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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Mamas & Papas was established in 1981 by Italian entrepreneurs David and Luisa Scacchetti. Mamas & Papas has grown as a family business to become the UK’s number one nursery brand. The company has turnover in excess of £120 million, and continue to expand domestically and internationally in order to fulfill the mission to be the number one global nursery brand.
Mamas & Papas have over 30 stores in UK. They also trade with Independent specialists in the UK and through international retail partners. Their International Franchise operation started with the opening of several stores across the Middle East in 2007.
The company now spots the opportunities in South East Asia marketplace. Thailand is a very outstanding country in this region; the advantages bring attraction to foreign investors, especially for Mamas & Papas. This opportunity somehow matches with the company’s mission perfectly.
Wide range of products and unique services provided by Mamas & Papas can be their internal strength in terms of internationalize to Thailand. Good economic environment in Thailand also can be great opportunity for the company to be successful in franchising.
With Thailand Foreign Business Act, that not allows foreigners to invest in any companies more than 49% will limited the Mamas & Papas entry strategy into the form of franchising.
Mamas & Papas will use their strength in products and services in terms of franchising to Thailand. In addition, products and services will be appropriately selected by price range, colours and life-style to match Thai peoples. With their experienced franchising operation team and experience in managing many owned retails in UK, the company will franchise to Thailand with high efficiency and effectiveness.
The company should continue investing in their R&D department during internationalization to understand more about customer needs and culture differences in order to develop new product design or differentiate existing products that match the need of Thai people. These can help Mamas & Papas to penetrate the market by gain more brand royalty from the existing customers and influence new customers to buy the brand. After their success in establishing brand in Thailand, the company should move on to another country in order to achieve the company’s mission, which is to be the number one global nursery brand.
Introduction
This report is discussing about one company “Mamas & Papas” to be internationalized and to operate its business in an Asian country; Thailand. It is intended to be useful for Marketing Manager or the franchise operator who wish to buy a franchise and operate it in a foreign country. Because of the wide range of products provided by the company, Mamas & Papas are ready to expand its business and be the one stop shop for mothers and fathers whose needs are enhanced by the competitive market environment.

Internationalization Albaum et al. (1998) defined that “Internationalization is a step-by-step process of international business development whereby a firm becomes increasingly committed to and involved in international business operations through specific products in selected markets”. Mamas & Papas is a company who provide boutique maternity and baby wear stores. It was established in Italy since 1981 and now has branches around the world such as UK, USA, Republic of Ireland, the Middle East countries and Hong Kong. Broadly, Mamas & Papas’ key motivation to internationalize to Thailand Market is “Proactive motives” which “represent stimuli to attempt strategy change, based on the firm’s interest in exploiting unique competences or market possibilities”1. Thus, there are two major proactive motives that encourage the firm to internationalize to Thailand. 1. Managerial Urge: The definition is a “motivation that reflects the desire, drive and enthusiasm of management towards global marketing activities.” According to one of the most significant missions of this company, it states that “To be the number one global nursery brand”2. In 2007, Mamas & Papas commenced their international franchise in the Middle East in order to confirm their pride of being a totally global operation. These internalized situations confirm that Mamas and Papas endeavor to maintain their expansion to new foreign markets which is currently should focus to Thailand. 2. Foreign Market Opportunities/ Market Information: Most of international firms are likely to discover fresh overseas markets since they ought to locate new resources, opportunities and profits1.Thailand is vastly attractive to foreign investors in relation to some of benefits demonstrated below. * Thailand Board of Investment stated that “2006 World Bank report indicated that Thailand was the 4th easiest country in Asia in which to do business, and the 20th easiest in the world”3. * There is a potential growth in Thailand economy as indicated by GDP indicator in the fiscal year of 2007. With reference to Bank of Thailand figures, percentage of changes in GDP was 6.67 for 2007 comparing with the rate of -26.23 in 20064.In addition, percentage of export increased from 18.1 to 24.6 which represent better sign to foreign investors. * Thailand has expanded the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) which is the industrial zone in 15 provinces. The purpose of this project is to sustain and enlarge invested industrial segments. Besides, IEAT provides an international port, Map Ta Phut3, to encourage export and import business. As a result, Mamas & Papas should concern this opportunity as a further investment in South-East Asia region.
Stage of Internationalization The following analysis of Mamas & Papas internationlization process in its foreign markets scenario will base on “Uppsala internationlization model”. There are 4 diverse stages of Uppsala Model which the upper stages denote to more achievement of international market commitment1. * Stage 1: No regular export activities (sporadic export). * Stage 2: Export via independent representatives (export modes). * Stage 3: Establishment of a foreign sales subsidiary. * Stage 4: Foreign production/manufacturing units.
In accordance with Mamas & Papas, internationlization process phase that will be implemented in Thailand marketplace is phase 3.The firm will build up Thailand divisions through franchise relationship. Base on the company’s general practices, Mamas & Papas, franchisor, will convey brand value along with business format to franchisee. While franchisee have to convey Thai local market knowledge, retail operational expertise, resources of suitable property and financial capital. To sum up, the firm illustrates fairly high degree of commitment and amount of resources committed in the aspect of franchise relationship.In particular, Mamas & Papas will establish brand retail stores, license to operate, training, operational manual setting, extensive high quality and innovative products, monitoring and analysis of franchisee performance, last but not least, encourage this new retail store to be a number one nursery brand in Thailand2.
Foreign market segmentation and targeting
Mamas & Papas is a UK-based retailer and manufacturer supplying baby products, furniture and maternity wear etc. Pioneering the nursery industry in the UK, Mamas & Papas offered something new and unique that answered the needs of modern parents. The products ranges from pushchairs, car seats, nursery goods, baby caring equipments, baby wear, maternity wear, toys etc.
In the field of nursery products, Mamas & Papas is one of the leading players in the UK marketplace. At this moment, Thailand has got none of company nor brand which provide such full range of products. As a result, these can help Mamas & Papas penetrate to Thailand market and attract Thai modern parents easier.
Target the potential market and customers
Recently, Thailand has the potential market share in the field of luxury baby products especially in Bangkok. According to the Thai market right now, there are so many leading brands of products operating and still coming to operate in Thailand. These also include products from high-priced fashion designer house to luxury European cars manufacturers. The potential target market for Mamas & Papas can be widely spread from modern moms and dads to fashionistas who enjoy buying exquisite gifts for their friends or relatives. Besides there is no competitor existing in Thailand who can produce the high quality and well designed baby product in full range. Furthermore, in psychological terms, the Mamas & Papas brand which comes from UK local brand, caters for people who adores western big brands in Bangkok.
Positioning the company and products
According to the original brand value and the Thailand market status quo, the entry strategy should be focused differentiation strategy which perceived added value to the baby product segment and warranting price premium at the same time.
Mamas & Papas as a UK-based brand, already focus on providing differentiated well-designed unique products. It is a pioneer in the field of designing the furniture, pushchairs, and nursery goods in Europe. While in Thailand, the market still does not appreciate the needs for babies. No company has focus on the furniture specifically designed for babies, not to mention the training equipments. Even for the existed baby wear market place, only a few of brands in low or middle class can be found in some department stores. The emerging of Mamas & Papas will fill up the blank of the marketplace. It will be the first big brand focused on the baby products in full category with high quality and distinctive brand image.
Environmental Analysis In terms of target foreign market, a SWOT analysis will be used to describe the environmental factors which can effect Mamas & Papas’ internationalization into Thailand.
Strengths
* Wide range of products from push chairs, nursery products, furniture to baby and maternity wears with good style and design. * Provide in-store service (nursery advisor, fashion advisor) and out-store service (Home Delivery & Assembly Service). * Experience in managing over 30 owned store in UK and Ireland, as well as trading with large retailers such as Harrods, John Lewis department store. * Experienced franchise operations team which can support international retail partners
Weaknesses
* Lack of experience in doing business in South East Asia. * Their medium to high-priced products caused them to focus only on premium market.
Opportunities
* Possibility of growing economic situation in 2008 according to Bank of Thailand. * Thailand’s market has 2 main players in mid/top retailer with many branches in Bangkok. * Domestic consumer demand may rise from the increasing certainty in the political situation. * Thailand has expanded the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) which helps sustain and enlarge invested industrial segments. * The attempt from EU to negotiate Free trade area with ASEAN.
Threats
* Foreign Business Act in Thailand. * Raising oil prices and transportation cost. * Uncertainty about upcoming policy from the new government which can affect foreign investors. * Thailand's strong Baht currency and Inflation rate increased.
The major strength for Mamas & Papas is their products and services. The shop provide wide range of products from baby wears, toys to furnitures that customers can buy inventories for their baby’s room. Premium and various products with unique design will make Mamas & Papas more attractive in the market. In-store service such as nursery advisor or fashion advisor will also bring competitive advantage to the company. Mamas & Papas will internationalize to Thailand by franchising. With experience in managing many owned store and retail shop in UK and Ireland as well as their franchise operations team can support Mamas & Papas in terms of internationalize to Thailand.
Since the company has international franchise only in the Middle East, it still lacks experience in doing business with country from South East Asia. Entering into completely new region, the company may have difficult time to deal with culture differences based on the “nesting’ perspective from broader layer like national culture to individual behaviour1. One more aspect that company need to concentrate is that premium products require customer with higher market potential. In this case, Mamas & Papas should focus only in Bangkok, where has the highest average monthly income per household in Thailand5.
The potential that Thailand’s economic growth will continue expanding will be a key force that attracts the company to invest. According to the World Bank, Thailand’s 2008 GDP should grow to 5% 6 comparing to 4.8% in 2007. The military coup in September 2006 causes investment and consumers’ confidence stagnated due to the uncertain political climate. After December 2007 elections, the situation cause the GDP in 4Q07 grew by 5.7%, improving from 4.2, 4.3 and 4.8% in the first 3 quarter respectively7. The government instability seemed to be under control now which can lead to better economic situation and bring confidence to investors to invest in Thailand as well as higher domestic demand. Furthermore, the project of Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) will help sustain and enlarge invested industrial segments. With government support for export and import transactions, an international port from this project will attract more foreigners for investment.
As Mamas & Papas will enter to Thailand’s market by franchising, there are two major players in mid/top retailing market which are The Mall Group Co., Ltd. and Central Pattana Public Company Limited. Both companies are strong business company with an expertise in fashion and retail markets. They own many department stores in Bangkok and other cities. Doing business with retailer by franchise operations experience will decrease the risk of being failed from internationalize into foreign market.
In addition, there is an attempt from EU to make free trade agreement with ASEAN. ASEAN’s trade with the EU has been rising gradually over the past five years. In 2006, ASEAN is the EU's 4th largest major trading partner, accounting to €127 billion8. If the agreement succeeds, it would remove the barriers to trade or to invest for members between EU and ASEAN. Lowering trade barrier can lower price for Mamas & Papas product in the market since cost for trade has been reduced. Demand for goods also rise as people can spend more effortlessly.
Main issue that Mamas & Papas need to concern is Thailand Foreign Business Act which required foreign equity investment limited to 49% and would not allow foreigners to hold half of a majority of the voting rights in the companies9. The entry method in Thailand’s market franchising with retailer of mid / top market brands seems to be a better option. By entity a franchising business package to the franchisee, Mamas & Papas would not have to fully-owned and controlled the firm.
The raising in world oil price also needs to take into account since materials and cost of transportation will also be increased. Thailand’s inflation rate in Q3/2007 also increased from the oil price crisis which means rises in costs of production and lessens the consumer purchasing power10. Nevertheless, according to the Bank of Thailand10, Thai Baht will continue strengthening from value declining of the US dollar and export growth expected to continue. Thai economy would grow at a faster pace in 2008 which will bring higher in domestic demand.

International Marketing Objectives The mission of Mamas & Papas is to be the number one global nursery brand1, along with expansion in further international marketplaces. In the meantime, the company remains unique in its brand and characteristics “practical, innovative as well as stylish” products and services. The Mamas & Papas very first shop in Thailand will focus on elite, high to middle class as target markets. The first flagship store will locate at Central World11, leading premium department store. The products offerings are various in categories and prices in order to fulfill every level of requirements. Mamas & Papas maternity products will be differentiated from other retailers and major department stores, significant rivals of the shop, by exotic design and suitable functions for Thai patrons. Especially with services, the shop will offer exclusive services that none of Thai retailers ever present before, for example healthy baby café and In-Store Nursery Advisor. At the start, Mamas & Papas deliberately initiate brand awareness among Thai customers and place its brand position as an inspirational brand with style, elegant and comfort. After being a notable maternity brand in Thai market, Mamas & Papas will expand more branches into other well-known department stores, for example The Emporium, Paragon and Central Department Stores12. Moreover, the shop will launch discount as well as promotions, advertise in Thai mass media and import more categories of products. Thus, gaining higher market share in maternity products together with being the first or the second in market penetration.
Foreign Market Entry Strategy
Main issue for choosing entry mode that Mamas & Papas needs to concern is the Thailand Foreign Business Act which restricted foreign equity investment limited to 49% and would not allow foreigners to hold half of a majority of the voting rights in the companies1.
Mamas & Papas has already got experience in international expansion in Ireland and the Middle East, not any Asian country, by using the franchising entry mode. The great sociocultural distance between UK and the host country Thailand, in terms of culture economic systems and business practices etc., requires certain degree of flexibility to cater for the host country, as mentioned earlier about Hollensen’s culture differences.
Considering all the factors mentioned above, the intermediate entry approach would be appropriate for Mamas & Papas, which no full ownership involved but ownership and control can be shared between the parent firm and a local partner. In addition, since Mamas & Papas has got an international franchising operation experience, it would be cost-reduced and low risk approach to use franchising for Thailand market. Hollensen (2004) defines franchising that
“Franchising is a marketing-oriented method of selling a business service, often to small independent investors who have working capital but little or no prior business experience. It is something of an umbrella term that is used to mean anything from the right to use a name to the total business concept”.
Moreover, Mamas & Papas may design a business format package franchising for Thailand market according to the previous experience in other countries, which contains the trade marks, copyright, designs, patents, business know-how, local entity. Business format franchising is an ongoing relationship that includes not only a product or a service but also a business concept1.
Mamas & Papas’ website declares its franchising approach as follows:
“The Mamas & Papas brand is unique, enabling parents all over the globe to create a beautiful world for their newborn child, and it is the strength of the brand along with the design of the products which will help to make it a success in every market it enters. Our International Franchise team provides a dedicated service to our Franchise Partners, including support and advice on Retail Operations, Buying, Supply, Merchandising, Product Training and Marketing.”
For Thailand market, which the franchisee may not absolutely satisfied with Mamas & Papas’ standard, Mamas & Papas would offer a higher level of support ranging from business concept to overall assistance for franchisee. The assistance will cover from site selection, cooperative advertising, training, guidance of store opening etc.
Applying franchising mode, the eventual replacement is still controlled by Mamas & Papas. From this aspect, Mamas&Papas would retain the main goodwill whereas the franchising partner can also picks up an element of localized ones. Furthermore, since franchisee is the one investing in the necessary equipment and know-how, it is a low-risk and low-cost entry mode for Mamas & Papas.
However, an appropriate competent franchising partner is the vital factor for the business. If the franchisee underperforms, Mamas & Papas would take the risk of losing company’s international profile and reputation, the ruin of the brand. Therefore, searching for a qualified partner should be a very deliberate process.
Product /Service Mix Preparation
The products that “Mamas & Papas” offer to its customers have a wide range to be selected for. All the categories are provided below; 1. Pushchairs | 2. Car Seats | 3. Your Nursery | 4. Highchairs and Caring | 5. Maternity | 6. Babywear | 7. Toys and Playtime | |
The franchisee will provide Thai customers products from every range to emphasize “Mamas and Papas” in the market and in the mind set of customers to be one stop shop. To be more specific, the franchisee will sell the products as the same as in the UK. Its main target customers should be “stylish yet price awareness” mothers and fathers who prefer to shop wisely and not fall for fancy things that too pricey. For each category, the products will be selected to be sold according to price range, colours and life-style matching to Thai people. Thai people love light colours, for example, yellow, red, orange, pink, light blue, etc. This is because Thailand is tropical country and the dark colours will absorb the sunray which is not good for babies and mothers. Thailand has lots of rain during the year. So the materials that are suitable for the products should be water-proof such as canvas or plastic. Moreover, the weight of the products is one thing to be considered, as Thai people are smaller in size comparing to British people, the products which are not too heavy are more suitable. In addition, the pattern and design of the products are essential. Thai people love everything to be outstanding but stylish. They don’t like things to be monotonous. So the choices of products to be sold can easily be selected by all these criteria provided earlier.
The decoration also is one aspect to take into account. “Mamas & Papas” shop in Thailand will situate in premium shopping centre which attracts customers with high buying potential. The overall ambiance of the shop should be relaxing yet elegant. It should consist of the colours, as in the UK, which fascinate and persuade customers to come and have a look for the good quality products. In the UK, it is mainly white but for Thailand we should add some colourful feeling by adding light orange, yellow and pink to the decoration. The shop will provide well-trained sales assistant to assist and give advice to customers in selecting products. Also the playground, for their children of course, will be provided with some of creative toys from the range of Mamas & Papas products. This can help selling the products easier as impressing the parents by their children trying on practical and functional toys.
Example of one category been explored and choose to import to Thailand;
Pushchairs; The list of the models and its price are: * Nipi Buggy Pushchairs; 3 colours; Mojo Kiwi, Mojo Jam and Mojo Chocolate 50 pounds. * Pulse Buggy Pushchairs; 2 colours; Jet and Rio 89 pounds. * Zoom Buggy Pushchairs; 1 colours; Oxide 125 pounds. * Ziko Frankie Pushchairs; 150 pounds * Luna Pushchairs; 3 colours; Tulip, Mandarin and Cress 150 pounds. * Pulse Twin Buggy Pushchairs; 1 colours; Jet 190 pounds. * Ultima 8 in 1 & MPX Chassis; 545 pounds
These are some of the products that the franchisee can choose to see in Thailand shop, some of them are chosen because of their price that are not too expensive. Some of them are practical and colourful enough to attract attention. The last one from the list is way too expensive but still, is chosen because of its incredible use and, again, to emphasize the one stop shop positioning strategy. The rest of the products chosen from other categories can be selected by the staffs which are Thai and are trained specialized in choosing proper products. In addition, as the new collection of the products coming out along the year, The company will provide the official buying out session for foreign franchisees to facilitate the best product choices matching the country whose store located. However, as some products are not suitable to market in Thailand because customers can find these products easier and cheaper. They are not chosen to be sold. These products are * Lighting * Curtains and Tie Backs Mamas & Papas provide many services for mother and family apart from maternity products. Since there are several cultural differences between Thai and UK markets, the company requires the differentiation of services provided in UK to be operated in Thailand.
Differentiated Services in Thailand 1. Planning Essential: Thai people may have requirement of nursery kits dissimilar to British. Essential list need to be adapted and use as a guideline pamphlet for customers. For example, footmuff in the original list is not suitable for Thai customers according to hot weather. In addition, this essential list can develop as a must-have list for mothers which may encourage customers to purchase more products in relevant to the list. This list should be promptly distributed to customers who visit the shop at anytime. 2. In-Store Nursery Advisor: Typically, Thai mothers are advised by gynecologists or nurses or books for nursery knowledge. This is a new alternative for Thai customers because none of maternity retailer in Thailand offers this service ever. Consequently, it will be a major attraction for the very first shop in Thailand. At very least, the shop will arrange one in-store nursery advisor on Wednesday, Friday-Saturday at opening hours. 3. Fashion Advisor: There will be one properly trained shop assistant who gives advice to stylish mothers in shopping. The fashion advisor will be available only on booking appointment. For the first month of shop opening, the assistant will be available at all time for trial service without any charges. 4. Car Seat Fitting: The provision of this service in Thailand has the same reason as offering In-Store Nursery Advisor. This service can be served by general well-trained shop assistants. 5. Gift Vouchers and Gift Boxes: This could be an interesting alternative of giving presents to newly mothers. In addition, gift vouchers will quite compel new buyers who have never been visited the shop before in order to experience and become acquainted with Mamas and Papas. Gift Vouchers should be available at the range of 1,000 Baht (£15.83 EST.)13, 3,000 Baht (£47.49 EST.) and 5,000 Baht (£79.15 EST.). 6. Café: The café formerly operates in UK stores is Cibo, which rather difficult to remember for Thai customers. The name should be the same as the shop, “Mamas & Papas Café”, so customers will be able to recognize the name and its characteristics, healthy foods for families and especially babies. Café should locate as one section of the shop as well as have the same opening hours. 7. Thai language Web Site: Thai web site should be added as a new link in UK based web site. It will be customized to have the same contents as the products and services that are actually provided in Thailand’s branch. However, it will not provide the online purchasing services as Mamas & Papas provides in other countries based web sites since Thai customers are not familiar with this purchase method.
General Services
Opening hours: Daily at 10am – 10 pm (based on Central World11, branch location, opening hours).
Purchase Method: At the store only2.
Conclusion
Mamas & Papas internationalization to Thailand will help the company to accomplish their mission in expansion into international marketplace. With their brand unique characteristics and services as well as their wide range of products categories will help the company to establish brand awareness into Thailand market with high efficiency. Furthermore, Thailand’s possible economic growth will attract many foreign investments since the domestic demand should also increase. The company will go internationalize by franchising since Foreign Business Act in Thailand would not allowed the company to have foreign equity investment more than 49%. Nevertheless, appropriate products and services selected that meet Thai customers will assist Mamas & Papas to be established in Thailand with in no time.

References 1. Hollensen S. (2004), “Global Marketing: a decision-oriented approach”, Third Edition, Essex: Pearson Education Limited. 2. Mamas & Papas 2008, http://www.mamasandpapas.co.uk/, [Accessed: Feb-May 2008]. 3. Thailand Board of Investment 1997-2004, http://www.boi.go.th/english/why/thailand_advantages.asp, [Accessed: 28 March 2008]. 4. Thailand GDP: real growth rate 2007, http://www.indexmundi.com/thailand/gdp_real_growth_rate.html, [Accessed: 3 April 2008]. 5. The Key Statistics of Thailand 2007, National Statistical Office, Thailand , http://service.nso.go.th/nso/nsopublish/service/key50/k_chap7.pdf, [Accessed: 25 March 2008]. 6. The World Bank 2008, http://www.worldbank.org/, [Accessed: 1 April 2008]. 7. Office of the National Economic and Social Development Board, http://www.nesdb.go.th/Portals/0/eco_datas/account/qgdp/data4_07/detail_Eng.pdf, [Accessed: 25 March 2008]. 8. European Commission: Trade Issues, http://ec.europa.eu/trade/issues/bilateral/regions/asem/index_en.htm, [Accessed: 1 April 2008]. 9. British Chamber of Commerce Thailand: Draft FBA and Objections, http://www.bia.co.th/legalupdates/Foreign%20Business%20Act%20BIA%20art%20250507.doc, [Accessed: 5 April 2008]. 10. Bank of Thailand website, http://www.bot.or.th/BOTHOMEPAGE/index/index_e.asp, [Accessed: 5 April 2008]. 11. Central World: The Bangkok lifestyle landmark 2008, http://www.centralworld.co.th/, [Accessed: 14 April 2008). 12. Shopping Malls in Bangkok 2008, http://www.bangkok.com/shopping-mall/index.html, [Accessed: 6 May 2008]. 13. Bank, Siam Commercial: Currency exchange Rates 2008, http://www.scb.co.th/exchange/bk-txtexchange.htm, [Accessed: 5 May 2008].

Further Reading * Paliwoda Stanley J. and Thomas Michael J. (1998), “International Marketing”, Third Edition, Oxford: Butterworth Heinemann. * ASEAN Free Trade Area 2008, http://www.aseansec.org/12025.htm, [Accessed: 3 April 2008]. * CIA-The World Fact Book 2008, https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/print/xx.html, [Accessed: 3 April 2008]. * Shopping Malls in Bangkok 2008, http://www.bangkok.com/shoppingmall/index.html, [Accessed: 6 May 2008]. * The Independent: Business 2007, http://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/sme/mamas--papas-my-how-youve-grown-754502.html, [Accessed: 28 March 2008]. * Emporium 2007, http://www.emporiumthailand.com/main.php, [Accessed: 2 April 2008]. * Siam Paragon: The Pride of Bangkok 2008, http://www.siamparagon.co.th/v3/index2.html, [Accesed: 2 April 2008].

Appendices 1: Tables of SWOT Analysis
Table1: Strength & Weaknesses analysis

Performance * Wide range products * In-store services * Experience in retailing | * Owned experience franchising operate team | | * Can be target only premium market * Lack experience in doing business with South East Asia |
High Low

High

Importance

Low

Table 2: Opportunities Analysis

Probability of success
High Low

* 2 main players in retail with many branches * Possible growth of economic in Thailand | * EU negotiate Free Trade Area with ASEAN | * Demand rise from increased certainty in politic situation | |

High

Attractiveness

Low

Table 3: Threats Analysis
Probability of occurrence
High Low * Foreign Business Act in Thailand * Thailand’s strong baht currency and Inflation rate increase | * uncertainty about upcoming policy from the new government which can effect foreign investor | * Raising oil prices and transportation cost | |

High

Seriousness

Low

Appendices 2: Central World
Brand concept The renowned international shopping experience. Trend setter & "Best of The Best"
Central World
World Trade Center was acquired in December 2002 and renamed Central World, one of the most popular malls in the heart of Bangkok. Its current anchors include two specialty department stores (the one and only in Thailand) – Zen and Isetan – and other mini anchors such as B2S (a books/ stationary retailer), Power Buy (an electronics retailer), Super Sports (a sporting goods retailer),Thailand Knowledge Park, a downtown Duty Free Shop, a 30-lane bowling alley, a 17 screen Cineplex – just to name a few. With its extravagant world class design, its also hosts a 660 – meter-long unobstructed frontage, the longest glass facade in Bangkok and the largest downtown Bangkok activity area with a water landscape used for promotions,concerts and high-profile Functions.
However, an ongoing development program will transform Central World into an extraordinary multi-experiential retail and leisure destination. The new-look Central World will be bubble with 21st Century vitality, a vibrant lifestyle hub aimed at attracting a wide spectrum of visitors. Its world – class shopping facilities will feature exciting new retail concepts, brand-name anchor tenants, unparalleled dining and multi-faceted entertainment. A majority of the shopping complex will open in mid 2006. The project will also house a 45-storey office tower, a 500-room luxury hotel, the largest downtown convention center, and skywalk linking to the BTS skytrain mass transit.

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...1. Сутність, сучасний стан та перспективи розвитку митно-тарифних відносинУ визначенні стратегії і тактики інтегрування економіки країни до світового економічного простору домінують два погляди. Перший погляд ґрунтується на тезі швидкої (шокової) лібералізації зовнішньоекономічних зв'язків (неолібералізм). Другий погляд (градуалізм) ґрунтується на поступовому переході до "відкритості" економіки, що передбачає поетапний процес, який має свою структурну специфіку і потребує активної ролі держави в даній сфері взаємовідносин.Неолібералізм передбачає згортання господарської діяльності держави, форсування інтернаціоналізації економіки, гомогенізацію світогосподарських механізмів регулювання шляхом надання стихійному ринку повної свободи і забезпечення умов вільної конкуренції.Підґрунтям концепції "шокової терапії" є ідеї монетаристів, що ринок це найбільш ефективна форма організації економічної системи, яка здатна до самоорганізації. Тому трансформація перехідного періоду має відбуватися за мінімальної участі держави.Найбільш оптимальною моделлю взаємовідносин України зі світовим економічним простором є політика помірного протекціонізму: рух у напрямі політики "вільної торгівлі" з точковим використанням інструментарію протекціонізму, зокрема митно-тарифних регуляторів.Об'єктом митно-тарифних відносин є всі види зовнішньоекономічної діяльності, під час здійснення яких відбувається процес переміщення через митний кордон: експорт (імпорт) товарів, капіталу, робочої сили, послуг; науково-технічна...

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...recommendations contained in the report without seeking specific advice from the firm's professional advisers. While due care has been taken in the preparation of this document, Murdoch University together with its academic supervisors and students accepts no responsibility for errors or omissions, nor do they guarantee its accuracy. OFFICE USE ONLY Submission date OFFICE USE ONLY Submission date ASSIGNMENT COVER SHEET (INDIVIDUAL OR GROUP) Please complete and attach this form to your assignment. All assignments must be submitted to lecturer on the stipulated submission date. Name | LIANG TIANSHU JOEL, GOH WEI SIONG, LEE WEI TECK BRANDON, CHENSON ANG, LIM MING YAO | | Unit Code | BUS323 | Unit Name | INTERNATIONAL MANAGEMENT | Class Code | PT-BUS323D | Local Lecturer’s name | DR. JUERGEN RUDOLPH | Assignment No. (i.e. 1,2,3) or ‘short answer’ | MAJOR PROJECT | Your assignment should meet the following requirements. Please confirm this by ticking the boxes before submitting your assignment √ My assignment is double-spaced and clearly legible √ My assignment is written on one side of page only √ I have provided a wide margin (4 cm) on left-hand side of page √ The first page of my assignment is clearly labelled with my name, unit no, unit name and tutor’s name. √ I have retained a copy of my assignment √ I have completed and signed the declaration below All forms of plagiarism, cheating and unauthorised...

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...forces revolve around the interaction of industry drivers of globalisation and the different ways a business can be global. Understanding this interaction is key to formulating the right global strategy. Internal organisational factors play a major role in determining how well a company can implement global strategy. This paper provides a systematic approach to developing and implementing a global strategy. MOST MANAGERS have to face the increasing globalisation of markets and competition. That fact requires each company to decide whether it must become a worldwide competitor to survive. This is not an easy decision. Take the division of a multibillion-dollar company, a company that's very sophisticated and has been conducting international business for more than fifty years. The division sells a commodity product, for which it is trying to charge 400% more in Europe than it does in the United States. The price was roughly the same in the United States and in Europe when the dollar was at its all-time high. The company built a European plant which showed greater return on investment with that European price. But the dollar has fallen and, if the company drops its European price to remain roughly the same as the US price, the return on the plant becomes negative, and some careers are in serious jeopardy. So it is attempting to maintain a 40% European price premium by introducing minor upgrades to the European product. But its multinational customers will have none of it...

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...The economic and social consequences of trade agreements have become a major area of research in recent years. Much of this has to do with regional economic integration, where countries in a geographic region, reduce and remove tariff and non-tariff barriers to the free flow of goods, services and production between each other (Hill, 2005). On the 1 January, 1994, such a trade agreement came into affect between America, Mexico and Canada. This was known as the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). This removed all barriers to the trade of goods and services within the member countries, the protection of intellectual property rights, application of national environmental standards and the establishment of two commissions with power to impose fines and remove trade privileges when such standards are ignored involving the environment, health and safety, wages and child labour (Hill, 2005). There is a belief that agreements designed to promote free trade within regions will benefit trade for all the countries involved, and also the rest of the world (Abbott and Moran, 2002). While regional economic integration, or foreign direct investment, is seen as a good thing, some observers worry that it could lead to a world in which regional trade blocs compete against each other. We are seeing the formation of many trading blocs continuing today as the need for it has become essential for countries and their firms to compete in the global market place (Seid, 2002). Although...

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...world is flat" - global competition is characterized by network sod international linkages that bind countries, institutions and people in an interdependent global economy. Economic integration help the lowering of trade barriers and facilitates trade between countries increasing the flow of goods and services, capital, resources, labour and technology around the world. "the invisible hand" of global competition is being propelled by the increasingly borderless world. Globality and Emerging Markets Globalization has narrowed differences in regional output growth rates, economic activities have increased mainly in China, India and Russia. Trade had grown by 133% (worth $54 trillion) in the last 15 years and is still growing. The 2007 FDI confidence index has shown China leading with 2.21, India with 2.09, USA with 1.86…. Fareed Zakaria (American Journalist specialized in international business) states that even though USA is a traditional industry leading in nanotechnology and biotechnology, it is declining and the "other" countries are picking up opportunities as their economic markets are growing because they provide growth markets for developed countries. Globalization is no longer synonym to Americanization due to the investment opportunities in other emerging countries. Apple vs Samsung, Budweiser, Subaru etc… Globalization is measured by economic factors but also by economic integration (international trade and FDI), technological connectivity (# of internet users,...

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...Uncertain Future International Management Instructor: Dr. Darlene Lee Andreas Weber is a good man with a decent career and a growing family, his divided between the two as this case study goes on. His is torn between the two most important things in his life, which is his career and family. He had wondered “How had it all come to this?” (Thomas, 2003). He had started from the bottom and worked his way to the top, through his patient of working in the bank in Frankfurt headquarters in Germany. It all began when he was given the offer to be part of companywide international development program by the Managing Director. The program focuses on the professional development of young , aspiring managers with the potential for senior management position at the corporate headquarters in the United States (Thomas, 2003). To him this is the stepping stone of his career, it is now or never, he had always thought he would have to take this kind of opportunity to open up new windows in developing leading job position in the company. The one week seminar had taken place in the top leading school in the United States, the CEO from Frankfurt was around to take part in the seminar. In the seminar, the CEO had highlighted that the goal of the bank is to expand into globalization in the near future. One of which is to start is by making the key value of globalization is to have the international experience to open up to future inspiring managers by pursuing in international career (Thomas,...

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...domestic environment. If companies and corporations want to be successful in today’s economy, then it is important for managers to have a thorough knowledge and understanding of different types of cultures, business ethics, and ways of leadership, and the implications that these differences will have on their businesses. In this paper, we will discuss the effects that globalization has had on managers with respect to culture, business ethics, and leadership. Culture Globalization has caused cultural diversity to become a fact of organizational life. In order for businesses to succeed, cultural diversity has to be taken into consideration when formulating business plans and strategies. Managers have also had to develop cross-cultural management skills, which are necessary to be able to manage employees and interact with clients of different cultural backgrounds (Saee...

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International Business Management

...INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MANAGEMEMENT ASSIGNMENT 2 Question 1 When the Mexico’s currency is pegged to the United States dollar, it means that the exchange rate is set and artificially maintained by the government. The rate will not fluctuate from day to day. The pegged exchange rate is usually used to stabilize the value of a currency against the currency it is pegged to which makes trade and investments between the two currency areas easier and more predictable. Pegged exchange rate system can also be used as a means to control inflation. The difference between a free/clean float, a managed float and fixed exchange rate systems of exchange rate is that: Clean/free float In the clean/free float also known as a pure exchange rate the value of a currency, which is the exchange rate is determined purely by market forces of supply and demand. Clean floats can only exist where there is no government interference, as would be the case in a purely capitalistic economy. Therefore, clean floats are a result of Laissez-Faire or free market economies.  Managed float In a managed float also known as “dirty float” the government or the country's central bank occasionally intervenes to change the direction of the value of the country's currency. In most instances, the intervention aspect of a dirty float system is meant to act as a buffer against an external economic shock before its effects become truly disruptive to the domestic economy. Therefore, with a managed or dirty float the government...

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...1.0 Content No | Detail | Page | 1.0 | Content | 1 | 2.0 | Task 1 | 2 – 4 | 3.0 | Task 2 | 5 – 6 | 4.0 | Task 3 | 7 – 10 | 5.0 | Task 4 | 11 – 15 | 6.0 | Task 5 | 16 – 17 | 7.0 | Reference | 18 | 8.0 | Coursework | 19 – 25 | 2.0 Task 1 2.1 The various advantages and disadvantages Multinational firms is the firm that their businesses that conduct operations and sell to customers in multiple countries. Obviously, multinational corporations can provide developing countries with critical financial infrastructure for economic and social development. But, these may also bring with them relaxed codes of ethical conduct that serve to exploit the neediness of developing nations, rather than to provide the critical support necessary for countrywide economic and social development. When a multinational invests in a host country, the scale of the investment (given the size of the firms) is likely to be significant. Indeed governments will often offer incentives to firms in the form of grants, subsidies and tax breaks to attract investment into their countries. This foreign direct investment (FDI) will have advantages and disadvantages for the host country. There are some advantages while facing the multinational corporation. One of the primary advantages that multinational companies enjoy over companies that limit their operations to smaller geographical regions is that they have a larger pool of potential customers. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration...

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...International Business Management Section A: Part One: 1. What is the series consideration for strategy implementation? 2. The major activity in global marketing is: d. All of the above 3. 3. The third „P‟ in the international marketing mix is: d. Place 4. The European Economic Community was established in____________ d. 1957 5. Environment Protection Act on______________ a. 1986 6. People‟s attitude toward time depend on: 7. Culture necessitates adaption of : 8. The legal term for brand is: All of the above 9. FDI flows are often a reflection of rivalry among firms in____________ 10. ISO certification is: d. Both (a) & (b) Part Two: 1. What do understand by „Inward-oriented Policies An inward- oriented policy, usually , means over protection. What is less obvious is that sheltering domestic industries puts exports at a great disadvantage because it raises the cost of the foreign inputs used in their production. Moreover, an increase in the relative costs of domestic inputs may also occur through inflation or because of appreciation of the exchange rate as import restrictions are introduced. In practice, the distinction between inward-looking and outward looking approaches gets blurred. Most of the less developed countries have employed both strategies with different degrees of emphasis at one time or another 2. What is „Factor Endowments Theory‟? The factor endowments is a “modern” extension of the classical approach and attempts to explain the...

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...Difference Between Entrepreneurship & Small Business Management By Chris Joseph, eHow Contributor A small business enterprise requires skilled management to become successful. Depending on the nature of the enterprise, the entrepreneur and the manager may be the same person. In other cases, the entrepreneur may have little to do with the day-to-day operations of the business. The skills need to be a successful entrepreneur are not necessarily the same ones required to be a competent manager. 1. Leadership Skills * An entrepreneur is often a sole proprietor who does not employ others in her business, so she might not need to possess strong leadership skills. A small business manager is typically in charge of running a business operation, which may involve the need to manage a staff of employees. The entrepreneur who is also a manager faces the challenge of ensuring the profitability of her operation while effectively leading a group of workers. Focus * Entrepreneurship requires a business owner to look at the "big picture" pertaining to his business, which may include seeking new markets, establishing important contacts through networking and planning for future expansion. Small business management may be more focused on the day-to-day operations of the business such as dealing with customers, ordering supplies or overseeing production. In essence, entrepreneurship involves developing the plan while management involves the execution of the plan. * Sponsored...

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...Chapter 6 1. What is strategy? What is strategic planning? * Strategy = the basic means by which the firm competes * Strategic planning = The more complex than domestic strategic planning because of more complex variables a. List the reasons a company would have if it wants to operate internationally. Have a two reasons a company would have is it wants to operate internationally . Which is Reactive/Defensive & Proactive/Aggressive Reactive/Defensive * Globalization of competitors * Trade barriers * Regulations and restrictions * Customer demands Proactive/Aggressive * Economies of scale * Growth opportunities * Resource access and cost savings Incentives b. List the seven steps in the strategic management process. * Define/clarify mission and objectives * Assess environment for threats, opportunities * Assess internal strengths and weaknesses * Consider alternative strategies using competitive analysis * Choose strategy * Implement strategy through complementary structure , system and operational processes * Set up control and evaluation systems to ensure success, feedback to planning 2. What is environmental scanning? What areas are most commonly focused in environmental scanning? Environmental scanning is a process that systematically surveys and interprets relevant data to identify external opportunities and threats. An organization gathers information about the external world, its competitors...

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...Workshop 2 – Chapter 2 Managing Interdependence: Social Responsibility & Ethics In-class activity 1: Discussion questions Discuss the following in class: 1. In your opinion, should multinational firms be socially responsible in every country they operate in? Provide some examples of socially irresponsible activities by firms. 2. Discuss the common guidelines for code of morality and ethics in different countries. 3. Discuss the process for firms to combat corruption and minimise the risk of prosecution. 4. Discuss some common criticism of multinational subsidiary activities. In-class activity 2: Ongoing Semester Case Study – Businessville Hotel. The Beijing Businessville Hotel has been set up and the newly appointed Manager wants to furnish the hotel. His brother is a furniture dealer and tells the Manager he can get really good furniture from a friend in another country, and will give him a 40% discount on the order. The Manager is pleased and asks where the furniture is from and who is selling it. His brother says he cannot tell him that, but he knows it is good, new furniture. Review the legal and ethical issues and develop an argument that the hotel manager should or should not buy the furniture at a discount price from an unknown source. In-class activity 3: Case Study. Consider the case study ‘Nike’s CSR Challenge’ on pages 86-88 of your textbook and prepare discussion points for questions 1-5 at the end. In-class activity 4: In-class...

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