ABB's commitment in each of its 14 joint ventures in Russia is substantial. The multinational energy giant spends twice as much on employee training in Russia as on equipment and technological development. Russian managers routinely work for two years in the West with an ABB subsidiary. The investment has been worthwhile. ABB employs just 35 expatriates in its workforce of 3,000 in Russia.
Mutual benefit is central to the Mars candy company philosophy in Russia.
One of the leading producers and marketers of chocolates in Russia, Mars extends this approach to its local suppliers and distributors as well as its employees. The company measures its success in sourcing supplies locally. Of supplies available in Russia, Mars purchases 70 percent locally and plans to increase this percentage to 85 percent. To achieve this goal, Mars must take an active role in qualifying suppliers. At a large dairy in southwest Russia, for example, Mars has specified milk standards, developed quality control procedures, and trained management.