IFIS explores new opportunities in China

IFIS has demonstrated its firm international remit and commitment with a series of strategic meetings with several key Chinese organisations.

On a recent trip to China, Rene Schölzel, IFIS’s Head of Sales & Business Development, in conjunction with representatives from Ovid, EBSCO and Thomson Reuters, met – among others – with: China Academic Library and Information System (CALIS); Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CAAS); National Library of China; The Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (ISTIC) and Institute of Nutrition and Food Safety, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

During the week-long visit, constructive and valuable meetings were had based on the understanding of the latest industry developments, organisational set-ups and strategic directions of both IFIS and the various Chinese institutions. Priority areas were identified to develop mutually beneficial partnerships and activities, with a view to strengthening the awareness and importance of food science and technology within the region.

Rene Schölzel explains: ‘Getting closer to our customers, both current and potential, involves gathering facts and knowledge about them in order to develop an awareness of what they want from us and how they perceive IFIS and its services. This awareness enables us to continuously strive to meet our customers' demands and secure the organisation's relevance and importance in their workflow.’

In 2012 representatives from IFIS look forward to their involvement in the CALIS and CIFST (Chinese Institute of Food Science and Technology) Annual Meetings in China.