Hermann Simon on Global Economy, Inflation and Germany's Hidden Champions

Описание: This week on The Melting Pot we welcomed back a special guest. We're diving into today’s international economic landscape, and the critical debates surrounding Germany's own industrial landscape with none other than the renowned pricing expert and consultant, Hermann Simon.

As ever, Simon leaves us with an extremely insightful episode where he explores the provocative argument for Germany's deindustrialisation, the challenges and strategies for managing automation, and the intriguing concept of hidden champions—those mid-sized market leaders in niche sectors that silently dominate the global stage. He examines Germany's rich history of entrepreneurial internationalisation and technological innovation (both fundamental pillars in the DNA of German entrepreneurs), as Hermann shares insights on everything from the inner workings of seed-sorting machines to autonomous driving achievements.

During their conversation, Simon and Dominic discuss the complexities of immigration, the need for skilled talent, and Simon's perspective on the essential balance for effective integration. Plus, insights into pricing strategies amid inflation, the significance of education and vocational training in shaping a skilled workforce, and a glimpse at the future role of AI and raw materials in industries like automotive.

To top it off, Hermann imparts his wisdom on staying optimistic amid a global economy peppered with uncertainties but also ripe with opportunities. So, gear up for a thought-provoking journey through the economic, technological, and social realities that shape our world.

What's on:
04:40 – Inflation Expectations For 2024-25

07:45 – Inflation Implications For Businesses Pricing Strategy

09:56 – The Shift In Consumer Habits and Willingness To Pay

10:57 – Where Are We Now In The Economic Cycle?

14:13 – The Impact of Pricing Pressure from AI

17:01 – The Impact of Unpredictable Raw Material Prices in Electric Cars Production

19:39 – The Difference Between Germany and UK’s Economy

23:23 – Re-industrialisation and Low Unemployment Rate: A Trend or a Blip?

24:48 – Why Intel Chose Eastern Germany For Their Chip Factory

25:56 – Germany’s Concern Over Immigration And Rising Right-wing

29:06 – The Definition Of Hidden Champions And Why Nobody Knows Them

31:47 – The DNA of German Entrepreneurs

32:22 – An Extreme Case of Technical Competency: ASML in the Netherlands

36:22 – The New Wave Of Germany’s Many Hidden Champions

37:22 – Uber’s Success And Standard-setting In Digitalisation

38:45 – Examples of B2B Processes in Tech

40:58 – What Can Governments Do To Promote Hidden Champions

43:10 – Two-day Worker Training in BYD Factory In China

44:05 – Book Recommendations

46:25 – Final Advice For Parents and Businesses


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