Brand expedition

In 2010, Brand and Strategic Professional Martijn Arets decided to quit his job, hand in his lease car, ignore all uncertainties and follow his dream. For five months, he traveled more than 12,500 kilometers across Europe in a one-of-a-kind 1971 Volkswagen T2 camper van, meeting with the founders, CEOs and brand managers of 20 authentic European brands in what was to prove a unique trip: Brand Expedition.

While he was on the road, Martijn Arets used all conceivable social media, articles and blogs to share his adventures and experiences - gathering a veritable cult following along the way. On popular demand, he has bundled the lessons and stories behind 20appealing European brands such as Lego, Mini, Skype, The Body Shop and Adidas to create Brand Expedition, the book. To enhance the virtual experience of going this trip with him, you can view extra video andphoto material through the Layar Augmented Reality app, including Q&A-sessions between the interviewees themselves.

Brand Expedition, the book, is not only of significance to anyone who has a professional interest in entrepreneur ship, marketing and market development, but also to those who are interested in the origin of some of Europe's best-known brands and have always wanted to know more about the adventures, inspiring visions and anecdotes that went towards creating what have become household names all across the world.

In 2011, Martijn Arets was elected 'Dutch Entrepreneur of the Year'

'Most every big company fails from hubris, while every entrepreneur succeeds in his own unique way. That has never been more clear than in Martijn Arets own unique, insightful, and enjoyable book. Whether you are an entrepreneur, wish to be one, or desire to bring entrepreneurial innovation back into your fossilized organization, turn to Brand Expedition to explore new territory, meet engaging brands, and learn new lessons.'
B. JOSEPH PINE II, COAUTHOR, THE EXPERIENCE ECONOMY AND INFINITE POSSIBILITY

'The Dutch are such deliciously odd people. They even tour around Europe to visit brands! Adidas enjoyed meeting Martijn and following his exciting Brand Expedition.'
JAN RUNAU, CHIEF CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER ADIDAS

'What a great idea to use social media to create a link between online media and the traditional media through Brand Expedition, allowing these inspiring stories to reach as many people as possible in a unique way.'
CARL ELSENER, CEO OF VICTORINOX SWISS ARMY KNIFE