Design, and implement integrative strategies to improve the effectiveness of a company’s global competitive position

Sample Solution

   

Walmart in Africa

Walmart entered Africa in 2011 with the acquisition of a 51% stake in South African retailer Massmart. The company has since expanded into several other African countries, including Ghana, Kenya, and Nigeria. However, Walmart's African operations have been fraught with challenges, and the company has struggled to gain a foothold in the continent's competitive retail market.

Full Answer Section

    Analysis There are several factors that have contributed to Walmart's difficulties in Africa. These include:

• Complex and fragmented retail landscape: Africa's retail market is highly fragmented, with a large number of small, informal retailers. This makes it difficult for large multinational retailers like Walmart to compete effectively.
• Supply chain challenges: Africa's infrastructure is poor, and this makes it difficult to transport goods and materials efficiently. This has led to high supply chain costs for Walmart.
• Cultural differences: African consumers have different shopping habits and preferences than consumers in developed markets. Walmart has struggled to adapt its business model to the African market.

Design In order to improve its effectiveness in Africa, Walmart needs to develop a more localized approach to its business. This includes:

• Partnering with local retailers: Walmart should partner with local retailers to gain access to their existing customer base and expertise in the African market.
• Investing in infrastructure: Walmart should invest in improving Africa's infrastructure, such as roads and warehouses. This would reduce supply chain costs and make Walmart's operations more efficient.
• Tailoring its product assortment: Walmart should tailor its product assortment to the needs and preferences of African consumers. This includes offering more locally sourced products and products that are smaller in size and price.

Implementation Walmart has already begun to implement some of these strategies. For example, the company has partnered with local retailers in Ghana and Kenya. Walmart has also invested in building new distribution centers in Africa. In addition to these strategies, Walmart could also consider the following:

• Focus on rural areas: Africa is a predominantly rural continent, and Walmart could tap into this market by expanding its reach into rural areas.
• Develop mobile commerce solutions: Mobile phone penetration is high in Africa, and Walmart could develop mobile commerce solutions to reach a wider audience.
• Invest in e-commerce: E-commerce is growing rapidly in Africa, and Walmart could invest in e-commerce to reach more consumers.

By implementing these strategies, Walmart can improve its effectiveness in Africa and become a more competitive player in the continent's retail market. Alibaba versus Tencent: The Battle for China's M-Commerce Space Alibaba and Tencent are two of the largest technology companies in China, and they are also the two leading players in the country's m-commerce space. Alibaba operates the Taobao Marketplace and Tmall platforms, while Tencent operates the WeChat platform. Analysis Alibaba and Tencent have different approaches to m-commerce. Alibaba focuses on providing a platform for businesses to sell their products to consumers, while Tencent focuses on providing a platform for consumers to communicate with each other and with businesses. Design Alibaba and Tencent are both continuing to invest in their respective m-commerce platforms. Alibaba is investing in developing new technologies, such as artificial intelligence and augmented reality, to enhance the user experience on its platforms. Tencent is investing in expanding its WeChat platform into new markets, such as Southeast Asia. Implementation Alibaba and Tencent are both expanding their m-commerce offerings. Alibaba is expanding its Tmall platform into new categories, such as groceries and fresh produce. Tencent is expanding its WeChat platform into new services, such as online payments and food delivery. Vodafone in Egypt: National Crises and Their Implications for Multinational Corporations (Egypt) Vodafone entered Egypt in 2006 and quickly became the country's largest mobile phone operator. However, the company has faced a number of challenges in recent years, including the 2011 Egyptian Revolution and the subsequent economic instability. Analysis The 2011 Egyptian Revolution had a significant impact on Vodafone's operations in Egypt. The company's mobile phone network was disrupted during the uprising, and the company's sales and profits declined. Design Vodafone has taken a number of steps to adapt to the changing political and economic landscape in Egypt. The company has invested in upgrading its network infrastructure and in developing new products and services. Vodafone has also worked to build relationships with the Egyptian government and with local businesses. Implementation Vodafone's investments in network infrastructure and product development have helped the company to maintain its market share in Egypt. The company's relationships with the Egyptian government and with local businesses have also helped to improve its reputation and its ability to