Venture capital seeks pan-European base

Article Abstract:

European businessmen and European Commission (EC) officials are promoting venture capitalism, especially across national boundaries. Transcending national borders coalesces fragmented markets and reduces the need for a transatlantic focus. The 400 venture capital funds in Europe have nearly $8 billion available for investment in small firms. Several of these funds are profiled. The 150-member European Venture Capital Assn (EVCA) provides computerized data on potential partners, market conditions, and investment opportunities. The Venture Consort program, an EVCA-EC joint project, has distributed $3.7 million for 18 multinational capital ventures since 1985. Venture capital is most popular in Britain. The Netherlands and France rank second and third, respectively, in venture capital volume.

Innovations, Foreign investments, Finance, Services, Investments, Economic policy, Venture capital, European Union. European Commission, European Economic Community, European Venture Capital Association

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The bright new worlds of Benetton

Article Abstract:

Italian fashion company Benetton is diversifying into new markets and businesses such as financial services. The Benetton family avoided the growth problems and feuding that often characterize successful start-ups, hiring talented managers from outside the company. In 1986, Benetton did $831 million in sales and made a profit of $85 million. The company plans to have 4,500 retail outlets around the world by the end of 1987. The company's success is attributed to its highly flexible manufacturing and distribution systems, which allow it to respond quickly to market changes. The company's use of automated manufacturing technology and subcontract labor also helps hold down labor costs.

Analysis, Case studies, Benetton Group S.p.A., Diversification in industry, Industrial diversification, Family-owned businesses, Fashion merchandising, Family corporations

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Wanted: more mongrels in the corporate kennel

Article Abstract:

There is a current demand in Europe for a new type of international executive who can speak several languages, who is comfortable with different cultures and systems of business, and who has access to international business networks. Executives with international skills are in short supply, however, and this may become an obstacle in Europe's attempt to develop a competitive internal market.

International aspects, Executives, European Community

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