From May 8 to 9, students from the MSc in Global Sales Excellence (MSc in GSE) program at emlyon business school took part in the International Trip in Shanghai industry exploration component of the Asian Campus Semester (ACS), traveling to Ningbo for a two-day Company Visit.

As an important part of the ACS experience, the visit aimed to immerse students in real business environments and help them better understand how global sales, customer relationship management, and international business development are applied across different industries. Through direct exchanges with companies, students were also able to observe how businesses build competitiveness in a constantly evolving global market.

During the trip, students visited Beyond Group, Sellers Union, and Ningbo Anchor Coming from the premium consumer goods, supply chain services, and industrial manufacturing sectors respectively, the three companies offered students diverse perspectives on today’s business landscape and operational models.

From Product Quality to Brand Experience

On the first day, students visited Beyond Group, and the Ningbo Fashion Creative Center (NFCC) established by Beyond. As a company specialized in the premium home textile industry, Beyond introduced students to the development and positioning of its different product lines. Through the visit, students experienced firsthand the differences in materials, design, and product quality while gaining a better understanding of how the company builds brand value around customer needs and consumer experience.

Beyond also presented how the company expands into different product categories beyond its core business. Students observed how the brand balances business growth and category expansion while maintaining a consistent brand identity and customer perception.

The visit concluded with an interactive Q&A session, during which students exchanged with company representatives on topics such as brand development, changing consumer expectations, and market positioning. These discussions provided a more concrete understanding of the operational logic behind consumer brands.

The Connection Between Sales and Supply Chain

On the second day, students first visited Sellers Union. As a company built around supply chain capabilities and customer-oriented solutions, Sellers Union showcased its international collaborations across various industries as well as the different product categories it has served over the years. Through the company presentation, students gained more direct insights into the relationship between supply chain management, customer needs, and international business operations.

The company also shared its sales-driven business approach, helping students understand that in a globalized business environment, sales goes far beyond client communication. It also involves supply chain coordination, resource integration, and strong market awareness.

During the discussions, students further explored topics including corporate strategy, international market expansion, and business development opportunities.

Inside Industrial Manufacturing and B2B Operations

The final visit took students to Ningbo Anchor. As a B2B company specialized in parts distribution, Anchor welcomed students into its factory facilities and introduced them to its production, warehousing, and operational processes. Through on-site observation, students developed a more practical understanding of industrial manufacturing operations and supply chain coordination.

Compared with classroom case studies, the factory visit offered students a much more tangible perspective on how companies ensure efficient collaboration and reliable delivery to meet global client expectations. Students also exchanged with professionals on topics such as international business development, customer management, and current industry challenges.

Understanding “Global Sales” Through Real Business Environments

From premium consumer brands to supply chain services and industrial manufacturing, this company visit in Ningbo exposed students to a wide range of real business environments while helping them better understand the role and value of sales across different industries.

For the MSc in Global Sales Excellence program, company visits and international exposure remain essential components of the learning experience. Through the Asian Campus Semester (ACS), students are able to connect with companies operating in Asia’s dynamic business environment and bridge classroom knowledge with real-world business practices, continuously broadening their international perspective and industry understanding.