Adhering to the core value of “innovation changes the world”, shaping the thinking, ability and pattern of technology and innovation management leaders and training future strategic entrepreneurs with a global vision, the ECNU- Shanghai International School of Chief Technology Officer and the Asia Europe Business School (Sci&Tech-Driven-Business Consortium) organized a seven-day French study visiting program with the theme of "Science, Technology and Humanities". The students flew from Shanghai to Paris, the fashion capital of Europe, and Lyon, the historical city in France, to visit the global well-known enterprises (such as Sothys, Bernarduad, Chanel M19 Workshop, and etc.), engage in conversations with industry management professionals, listen to lectures from professors, experts from prestigious schools such as Lyon Business School in France, and experience the urban scenery and cultural heritages of Paris and Lyon.This study visiting program has attracted enthusiastic registration and participation from MEM students of CTO School, and students from various majors of Asia Europe Business School, as well as ECNU- MBA students. Now, let's take a look at the exciting journey of the visiting study group!
On the morning of November 13th, the visiting group were invited to participate in the "2023 Paris Dialogue of the China-Europe-America Think Tank Cooperation Forum” hosted by the Emlyon Business School in France. The theme of this dialogue is Strengthening Civilization Exchange and Mutual Learning, Promoting Peace and Sustainable Development, while commemorating the upcoming 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France.
The dialogue invited important figures from various countries and fields around the world, including Mr. Dawei Gosset, founder of the China-Europe-America Global Initiative, Mr. Laurent Fabius, former French Prime Minister and Chairman of the Constitutional Committee, Ms. Fu Ying, former Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of China and former Ambassador to the UK, and Ms. Isabelle Huault, President of the Emlyon Business School in France. Participants engaged in dialogues around themes such as Beijing-Paris Olympic Dialogue: Promoting Olympic Spirit, Talking Together on Global Governance； Global Security and Development: Youth in Action； Respecting World Civilization Diversity； Promoting Civilization Inclusion and Mutual Learning； Civilization Dialogue and Economic Cooperation, and Drawing a New Vision for Modernization.
Enterprises Visiting
In the 21st century, the rapid development of technology has helped society to progress, but it has also led to a degree of ecological imbalance. To strike a balance between technological development and the preservation of nature, it is essential to promote sustainable development..
France is renowned for its expertise in technology, sustainable development and crafts. The students as guest-journalists for the magazine Airs de Paris, they had the opportunity to meet French companies and experts. These encounters enabled them to engage in an interdisciplinary and intercultural exploration.
Sothys , a responsible cosmetics brand
Sothys is a historic family business that embodies excellence. Its dynamism is based on its ability to remain true to itself while providing new solutions in the ever-changing world of beauty.
The students met Stéphanie DUCHAXEL, the International Director of Sothys, and Florent Mas, the Director of Research and Development. Stéphanie and Florent explained Sothys’ know-how to them.The Sothys concept is based on a responsible approach to beauty, respectful of the skin and the environment. The brand favours the use of recyclable materials and is committed to using cardboard and paper from sustainably managed forests. Packaging is also lightened.Research and development are at the heart of Sothys’ priorities. The SOREDEC laboratory, made up of a team of 25 biochemists, pharmacists and beauticians, plays an essential role in the brand’s scientific innovation. Every year, Sothys offers an average of 35 new skincare formulas and 15 new make-up products. Each Sothys formula combines the inspiration of nature with the rigour of science.
Bernardaud: Innovation and know-how
For 160 years, Bernardaud has been identified with Limoges porcelain and has become a world-renowned player in the decorative arts and French luxury goods. Jing HUANG, Communications Coordinator for China at Bernardaud, invited the group on a journey to discover the manufactory’s creations.The company works with top chefs from all over the world to reinvent porcelain for the culinary arts. Bernardaud also showcases the work of contemporary artists through exhibitions organised by the Bernardaud Foundation. The Bernardaud collections bear witness to the ability of this refined material to constantly reinvent itself with modernity and boldness.Designers and artists are inspired by Bernardaud porcelain, which leads them into unexplored territory. Each service, jewel, piece of furniture, lighting fixture or object signed Bernardaud brings a touch of simple luxury to everyday life and demonstrates that, even after two thousand years, porcelain remains an exception.
Bernardaud perpetuates and diversifies its know-how, taking care to safeguard French heritage while reinventing porcelain. The factory combines craftsmanship, industry and art in its activity.In a field where marketing strategy is often predominant, Bernardaud remains true to its philosophy by following the zeitgeist, trusting its intuitions, asserting its choices and asserting its favourites. For Bernardaud, true audacity means being yourself.
Urban planning and sustainable development
The former Renault factory in Boulogne-Billancourt has been successfully transformed into an exemplary eco-district called Trapèze. This urban project highlights the way in which an industrial site can be renewed by placing people at the heart of the project, thanks to high-quality contemporary architecture by famous names such as Jean Nouvel and Norman Foster.The visiting group was welcomed by Natalia Prikhodko and Rubino Valentina, cultural project managers, who guided them on a tour of the site. This visit enabled them to discover the quality of the district’s development. They were able to appreciate this exemplary urban project for the sustainable renewal of an industrial site.
By favouring a block-by-block approach rather than isolated buildings, the Trapèze has succeeded in creating high-quality living spaces that encourage a social mix, exchanges and social ties.
Thanks to its environmental ambitions, illustrated by a successful balance between housing, offices, shops and green spaces, and its recognition by the EcoQuartier label, Trapèze demonstrates that it is possible to reconcile economic development, social progress and the preservation of nature in a sustainable development perspective. It is an outstanding example of urban development that meets the challenges of the 21st century.
Meeting: Chanel M19workshop x Enzo
During the visit, the group met up with Enzo and enjoyed a lively discussion. Enzo, a graduate of the renowned Esmod school, shared his career path. After working for Louis Vuitton, he decided to turn to craftsmanship and created his own brand, Alphega Malletier.
By exchanging their points of view, they quickly realised that there was a significant cultural difference in the way luxury is perceived in these two countries. In China, luxury is often associated with prestigious brands and internationally renowned products. In France, however, luxury is more closely linked to craftsmanship and the quality of traditional materials and skills.
This cultural difference has given rise to some interesting reflections on how the two countries approach and value luxury. The group also became aware of the importance of the craftsman’s profession in preserving traditions and craft techniques. Enzo shared his experience as a craftsman.
This discussion enabled the group to broaden their perspective on luxury and craftsmanship, with a better understanding of different cultural approaches. They came away from the meeting with a greater appreciation of the diversity of craft skills, as well as a reflection on how these skills can be preserved and enhanced in a globalised world.
