On the first day of the trip, the MiM students visited Wongpanit International, a leading player in the recycling industry known for its commitment to sustainability. Students were given a comprehensive tour of Wongpanit’s facilities, where they observed the company’s innovative recycling processes that significantly contribute to reducing Thailand’s ecological footprint. The visit provided a clear example of how business practices can align with environmental goals, setting the stage for understanding the importance of sustainability in business operations.

A highlight of the day was the session with Wongpanit’s partner, ALBA Group, another major player in the sustainability sector. This collaboration exemplified how strategic partnerships can amplify efforts to tackle environmental challenges on a larger scale. Students learned about the synergies between the two companies, gaining insights into the complexities of implementing sustainable practices in diverse markets and the collaborative approach required to address pressing environmental issues.

The visit concluded with a discussion on the future of sustainability in Thailand, where company leaders shared their visions for expanding sustainable practices nationwide. Students were encouraged to think critically about how businesses can drive positive environmental change. This first-hand exposure to leading sustainability initiatives in Thailand underscored the significance of sustainable business models in achieving long-term success. It inspired students to consider the environmental impact of their future career choices.

On the second day, the focus shifted to the burgeoning sectors of e-commerce and logistics, starting with a visit to Agoda, a leading online travel agency with a strong foothold in the Asian market. During the visit, reps from Agoda introduced the students to its business model, which leverages advanced technology and data analytics to enhance user experience and drive growth. The session provided a valuable look into the competitive nature of the travel industry, emphasizing the importance of innovation and adaptability in a fast-paced digital landscape.

Later in the day, students visited Rhenus Logistics, a global logistics provider known for its comprehensive supply chain solutions. The visit highlighted Bangkok’s strategic role as a logistics hub in Southeast Asia, where efficient transportation and warehousing are crucial to supporting the region’s growing economies. Students explored the intricacies of supply chain management, including the challenges of operating in a globalized market and the importance of integrating sustainability into logistics practices.

Through interactive discussions with Rhenus executives, students gained insights into the evolving logistics sector and how companies leverage technology to optimize operations and reduce environmental impact. The visit concluded with a deep dive into Bangkok’s strategic importance as a gateway to the broader Southeast Asian market, reinforcing the day’s lessons on the critical role of logistics in enabling global trade and economic development.

The third day offered a cultural respite from the corporate visits as students traveled to Ayutthaya, the historic former capital of the Kingdom of Siam. This UNESCO World Heritage site provided a rich backdrop for students to explore Thailand’s cultural heritage, with visits to ancient temples and ruins that tell the story of the country’s past. The excursion was not just a break from business-oriented activities but a critical component of understanding the cultural context in which Southeast Asian businesses operate.

During the visit, students were guided through the city’s iconic landmarks, such as Wat Mahathat and Wat Phra Si Sanphet, gaining a deeper appreciation of Thailand’s historical and cultural significance. The day’s activities emphasized the importance of cultural awareness in global business, highlighting how cultural factors can influence business practices and consumer behavior in the region. This cultural immersion broadened the students’ perspectives, equipping them with a nuanced understanding of the social and historical dynamics that shape the Southeast Asian market.

The experience in Ayutthaya also reminded students of the diverse and vibrant cultures that define the ASEAN region. By connecting with Thailand’s rich history, students can see beyond the economic metrics and appreciate the human and cultural dimensions equally important in shaping successful business strategies. The day ended with reflections on the impact of cultural heritage on modern business environments, reinforcing the value of integrating cultural insights into business decision-making.

The trip’s fourth day brought students face-to-face with industrial innovation at EssilorLuxottica and Kärcher, two global leaders known for their commitment to quality and continuous improvement. At EssilorLuxottica, students toured the company’s facilities, observing the production of ophthalmic lenses and learning about the latest technological advancements in eye care. The visit highlighted the company’s dedication to improving its vision on a global scale, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and corporate responsibility.

Students then visited Kärcher, where they were introduced to various cleaning technologies, from everyday consumer products to advanced industrial solutions. The company’s focus on innovation was evident as students explored how Kärcher develops cutting-edge technologies to meet diverse customer needs. This visit provided valuable insights into how companies maintain industry leadership through relentless innovation and a commitment to addressing market and environmental challenges.

Conversations with executives at EssilorLuxottica and Kärcher emphasized the importance of integrating sustainable practices and technological innovation in business strategies. Students learned about the challenges these companies face in adapting to rapidly changing market demands while maintaining their core values. The day concluded with a panel discussion on the future of industrial innovation, where students engaged with company leaders on topics such as digital transformation, sustainability, and global expansion.

The final day was focused on entrepreneurship and the dynamic opportunities within Southeast Asia’s business landscape. Students visited WYZauto, a thriving marketplace that connects vehicle maintenance shops with premium tire wholesalers. It was founded by an ESSEC alumnus who shared his entrepreneurial journey. From his early career at Michelin to launching his business in Thailand and expanding into Malaysia, the alumnus’s story provided a powerful example of resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of opportunity.

During the visit, students learned about the challenges of starting a business in a foreign market, including navigating regulatory environments, building local partnerships, and adapting to cultural differences. The alumnus shared insights on the strategic decisions that helped WYZauto grow, such as identifying market gaps and leveraging digital platforms to connect buyers and sellers. This session offered practical lessons on market adaptation and the critical role of strategic thinking in overcoming business hurdles.

The day concluded with an open discussion on the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem in Southeast Asia, where students engaged in dialogue about the region’s potential and the support structures available for new ventures. This final session was an inspiring end to the study trip, leaving students with a deeper understanding of the entrepreneurial mindset and the courage needed to navigate the complexities of starting and scaling a business in Southeast Asia.