In a recent exploration of patient experience, an intriguing revelation emerged from an article in JAMA Internal Medicine dated April 28th, 2023. The study posed a question: Can an artificial intelligence chatbot assistant rival physicians in providing responses of comparable quality and empathy to patient questions?

In 1987, our journey began with a resolute commitment to addressing the pressing environmental challenges that lay ahead. From the very inception, we at Opticom have been steadfast in our passion for fostering a sustainable future. Grounded in facts and propelled by various trend studies, we endeavored to make environmental consciousness a critical factor for the healthcare and life industry. Today, on our 36th anniversary, we proudly reflect on the transformative journey we've embarked upon.

We had the pleasure of attending a seminar about key conflicts in the forest industry and the way forward in Stockholm on October 15th, organised by IVA. There were plenty of issues to think about, all involving an understanding of the bigger picture. Here’s a snapshot and some reflections:

In this edition, Mikael Selling reflects on climate changes and the rising focus on sustainability in the forest product sector. The newsletter discusses the challenges companies face in communicating sustainability effectively to avoid greenwashing, amidst a growing importance of sustainable branding. It also explores the potential gap in generating demand for sustainable products despite consumer willingness to pay more, hinting at a communication disconnect. Furthermore, it highlights the crucial role of authenticity in product labeling to educate consumers and build trust in the market.

After 35 years in the business, we’ve seen the impact a good brand can have, and how it can be used to enhance sustainability communication. No wonder more companies than ever are taking branding seriously. Project Manager David Weller explains.

Product labels and certificates proclaiming environmental friendliness are everywhere. Indeed, they are now so ubiquitous that they have become the norm, not the differentiator. Moreover, their overuse has prompted criticism that some are simply environmental marketing and in the worst cases, greenwashing. However, used correctly, labels remain an important tool in the fight for the consumer’s attention as well as an effective means to help educate. The key is authenticity and transparency.

We know that consumers are driven by emotion. Their behaviour can be complex with numerous factors influencing purchasing decisions. A business that understands what and how the consumer thinks is more likely to meet their needs. This is especially true when it comes to sustainability. Consumers say they are increasingly concerned about the environment and yet we often hear from businesses that they struggle to generate demand for environmentally-friendly products.

We approached this project carefully, as it was our very first undertaking of this scale. We studied our client’s business to create a focused and effective solution - and then watched it grow. We loved working with this client and look forward to collaborating together on many more successful projects in the future.

The Confederation of Swedish Enterprise’s report “Företagsklimatet – nu än viktigare” (The business climate – now even more important) shows how the Swedish business climate is taking a slightly negative direction after decades of positive developments.

LIF – the research-based pharmaceutical companies’ association – inaugurated their new premises at Sveavägen 63 in central Stockholm. Of course, we were there.

Imagine a country where forestry generates 10% of the industrial production.

Many of us remember Esso’s classic campaign about putting a tiger in the tank of your car. That claim was coined in another millennium, but demand for a clean, powerful and efficient fuel (yes that was what Esso promised) remains.

The research consists of telephone interviews with end-users across three offices size: small, SOHO and large. About 1500 professionals, responsible for selecting and/or purchasing office paper, will be interviewed in five European markets: Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Spain and Italy.

Imagine a pioneer in the wind power business deciding to create true change.

Opticom is proud to announce that 10,000 SEK was donated to the International Children’s Villages as a result of telephone and face-to-face qualitative interviews on behalf of the participants.

Imagine one of the leaders within the automotive industry. Paint the picture that they’ve been building vehicles for really long, been really successful and become really appreciated. Drivers just love handling these impressive machines. The mechanics are superb. The driver interface is beyond compare, and the comfort is exquisite.

Think of the word “chevalier”. At first hand, it implies that a man is chivalrous. A knight, as it was called way back in the day. Someone who was quite well off. Had a good hand with the ladies. A charmer.

See the full ranking here:

Opticom International Research now presents the results of the 7th edition of the “Brand Equity Tracking Survey – Cartonboard: Brand owners”.

Opticom International Research now presents the results of the 12th edition of the “Brand Equity Tracking Survey – Office Paper”. This industry standard benchmark survey for office paper brands has been conducted among 1500 professional end-users across 5 countries in Europe. The countries covered are Germany, France, the UK, Italy and Spain.