Just in time
Article Abstract:
Fokker and Saab were floundering financially less than two years ago, but the aircraft manufacturing firms have been revitalized by an American Airlines $3.1 billion order of 75 Fokker-100 fanjets with an option for 75 more, and an American Eagle $1 billion order for 50 Saab 340s with an option for 50 more. However, the aircraft companies fear that their larger rivals, including Boeing and McDonnell Douglas, may force them out of the market in the 1990s. The segment of the aircraft industry Saab and Fokker fill is for the less costly, small-to-medium range aircraft, while their competitors mostly ignore this segment. The Swedish government views Saab as filling a necessary spot in the industry, thus making its survival in the country's interest. In contrast, the Dutch government does not see the need for Fokker, and the company will need to seek partnerships abroad should rising costs and sluggish sales bring their survival into question.
Publication Name: International Management
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0020-7888
Year: 1989
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Europe's blond, blue-eyed Japanese
Article Abstract:
Sweden's development from a poor agricultural economy into one of the world's fastest growing industrial nations closely resembles that of Japan. Beyond their economic histories, the two countries share common social values such as a strong sense of community and support for egalitarianism. In addition, both the Swedes and the Japanese are obedient to authority, polite, passive, averse to losing face, socially reserved, conforming, desirous of harmony and restrained in showing emotions. Because of the similarities between the two countries, Sweden is widely considered as the best place in Europe to start the adaptation of Japanese business and management practices. Conversely, Japanese businessmen trooping to Europe find Sweden easier to adapt to than any other country in the region.
Publication Name: International Management
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0020-7888
Year: 1989
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Rearranging the furniture
Article Abstract:
Swedish furniture company Ikea is considered to be the world's largest furniture chain. Ikea successfully operates 95 stores in 23 countries and has an annual turnover to Sep 1990 of $32 billion. Founded in 1947 by Ingvar Kamprad, Ikea began its international expansion in 1973 with the opening of a store in Switzerland. The company's foreign operations have met with great success over the years. Ikea's latest venture into the Eastern European market is beset by some problems due to the economic instability of that region, but the Swedish company remains optimistic. The success of Ikea is mostly attributed to its strong adherence to its Swedish identity, its practice of thrift, and its egalitarian management style.
Publication Name: International Management
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0020-7888
Year: 1991
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