HMBS x Marc O’Polo DENIM: Students develop sustainability-focused marketing concepts for the community of tomorrow

How can fashion brands communicate sustainability credibly whilst building a strong community? Students on thebachelor's degree programme specialising in Marketing Management explored this question in the ‘Sustainability Marketing’ seminar led by Senior Lecturer Michael Christoph Schmid.

As part of the project with Marc O’Polo DENIM, the students developed innovative sustainability marketing concepts for the international fashion company’s sub-brand. The focus was on marketing initiatives particularly suited to community building and the development of collaborations and partnerships.

The highlight of the project was the closing event on 28 July 2026 at the Marc O’Polo headquarters in Stephanskirchen, near Rosenheim. The students presented their concepts directly to company representatives and received valuable practical feedback.

A total of four concepts were presented. Each presentation was allocated 15 minutes, followed by a further 15 minutes for questions and discussion with management. This led to an in-depth professional exchange on sustainable brand management, targeting specific audiences and innovative communication strategies.

The high-calibre line-up from the company side was particularly pleasing: alongside social media managers, Sandro Schramm, Marc O’Polo’s Director of Marketing & Licensing, also took part in the final presentation. The project was led on the company side by Marthe Louisa Dhom, Head of Editorial & Concepts.

As well as the presentations, the event offered further insights into business practice. Over a light lunch and during a guided tour of the Marc O’Polo campus, the students were able to experience the company at first hand and talk to other staff members from various departments, such as the pattern-making workshop, photo production and licensing.

HM Business School would like to extend its sincere thanks to Marc O’Polo for the trust-based collaboration and for providing students with the opportunity to gain valuable practical experience in a highly topical area of marketing.