Joost Louwagie

Surveys all concur in asserting that digital marketing and sales leaders all struggle with internal reluctance to the adoption of the digital model. Fear is the first dominant reason. Is it that traditional actors who have created their success stories in the analogue model feel like digital will render them obsolete? Has the question ever been asked at the strategic level: what is digital here for? To destroy or support the traditional sales model? In this head-to-head debate, Stephane and Julian will put forward opposite arguments and challenge each other on points of contention as they bid to win your vote. Who will convince you most?

FOR: Joost Louwagie,Regional lead global accounts BeNeLux & Country Manager Belgium Luxembourg, Herman Miller

• The digital proposition creates new leads for sales, offline and online
• The digital proposition allows you to reach a wider customer base and explore new geos
• It is impossible to convert business without a previous touch point - today’s customer prefers to assess and make choices online

AGAINST: Ron Kessels, E-Business Director, Saint-Gobain Distribution

• Digital sales are a threat to human capital
• Our customers are used to analogue and enjoy the personal touch that comes with their own
• There is no proven value that truly links the digital proposition to increased revenues