10 Jul 2025
As part of the Doing Business in Changing China 2025 summer school?– co-hosted by the International Business School Suzhou (IBSS) and the Department of China Studies at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU)), students had the chance to go beyond the classroom and witness China’s fast-evolving business environment first-hand. On Friday 4th July, the participants embarked on a visit to HYC, a prominent OEM testing enterprise located in Suzhou. Notably, HYC has previously hosted national leaders. Significantly, this represents the second time the summer school programme has ventured into this industry-leading company.
The visit included two key locations: the main HYC Factory and the adjacent HYC Enterprise Centre. Together, these sites offered students an in-depth look into HYC’s highly specialised and innovative approach to testing – particularly for high-profile clients. HYC provides customised stress testing for flat-panel displays (including TV, laptop and mobile phone screens), new energy vehicles, semiconductors, biomedicine and battery components. The company’s offering is unique in that it tailors its testing to the needs of individual clients, filling gaps not addressed by standard solutions in the market.
One of the highlights of the visit was the tour of HYC’s vertical storage facility, a cutting-edge operation featuring glass floors, towering racking systems, and AI-driven robotics. Products and components are moved by AGV (Automated Guided Vehicles), a clear sign of how the company is embracing automation to improve operational efficiency. Isobel, a student from the University of Liverpool in the UK, was particularly struck by what she saw.
“I thought it was very innovative compared to factories I’ve seen in the UK,” she said, adding, “It was interesting to see the differences and what makes Chinese businesses more successful than similar British enterprises.”
The group was also given a rare behind-the-scenes look into the equipment assembly room, where HYC’s bespoke testing machines are assembled to support its clients’ highly specific needs. Owing to HYC’s investment in smart technology, one person can now operate an entire production line, leading to both higher output and reduced labour costs.
Diva, a student from Petra Christian University in Indonesia, reflected on the experience:
“It’s truly exciting to see how advanced automation has become in Chinese manufacturing companies. We also get a closer look at the production process and gain insight into the components inside the electronic devices we use every day.”.
The visit concluded with a lively and insightful Q&A session led by Michael He, HYC’s Key Account Manager. Michael joined the company as a fresh graduate ?and has since risen through the ranks – an inspiring example of the opportunities for professional growth in China’s technology sector. When asked about the workplace culture, Michael described HYC as an organisation that blends “an internet culture with a traditional industry company.” He highlighted the strong employee retention rates, with many staff members staying with the company for over a decade, which is testament to its dynamic yet supportive working environment.
Students were keen to understand the inner workings of the business and posed thoughtful questions. For example, Sofia Balasso, asked about the nature of working life in China and how it compared to other countries. Toby from the UK inquired about HYC’s competitive advantages and how it continues to attract new customers in a crowded market. Michael explained that HYC’s strength lies in two key areas: the speed of its testing services and its impressive units per hour (UPH) – both of which give it a distinct edge over competitors.
This visit provided students with more than just a glimpse into a successful Chinese business. It offered a deeper understanding of how companies like HYC are at the forefront of technological innovation, global supply chains, and workplace culture in today’s China. For the participants of the summer school, it was a chance to connect theory with practice and gain invaluable real-world insights into doing business in a changing China!
10 Jul 2025