Businesses to watch in 2017
2016 is almost over (we can’t believe it ourselves!) and we’re looking forward to what 2017 will bring for business. Who will boom and who will bust? Check out the businesses we’ll be watching in 2017.
Virgin Galactic
In October 2014, a fatal crash involving Virgin Galactic’s first ship, SpaceShipTwo looked set to halt the dream of space tourism for good. But, after a thorough investigation and with extensive work on the latest ship, the VSS Unity, another test flight took place on 1st November 2016. Although not separating from the mothership, WhiteKnightTwo, as originally intended, the flight is still a significant step forward. Will 2017 bring us closer to space tourism? We’ll have to wait and see.
Amazon
Amazon is a company that continues to grow and venture out into new markets. Amazon isn’t afraid to take on its big rivals in the TV production industry (scoring The Grand Tour), the music industry (launching Amazon Music Unlimited) and the homeware tech industry (offering the Amazon Echo voice recognition system of products). In response to competitors, there are rumours swirling of a possible upgrade of an Alexa powered speaker featuring a touchscreen. What will their next big project will be? Hopefully 2017 will tell us!
The Trump Organisation
With Donald Trump taking over the presidency from Barak Obama in January 2017, many are asking what his plans are for his business empire. Surely he can’t run one of the biggest countries in the world, as well as a vast business conglomerate? Trump has confirmed that he will hand over his business responsibilities to his children. However, this is not enough for some, with ethic lawyers advising he should sell the business entirely. Will he sell? Will his businesses thrive or dive under the reign of his children? It’s all to play for in 2017.
Samsung
It has been a difficult year for Samsung, with production ceasing on its flagship Galaxy Note 7 after fires were caused due to battery issues, which could not be resolved. Plus, speculation is mounting as to the future of the business after Samsung Electronics confirmed it was considering splitting the firm into two. However, plans are still ongoing for Samsung’s next big phone, the S8, with a launch date to be announced soon. Can the brand recover from the financial and reputational loss from this year’s issues with the Note 7? All eyes will be on Samsung in 2017.
Netflix
Netflix has gone from strength to strength this year, with the powerful releases of Stranger Things and the most expensive TV series ever, The Crown. But what has Netflix got up its sleeve? Earlier this year Netflix CFO David Wells revealed the aim is to have up to 50% of Netflix’s offering be original content. This is a very ambitious and exciting prospect for Netflix. But the growth doesn’t stop there. Netflix has confirmed an offline version of its platform, meaning viewers can download certain content to watch offline. Notably reluctant to offer downloads, Netflix are having to keep up with their competitors as Amazon, BBC and Sky already offer similar services. Will Netlfix stay on top? 2017 will reveal all.
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