The Most Influential Business Leaders to Watch in 2024

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UpshotPortland: Exploring the City of Roses

Case StudyHollister: From California Vibes to All-inclusive Global Fashion Brand

MARKETING COORDINATOR (APAC)

Suchita P.

PR & MARKETING COORDINATOR

James H. Jyoti D

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVE

CREATIVE CONTENT EDITOR

Utkarsh D.

CREATIVE DESIGN HEAD

Sankalp K.

Shweta K. GRAPHIC DESIGNER

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

Narendra S.

DIGITAL CIRCULATION MANAGER

Amanda V.

The APAC Vanguard!

Welcome,valuedreaders,toaspecialeditionofTheEnterpriseWorld.AsthebusinesslandscapeofAsiaPacific continuesitsdynamicevolution,weturnourfocustothevisionariesshapingitsfuture.Thisissuecelebrates“The MostInfluentialBusinessLeaderstoWatchIn2024(APAC).”

TheAsiaPacificregionisapowerhouseofeconomicgrowthandinnovation.Fromestablishedgiantsto trailblazingstartups,thebusinessenvironmentherethrivesonauniqueblendoftraditionanddisruption.This dynamismdemandsexceptionalleadership–individualswiththeforesighttonavigatecomplexchallengesandthe audacitytoseizeemergingopportunities.

Withinthesepages,you’llencounteradiversegroupofleaderswhoembodythesequalities.Theyhailfromvarious industries,eachcontributingtotheregion’sever-evolvingnarrative.Someareseasonedveterans,steering establishedcorporationswithasteadyhand.Othersaredisruptors,challengingthestatusquoandforgingnew paths.All,however,shareacommonthread–acommitmenttoexcellence,adedicationtoprogress,andavision thatinspires.

Thisissueisnotmerelyashowcaseofindividualbrilliance.It’sanexplorationofthediverseleadershipstylesthat propelAPACforward.Bystudyingtheapproachesoftheseexceptionalfigures,wegleanvaluableinsightsinto navigatingthecomplexitiesoftheregion’sbusinesslandscape.

Onthecoverofthisissue,wehavefeatured Abhimanyuisa AbhimanyuKhanna(CEOatTABConsulting). leaderwhoinspiresbyexample,embracesinnovation,andprioritizesthewell-beingofhisteam.He’saleaderwho buildscompaniesandalegacyofexcellence.Startinghiscareeratayoungage,hequicklyclimbedthecorporate ladder,demonstratingaknackforleadershipandapassionforgrowth.

WebelievethisissueofTheEnterpriseWorldwillequipyouwiththeknowledgeandinspirationtonavigatethe excitingopportunitiesandchallengesthatlieahead.Asalways,wewelcomeyourfeedback.Telluswhatyouthink ofourselections–andwhoelseyoubelievedeservesaplaceamongthemostinfluentialbusinessleadersshaping thefutureofAPAC.

Onthecoverofthisissue,wehavefeaturedAbhimanyu Khanna(CEOatTABConsulting).Abhimanyuisaleader whoinspiresbyexample,embracesinnovation,andprioritizes thewell-beingofhisteam.He’saleaderwhobuilds companiesandalegacyofexcellence.Startinghiscareerata youngage,hequicklyclimbedthecorporateladder, demonstratingaknackforleadershipandapassionfor growth.

Abhimanyubeganhiscareerattheageof18.Heinitially joinedGlobalVantageasanagentengagedinavoiceprocess forcollections,coveringbothUKandUSmarkets.His performancequicklyledtopromotions,ascendingthrough rolesasaSeniorExecutive,NS,SME,andARM,eventually transitioningintothequalitydepartmentoftheorganization afterclearingseveralinternaljobpromotions.

In2008,heco-foundedTAB,shortfor“TakeaBreak,”with hispartner,nowhisspouse.Forthepast16years,theyhave beenactiveintheindustry,establishingTABasoneofthe leadingcompaniesinIndiaforteam-buildingprograms. Additionally,thecompanyorganizesnumerousMICE (Meetings,Incentives,Conferences,andExhibitions)events. Recently,TABpartneredwithoneofIndia’slargestTravel Groups,TheSTICTravelGroup,tocreateanewventure calledStepUpXperiences,whichiscurrentlybeingledby himandtheCEOofSTICGroup-MrsIshaGoyal.

Underhisleadership,TABcontinuestothriveandexpand.In thepreviousyear,hewasrecognizedbyaprominentmedia housewiththe“40Under40”award,amongotheraccolades thatbothheandhiscompanyhavereceivedinrecentyears.

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Abhimanyu Khanna

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Portland: Exploring the City of Roses

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5 Reasons Why Outsourcing IT Saves Your Business

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Hollister: From California Vibes to All-inclusive Global Fashion Brand

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5 Oldest Construction in the World: Exploring the Glory that We Lost with Time

abhimanyu khanna

Inspiring a Legacy of Quality with Hands-on Leadership and Vision

tab consulting | ceo

Today,effectiveleadershiphingesonmorethanjustdelegatingtasks;itinvolves inspiring,motivating,andactivelyparticipatinginthegrowthanddevelopment ofindividualsandtheorganization.LeaderslikeAbhimanyuKhanna(CEOat TABConsulting)understandthatrealsuccesscomesfrombuildingacohesive teamthatsharesacommonvisionandgoals.

Abhimanyuisaleaderwhoinspiresbyexample,embracesinnovation,and prioritizesthewell-beingofhisteam.He’saleaderwhobuildscompaniesanda legacyofexcellence.Startinghiscareeratayoungage,hequicklyclimbedthe corporateladder,demonstratingaknackforleadershipandapassionforgrowth. Moreover,Abhimanyu’sfoundationalexperiencesshapedaleadershipphilosophy deeplyrootedinthewelfareandhappinessofhisteam,believingfirmlythat“a happyteamdirectlyinfluencesclientandcustomercontentment.”

Cover Story

cover story

RisingtotheRanks

Abhimanyubeganhiscareerattheageof18.He initiallyjoinedGlobalVantageasanagentengagedin avoiceprocessforcollections,coveringbothUKand USmarkets.Hisperformancequicklyledto promotions,ascendingthroughrolesasaSenior Executive,NS,SME,andARM,eventually transitioningintothequalitydepartmentofthe organizationafterclearingseveralinternaljob promotions.

In2008,heco-foundedTAB,shortfor“Takea Break,”withhispartner,nowhisspouse.Forthepast 16years,theyhavebeenactiveintheindustry, establishingTABasoneoftheleadingcompaniesin Indiaforteam-buildingprograms.Additionally,the companyorganizesnumerousMICE(Meetings, Incentives,Conferences,andExhibitions)events. Recently,TABpartneredwithoneofIndia’slargest TravelGroups,TheSTICTravelGroup,tocreatea newventurecalledStepUpXperiences,whichis currentlybeingledbyhimandtheCEOofSTIC Group-MrsIshaGoyal.

Underhisleadership,TABcontinuestothriveand expand.Inthepreviousyear,hewasrecognizedbya prominentmediahousewiththe“40Under40” award,amongotheraccoladesthatbothheandhis companyhavereceivedinrecentyears.

SuccessStemsfromthe“HappinessofMyTeam”

Abhimanyubelievesthatmaintainingacontentand happyteamiscrucialbecausesatisfactiondirectly influencesclientandcustomercontentment.Despite beingtheCEO,heemphasizestheimportanceof leadingbyexampleratherthanmerelymanagingfrom afar.Heisalwaysonthegroundwithhisteam, ensuringheisaccessiblewhenevertheyneedsupport. Evenwhennotexplicitlyrequested,hestandsbytheir side,activelyparticipatingineventsandteambuildingprogramsalongsidethem.

Abhimanyuconsidersthesepracticesessentialforany leaderororganizationaimingforsuccess.Hestresses theimportanceofpracticingwhatonepreaches.He believesrespectisearnedthroughactionsandvisible leadership,demonstratingcommitmentbyworking directlywiththeteam.Thisapproachfostersrespect andcementshisroleasatrueleaderwithinthe company

OvercomingAllOdds

Despitehisroleinmotivatingothersthroughhisteam-building events,lifehasneverbeeneasyforAbhimanyu.He acknowledgesthatchallengesarisedaily,whichhasbeen especiallyevidentsincetheinceptionofhiscompany The companystartedduringtheeconomicrecessionof2008-2009 whenindustriesweresuffering,joblosseswererampant,and engagementsessionswerescarce,leadingtominimalbusiness forhiscompany.

However,Abhimanyuandhisteammaintainedtheirresilience, neverlosinghope.Theirperseverancepaidoffastheybeganto innovateandadapt.TheCOVID-19pandemicpresenteda significantchallengebutbecameacriticallesson.Likemany others,theyfaceddifficultiesintheearlyweeksofthepandemic. Yet,theymanagedtoinnovateanddevelopnewconceptsthat allowedthemtodeliverover1700eventsduringthatperiod successfully.Despitethebroadereventindustrystrugglingduring thepandemic,hiscompanythrived,overcomingsubstantial obstacleswheretherewerenojobs,nowork,andalackofmoney inthemarket.Thisexperienceunderscoredacruciallessonfor himandhisteam:nothingispermanent,andsituationscan changeswiftly.

Abhimanyuviewseachchallengeasadifficultyandan opportunitytolearnandgrow.Hebelievesinmaintaininga positiveattitudeandbeingpreparedtofacewhatevercomes, whichhefindstobetheessenceoflife.Thisphilosophyhasnot onlyhelpedhimnavigatehispersonalchallengesbuthasalso drivenhiscompany’ssuccessinuncertaintimes.

LeadingbyExample

Abhimanyufirmlybelievesthattrueleadershipisdemonstrated throughactionandpresence."Aleaderoughttosetaprecedent throughtheirownactions.”heoftensays,emphasizingthe importanceofbeingactivelyinvolvedwithone’steam.This philosophyisnotjustrhetoricforhim;itisdeeplyingrainedin howheoperateswithinhiscompany.Heholdsthatavailabilityis acrucialattributeofeffectiveleadership. “If you’re not available for your team, then you are not a good leader,” heasserts.To him,aleader’sabsenceisasignificantshortfall,makingit impossibletoaddresstheneedsandchallengesoftheteam effectively

Throughouthiscareer,Abhimanyuhasconsistentlypracticed whathepreachesbyworkingwithhisteamindailyoperationsor criticalprojects.Hebelievesthatsharinghisteam’ssuccessesand failuresisfundamental.Helivesbythemotto, “Be there in the failures and face them as your own, and celebrate successes as though they belong to every team member.”

Thisapproachhasfosteredastrongsenseofloyaltyand teamworkandbuiltafoundationforfuturesuccess.Bytaking responsibilityforfailuresandattributingsuccessestothe team,hecultivatesanenvironmentoftrustandmutual respect.Abhimanyucreditsthisleadershipstylewiththe strongandcohesiveteamhehasnurtured,whichispoisedto meetfuturechallengeswithconfidenceandresilience.

Beyond“EmployeeEngagementismorethanjustapaton theback.”

TABConsulting,ledbyAbhimanyu,primarilyoffersteambuildingprograms,aservicetheycontinuetoexcelin.In additiontothese,thecompanyprovidessolutionsfor meetings,incentives,conferences,andevents.Itspecializesin organizingcorporateoffsites,familydays,networkevents, andcreatingemployeeengagementcalendars.Essentially, anythingrelatedtoemployeeengagementfallswithinthe company’sexpertise.WhatdistinguishesTABConsultingin theindustryisthepersonalattentionitgivestoeachclient. With16yearsofexperience,Abhimanyustillmakesitapoint tobepresentateveryeventthecompanyorganizes.Unlike otherorganizationswhereseniorleadersmightstepbackas thecompanygrows,heensuresthatheremainsactively involvedinclientinteractions.Thishands-onapproachisnot justaboutbusinessforhim;itisapassionhehassuccessfully transformedintoathrivingenterprise.

Abhimanyuemphasizestheimportanceofmaintaining thispersonaltouchwithinhisteamandwithclientsand customers.Hebelievesthatthispersonalattentionis particularlyappreciatedintheIndianmarket,whereit isseenascrucialforbusinesssuccess.Forhimandhis company,ensuringthisclosepersonalconnection remainsakeyfactorintheircontinuedsuccessand clientsatisfaction.In2021,TABConsultingreceived theprestigiousawardforthemostoutstanding employmentsolutionsproviderattheCorporate ExcellenceAwards,hostedbyaUKmediahouse.The companyproudlyrepresentedIndiaandwasrankedthe topteamatthisinternationalevent.Furthermore, Abhimanyuhasbeenrecognizedbyvariousinfluential publicationssuchasInsightSuccess,ZIPAC,Silicon India,andPrimeInsights,highlightinghis achievementsandhiscompany’sinnovativepractices. Abhimanyubelievesthatinnovationiscrucialforthe growthofanyorganization,especiallyintoday’s rapidlychangingworld.Henotesthatastechnologies evolveanddemographicshiftsoccur,fromMillennials toGenerationZ,theneedsandbehaviorsofcustomers alsochange.Acompanyneedstoadaptandevolveto meetthesenewdemands.Hereferstothecurvein businesstoillustratehispoint:whenbusiness performancestartstoclimb,itiscriticaltointroduce innovationstoprepareforthefuture.Innovation,for

him,isacontinuousprocess,andhededicates considerableefforttofindingnewandcreativewaysto servetheircustomers.Thiscommitmenttoinnovationis whyhiscompanyhasmaintainedlong-standing relationshipswithclients,somelastingoveradecade. Theseclientsremainengagedbecausetheyconsistently experiencehisteam’snew,refreshing,anddiverse offerings.

FosteringaCultureofPositivity

Abhimanyubelievesthatcultivatingapositiveand inclusiveworkspaceiscrucialforthesuccessofany organization.Heholdsthatthecorereasonforthisbelief isthattheteammembersaretheoneswhoultimately deliverresultsontheground.

Theinteractionwithhishelpshimgaugetheirneeds, understandtheirchallenges,andprovideguidancewhere necessary.Abhimanyuemphasizestheimportanceof learningfromtheseengagements,whichheviewsas essentialforeffectiveleadership.

Updatinghisknowledgeofnewconceptsandindustry trendsallowshimtosupporthisteameffectively When teammembersfacedifficultiesorneedclarification,heis preparedtoguideandeducatethem,ensuringthey understandandcanperformtheirroleseffectively.This commitmenttounderstandingandsupportinghisteamisa foundationalstrategyforfosteringalearningenvironment withinthecompany,reinforcingitssuccessandgrowth.

AligningwithMarketDynamicsforContinuedSuccess

Abhimanyuacknowledgesthedynamicnatureofthe market,agreeingthatitchangescontinuallyand unpredictably.Witheachshift,suchasthetransitionfrom MillennialstoGenerationZ,thecompanyfacesnew challengesthatrequireadaptationandevolution.He pointsouttheimportanceofunderstandingandadapting tocustomerbehaviortostaycompetitiveandwellpreparedforthefuture.

Hereflectsontherapidadvancementsintechnology, notingsignificantshiftslikethedigitalrevolutionandthe emergingageofAI.Inresponsetothesechanges,his companycontinuallyevolvestomeetthedemandsofnew technologiesandcustomerbehaviors.Thisproactive approachwasinstrumentalinallowinghiscompanyto remainoperationalandsuccessfulduringtheCOVID-19 pandemic,thankstotheirearlyadoptionoftechnologydrivenengagements.

Lookingforward,Abhimanyuisconsidering integratingAIintoitsservices.Althoughnot immediate,herecognizesthatAIrepresentsthe industry’sfuture,andthecompanymustpreparefor thisinevitabilitytostayaheadinthemarket.He seesthesetechnologicaladvancementsas challengesandopportunitiestoenhancethe company’sofferingsandsecureitsfuturesuccess.

BuildingaLegacy

Abhimanyu’saspirationsforthefuturearedeeply intertwinedwithhisdesireforgrowthand excellence.Currently,hiscompanystandsamong thetopteam-buildingfirmsinIndia,buthehasset hissightshigher “We want to be the number one team-building company in India and then achieve that globally,” heoftenstates,outliningaclear, step-by-stepapproachtodominatingthenational andinternationalmarkets.

Alongsidefinancialgrowth,hehasrecently venturedintotheMICEindustrywithanew company,StepUp,aimingtoelevateittooneof themajorplayersinIndia.Hebelievesthatthe MICEsectorholdssubstantialpotentialandwants StepUptoberecognizedasasignificantforce withinit.Regardingthelegacyhehopestoleave, Abhimanyuispassionateaboutsettinghigh-quality standardsintheindustry.“Whentheytalkabout quality,theyshouldtalkaboutus,”hesays, envisioningafuturewherehiscompany’sname becomessynonymouswithexcellence,eveninhis absencefromactivebusinessengagements.This commitmenttoqualityhasbeenacornerstoneof hiscompany’sreputation,fuelingitsgrowth primarilythroughword-of-mouth,withouttheneed foratraditionalsalesteam.

Heemphasizesexecutionexcellenceasakeydriver ofbusinesssuccess,explaining,“Ifyourexecution isgreat,thenhalfofyoursalesisdoneonthejob itself.”Thisphilosophyhasledtoinitialsalesand repeatbusiness,asclientswhoventureelsewhere oftenreturn,drawnbackbythehighstandardsthey experiencedwithhiscompany.Ultimately, Abhimanyuenvisionsleavingalegacywherehis companysetsabenchmarkinqualitythatothersin theindustrywillaspiretoreach,maintaininga lastingimpactthatcontinuestoinfluencestandards andpracticeslongintothefuture.

Leadership Lesson 101 with Abhimanyu

Abhimanyu has observed distinct differences between being a manager and being a leader, particularly among the new generation of entrepreneurs. He often says, “To be a true leader, you need to work hand in hand with your team rather than just assigning tasks.” This philosophy highlights the importance of active participation and collaboration with team members. He believes many young leaders today are too quick to give up and lack the patience required for true success. “Success does not come overnight. It is a process that slowly and gradually comes into you,” he explains, emphasizing the value of perseverance and steady effort. Abhimanyu sees the essence of leadership in being consistently available and ready to tackle any challenge alongside his team.

For him, the real measure of a leader’s success is their ability to be patient and to experience the journey of achieving goals from the ground up. This approach leads to substantial achievements and ensures genuine satisfaction and happiness. He holds that the most rewarding success is built through direct engagement and shared efforts, providing true fulllment beyond mere professional achievements. “And that’s something which will give you the true essence of success and happiness when you will achieve it from the ground rather than just being there and asking people to work on your behalf,” he concludes.

Did you know Portland is the home to the smallest park in the World? Portland, the city of roses, is known for its green parks, quirky culture, and incredible foods. It promises to be an exciting venue that offers something for each of its visitorsstunning gardens, bike trails, coffee shops, and a bustling market. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, food, or art lover, this city will always captivate you with its natural beauty and urban charm.

In this article, you will learn about the rich and fascinating history of the city, some of its interesting facts, and a brief guide on how to explore the city.

PORTLAND

Located?

Portland, the most populous city in the US state of Oregon is located in the Pacic Northwest region. It sits in the northern part of the state at the conuence of the Willamette and Columbia rivers. Where is

Climate & Best Time to Visit KEY EVENTS You Should Never Miss

InPortland,thesummersareshort, warm,dry,andmostlyclear.This seasonlastsfor2.9monthsfromJune 22toSeptember18withanaverage hightemperatureof76°F Thehottest monthoftheyearinthecityisAugust withanaveragehightemperatureof 83°Fandlowof57°F.

Wintersareverycold,wet,and overcast.Thisseasonlastsfor3.3 months,fromNovember14to February22,withadailyaveragehigh temperaturebelow52°F Thecoldest monthoftheyearinthecityis December,withanaveragelowof 36°Fandahighof45°F.

Thebesttimetovisitthecityisfrom JunetoAugust.Thisisthetimewhen youcangetthefullcityofroses experience,thetemperaturelies between50°Fto80°F.Gardensarein fullbloom,outdoormarketsareabuzz withactivity,andtheentirecitysets outtocelebratevariousevents. However,thecityisamajortourist attractionsothehotel'sseatsfill quickly.Ifyou’replanningtovisit theremakesuretobookyourseatsa coupleofmonthsearlier.

Event Name Month to Visit

PDX Jazz Festival, KidFest

Winter Festival

Waterfront Blues Festival, Oregon Brewer’s Fest, Oregon Zoo Concerts

Pickathon Music Festival

Time-Based Art Festival

Queer Film Festival

Festival of Lights, Holiday Ale Festival

Christmas Ships Parade

September September to October November to December December

Northwest,
International Film Festival
Rose Festival World Naked Bike Ride

&

History Rich Fascinating

Thehistoryofthecitybeganin1843whenbusinesspartnersWilliamOvertonandAsaLovejoyfiledtoclaimlandonthe westernbankofRiverWillametteintheOregonStateof US.In1845,settlersarrivedandthenameofthecitywasgivenby cointossbetweenthesepartners.Lovejoywantedtonamethecityafterhishometown,Boston,whileWilliamwantedtoname itafterhishometown,Portland,Maine.

ItgrewrapidlyduetoitsstrategiclocationonthebanksoftheWillametteandColumbiaRivers.Intheearly20thcenturythe citybecamethemajorportandtheindustrialhubduetoitsrailroadsandeasyaccesstothePacificOcean.Italsogaineda reputationforprogressivepolitics,withinitiativesforurbanplanningandworkingonenvironmentalconservation.

Inthelatterhalfofthe20thcentury,thecitybecameknownforitsvibrantculture,attractingartists,musicians,andactivists. Theybegantoorganizemultipleeventsthatdrawattractionofpeoplefromacrosstheglobe.Today,itisknownforitsthriving foods,crafts,andbeautifulparks.

The Portland food has attracted foodies all across the globe. Chefs and restaurateurs have created a vibrant culinary scene lled with delightful dishes. Here, you can taste traditional food items from a variety of cultures and get a modern touch on your favorites with unique cuisines. The city’s food scene has something for everyone from salty to sweet or fancy to casual. Let’s have a quick look at some of the mouthwatering food items:

Doughnutsaregenerallymadefromflour,sugar,butter,yeast,andeggs withuniquetoppingslikebacon,cereal,orfruits.Chaiismadeofmilk andspiceslikecinnamon,cardamom,andginger.Peopleoftentry Doughnutswithahotcupofchaiforacozypairing.

ItismadeofChickenpieces,flour,buttermilk,andspiceslike(paprikaandgarlicpowder)andis bestenjoyedwhenitishotandcrispy

Themajoringredientsusedinitarepoachedchicken,flavoredrice,andginger-garlicsauce.Toenjoyitstasteyoucan mixthechickenandrice,thendipeachbiteintothesauce.

ItisTortillachipstoppedwithmeltedcheese,jalapenos,beans,salsa,sourcream,andsometimesmeatlike groundbeef.Toenjoyitstastemakesuretodiginyourhandssothatyoucangetabitofeverythingineachbite

Itisasoft,steamedbaobunfilledwithajuicymeatpatty,pickledvegetables,and flavorfulsauces.Ifyouwantitsbettertastemakesuretoholditproperlywithboth handsandtakeabigbitetoexperiencebothtexturesandflavors.

1.DoughnutsandChai
2.FriedChicken
3.KhaoManGai
4.Nachos
5.SteamedBaoBurger

10 Interesting Facts About Portland You Didn’t Know

1.PortlandisthethirdgreenestcityinAmerica.

2.ThePortlandRoseGardenistheoldestpublicrosegardenintheUS. Thereareover10,000rosebushesinthegarden.

3.ItisthehometothesecondlargestcopperstatueintheUS.

4.Thenameofthecitywasdecidedbythecointoss.

5.ItisrankedasthebestcityintheUSforvegansandvegetarians.

6.Ithousesthelargestindependentlyownedbookstoreintheworld.

7.PortlanderscelebratetheWorldNakedBikeRide.

8.ReedCollegeinthecityhasitsownnuclearreactor.

9.Youcanfindabikelaneinthemiddleofthestreetinthecity

10.Thecherriesthatsitatopoficecreamweredevelopedinthiscity.

Tips for Travelers: Complete Guide

1.Transportation:GettingintothecityisquickandeasywithUberorevenbyrailservices.Travelingdestinationsare separatedapartyoumayneedUbertoreachthere.

2.CurrencyandMoney:ThecurrencyinthecityisUSD($).Creditcardsareacceptedeverywherebutmakesuretokeep somecashforurgency

3.StayingLocation:Therearemultiplehotelsavailablewithinwalkingdistanceoftraveldestinations.Thedesignsand amenitiesinthehotelsaregenerallygood.Toenjoythemall,youneedtobookyourseatsinadvance.

4.Safety:Oftenthecityissafe,butitisgoodtobemindfulwhenyou’retravelingespeciallyalone.

5.RentalCars:Ifyou’reaimingtoexploremorecitiesinOregonthenyou’llcertainlyneedarentalcar Therearemultiple pickupanddropoutlocationsavailableyoucanchooseasperyourcomfort.

Conclusion

Portlandoffersavibrantblendofnature,culture,andfoodsthatcaptivatesvisitorsfromallacrosstheglobe.Itoffersan unforgettableexperienceforeveryonewhethertheyarediscoveringthecity’siconicbridges,tryinglocalcuisines,or exploringthelushgardensandparks.Planyournexttriptothisamazingdestination.

5Reasons Why Outsourcing IT SAVES YOUR BUSINESS

Intoday’sbusinessworld,technologyisnon-negotiable,butmanagingit in-housecanquicklybecomeamajordrainonresources.Findingskilled techtalentisachallenge,unexpectedcostsseemtoappearoutofthinair, andyourteamislikelyspendingmoretimetroubleshootingthan innovating.

ManybusinessesarestuckinthisITstruggle,tryingtobalancetechneeds withtheircoregoals.Butthere’sasmartersolution:IToutsourcing.

It’snotjustatrend;it’sastrategicadvantage.Imaginehavingateamof techexpertshandlingtheITheadaches,soyoucanfocusonwhattruly matters–growingyourbusiness.

ThispostwillexplorethetopfivereasonswhyoutsourcingITis becomingthego-tochoiceforbusinessesofallsizes,fromstartupsto establishedcompanies.Whetheryou’relookingtostreamlineoperations orgainacompetitiveedge,outsourcingmightbethekeytounlocking yourbusiness’sfullpotential.

HereAretheTop5ReasonsWhyOutsourcingIT SavesYourBusiness

Reason1:AccesstoExpertise

Imaginehavinganentireteamoftechexpertsatyour fingertips,specializingineverythingfrom cybersecuritytocloudcomputing.Buildingsucha teamin-houseiscostlyandtime-consuming.

OutsourcingITsavesyourbusinessandgivesyou instantaccesstothisexpertise.Doyouneedto strengthenyourcybersecurity,migratetothecloud,or solveacomplextechnicalissue?OutsourcedIT providersandmanagedserviceproviders(MSPs)have youcovered.

Partneringwiththemislikehavingadedicatedtech departmentwithouttheoverhead.Theyoffer everythingfromday-to-daysupporttostrategicIT planning,ensuringyourtechnologyrunssmoothlyso youcanfocusonyourcorebusinessfunctions.

Ifyouwanttolearnmoreaboutmanagedservice providers,checkoutreputableonesinyourarea.It’sa smartwaytoleveragespecializedknowledgeandstay aheadofthetechcurve.

Reason2:CostSavings

Buildinganin-houseITteamisn’tjustexpensive;it’sa financiallabyrinthoflaborcosts,softwarelicenses, hardwareupgrades,andthosepeskyunexpectedcosts thatalwaysseemtopopup.

OutsourcingIToffersarefreshingchange–predictable,transparentpricingmodelsthatcanleadto significantcostsavings.Insteadofjugglingmultiple expenses,youhaveonefixedmonthlyfeeforthetech supportyouneed.It’sliketradinginagas-guzzlerfora fuel-efficientcar:youknowexactlywhatyou’repaying for,andtherearenohiddencoststhatwillsuddenly surpriseyou.

Forexample,asmallmanufacturingcompany strugglingwithitsITneedsfoundthemselves constantlyshellingoutforemergencyrepairsand upgrades.AfterswitchingtoanoutsourcedITprovider, theycuttheirannualITcostsbyawhopping30%. That’smoneytheycouldnowinvestingrowingtheir business,ratherthanjustkeepingthelightson.

Remember,costreductionisn’tjustaboutcostsaving;it’s aboutallocatingyourresourcesmoreeffectively.By outsourcingIT,youfreeupcapitaltoinvestinareasthat directlyimpactyourbottomline,likemarketing,product development,andcustomerservice.

Reason3:EnhancedFocusonCoreBusiness

Intoday’sfast-pacedbusinesslandscape,stayingaheadof thecompetitionrequiresalaserfocusonyourcorebusiness activities.However,theconstantdemandsofITmanagement caneasilydistractyourteamfromwhattrulymatters.

OutsourcingITservicesallowsyoutorefocusyourteam’s energyandexpertiseontheactivitiesthatdriveyour businessstrategyforward,whetherthat’sdeveloping innovativeproducts,deliveringexceptionalcustomerservice, orexpandingintonewmarkets.

WithadedicatedteamofITexpertshandlingthetechnical detailsbehindthescenes,youremployeesarefreetodowhat theydobest.Thisnotonlystreamlinesyouroperationsand boostsproductivitybutalsocreatesamorefocusedand efficientworkenvironment.

OutsourcingITisaninvestmentinyourcompany’score strengths.ByfreeingyourteamfromITburdens,you empowerthemtofocusonachievingyourbusinessgoals.

Reason4:ImprovedSecurity

Cyberthreatsareaconstantandevolvingdangerfor businesses.Fromransomwareattackstophishingscams,the risksareendless.Tryingtostayaheadofthesethreatscan feellikeanever-endingbattle.ButwithoutsourcedIT,you haveateamofcybersecurityexpertsonyourside,constantly monitoringyoursystems,identifyingvulnerabilities,and implementingrobustsecuritymeasures.

Theyunderstandthelatestthreatsandhavethetoolsand expertisetomitigatethem.Thinkofthemasyourdigital bodyguards,protectingyourbusinessfromharm.They’ll helpyoudevelopacomprehensiveriskmanagement strategy,implementbestpracticesfordatasecurity,and ensureyourbusinessispreparedtorespondtoanycyber incident.

It’snotjustaboutpreventingattacks;it’sabouthavingaplan torecoverquicklyifsomethingdoeshappen.Theycan providethebackupanddisasterrecoverysolutionsyouneed tominimizedowntimeandensurebusinesscontinuity,even inthefaceofacyberattack.

Reason5:ScalabilityandFlexibility

YourITneedstodayJulybevastlydifferentfrom yourneedsnextmonth,letalonenextyear.Julybe you’relaunchinganewproduct,expandingintoa newmarket,orexperiencingasuddensurgein customerdemand.

Withanin-houseITteam,scalingupordowncan beamajorheadache.Hiringandtrainingnewstaff takestimeandresources,whiledownsizingcanbea painfulanddisruptiveprocess.

OutsourcingIToffersamuchmoreagilesolution. Youroutsourcedprovidercanquicklyadapttoyour changingneeds,addingorremovingresourcesas necessary.Needmorebandwidthtohandleaspike inwebsitetraffic?Noproblem.Wanttoimplement anewsoftwaresolutionbutdon’thavethein-house expertise?They’vegotyoucovered.

Thinkofitlikehavingaflexibleworkforceforyourtechnology.You canscaleupordownasneeded,withoutthelong-termcommitments andoverheadcostsassociatedwithanin-houseteam.Thiskindof flexibilityisessentialintoday’sfast-pacedbusinessenvironment, wheretheabilitytopivotquicklycanmeanthedifferencebetween successandfailure.

Thissolutionallowsyourbusinesstostaynimbleandresponsive, adaptingtonewopportunitiesandchallengeswithease.It’slike havingabuilt-inshockabsorberforyourtechnology,ensuringthat yourITinfrastructurecanhandlewhatevercomesyourway

Conclusion

Thebottomline?OutsourcingyourITisn’tjustaboutoffloading tasks;it’saboutstrategicallypositioningyourbusinessforgrowth andsuccessinthedigitalage.Ifyou’rereadytounlockthefull potentialofyourbusiness,considerexploringthebenefitsthat outsourcedITcanbring.Itmightjustbethesmartestinvestmentyou makethisyear

FROM CALIFORNIA VIBES TO ALL-

INCLUSIVE GLOBAL FASHION BRAND

Since sustainable and conscious fashion was

introduced in the fashion industry, many brands have taken the initiative to develop conscious fashion lines. While we see a lot of brands complying with this, there have been brands that have been in controversy regarding their nonsustainable products. One of those brands has been Hollister, a fast fashion retail brand that is known for its California vibes. In this article, we will learn more about the retail brand, its history, global presence, and marketing strategies.

TheFictionalBeginning

Hollister,oftenknownasHCo.isaretailbrandownedbyAbercrombie&FitchCo.Itsellsapparel,accessories, andfragrances.ItopeneditsfirststoreonJuly27,2000,attheEastonTownCenterinColumbus,Ohio. Abercrombie&FitchlaunchedHollistertotargetayoungerdemographic,specificallyconsumersaged14-18, withitsSoCal-inspiredimageandcasualwear.Despiteitstargetagegroup,theappealofthebrandextends beyondteenagersandhasgainedpopularityamongawideraudience.

MikeJeffries,theformerCEOofAbercrombie&Fitch,createdafictionalbackgroundstorytoformtheconcept ofHollisterandprovideauniqueatmosphereforitsshoppers.Accordingtothefictionalstory-J.M.Hollister foundedthebrandin1922asaPacificmerchantshopinSouthernCalifornia.Thisfictionalbackstorywas designedtoattractconsumersandcreatealifestylebrandthatconsumerscouldengagewith.

Thebrandquicklygainedpopularityandexpandeditspresenceglobally.By2013,therewere587stores worldwide,generatingovertwobilliondollarsinsales.Thebrand'ssuccesscanbeattributedtoAbercrombie& Fitch'seffectivebrandpenetrationstrategies.

IsHollisterSustainable&Ethical?

Hollisterhasbeeninquestionaboutitsethicalpracticesbecauseofitsfabricchoices.Itusesfabricslikemixed polyester,wool,down,leather,andotheranimal-basedmaterials.Ithasreceivedaratingof‘notgoodenough’in termsofsustainabilityon‘GoodOnYou’,aplatformthatevaluatesbrandsbasedontheirsustainabilitypractices.

Onitswebsite,thebrandhasmentionedthatitpracticessustainability,butthereisnoevidencethatitistaking meaningfulaction.Neithertoreduceoreliminatehazardouschemicalsinitsmanufacturingprocessesnortoprotect biodiversityinitssupplychain.Itreceivedalowratingfromexpertsforitslackofsupplychaintransparencyand useofsustainablematerials.Peoplehavecriticizedthebrandfornotbeingtransparentaboutworkingconditionsin itssupplychain.

Itfallsshortwhenitcomestotakingcareofitsworkers.Noneofitssupplychainiscertifiedtoensureworkerhealth, safety,andlaborrights.Accordingtothe2023FashionTransparencyIndex,Hollisterreceivedascoreof31-40%, whichisaslightimprovementfrombefore,butthere'sstillalongwaytogo.There'snoproofthatthebrand promotesdiversityandinclusioninitssupplychain.Italsousesfewlower-impactmaterials,andwhileitaimsto source25%ofitscottonsustainablyby2025,thisisstillasmallpercentageofitsoverallcottonusage.Despitethis, thebrandhasshownintentionsofintroducingmoresustainablematerials.

Hollister

Challenges Faced by Hollister

Hollister has faced several challenges, be it legal issues or controversies. Here are some challenges the brand went through.

The Trademark Battle

An article from the Los Angeles Times in April 2009 mentioned that Abercrombie & Fitch issued threats to the people of Hollister, California, who wanted to use the name "Hollister" on their clothing. It also shared a story from 2006 when Stacey Crummett, the CEO of Rag City Blues, added the word "Hollister" to the label of her vintage blue jeans. When Crummett applied to register this trademark, Abercrombie & Fitch's lawyers sent her a letter claiming she was infringing on their trademark and threatened to sue her. As a result, Crummett withdrew her application.

Morrisvs.Abercrombie&FitchCo.

In2007,therewasalawsuitcalledMorrisvs.Abercrombie&FitchCo.,anditwaseventuallysettled.Abercrombie&Fitch Co.admittedthattheymadeamistakebyaskingtheircustomersinCaliforniaforpersonalidentificationinformationwhen theyweregettingrefundsusingtheircreditcards.CustomerswhowereaskedforthisinformationbetweenJuly9,2005,and May31,2007,wereeligibletoreceivegiftcardsascompensation.Sincethesettlement,Abercrombie&FitchCo.stores havestoppedaskingforthisinformationwhencustomersreturnitemstheyboughtwithacreditcard.

WheelchairAccessibility

InAugust2011,ajudgenamedWileyDanielruledthattwoHollisterstoresinColoradowerenotfollowingtheAmericans withDisabilitiesAct(ADA).Thiswasbecausethestoreshadentranceswithsteps,makingitdifficultforcustomersin wheelchairstoenter.Instead,theyhadtouseautomaticsidedoors.Thecaseexpandedintoanationwideclass-actionlawsuit in2012.InMarch2013,JudgeDanielruledinfavorofthepeoplewhofiledthelawsuit.Hefoundthatoutof483stores acrossthecountry,248ofthemhadentrancesthatviolatedtheADA.Itcametolightthatallofthesestoreswerebuiltafter theADAwasestablished.InAugust2013,ajudgeinColoradoruledthatHollisterCo.anditsparentcompany,Abercrombie &Fitch,hadtoredesign248storeswiththe"porchentrance"tomakethemwheelchairaccessible.

Religious Discrimination Claims

A&Ffacedchargesofdiscriminationagainstan employeeataHollisterCo.storeinCalifornia.The employeeclaimedthattheywerecriticizedforwearing ahijabwhileworkingthere.Theemployeehadworn thehijabduringtheinterviewandwashiredthatway Duringtheconversation,theinterviewermentionedthat thehijabcouldonlybewornincertaincolors,likegray, navy,andwhite.However,aDistrictManagerlatertold theemployeetoremovethehijabwhileworking.

OnFebruary23,theCouncilonAmerican-IslamicRelations filedacomplaintagainstAbercrombie&Fitchwiththe federalEqualEmploymentOpportunityCommission.This wasnotthefirsttimeA&Ffacedsuchacomplaint.They hadreceivedasimilarcomplaintinSeptember2009, involvingasimilarcircumstanceinOklahoma.

MarketingStrategiesForSuccess

Hollisterisknownforitslaid-back,California-inspiredstyle andstrongmarketingstrategiesthathelpeditreachsuccess. Hereareafewstrategiesitincorporatedtomakeaglobal name.

FocusedTargetAudienceReach

ThetargetaudienceofHollisterprimarilyconsistsof teenagersandyoungadultswhoareinterestedinsurfing, skateboarding,andotheroutdooractivities.Itsfashionline appealstothetargetcustomer’sloveforcasual, comfortable,andfunctionalattire.Toeffectivelyreachand connectwithitsintendedaudience,thebrandusesdifferent marketingstrategies.

Itpartnerswithpopularsocialmediainfluencersand supportseventsandactivitiesthatmatchtheirbrandimage. Thiscreatesexcitementaroundthebrandandgivesvaluable insightsintowhatcustomerslike.Recently,thebrandmade changestobecomemoreinclusive.Theyintroducedaplussizerangeandexpandedtheirsizeoptionsforbothmenand women.

SocialMediaMarketing

Hollisterusessocialmediaalottoengagewithits customers.TheyhaveaccountsonInstagram,Facebook, Snapchat,Twitter,TikTok,LinkedIn,andGlassdoortoreach awiderangeofpeople.Itpostsshortvideoseverydayto keepupwiththelatesttrendsonsocialmediaandhasrealtimeconversationswithitsfollowers.Thishelpsthebrand connectwithdifferenttypesofpeoplewhohavedifferent interests.

Oneimportantpartofitssocialmediastrategyisworking withinfluencers.Theyformlong-termpartnershipswith popularcontentcreatorsliketheD'Ameliosisterson TikTok.Thishelpsincreasethebrand'svisibilityandbuild trust,especiallyamonghighschoolstudentswhoarethe maintargetaudienceforHollister.

ExperimentalMarketing

Thebrandbelievesincreatingmemorableand engagingexperiencesforitsaudiencethrough experientialmarketing.Itsmainaimistotransport customersintotheCalifornialifestyle,givingthema tasteoftheWestCoast.Itsstoresaredesignedto resemblecozybeachhouses,completewithwooden boardwalks,beach-themeddecorations,andeven lifeguardstands.Thebrandalsoorganizesin-store eventslikeconcerts,movienights,andsurfboard demonstrations.

Toenhancetheshoppingexperience,ithasalso introducedaugmentedreality(AR)features.This allowscustomerstovirtuallytryclothesonandsee howtheywouldlookindifferentsettings.Theyhave alsoimplementedinteractivefittingrooms,where customerscanrequestdifferentsizesandcolorsof clotheswithoutleavingthedressingroom.

RetailPartnerships

Hollisterhasformedasignificantpartnershipwith GillyHicks,asubsidiaryofAbercrombie&Fitch.This collaborationallowsthebrandtoofferawiderrangeof productsandreachalargeraudiencebysharinga brandidentity Tomaintainastrongconnectionwithits targetaudience,ithasestablishedthe‘HollisterCreator Collective’.Thiscollectiveconsistsofmanymid-sized influencerswhocollaboratewiththebrandthroughout theyear.Byworkingwithadiversegroupof influencers,itensuresaconsistentpresenceand connectionwithitsaudience.

LatestSalesRevenue

In2023,Hollistermadeanetsaleofovertwobillion U.S.dollars.AfteritsrebrandingandaTikTok campaign,ithasseenagrowthinitsin-storetrafficand revenue.InFebruaryandMarch,itsengagementrates weremorethan136%highercomparedtothesummer of2022,reachingall-timehighs.Inthefourthquarter oflastyear,itssalesgrewby9%,reaching$698 million.Thismarksthethirdconsecutivequarterof growthforthebrandandshowsthattheyare successfullyreconnectingwiththeirteenage customers.

Exploring the Glory that We Lost with Time

Imagine standing on a porch on a bright, warm afternoon. The sky is full of pink and blue hues. The sun shines over your head. The fresh breeze has taken over the city. A long wooden cart patiently awaits the owner. The day is an ethereal brilliance.

I stepped into the cart with a journal in my hand. I had embarked on a new road, exploring the places- that wanted to share their stories with me. Places that are long lost in the world with the wheel of time.

What happened to them? What tales did they hide? Did they face a deadly war? Did they fail the test of time? Why were they built? I have a million questions in my mind, with an urge to nd their answers. I ordered the cart to go back in time.

Oldest Construction in the World that will Awe-Struck You: GOBEKLI TEPE

GobekliTepeisanarchaeologicalmysterylocatedsixmiles fromtheancientcityofUrfainsoutheasternTurkey.Klaus Schmidt,aGermanarchaeologistfromthe1990s, discoveredthissite.ThissitepredatesStonehengeby6,000 years.

PopularlyknownastheBellyHillinTurkish,GobekliTepe islocatedinUpperMesopotamia.Thesitestandsasa witnesstothebirthoffarmingcommunities.Itportraysa pictureofritualsandsocialrelationshipsofprehistoric hunter-gatherergroups.

GobekliTepeisaman-mademonumentalarchitecturethat holdsuniqueT-shapedpillarsthatriseto5.50meters.The pillarsarecarvedwithvarioushumanandwildanimalsthat resemblemodern-daylions,foxes,bulls,andscorpions, witnessingproofofitsrichsymboliclanguage.Thesiteis

carvedoutoflimestoneandoffersaglimpseintothe distantpastofhumancivilization.Youmayask,what makesthissiterare?

GobekliTepe’smonumentalstructureschallengetheageoldnarrativesofearlyhumansocietaldevelopment.This sitewasbuiltintheprehistoricperiodbypeople-devoid ofmetaltoolsorpottery.Itcomprises20circlesof toweringstonepillarseach,weighingupto20tons.The structuresservedforsocialgatheringsandceremonies.

Schmidt,whohasexperienceinresearchformorethana decadeatthesite,isconvincedthatthesiterepresentsthe world’soldestgroupsoftemples.Hehintsthatthis templemightbethedawnoforganizedreligiousand communalpracticesandtheoldestconstructioninthe world.

Megalithic temples of Malta

TheMegalithictemplesofMaltastandamongoneof theearlieststonebuildingsworldwideanddatebackto the4thand3rdcenturyB.C.Somehistoriansassume thistempletobetheoldestconstructionintheworld.

Theirentrancesleadthespectatortopavedcourts.We seesemi-circularchambersthatareknownasapsesin theinteriors.Thetemplesareconstructedwithlocal limestoneandshowremarkablecraftsmanship.They consistofdetaileddecorationofdrilledholesandpanels thatdisplayvariouspatterns.

TheislandsofMaltaandGozoarebuiltoutof7ancient megalithictemples.Eachofthemhasauniquehistory andsignificance.ThetemplesinMaltaliketheHagar Qim,Mnajdra,andTarxienshowitsrichtemplebuildingheritagetotheworld.Itisindeedfascinatingto knowhowthesetempleswerebuiltwithoutany modern-daytools.Thishighlightsthetalentandskillof thebuilders.

Thetempleisproofthatsocietyalwaysfollowedritual practices,evidenceofMalta’srichcultureandglory Maltaisoneofthemostbeautifulandoldest constructionsintheworld.

Uruk

Uruk,popularlyknownasthebirthplaceofwriting,isanancientcityintheoldMesopotamia.Itholdsacrucialplacein historyforitscountlesscontributionstohumancivilization.Urukachievedpopularityinitseraforitslegendaryruler “Gilgamesh”.Hewasknownforreachingseveralessentialmilestonesinthedevelopmentofhumansocietyalongwitha questforeternallife.

Urukgrewinstrengthinthemodern-dayWarqa.ThisoldconstructionwasdiscoveredbyKingEnmerkarin4500BCE.The city’sculturallegacystandsfarbeyonditsarchitecture.Buriedforcenturies,itwasrediscoveredin1853byWilliamLoftus. Urukhaslayersofhistorywaitingtounfold.Itistheworld’sfirsttruecity,averywell-knowncivilization.

The Knap of Howar

TheKnapofHowarislocatedonPapaWestrayIslandin Orkney,Scotland.ThenameoriginatesfromtheNorse language,whichmeans‘MoundsofMounds.’Thesiteholds asignificantplaceasitisoneoftheoldestconstructionsin theworld.Researchershavefoundproofofearlyhuman habitationandagriculturaldevelopmentthrough archeologicalexcavation.Theresearchfromthissitecould leadustoourrichpast.

TheKnapofHowarshowsaglimpseintoancienthistory

ThisNeolithicsitedatesbackto3700-3500BCE.Itisthe mostancientstonehouseinnorthernEurope.Thesitehas shownsignificantpreservationandarchitecturaltalent.The Knapconsistsoftwoadjacentbuildingsconnectedbya passage.House1hasstrongstonepartitions,ahearth,anda cupboard,assumingitwasastoragehouse.

Tumulus of Bougon

TheTumulusofBougonispartofaserenelandnamedBougon,locatedinwesternFrance.

TheTumulusisapowerfulrepresentationofcreativity,innovation,andculturalpride.Itisbuiltupoflargeearthlyorstone burialmounds.Theimpressivebarrowswereconstructedbetween4700and3500B.C.andbelongtotheNeolithicperiod. TheTumulusrepresentssomeoftheearliestexamplesofmegalithicarchitecturealongtheeasterncoastofFrance.Thissite isconsideredtheoldestconstructionintheworld,especiallyinFrance.

Thetombhasacomplexstructureandisbuiltoffivetombs,eachwithadifferentarchitecturalstyle.Theexcavationofthe sitehasbroughtupvarioustreasures,including220skeletonsandotherarticlesinthegrave.Thesegravesthrowlightonthe ancientburialpracticesandrituals.

EXPLORING THE OLDEST CONSTRUCTION IN THE WORLD:

Thesewerethefirstfewpagesofmyjournalthatrevealedthepagesofhumanwonderstotheworld.Morepagesarewaiting tobediscovered.Ourlandsarefullofunspokencitiesandunknowntales.Eachoftheselocationsiswaitingtobeuncovered byus.Thedeepoceans,wideskies,andmysticlands-allwithdifferentstoriestotell.Areyoureadytohearone?

Theworldisfullofwondersandexquisiteexperiences.Areyoureadytowriteyourjournal?

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