All episodes

In this episode, our partners Ruirui Zong-Rühe and Beate Rosenthal explore pressing topics within sustainability, its current challenges, and the critical role of industry collaboration in driving higher value. Through examples from two sectors - FMCG (B2C) and chemicals (B2B) - they illustrate a new phase of sustainability marked by three defining factors: heightened regulation, geopolitical influences, and comprehensive business integration led by ESG-mature front runners.
What lessons can be drawn from these industries, and how can businesses strategically navigate this evolving landscape?

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This episode delves into the urgent need for businesses to act now in the face of rising CO2 prices and stricter regulatory requirements. Understand the financial implications and how this strategy can be leveraged for competitive advantage. It also addresses the potential burden on consumers and the strategies to implement it effectively without negatively impacting them. Learn how this key tool can drive diversification, supply chain resilience, and sustainability.
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In this episode, our partners Denis Depoux and Dieter Billen shed light on the complexities of energy production and reduction mechanisms across Asia. While China’s planned economy may capture the most attention, it’s vital to recognize that Southeast Asian countries also host rapidly growing industries contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and aspiring to lead in decarbonization. Nations like Japan, Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia are each pursuing unique strategies to reduce their carbon footprints. But how do their approaches to fossil-based and renewable energy sources compare? And what role will nuclear power play in the region’s energy...

In this episode, our partners Yvonne Ruf and Nikhil Sachdeva explore the development of green products and examine the dual aspects of financing sustainability. As companies work toward becoming more sustainable and reducing their carbon footprint, some cost increases are generally accepted. However, there are end-customers with their own sustainability goals and a willingness to pay for sustainable solutions. So, how can companies strategically segment their customer base, develop compelling green products, and build internal structures to bring these to market and push their topline? And how does vertical integration fit into this picture? Join us as we consider how...

In this episode, our partners Ruirui Zong-Ruehe and Christian Böhler delve into the critical role of circularity in plastics for achieving sustainability goals. They evaluate its significance and provide strategic insights to help balance economic viability with environmental responsibility. Central to the discussion is a question: what needs to change for real progress? Which technologies are available, promising, and mature enough to effectively reduce, recycle, and avoid plastic waste? Tackling these challenges requires a complex, coordinated effort. Success will hinge on innovation, collaboration, and supportive regulation.
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In this episode, our partner Florian Dehne discusses with Luis Rodrigues, CEO of TAP Portugal, the evolving landscape of aviation, how to address the industry's complex challenges, and what it takes to ensure long-term success.
They cover a broad range of topics concerning the current state of the market, beginning with an analysis of the post-COVID impact and key lessons learned from the crisis.
They explore operational efficiency and sustainability, factoring in challenges such as rising costs, shifting customer behaviors, and the difficulties in recruiting the right talent. Finally, they offer insights into the critical success factors for airline industry...

In this episode, our partners Markus Held and Marc Sauthoff discuss the financial aspects of transitioning to a green energy system. They focus on the significant investments required to replace fossil fuels with sustainable alternatives like hydrogen, biofuels, and renewables. The two experts explore various financial strategies and instruments, including public-private partnerships and innovative funding approaches. It's clear that a joint effort from all parties is required to finance new energy assets, as public funding and subsidies alone won't be sufficient. For more information visit our website rolandberger.com

In this episode, our experts Dorival Bettencourt and Zachary Kaplan engage in a lively and in-depth conversation about the implications of localization in the US market. This follow-up to our episode 6 delves further into key trends and dynamics, exploring what they mean for various business sectors. The discussion also examines the diverse challenges posed by the vast and varied economic landscape of the US, comparing these with other global markets. Our experts shed light on the drivers behind the localization movement, its acceleration, and the opportunities it presents for companies and investors. Additionally, what impact might we expect from...

In this episode, we address the question: “How can I optimize the process of getting electrons into my customer's electric vehicles as efficiently as possible?” Martin Weissbart and Adam Healy explore the future of electric vehicle charging in Europe. They discuss the different speeds and dynamics of infrastructure development across various regions of Europe, providing insights and practical suggestions for action. The two experts guide us through the challenges and opportunities in EV charging, focusing on the key drivers, changes, and incentives for EV users, as well as the deployment strategies of charge point operators.

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In this episode, Julia Duwe and Pieter Niehues debate the transformative role Generative Artificial Intelligence is going to play in operations throughout the next 2-3 year. Their lively discussion explains its chances and opportunities and how to get started quickly implementing Gen AI into an operational system, suggesting first relevant steps. Our experts offer deeper insights into the specific functions of Gen AI for companies and reveal its significant impact for R&D and procurement processes. Learn how you can use it perfectly to support your technological and organizational structure and how Gen AI changes perspectives, mindsets, skillsets, and concepts to...