Thought for London August 2008

 From Beijing to London

The start of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games signaled the beginning of a major initiative by Think London in China.

Our time in Beijing began at the beginning of August when we launched our London Pin Number – 8888 – and an introduction to the Business Decathlon, designed to showcase the opportunities awaiting Chinese companies in London. This followed with a series of high level business receptions, co-hosted with our partners, Deloitte,China Netcom and Bank of China, which provided us with a wonderful opportunity to speak to leading Chinese businesses about investing in London.

Our activity in Beijing culminated with a traditional Chinese signing ceremony between the Mayor of London and Henry Tse, Chairman of Geong International. Geong International is a leading Chinese company who announced their plans to set up business in London to complement their listing on AIM.

Following the Closing Ceremony of the Beijing Games, a launch event was held in Beijing for our newest initiative the ' Road to London' which saw our branded taxi, that is kitted out with the Think London Business Intelligence Dashboard, setting off for a three month tour of 11 Chinese cities. The tour will be taking the message to companies that London is open for business and the ideal location for Chinese companies wishing to globalise.

The Mayor of London who waved off the taxi in Beijing stated: “We hope that the Road to London business tour will open up London to many Chinese companies so that they can be in London with us and part of our Olympics in four years time.”

If you would like to know more about our Road to London campaign and which cities we will be visiting, please contact my team today.

I look forward to updating you on its progress next month.

Michael Charlton, Chief Executive