Unlocking commercial growth through ESG integration: EuroCham Vietnam and Lim-Loges & Masters explore the possibilities

EuroCham Vietnam and Lim-Loges & Masters co-organized a Business Luncheon titled “How to Unlock Greater Commercial Growth Through ESG Integration” at The Reverie Saigon on June 9. The event explored the relationship between being a socially responsible business and achieving commercial expansion. The speakers and panelists shed light on various aspects of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) integration and its impact on corporate performance.

The event commenced with EuroCham Board Member Stuart Livesey assuming the role of the moderator. He set the stage for the discussion by emphasizing the importance of bolstering engagement with employees and stakeholders to drive commercial growth.

Lelia Lim, the Principal Founder & Managing Partner at Lim-Loges & Masters, took the stage as the first speaker. She provided valuable information regarding the business case for ESG, highlighting global and Asia Pacific trends, key drivers, success stories, and the business requirements associated with ESG integration. She also emphasized the critical role of stakeholder engagement as the missing link in this process.

Following Ms. Lim’s presentation, she joined a panel discussion with:

• Holly Bostock, the Corporate Affairs Director of Heineken Vietnam, and
• Warrick Cleine, the Chairman and CEO & Managing Partner of Deals, Tax and Legal of KPMG in Vietnam and Cambodia

During the panel discussion, Ms. Bostock and Mr. Cleine shared their experiences in implementing ESG practices within their respective global brands. They highlighted the necessity for ESG initiatives to be driven from the highest levels of corporate leadership. They also stressed the importance of measuring and reporting on desired changes, as well as implementing tangible actions to align with sustainability goals. External factors like access to markets, capital market disclosures, consumer expectations, and the rise of ESG-conscious competitors were identified as significant drivers of change, even in the absence of strict regulations or progressive management practices in Vietnam.

The panelists probed into key talking points throughout the discussion. They emphasized the need to collaborate with stakeholders and employees to integrate sustainability goals into business strategies effectively. By aligning ESG principles with existing business models, companies can unlock their growth potential. Furthermore, the panelists emphasized the importance of establishing enduring relationships with employees and stakeholders through constructive strategies. Effective communication of sustainability goals to stakeholders and inspiring teams to champion sustainability were identified as crucial elements in achieving successful ESG integration.

The event provided attendees with valuable insights and practical approaches to embrace ESG integration for commercial growth. EuroCham Vietnam and Lim-Loges & Masters moved the conversation forward by fostering dialogue among industry professionals, highlighting the importance of ESG in driving sustainable business practices and inspiring change in Vietnam’s corporate landscape.

We would like to express our gratitude to Lim-Loges & Masters for co-organizing the event. We sincerely appreciate their contribution in driving the conversation surrounding ESG integration and commercial growth. 

Picture credits: Sang NGUYEN Corporate and Diplomatic Photography