Presentation to the US-South Africa Women's Business Forum on the doing business in the Chicago area by Dan Seals, Asst. Dir., Office of Trade and Investment, State of Illinois, October 24, 2011
Moradia Isolada com Logradouro; Detached house with patio in Penacova
The Business Environment in Chicago
1. ‘ Building Bridges through Women Empowerment’ The United States-South Africa Women’s Business Forum October 24, 2011 Richard Paullin Executive Director The International Trade Association of Greater Chicago
5. Regional Diversity: U n d e r s t a n d Y o u r T a r g e t M a r k e t Midwest West Southwest South Northeast
6. USSAWBF DIALOG The USSAWBF will serve as a springboard for increased economic empowerment of businesswomen in South Africa…faciltation of business relationships between South African and American businesswomen will be emphasized. Amb. Nomvume P. Magaqa Consul General
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9. ‘ Building Bridges through Women Empowerment’ The United States-South Africa Women’s Business Forum October 24, 2011 Richard Paullin Executive Director The International Trade Association of Greater Chicago [email_address]
Editor's Notes
$528 billion economy, with 2/3 of US national GDP located within 250 miles of Chicago. Home to a wide variety of industry leaders, including major manufacturers, engineering firms and consultants. A vibrant academic community focused on supporting the local economy
Tremendous regional diversity within the U.S. and within the regions Outside of Chicago, there is a state called Illinois: an agricultural powerhouse on the world stage
So…what’s an old white guy doing, standing here in this forum? Well, as it turns out, not only do I support your cause, but I actually understand something about what all businesses need to understand when they enter new markets, new partnerships, new strategic relationships. Our South African delegates are indeed a diverse group, themselves, seeking (I suspect) everything from strategic investment partners for projects at home as well as new export markets to technical assistance and joint-venture partners. Product localization: examples – McDonald’s & KFC; yards vs. meters; labeling requirements for food & pharma products Market Segmentation: think Target vs. Yves St. Laurent. U.S. is one of the most highly segmented & sophisticated consumer markets in the world Distribution channels – how does your product get to market? Through distributors? Pick ‘n Pack (drop ship)?
