Between Meetings

Cyril Drouin, CEO at Beyond. Digital and eCommerce Entrepreneur

• Marian Danko • Season 3 • Episode 8

We discussed Cyril's background and experiences as an entrepreneur, the changes and developments in eCommerce in recent years, the use of key opinion leaders (KOLs) in marketing, and the challenges Chinese brands face when expanding globally, among other related topics. 

Takeaways:

  • I started in China because it was cheap
  • Admin part of the entrepreneurship journey never bothers me
  • In terms of the business model you need to follow market trends
  • It is not easy for brands to make money on eCommerce
  • It is getting almost too expensive to have a good ROI on the platforms
  • I believe offline retail is coming back to the game
  • eCommerce has not killed offline retail, eCommerce has changed offline retail
  • Chinese shoppers are more and more loyal to brands
  • China market entry is expensive
  • The travel retail business moved from airports to Hainan

Cyril has 20 years of experience in digital, eCommerce, IT, and marketing from a background in leading 4A agencies. He has supported global clients from top MNCs in FMCG, luxury, beauty & skincare, home appliances, and pharmaceutical/cosmeceutical categories, utilizing digital solutions and innovations to drive omni-commerce and customer connection, resulting in acceleration of growth for clients.

Between Meetings is a series of on-the-go interviews featuring industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and corporate innovators. In these interviews, we delve into the latest trends and developments in innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, catching our guests between meetings in a car ride across town. Along the way, they share inspiring stories, personal experiences, industry insights, and practical advice on how to scale your way to success. Each interview is packed with valuable information and inspiration for anyone looking to make an impact in the tech and innovation world.

🎙 Follow the host Marian Danko on LinkedIn.

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