Belgian economic mission in the USA
At the beginning of June, our CEO Thomas Vanderbeke had the pleasure of taking part in the Belgian economic mission to the USA, along with 540 other Belgian entrepreneurs, academics and politicians. The mission was led by Princess Astrid. She did this with the required royal class, something that really makes an impression over in the States. Thomas Vanderbeke tells us all about it:
This mission covered three major cities: Atlanta, New York and Boston. My focus was on Atlanta and New York. A mission like this is a time not only to get to know a country and a market from close range, but also to put the Bekina business group in the spotlight in the Belgian media. It’s the ultimate networking opportunity too.
All in all I was able to meet more than 100 delegation members. You get the opportunity to share insights on the market, practices, obstacles and opportunities. But also to get to know sectors and people that we don't have a lot of contact with, such as rectors and deans at colleges and universities, CEOs of multinationals, expats from Belgian companies and researchers in biotech, fintech and medtech. In short, a great opportunity to align with lots of like-minded people.
In New York and the surrounding area I met with 15 farmers and fishers who wear boots every day. Hearing first-hand how they get on with their current boots (often made in China) and where we can make a difference with Bekina Boots was really energising for me.
The mission exceeded all expectations and was definitely worth repeating.
Thomas Vanderbeke
