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How can MNCs thrive in China's evolving market reality?

Join us for "Thriving in China's New Reality: How MNCs Can Localize, Link, and Lead", a high-level forum hosted by Ingka Centres and co-organized by FinnCham China -Shanghai and other Nordic chambers including SwedCham and DCCC.


China's commercial landscape is undergoing rapid transformation—defined by slower macro growth, rising consumer expectations, fragmented platforms, and intensifying local competition. This forum brings together senior leaders, industry experts, and strategic partners to exchange insights on how multinational companies can localize with greater relevance, link more meaningfully with consumers and communities, and lead with clarity and purpose in this complex environment.


As part of the conversation, we'll also explore the evolving role of physical meeting places—how human-centered spaces can help build trust, strengthen brand connection, and support omnichannel growth in a changing world.


Expect sharp perspectives, practical strategies, and valuable connections with peers navigating similar challenges in China.


Date

Thursday, 28 August, 2025


Time

14:30 - 18:00 at Beijing Time - (Check in starts at 14:00)


Price

Member: RMB 200


Language

English


Venue

Livat Lounge, Unit 402 of Livat Office Tower D

No.788, Jinzhong Road, Changning District, Shanghai


Cancellation Policy:

If you cannot attend an event for which you have registered, please cancel your registration no later than three business day prior to the event via WeChat or sending email to fang.sunjie@finnchamchina.org. If you fail to notify us of your cancellation in a timely fashion, you will be charged for the event costs.


Fapiao Issue:

Apply fapiao when purchasing a ticket, by inputting the Chinese entity name and tax ID (if the title is wrong, you will be unable to receive the Fapiao). E-Fapiao will be sent to your e-mail within 7 days after completed event (check spam folder).


Please note:

FinnCham will take photographs from the event and might post these on its public webpage and or social media platforms in order to create awareness of its events. By attending this event you consent to FinnCham Shanghai taking and using photographs of you as described above. Please contact: fang.sunjie@finnchamchina.org if you don't want to appear in the pictures or any other inquiries related to this matter. Meanwhile, commercial reprinting of these photos require written consent from the FinnCham Shanghai.

Agenda

2

00PM

-

2

30PM

2

35PM

-

2

55PM

Keynote 1: From footfall to heart fall: the evolution of the Ingka Centres model in China

Speaker: Joyce Zhu, President, Ingka Centres China
Key Message: Ingka Centres is redefining retail: from places of purchase to places of presence.

2

55PM

-

3

30PM

Panel discussion session 1

Reading the Shifts: Market Trends from Macro to Micro

Panelist:
1. Ann-Sophie Isaksson, Strategy & Insight Manager, Ingka Centres
2. Jason Yuan, Strategy & Development Director, BUY QUICKLY
3. Zino Helmlinger, Executive Director, Retail, CBRE
4. Moderator: Malin Hammarén, General Manager, SwedCham China

Intro: As China's commercial landscape continues to shift, it is essential for multinational companies to stay aware of both the broader market trends and the subtle shifts happening on the ground. This opening panel will explore key macro trends—such as economic restructuring, consumption shifts, and policy signals—as well as how these translate into micro-level implications for retail, brand engagement, and operational strategy.

We invite our panelists to share their observations and reflections on the most relevant developments shaping the market today. From changes in consumer behavior to the evolution of physical and digital touchpoints, this session aims to provide a multi-layered understanding of where the market is heading—and what it means for multinational companies operating in China.

3

30PM

-

3

45PM

3

45PM

-

4

25PM

Keynote: How multinational can compete in China

Speaker: Jacob Johansen, Principal at PwC Strategy & Author 'From Customer to User'
5-10 concrete examples of what MNCs can do to regain competitiveness in China.

4

25PM

-

5

00PM

Panel discussion session 2

Redefining the Fit: From Global Playbook to Local Innovation

Panelists
1. Meina Li, Senior Director of Commercial Greater China, On Running
2. Hui Chen, Managing Director of Supply Area East Asia, Inter IKEA Group
3. Jerry Who, CEO, Haglöfs China
4. Kelly Zhou, Head of Marketing, Nespresso
5. Moderator: Jacqueline Xiao, Leasing Vice President, Ingka Centers China



Intro: In an increasingly complex and competitive market, localization is no longer just about surface-level adaptation—it requires bold decisions, creative thinking, and a deep understanding of local needs.

In this panel, we invite our panelists to share the significant shift or innovative solution they've made to become more relevant in China. Whether it's rethinking product offerings, adjusting pricing strategies, redesigning retail formats, or reshaping brand storytelling, each example offers a window into how global players are evolving to fit the local context.

This session highlights not only what changed, but why it mattered, offering actionable inspiration for others navigating the same path.

Tickets

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