sector: Legal / Audit / Consultants
MEKATRADE ASIA Contact: Mr. Michael SEBAG, Managing Director Sector: : Fertilizers
NUTRISTAR ASIA Contact: Mr. Hugues SIX, Managing Director Website: www.nutristar.fr Sector: : Animal Nutrition
PRO EXPA SINGAPORE Contact: Mr. Jerome SALILLAS, Managing Director Website: www.proexpa.fr Sector: Energy, Oil and Gas
WAVECELL Contact: Mr. Olivier GERHARDT, Co-Founder, CEO Website: www.wavecell.com Sector: Mobile Messaging Services
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FCCS New Members
ASSOCIATE MEMBERS FUSION COSMETICS
MODETTI OFFICE SERVICES
Contact: Ms. Lynn TAN, Managing Director Website: www.fusioncosmetics.com Sector: Consumer Goods (Non Foods)
Contact: Mr. Ken CHIA, Principal Consultant Website: www.modetti.com Sector: Auditors / Law Firms / Consultants
GRAND HYATT SINGAPORE
SPICE VILLAGE
Contact: Mr. Olivier LENOIR, Resident Manager Website: www.singapore.grand.hyatt.com Sector: Hotels
Contact: Mr. Norman MAH, Marketing Director Website: www.spicevillage.com.sg Sector: Food and Beverages
KENYAN RIDERS
STINT ON STAGE
Contact: Ms. Marie-Anne VERMERSCH, Co-founder - Marketing Director Website: www.kenyanriders.com Sector: Other Sectors
Contact: Ms. Nicole STINTON, Creative & Managing Director Website: www.stintonstage.com Sector: HR / Teaching & Training
ENTREPRENEUR MEMBERS ANIMA RESOURCES
LUNABEE
Contact: Mrs. Viviane DUBOS, Director & Clinical Psychologist Sector: Psychotherapy
Contact: Mr. Olivier BERNI, Director, Marketing & Communication Website: www.lunabee.com Sector: Information Technologies & Computer
CLEVERGREEN M2 MANAGEMENT
Contact: Mr. Norbert BINOT, CEO Website: www.clevergreen.sg Sector: Consultants HOLT ASIA INVESTMENT
Contact: Mr. Michel BEAUGIER, Managing Director Website: www.m2management.com.sg Sector: Consultants
HOLT ASIA INVESTMENT NEXT INVEST ASIA
Contact: Mr. Gérard AHHOT, Director Sector: Bank / Finance / Investments
Contact: Mr. Lionel MAITREPIERRE, Managing Director Sector: Bank / Finance / Investments
ICE INVEST Contact: Mr. Lionel MAITREPIERRE, Managing Director Sector: Food and Beverages
NEXUS-CARBON FOR DEVELOPMENT Contact: Ms. Marion VERLES, Executive Director Website: www.nexus-c4d.org Sector: Environmental Technologies / Energy
LITTLE PROVENCE Contact: Damien GEOFRRAY, Director & CoFounder Website: www.littleprovence.sg Sector: Food and Beverages
PLS CONSULTING Consulting Contact: Mrs. Laurence AZZENA-GOUGEON, Paris • London • Singapore Links
Managing Director Sector: Consultants
INDIVIDUAL MEMBERS DR. TIPHANIE PANISSOD, Dentist, DR TIPHANIE PANISSOD Sector: Dentistry
MR. JEAN-MICHEL DUMONT, Chairman, RUDER FINN ASIA PTE LTD Sector: Communication
MR. MAXIME HERVE, Research Investigator, NOVARTIS INSTITUTE FOR TROPICAL DISEASES Sector: Healthcare MR. PHILIPPE GRYC, Sr. Director Partners Network APAC, CARLSON WAGONLIT TRAVEL Sector: Business Travel Management
MR. JEAN-CHRISTOPHE JUBIN, Sales Director & VP APAC,
MS. VALERIE AUTISSIER, Head of Indirect Sourcing – SEAP,
SINDITV Sector: Information Technology
NOKIA Sector: Telecom
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FCCS Privilege Card
FCCS Privilege Card Terms & conditions apply, visit www.fccsingapore.com for more details.
AGS FOUR WINDS - Up to 30 days free storage rent in Singapore - 1 hour handyman service free
AU PETIT SALUT - Special rate for use of private dining room
BODY WITH SOUL - 10% off TCM & 1st assessment at Body Temple - $20 off Ostheopathy & Physio - $100 off clinical pilates packages
BRANDSFEVER - $10 store credit for a one-time registration
CITROËN TT SINGAPORE - 5% of discount for the FCCS members
DEGRENNE PARIS - 15% off all Guy Degrenne/ Degrenne Paris items in iwannagohome! shops
EDITIONS DIDIER MILLET (EDM) - 20% off on specific titles with free delivery or 40% off on specific titles with self-collection
FOREST ADVENTURE - 10% off on individual tickets, birthday packages and merchandising
HEDIARD - S$25 gift certificate at the Hediard Café to use with a minimum spend of S$100 at the Hediard Boutique
HILTON SINGAPORE HOTEL - 10% off Wine Classes
LAURENT BERNARD - 10 % for corporate orders - $ 300-$999 - 15% for corporate orders - $ 1000 – 1999 - 20% for corporate orders - $ 2000 and above
PETIT BATEAU - 10% off regular items
RAFFLES HOTEL, SINGAPORE - 15% off all Food & Beverage outlets. - 15% off Meeting and Banquet packages
RASA SENTOSA RESORT, SINGAPORE - 15% off total Food Bill at Barnacles Restaurant, Casserole, Silver, Shell Café and Trapizza upon dining
ST REGIS - 20% off at Brasserie Les Saveurs & Labrezza F&B. - 25% off at the Astor Bar
SURVIVAL CHIC LIFESTYLE MEMBERSHIP FOXYSALES - A permanent 10% discount on your orders
FRENCH TERROIRS - 10% off all wines (+ gift for 6 bottles purchase) - 15% off food - 10% off all products for corporates above S$300
- Reduction of 10% upon the Survival Chic Membership, against immediate payment
THE RESILIENCE INSTITUTE - 1 complimentary Diagnostic
TRADERS HOTEL, SINGAPORE - 15% off Food & Beverage at F&B outlet
GLOBIBO - 6% off Translation Services - 11% off Interpretation & Language Courses - 6% off Language Courses - 11% off Corporate Training Course
GMC SERVICES – ASIA PACIFIC - 10% discount for new GMC members
GRAND MERCURE ROXY HOTEL - 15% off on diner at selected restaurants - 10% off Best Available Rate for guest rooms
HARRY’S CATERING COMPANY - 10% off at all Harry's outlets in Singapore. - Harry's Premium Lager Beer @ S$9 nett
UNIQGIFTTM - 10% off on unigift.com
VUE PRIVÉE - 15% off L’Aventurier series (100 editions) and VP lifestyle products
WINES2U - 15% off on Champagne Moutard - 10% off on all other wines for a minimum order of 12 bottles per purchase
ZWIESEL - 15% off all items
Annual Gala Dinner of the French Chamber of Commerce in Singapore
Date: Saturday 26th May 2012 Time: 7 pm to 11.30 pm Venue: The Ritz‐Carlton, Singapore Prepare to enter the magic atmosphere of Paris à la Belle Epoque! Booking/Sponsoring forms available online at www.fccsingapore.com For more informa on, please contact Valerie Gaume, Head of Events & Members DID 6735 2536 vgaume@fccsingapore.com The French Chamber of Commerce in Singapore 541 Orchard Road #09‐01 Liat Towers Singapore 238881 Tel: 6735 5523 Fax: 6735 5394 www.fccsingapore.com