Prof. Kennelly explained how enterprises with a “sense of place” behave differently than typical “rootless” multinational corporations and how they can get a competitive “edge” from the authenticity and meaning that stems from their home place.

Two cases vividly demonstrated the power that lies in place: The Kerry Group, a former farmers´ cooperative in Western Ireland that developed into a globally successful food ingredients manufacturer, and Inis Meáin, an Irish knitwear company situated on the Aran Islands.

A highlight of the guest lecture was a direct skype link with Inis Meáin´s founder and CEO Tarlach de Blacam. Mr. de Blacam openly answered a lot of student questions and inspired the class with his authentic, sustainable business philosophy.