Harley-Davidson has chosen to compete in various country markets in Europe
and Asia using an export strategy. Read the sections of its latest annual report
at www.harley-davidson.com related to its international operations. Why does
it seem the company has avoided developing production facilities outside the
United States?
Assume you are in charge of developing the strategy for a multinational company
selling products in some 50 different countries around the world. One of
the issues you face is whether to employ a multicountry strategy or a global
strategy.
If your company's product is mobile phones, do you think it would make
better strategic sense to employ a multicountry strategy or a global strategy?
Why?
If your company's product is dry soup mixes and canned soups, would a
multicountry strategy seem to be more advisable than a global strategy?
Why?
If your company's product is large home appliances such as washing
machines, ranges, ovens, and refrigerators, would it seem to make more
sense to pursue a multicountry strategy or a global strategy? Why?
If your company's product is apparel and footwear, would a multicountry
strategy or a global strategy seem to have more appeal? Why?
The Hero Group is among the 10 largest corporations in India with 20 business
segments and annual revenues of $3.2 billion in fiscal 2006. Many of the corporation's
business units have utilized strategic alliances with foreign partners to
compete in new product and geographic markets. Review the company's statements
concerning its alliances and international business operations at www.herogroup.com/alliance.htm and prepare a two-page report that outlines the
group's successful use of international strategic alliances.
