January 9th Global414 Paris Trip

Yesterday was our 6^thday in Paris. It consisted of two very interesting site visits that differed greatly. It allowed us to see how a busy airport is run and the logistics needed, as well as the very popular Lafayette shopping galleria.

Charles de Gaulle is an airport located to the north east of Paris in France. This was the same airport we flew into to begin our trip here in Paris. Our tour on the coach bus brought us all over the airport to different terminals, and both the commercial and cargo portions. This airport is regarded as one of Europe’s primary location for cargo entry, processing, and exporting. This cargo section includes major shipping company hubs for FedEx, UPS, DHL and SkyTeam Air France. Last year, CDG airport had over 200 million tons of goods come through its runways. It is the 10^thlargest in the world for cargo while the largest cargo hub is in Hong Kong. FedEx has the biggest cargo hub in this airport. One interesting fact that was discovered was the biggest expense for cargo is security. This is due to an intensive package x-raying process and ensuring packages are safe for travel. In regard to travel, some interesting facts were shared. Within 24 hours, CDG has 1 passenger plane leaving and arriving each minute. However during rush hours which are at 8AM, 10AM, 1PM, 5PM, and 8PM, 1 plane takes off every 20 seconds.

Following the airport, we traveled to Galeries Lafayette to learn about the history of the galleria and what it takes to run the location today. When Lafayette first began, it was a location for only wealthy women. There were no prices shown, and once inside a woman had to buy something before leaving. It then transformed into a shopping center for women of all social status. Prices were shown, but the marketing catch was the beauty inside the galleria. Extravagant decorations, sculpting and a round shape create an experience where someone shopping loses track of time and will continue to shop. Today, the stores inside are more modern but the main structure still remains in its original glorious fashion.

Following these business visits, the majority of the group traveled to a Paris Saint-Germain F.C. game to experience one of Paris’ most exciting event. It was a fun end to a day full of learning about two interesting businesses.