- The event organised by Duoc UC Plaza Vespucio brought together over 180 students in the largest market research challenge, aimed at strengthening critical thinking and analytical skills in addressing real-world issues in the automotive and retail industries.
In this edition, students from various campuses of Duoc UC, the Universidad Autónoma, and the Universidad de Santiago participated by developing proposals for the companies Inchcape and Falabella, tackling challenges in the highly competitive and dynamic retail and automotive markets.
Cristóbal Varas, a Digital Marketing Engineering student at Duoc UC Plaza Vespucio who was recognised in the competition, highlighted the importance of this process for his professional development: “It was an invaluable experience to work on a real market research problem alongside other students and industry professionals. The challenge was demanding, but the proximity to experts and the AIM (Market Researchers Association) greatly helped us navigate each stage.”
From the industry perspective, the participation was valued as an opportunity to connect fresh perspectives and methodologies with the challenges of today’s market.
“We are very pleased to participate in this initiative. The automotive world is becoming increasingly challenging, and we need fresh perspectives and new ideas. Activities like this allow us to engage with the student community and connect them with real-world business challenges,” said Daniel Bustos, Business Development Manager at Inchcape.
Similarly, Falabella highlighted the depth and value of the work developed. Alejandra Valenzuela, Marketing and Research Deputy Manager at the company, stated, “We were interested from the outset in having young people contribute with a market research proposal. The work they presented was thorough and of high quality, with very valuable findings and opportunities. Beyond the award, these initiatives provide significant learning experiences for their professional future.”
For Duoc UC, these types of experiences are part of the commitment to link academia with the professional world, strengthening comprehensive education. Paulette Rouliez, Deputy Director of the Marketing Area, noted, “For our students, it is very important to have a vision of what is happening outside. Through Falabella and Inchcape, they were able to gain up-to-date knowledge, solve real business problems, and receive direct feedback from experts.”
Participation in Data Finders reaffirms the institutional purpose of Duoc UC and the School of Administration and Business to train professionals capable of analysing, understanding, and providing strategic solutions in real contexts, contributing to the development of the business and research ecosystem in the national industry.
About Inchcape Americas
Inchcape is the world’s largest automotive distributor, operating across five continents. In Latin America, it is present in 14 countries in the region, partnering with over 40 vehicle and machinery brands. We are present throughout our customers’ journey, supporting them from purchase, financing, insurance, maintenance and repair services, to the sale of used vehicles. By combining our market expertise with unique technology and advanced data analytics, we create innovative customer experiences that deliver exceptional performance for our partners, strengthen brands, and drive sustainable growth. We are a team of over 6,500 people working for our customers and partners, with the purpose of bringing mobility to communities worldwide, for today, for tomorrow, and for the better.
For more information, visit https://www.inchcape.com/americas-es/