New Managing Partner for KPMG Baltics

As of November 25, Armine Movsisjana has assumed the position of Managing Partner for KPMG Baltics.

Coca-Cola named as the world sustainability leader

On November 24, 2015, Coca-Cola HBC announced new water and carbon commitments after being named as the world sustainability leader in the beverage industry by Dow Jones Sustainability Indices. Coca-Cola HBC intends to reduce water use intensity by 30% by 2020, and direct carbon emissions intensity by 50% over the same period.

Welcome 4 new members

Allnex Latvia, Baltic New Technology, Blind Dreams and Mercure Riga Centre Hotel have joined the Chamber this month. Welcome to the AmCham community!

More than 80 people from 7 Chambers of Commerce and FICIL attended Joint Business Luncheon on the investment climate in Latvia and discussed 1st Sentiment Index 2015 of FICIL. The report, based on a qualitative survey of 28 foreign investors, summarizes key areas of success and improvement with the aim to foster more evidence-based policy decisions and a more favorable investment and business climate.

Survey shows high satisfaction with AmCham programs

A recent online survey of members rated AmCham programs high above average - 8.2 in the scale 1-10. Of all the members, 28% or 40 responded to the survey. Members suggested several improvements, including more events with networking/socializing elements, internet platform for AmCham online networking, more support to FICIL and more joint chamber events, political discussions, team building events, events with Pan-Baltic companies and government representatives, and events with top business, cultural and NGO leaders.

"Silicon Valley Comes to the Baltics" brought together more than 650 start-up and tech entrepreneurs and investors as well as media, NGO representatives, and students from more than 20 countries. The principal focus of the conference was on "Money", "Growth" and "Talent".

New virtual exhibition

On November 3rd, OnlineExpo Latvia launched a an innovative marketing tool - virtual exhibition which combines elements of social, business networks, and a web-shop. The opening event was attended by 120 people including media representatives. „Travel Expo International 2016" will keep the best features of traditional trade shows, while adding the most up-to-date functions of social, professional nextworks, and a web-shop to the mix.

PINS invited AmCham members to an exclusive pre-release screening of the new James Bond sequel "Spectre". Over 150 people had the chance to join this unique event.

On November 5, Prime Minister Laimdota Straujuma met with AmCham members to discuss the main priorities on the goverment’s agenda, reform plans and partnership between Latvia and the United States. Increasing economic competitiveness, implementing reforms in the areas of education, health and justice, and strengthening internal and external security were named as the government’s key priorities for the next year.

Amcham’s Launchpad USA program is partnering with the New York Angel’s, America’s largest and most active angel investment group to host a Nordic pitching event in New York City on November 4th.