On 19 July, AustCham Shanghai, in partnership with SwissCham Shanghai and BritCham Shanghai, hosted a Factory Tour in Songjiang District, Shanghai.
The event included an insightful visit to the factory of AustCham Shanghai Platinum Member BlueScope and SwissCham Shanghai member BOBST. At the knowledge-sharing session, BritCham Shanghai member Johnson Matthey shared insights on their innovative work in developing cutting-edge technologies that catalysed the net zero transition.
The tour was a fantastic opportunity for participants to gain firsthand insights into the manufacturing processes and industrial landscape. This event received strong support from Invest Songjiang.
The day began with a visit to the Butler Factory, a business group of BlueScope. Greg Pasley, President of BlueScope China, and Johnny Liu, President of Butler China, and Simon Woods, CEO of AustCham Shanghai, warmly welcomed the attendees.
This factory tour provided attendees with a unique opportunity to gain firsthand insights into BlueScope’s advanced manufacturing processes and innovations. The visit also allowed participants to better understand the capabilities and technological advancements that Butler brings to the construction and building solutions industry.
Following the factory tour, Kerry Yu, VP HSEQ of BlueScope China, introduced the company’s safety roadmap and strategy, emphasising the integration of Human and Organisational Performance (HOP) principles.
Chen Chao, Director of the Songjiang Commission of Economy and Songjiang Commission of Commerce, provided an insightful introduction to the business environment in Songjiang. He highlighted the region’s strategic advantages, including its robust infrastructure, supportive policies, and thriving industrial base, which make it an attractive destination for businesses. Chen Chao discussed the region’s commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability, ensuring that Songjiang remains a competitive and dynamic hub for industrial growth.
At noon, organised by Invest Songjiang, the group went to a beautiful restaurant for lunch. Chen Rong, Deputy Mayor of Songjiang District, delivered a warm welcome speech to the guests. During the meal, everyone engaged in active and enthusiastic discussions, creating a lively atmosphere. This lunch allowed the team to enjoy Songjiang’s cuisine and deepen their understanding and willingness to cooperate with each other.
In the afternoon, the group embarked on another factory visit, this time to the BOBST factory. BOBST is a member of SwissCham Shanghai and a leading global supplier of equipment and services to the packaging and label industries. Attendees gained valuable insights into BOBST’s advanced processes, innovative solutions, and the company’s commitment to quality and efficiency in producing state-of-the-art packaging equipment.
Following the factory, Gaspard Lemoine-Scelles, BD Director APAC of TERAO, shared insights on the importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives in modern business practices. He emphasised that ESG is crucial for sustainable growth, as it helps companies manage risks, drive innovation, and improve operational efficiency. Gaspard highlighted that businesses integrating ESG principles are better positioned to meet regulatory requirements, attract investment, and enhance their brand reputation.
Linky Lai, China Corporate Affairs Director of Johnson Matthey discussed Johnson Matthey’s innovative work in developing cutting-edge technologies that catalysing the net zero transition. Johnson Matthey is a member of BritCham Shanghai. Founded in 1817, Johnson Matthey uses their advanced metals chemistry expertise and technology solutions to enable the world’s leading energy, chemicals and automotive companies to decarbonise and reduce harmful emissions.
Linky emphasised the growing importance of green technologies in achieving sustainable net-zero goals, showcasing Johnson Matthey’s contributions to this field through advanced Catalyst Technology and Hydrogen Businesses. These technologies are not only critical for environmental sustainability but also for driving future energy innovations. Linky encourages younger staff to continuously update industry knowledge, business insights, innovations, collaborations, and flexibilities when facing challenges and opportunities.
In conclusion, the event co-organised by AustCham Shanghai’s Manufacturing, Sourcing, and Supply Chain Industry Forum, SwissCham Shanghai and BritCham Shanghai, was a resounding success.
The combination of factory tours and keynote speeches facilitated knowledge sharing, the exploration of new avenues for cooperation, and the strengthening of ties within the manufacturing and supply chain sectors. This event undoubtedly played a pivotal role in fostering growth and innovation in the industry while creating new opportunities for collaboration among participants.
