Should a company play copy-cat or catch-up with a rival's new product?

Article Abstract:

A case study of a small European engineering company that is a leader in manufacturing battery-powered tools which is faced with unexpected competition from a Far Eastern rival with a superior product is presented. Firms facing unexpected competition should form a task force to collect data and determine the quality of the threat. The members of the task force should include a marketing manager, a design engineer, and someone familiar with the competitor. Firms should remember that it is difficult for new competitors to penetrate markets quickly. The advantages of competitors products should be analyzed and prioritized to determine which features in the firm's own products should be developed. The competitor information system should be analyzed to determine the reason for the firm being caught unaware.

Methods, Analysis, Competition (Economics), International competition (Commerce), International competition (Economics)

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The folksy theories that inspire lifestyle merchant IKEA

Article Abstract:

IKEA AB, a Swedish furniture manufacturer, has nurtured a closeness with its employees, in part through the unique philosophy of its founder and owner, Ingvar Kamprad, who attempts to stimulate innovation at every level of the company's operation. The company has translated its founder's philosophy into success in Western Europe and Canada, with sales of its high-quality and low-cost Swedish design furniture kits soaring. There are now 71 self-service furniture outlets run in 18 countries in Europe, the Middle East, North America and the Far East, making it the first truly multinational furniture retailer. Kamprad's unique management style and how he has led the company through its tremendous growth, as well as his plans for the future, are described.

Household Furniture, Furniture industry, Business planning, Kamprad, Ingvar, IKEA Svenska AB

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ABB: the new energy powerhouse (includes related article about ABB and a brief interview with CEO Percy Barnevik) (company profile)

Article Abstract:

The creation of ABB from Swedish and Swiss companies may be a model for future corporate transnational mergers. This global electrical power industry giant is managed through CEO Percy Barnevik's personal dynamism and informal management style. An internal task force of five top managers from each of the former companies is responsible for restructuring the new entity. Emphasis is placed on flexible individuals who can work in the multicultural environment, assume risks, and motivate staff. Synergy is occurring in the areas of research and development, production, and reduction of overhead costs. Two joint ventures with Westinghouse provide access to the domestic US power generation market.

Electric services, Industrial supplies, Switzerland, Energy industries, Energy industry, ABB Asea Brown Boveri Ltd., Barnevik, Percy, Germany, West, company profile

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