Business Commons^™

Crossing Borders And Breaking Barriers: A Strategic Analysis Of Chick-Fil-A'S Expansion Into The French Market, Avery Besson

Marketing Undergraduate Honors Theses

This thesis explores the strategic considerations and potential challenges of Chick-fil-A, a prominent American fast-food chain, establishing itself in France. The study investigates the cultural, economic, and regulatory factors that may impact Chick-fil-A's entry strategy, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the opportunities and obstacles the company may encounter in France. This research will examine Chick-fil-A’s previous attempts at expansion, analyze an American company that has successfully established themselves in France, and provide market entry strategies to Chick-fil-A to establish its presence in the French market successfully.

The Impact Of De-Globalization On Global Supply Chains – An Exploratory Study, Mee-Shew Cheung

Association of Marketing Theory and Practice Proceedings 2024

The globalization of supply chains has been a critical driver of economic growth and development over the past few decades. However, the recent trend of de-globalization threatens to disrupt these supply chains and potentially undermine their benefits. This research anticipates uncovering significant insights into the impact of de-globalization on global supply chains, including changes in efficiency, supplier networks, and risk management strategies. Additionally, the study aims to provide practical recommendations for businesses and policymakers to navigate this evolving landscape.

The Impact Of Individual Culture On Purchase Decisions Of Fast Fashion In Brazil, Lucie S. Speck

Senior Theses

Fast fashion is an emerging method of production in the apparel industry that is characterized by lower-quality materials and faster production timelines than the traditional methods of producing clothing. It is becoming a trending topic in modern business due to its negative social and environmental impact, as brands that use fast fashion production processes are constantly being criticized for inhumane labor practices and large amounts of textile waste.

This research proposes two models using a survey as its main research method. The first model determines how financial situation, collectivism as a cultural value, and education level impact whether social media …

Florensis: More Catholic Than The Pope?, Gerard Van Der Star, Arjen Van Klink, Florensis

Case Studies

The beauty of a family business is that it always keeps an eye on the continuity of the business. For a family business nothing is more important than long-term continuity and harmony. A good balance between family and business interests is essential24. In any case, the focus is on the long term25. How can Florensis ensure that the fifth and sixth generations and the numerous employees can still enjoy the benefits of this beautiful company. The Calvinist and Christian roots of Florensis ensured from the outset that the human factor was central and key. Without this people orientation quality production …

Implementing A Micro-Business Internship Program In Dangriga, Belize, Shaadee Shojai

Management Undergraduate Honors Theses

Over the Summer, I was able to work with Peacework in Belize through the University of Arkansas. While I was unable to physically go to Belize due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, I feel that I was still able to learn about the culture, in both the casual and business workplace, as well as help the people of Dangriga. The goal of my project was to help consult with the Tourism Department of Dangriga to help develop their small business into businesses that were more appealing to tourists. Unfortunately, most people who own small businesses in Dangriga can’t support themselves with …

Sacred Business: Outlining Business As Mission For The Fulfillment Of The Great Commission, Eli Jackson

Senior Honors Theses

Business as Mission (BAM) is the operation of a for-profit business located in a cross-cultural setting and aimed toward the fulfillment of the great commission. This definition reveals four key success factors for BAM: support, financial and otherwise, for both the business and the missionaries; the ability to gain access to cross-cultural settings; the opportunity to advance the gospel; and the requirement of managing both missional and business goals. Examining each of these areas, along with the historical effectiveness of BAM, reveals that BAM is an efficient and effective missional strategy, which should be used to see the Great Commission …

The Legal And Social Challenges Involved In The Expansion Of Multinational Operations: A Case Study Of Exxonmobil Indonesia, Shashaank Rajaraman

Senior Theses

Within this paper, I will analyze the legal and social relations between multinational corporations and their host countries. This analysis will be conducted through viewing the circumstances surrounding Doe v. ExxonMobil within the District of Columbia Circuit Court, in which ExxonMobil has engaged in litigation regarding their human rights record within the country of Indonesia. Through secondary research conducted both within business and legal journals, information about the practices of ExxonMobil can be examined and utilized to make general conclusions upon the corporate diplomacy practiced by multinational corporations.

Nation Branding: The Case For Marketing Strategy In International Relations, Brooke Boan

Senior Theses

This thesis seeks to address the concept of nation branding and how states can use marketing strategies for international relations gains. Using a literature review of relevant concepts and trends in international relations, including soft power, public diplomacy, and cultural diffusion, the connection between marketing strategies and foreign policy trends become clear. An analysis of nation branding, its origins, applications, and challenges, provides insight into an up-and-coming area of international relations. Specific country case studies were chosen to examine the real-world results of nation branding including the shortcomings and future opportunities. The case of Japan shows how a country can …

International Opportunities And Innovation Between Australia And The United States In A Post Pandemic Economy, Amanda Meegan, Scott Delanty

Honors Thesis

A 15-hour flight and 7,500 miles of water separate these two countries, but innovative ideologies and opportunities unite them. Combined, the investment relationship between the US and Australia is worth more than $1.14 trillion USD, about the size of Australia’s entire GDP. It positions the United States as Australia’s largest foreign direct investor. These two major players in the Asia Pacific Economy have forged an alliance that champions democracy and fortitude.

COVID-19, however, interrupted many investment opportunities across the Pacific. Both countries had to impose border restrictions and put many business processes on hold, forcing governments and industry alike to …

Emergent Trends In The Chinese Counterfeit Pharmaceutical Supply Chain And Opportunities For Public-Private Reform, Mary Monk

Senior Theses

This research seeks to identify and analyze emerging trends in the Chinese counterfeit pharmaceutical trade, extending from the supply chain’s point of origin to domestic and overseas retail dispensary. To aid readability, Chapter 1 of this thesis opens with key conclusions and policy recommendations for various Chinese and U.S. stakeholders based on the shortcomings identified in Chapter 5. Chapter 2 begins with a review of international roadblocks to diagnosing the issue, such as lack of consensus on working definitions and cross-border discrepancies in pharmaceutical oversight regulation. This section also provides a general overview of existing factors driving demand for counterfeit …

Inditex: A Case Study In Transferring Fast Fashion To International Markets, Anna Stooksbury

Senior Theses

Using Industria de Diseño Textil, S.A. (Inditex) and its subsidiaries as a case study, this thesis is an analysis of the largest fashion group in the world and its success in transferring a unique fast fashion business model into almost 100 markets worldwide. This thesis examines the internationalization of a large company and the steps it must take to enter into a new market, including internationalization motivations, market selection, and entrance strategies (both physical and virtual). This analysis uses an in-depth case approach to analyze the fast fashion business model that has made Inditex a success. Using extensive secondary research, …

My Time In France, Morgan Harsh

Honors Projects

This project follows a personal journey during the “BGSU in France: University of Strasbourg Business Exchange” program for the 2019-2020 academic school year. The main goal is to provide information for a Bowling Green State University student, who is either contemplating or participating in the program, on how to prepare and what to expect during their time in Strasbourg, France.

A Scenario-Based Analysis On The Impact Of Covid-19 On The Public Sector, Private Sector, And International Business, Charles Nastopoulos

Senior Theses

Drawing on four years of academic education received from the #1 International Business Program at the Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina Honors College, this is a comprehensive and forward-thinking strategic thought piece addressing the international business world and its potential post-pandemic reality. This thesis will answer the overarching question: What are the short- and long-term impacts of the coronavirus pandemic on international business?

From Design To Delivery: Teaching Supply Chain Management To Ib Majors, Emmanuel T. Kodzi

Faculty Publications

Curricular development is critical for preparing students in a coordinated fashion for life after graduation – especially when their roles will involve cross-border business decisions. The design of specific courses in any curriculum must be purposeful in terms of what is taught, how it is taught, and how all the course components fit together. For a supply chain management course targeted at international business (IB) students, one key purpose is to understand how competitiveness is developed across the extended enterprise, rather than within the confines of individual companies. This “winning together” view helps foster capabilities for connectedness and cooperation in …

Moosejaw Market Expansion Into France, Rachel Renou

Honors Projects

This research project examines the Moosejaw brand, the outdoor apparel industry, and an overview of France’s political, economic, and cultural environment. The research goal is to analyze key aspects of France that would influence a business’s decision to expand into the country. The information regarding France’s fit for new businesses would then be tailored to Moosejaw to implement. Data found throughout the research process that characterize France as a good fit or not for new foreign business include the current political state of rioting by the Yellow Vests, Macron’s future pro-business plans, the French high quality of life standard, shifting …

Venezuela's Collapsed Economy And The Resulting Effect On International Business With The United States, Sarah Caldwell

Senior Honors Theses

This thesis explores the current economic and political state of Venezuela, as well as the factors that contributed to the nation’s present challenges. By evaluating current information regarding international relations and international business affiliations, this study investigates and summarizes how Venezuela’s current instability has affected the country’s trade relations with the United States. The research found in this thesis demonstrates that the actions of Venezuela’s government have severely injured international business relations with multi-national firms operating out of the United States.

Navigating Culture, Politics, And Economics In A Global World, Haley Garcia

Senior Theses

This rise of international business has paved the way for the creation of the Multinational corporation (MNC). While MNCs must be primarily concerned with day to day operations and transactions across borders, there are many factors to consider in addition to business. Each MNC must decide how to navigate the global marketplace, finding a niche within cultural, political, and economic realities that change depending on the market being entered. By considering and understanding these factors, MNCs will be able to successfully enter and compete in global markets integrating the economies of the world into one.

International Business Guide To Peru, Mark Kingsmore

Senior Theses

Every study abroad adventure is unique, exciting, and scary in its own way. When I chose to study abroad in Peru, I was selecting a university that had a brand new partnership with USC and no older students to give me advice. I embraced the opportunity to be a trailblazer to a new school instead of walking a path that had been walked hundreds of times before, but I still felt nervous at times that I didn’t have the same information as my peers going to universities with more established partnerships. As a junior at the International Business student meet …

California's Contributions To The U.S. Export Profile, Denise M. Lucy, Françoise Lepage, Jayati Ghosh

Denise Lucy

Small to medium sized enterprises (SME) are the engine of the United States economy. And the world’s emerging economies offer great opportunities to expand. However, only 1% of U.S. SMEs engage in the international marketplace. Efforts at the national level to expand all U.S. exports, and especially those of SMEs, depend upon each state in the union to participate in this venture. As a key contributor to the U.S. economy, California’s and its vast majority of SMEs, play a key role in U.S. export profile. This paper describes the export landscape of the top five U.S. states, focusing on California’s …

Understanding The Impact Of The Global Economic Crisis On U.S. Smes' Trade Exports To Bric, Jayati Ghosh, Denise Lucy, Françoise Lepage

Denise Lucy

The global economy offers vast trade opportunities for U.S. businesses. United States’ SMEs are grossly under-represented in the global market. It is essential that U.S. SMEs adopt a global approach by expanding trade focus to include the emerging BRIC markets. Demographics and increasing purchasing power in the emerging countries of Brazil, Russia, India and China (BRIC) offer significant trade potential for U.S. SMEs export expansion. However, there are external and internal barriers to expanding beyond the NAFTA region. Free trade agreements reduce trade barriers, while creating opportunities for U.S. exports. Although US SMEs face their own set of challenges to …

From Depaul To The World: Seeing Business From A Global Perspective

Business Exchange

Students and alumni reflect on the DePaul experiences that allowed them to gain a hands-on appreciation of what it means to do business in a global marketplace. DePaul's location in a world-class city, its growing base of international students, its study abroad programs and open-minded approach to course content has prepared alumni to be successful in international business in disciplines as diverse as risk management, product management, and leadership and entrepreneurial training.

Corporate Social Responsibility: A Case Study On Carlsberg, Anne Sofie Brusendorff

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

In today’s business environment corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability are extremely influential in a firm’s competitiveness. A literature review will provide an analysis of past cases illustrating the importance of CSR, considering both positive and negative impacts CSR strategy can have on business success. Furthermore, important definitions and terminology critical to understanding CSR will be highlighted. This paper explores the evolution of CSR and provides a general overview of the effects CSR can have on a company’s reputation. The way a company can effectively utilize a CSR-strategy as a competitive advantage is also examined, along with scholarly views both …

Korean And American Leadership Styles In Business, Diana Estes

Senior Honors Theses

Korea and the USA have recently proceeded in efforts to become closer trading partners through the passing of the United States-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS) and FTAs. More economic integration calls for a stronger understanding of the influences of each other’s cultures. Whether culture influences leadership style or not will be explored. Major influences include history, philosophy, and religion. The meaning of leadership and the characteristics of both of the cultures will succeed after the discussion of the major facets of culture. The application of the cultures and leadership in a business setting will be evaluated and explored. Sources will …

‘Adapt Or Divest: The New Economic Policy And Foreign Businesses In Malaysia (1970-2000), Shakila Yacob Dr, Khadijah Md Khalid Dr

Shakila Yacob

This study explores the interplay between state policies and business strategies of foreign firms in Malaysia during and in the aftermath of decolonisation. Drawing from newly released British and US sources, this study demonstrates that distrust of state enterprises as well as antagonism towards Chinese speculators were significant factors in shaping the business strategies of targeted British firms under the New Economic Policy (NEP) in Malaysia. In addition, the business culture of some British firms served only to harden misperceptions and strengthen the resolve of the government to implement the NEP fully. Finally, in cushioning external shocks, firms embarked on …

Development For The Past, Present, And Future: Defining And Measuring Sustainable Development, Max Cantor

Senior Honors Projects

In 1987, the United Nations released the Brundtland Report, which defined sustainable development as “development which meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” While this definition provides a relatively stable theoretical base from which development economists and political scientists can begin to tackle issues surrounding sustainable development, the inherently amorphous nature of this definition has also created a fair amount of ambiguity in both the economic literature surrounding sustainable development and the subsequent attempts by economists to measure it.

Historically, those interested in the science of development have typically …

Determining Consumer Interest In Georgian Wines, Julie Ann Inderbitzen

Agribusiness

This study was done in order to determine if there is a demand in California for wines originating in the Eastern European Country of Georgia. A survey was used in order to collect primary data from 100 respondents in two locations. The surveys were conducted in Pleasanton, CA and in San Luis Obispo, CA and were later analyzed using surveymonkey.com Microsoft Excel 2008. The data was analyzed using chi square tests, independent t-tests as well as observed frequencies and charts. The tests were used to determine demographic data about California wine consumers and to measure their interest in wines from …

Shakila Yacob And Nicholas White, ‘The “Unfinished Business” Of Malaysia’S Decolonisation: The Origins Of The Guthrie Dawn Raid’, Shakila P. Yacob Associate Professor

Shakila Yacob

In a ‘dawn raid’ on the London Stock Exchange on 7 September 1981, the premiere British rubber and oil palm conglomerate in Malaysia, the Guthrie Corporation Limited, was taken into local control in less than four hours. Thiswas the most dramatic Malaysian acquisition of a foreign company during the restructuring of the country’s post-colonial economy during the 1970s and 1980s, and the Guthrie Dawn Raid remains a celebrated but, at the same time, contested juncture in contemporary Malaysian memory. Drawing upon a variety of sources—including original interviews and correspondence with key participants in, and observers of, the Guthrie Dawn Raid, …

Globalization And The Human Condition, C. William Pollard

C. William Pollard Papers

In this speech at the Sino-Foreign Management Summit (Beijing, China), Pollard addresses the increasingly global character of the economy, noting in particular how it will require not only greater regulation but also ethically-minded business leaders and well-formed corporate employees.

Issues Raised In Cross-Border Mergers, Karen Cascini, Abdel M. Agami

WCBT Faculty Publications

There has been a significant increase in the number and value of cross-border mergers among multinational businesses in recent years. Some of the reasons for this increase are due to an increase in competition, the growth in global markets, and the rapid changes in technology. In order to justify a merger, management usually claims that the merger will produce synergy. It claims that the merger will increase revenues, earnings, cash flows, the value of stockholders' equity, and will benefit society. The purpose of this article is to discuss some of the issues involved in cross-border mergers among multinational businesses, suggest …

Different Minds And Common Problems: Geert Hofstede's Research On National Cultures, Carol M. Sanchez, Dawn M. Curtis

Peer Reviewed Articles

This article discusses Geert Hofstede's work on national cultural differences. It explains how Hofstede's model of the dimensions of national culture might be of use to performance improvement professionals as they try to solve familiar, and perhaps not so familiar, problems in international settings. Hofstede's work, first published in 1980, argues that many management theories, such as those of Herzberr, Mausner, and Snyderman (1959), Maslow (1970), and McGregor (1960), are not valid worldwide be cause the authors are subject to cultural bias that is manifested in their own cultural makeup. Hofstede's research has shown that national cultures tend vary on …