International Business

Memo

Re: Final Exam Study Assignment: Take-Home Option

Introduction

You act as an individual IntEnt business consultant. XYZ, your U.S.-headquartered small-medium sized manufacturing enterprise (SME) client, has learned of healthy returns enjoyed by competitors in their overseas business. XYZ is seeking your advice on international business expansion. XYZ asked you to conduct a mini international marketing feasibility study and develop strategic recommendations for its international expansion.

Your international business feasibility study should map out your client’s international expansion and set up a business venture with a view of a medium-term success (a profitable business). Your client does not limit your choice by specific countries or other constraints and conditions imposed on your research (it is your task to identify and advise on those issues, if any).

Assignment

For the purpose of this exam assignment, please complete the following steps:

 

  1. Select 1 (one) product from THOMASNET https://www.thomasnet.com/browse/). No need to coordinate your product selection with other students or with the instructor. For verification and grading purposes, please include a 1-page screenshot in PDF of your chosen product description on the company web site to your Final exam report (the last page).

 

  1. Based on the chosen product, conduct a comprehensive market research and find the best market (country) for your client’s international business expansion. You must use the step-by-step international market research methodology. PLEASE DO NOT SKIP THE STEP-BY STEP PROCEDURE: skipping this requirement will result in grade reduction. The step-by-step methodology can be found in one of my PPPs or directly at http://2016.export.gov/mrktresearch/eg_main_018210.asp.

 

  1. Identify at least one international business partner (“lead”) in the target country and provide contact information (briefly explain how you arrived to your choice of this partner and what sources of information/assistance you have used.  For instance: https://www.exportsolutions.com/About, https://globaledge.msu.edu/global-resources/trade-leads, or other alternative reputable sources.

 

  1. Suggest and justify the best practical entry strategy out of the following options: exporting, •joint venture, •licensing/franchise, or a •100% subsidiary.

 

  1. Summarize strategic benefits/costs/risks related to your recommendations.