Business
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Saggen
Beyond being an ideal event city, Innsbruck’s year-round vibrancy makes it perfect for second, or even first home status. Prices may be high, but then so is the quality of life.
Out of Africa
While Chinese firms flock to Africa, a quieter phenomenon sees a steady stream of African businessmen moving into China. An estimated 10,000 of them now live and work in Guangzhou.
Cracking the market
Al Rifai - the 'Rolls-Royce of nut companies' - is famous throughout the Middle East for its perfectly roasted pistachios and giant cashews. Now the Lebanese company has opened a Swedish HQ as it…
Sleeper sell
Europe's top rail operator is betting that improved sleeper trains can win back business travellers. For a world rediscovering the benefits of slow food, the next discovery just might be slow trains.
Europe
For three years, people have wondered about the construction of Dragon Gate, a Chinese cultural centre in the Swedish woods, complete with massive statues of lions, horses, and the goddess Guan-Yin.
Natural selection
Swiss retailer Coop is opening supermarkets for discerning shoppers. The company is promoting provenance and sustainability with its products and building stores that raise the bar for green architecture. One man leads the way.
On the pulse
Medica is the world’s largest healthcare trade fair. This year 4,360 companies displayed the latest must-haves for the 21st-century doctor from souped-up ambulances to rather too realistic anatomical models
Asia
Imagine walking into a room bursting with not-yet-released products, from bath oils and bottled water to exercise machines and lipsticks. Now imagine being told to help yourself.
Isle be back
Japan's Okinawa prefecture is experiencing a renaissance. Companies large and small are capitalising on its relaxed, affordable lifestyle, great beaches and warm climate, with the city of Naha leading the way.
Swell guys
British microbrand Finisterre has introduced blue-sea thinking into the global surfwear market. It produces just six high-tech, low-impact garments and when the surf’s up, the team heads to the beach.
