VfB Stuttgart on Japan: Economic opportunities and sporting preparations

VfB Stuttgart on Japan: Economic opportunities and sporting preparations

VfB Stuttgart: Economic opportunities and cultural ties in Japan

The upcoming journey of VfB Stuttgart to Japan not only focuses on sporting training, but also shows the economic ambitions of the association and its role as a cultural ambassador.

an economically relevant goal

On Friday, July 24, 2024, VfB Stuttgart arrives in Japan, where it stays until August 1st. The association of the association around Rouven Kasper, board member for marketing and sales, sees this trip a possibility for economic income. Particular attention is paid to the extraction of new markets and the activation of the fan base. Kasper emphasizes: "This is an economically relevant journey for us - regardless of this, we are ambassadors for Germany, the Bundesliga and Stuttgart."

sporting preparation and intercultural encounters

VfB will not only play test games against Kyoto Sanga FC and Sanfreecce Hiroshima in Japan, but also take the opportunity to prepare for the new Bundesliga season. The players are aware that the trip will be exhausting. However, Kasper emphasizes: «We try to make this trip as pleasant as possible to the team. Everything is well organized. » The long flight and summer temperatures in Japan represent challenges, but such experiences can also contribute positively to team education.

sustainability and travel management

Another aspect that VfB Stuttgart emphasizes is sustainability. Instead of using charter machines, the association has booked three line flights to minimize the ecological footprint of the trip. This is in line with the values ​​of the association and the region.

The lack of Japanese stars in the team

Although VfB Stuttgart wants to enter the Japanese market as part of its strategy, the Japanese defender Hiroki Ito, who has switched to Bayern Munich, is missing in this tour group. Kasper mentions that this was a missed opportunity to set a strong intercultural sign. Nevertheless, with Anrie Chase, a young player will travel as part of the group, who is considered a half-Japanese and can therefore be seen as a “local hero”. In addition, some club icons accompany the team, which creates additional cultural connections.

- Nag