© Huawei Technologies Austria GmbH
- Success story
Huawei – High degree of confidence in Vienna and Austria
Huawei is extremely satisfied with its business development in Austria since it first located business operations in the country in 2007. The Chinese company successfully opened its first flagship store on Vienna’s Kärntner Strasse in the middle of the coronavirus crisis and plans further investments in the business location of Austria, focusing on research, education and innovation. In this regard, Huawei is relying on its good cooperation with universities, organisations and startups.
According to the “Innovation Cities Global Index,” Vienna ranks among the most innovative cities in the world, behind London and San Francisco. This speaks for itself. Furthermore, Vienna is also one of the most liveable cities in the world in numerous rankings. It is often even at the top of the list. Vienna is also a very international, modern and friendly city luring many high-tech companies from all around the world.
Questions posed to Cindy Chen, Chief Communication Officer, Huawei
Why did Huawei originally decide in favour of the Austrian business location?
The outstanding research and development work being carried out, the strong infrastructure, the stable environment, favourable economic conditions and the high quality of life are the main arguments which we clearly highlight the advantages of Austria as a business location.
How satisfied are you with the business location and Huawei’s business development in Austria?
The increasing number of employees and investments show that Huawei is extremely satisfied with its business development in Austria.
What are Huawei’s priorities in Austria and how do you rate the underlying conditions offered by the Austrian business location?
The internal focal points of Huawei’s business operations in Austria are partnerships in the field of research and development, talent promotion and innovative projects. Austria features strong capabilities in research and development, a sufficient pool of top-notch ICT talents and innovative startups. For this reason, Huawei has been working together with more than ten universities, organisations and startups in the fields of research, education and innovation since the year 2015.
What do you consider to be the particular strengths of the Austrian business location for your type of technology company as well as the country’s unique selling proposition?
In this regard I would mention the stable economic situation, the good relationship between employers and employees, market opportunities and the interesting market fragmentation.
About one year ago you opened your first flagship store at a top location on Vienna’s Kärntner Strasse near St. Stephan’s Cathedral. Why did Huawei select Vienna to showcase the company? What makes Vienna special in your opinion?
According to the “Innovation Cities Global Index,” Vienna ranks among the most innovative cities in the world, behind London and San Francisco. This speaks for itself. Furthermore, Vienna is also one of the most liveable cities in the world in numerous rankings. It is often even at the top of the list. Vienna is also a very international, modern and friendly city luring many high-tech companies from all around the world.
You opened this store in Vienna in the midst of the coronavirus crisis. What were your experiences in this regard and how has the coronavirus impacted your business?
The store opened during the coronavirus crisis demonstrates the high degree of confidence we have in our development and investments in Austria. Up until now we have also weathered the crisis comparatively well. However, the impacts of the crisis and the economic measures implemented to cushion these effects cannot yet be clearly seen.
From your point of view, how has the Austrian business location changed over the years? What has improved and what was better in the past?
Let us focus on the here and now. The Austrian economy started the year 2022 with strong growth. The gross domestic product (GDP) increased by 9.5% in real terms in the first quarter when adjusted for inflation. This means the country’s economic output is 0.5% higher than before the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. Broad-based growth took place i.e., almost all economic sectors contributed to the positive development. In economic terms, the country is clearly on the right track.
What are the next steps which Huawei plans in Austria?
We are going to continue our investments in Austria in the fields of research, education and innovation.
Do you have any wishes with respect to the Austrian business location or Austrian Business Agency?
We hope that this good spirit of cooperation will continue.
How has ABA supported Huawei?
Austrian Business Agency connects us with Austrian society and offers professional services to support our development in Austria.
And finally, one last question: what do you personally value the most about Austria?
Its southern flair, crystal-clear lakes, solitary valleys and spectacular mountain peaks. Hiking and swimming, bike riding and enjoyment. Good food and friendly, open-hearted people. These are some of the reasons why I value being in Austria.
Huawei Technologies Austria GmbH
As one of the world’s leading companies in the field of information and communications technology, Huawei employs a workforce of more than 190,000 people in more than 170 countries across the globe. One of them is Austria. The Chinese company has been represented by a subsidiary in Austria since 2007 and has a staff of about 127 employees.
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