Business
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Business
Anyone in Russia's far east wanting to fly to the US must travel across Eurasia. But a Russian airline plans to launch the first trans-Pacific route to the States this summer.
Rupert Marine
Rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) are tough, sea-worthy and flexible. Spotting their business potential, Thomas Rönnberg set up the first Swedish RIB company, Rupert Marine, and is now preparing for the European market.
Observation
Rail life story: We love trains and think it’s time that the English-speaking world reacquired a taste for them too.
Barrio Lastarria
Santiago, Chile is getting better with age. The city's spirit is embodied in a booming gourmet scene, thriving theatre and a friendly attitude towards foreigners, shaking off its parochial past.
Power struggle
Sakhalin, in Russia’s far east, is a short hop from Japan, its former ruler. Marooned during the Soviet era, the region has seen little investment or spoils from its own huge oil reserves.
A very civil service
Wise governments have long seen the benefits of outsourcing. But what if a state put all ministries out to tender? This is *Monocle*’s cabinet reshuffle, employing the best foreign governments and private companies.
Shop flawless
In a world of disposable fashion and bad service, some stores get it right and are seeing their profits boom. We profile five retail giants that are benchmarks for other floundering businesses.
Techno tradition
Kyoto is the traditional home of Japanese artisans who make highly detailed ceramics and perfectly woven silks. That same set of skills has also helped it become the country’s hi-tech heartland.
Roots finder
Provenance is key as we turn our backs on mass-produced products. Consumers want authenticity and, as many companies have found, they’re happy to pay for it.
Uniform approach
Outsourcing has a bad name but there’s a growing move for nations to outsource services. When properly harnessed, it could raise standards and redefine what makes a country. This is who we would employ.
