Examine the various Modes of Entry into International Markets Case Study
Key Learning Outcomes
By the end of the case, students should be able to:
- Understand the various modes of entry into International Markets
- Point Two
- Point Three
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Market entry strategies are the various methods that a firm can use to enter a new market and establish its presence. The choice of a market entry strategy depends on several factors, such as the size and growth potential of the target market, the level of risk and uncertainty, the degree of control and commitment required, the legal and regulatory barriers, the cultural and institutional differences, and the availability and cost of local partners.
Market entry strategies are important because they help businesses to identify and pursue the most suitable opportunities for expanding their operations in a new or foreign market. A market entry strategy can involve various aspects, such as choosing the target market, selecting the mode of entry, developing the product or service offering, designing the marketing mix, and managing the risks and challenges. By having a clear and well-defined market entry strategy, businesses can increase their chances of success.
What are the modes of entering the international market? There are different types of market entry strategies, such as exporting, licensing, franchising, joint ventures, strategic alliances, mergers and acquisitions, and greenfield investments. Each strategy has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the firm's objectives, resources, capabilities, and competitive environment.
Exporting: this is the simplest and most common mode of international market entry. It involves selling the firm's products or services to customers in foreign markets, either directly or through intermediaries. Exporting allows the firm to leverage its existing production facilities and avoid the costs and risks of establishing a local presence. However, exporting also exposes the firm to trade barriers, currency fluctuations, transportation costs, and quality issues.
Licensing: this is a mode of international market entry that involves granting a foreign partner the right to use the firm's technology, brand name, or other intangible assets in exchange for a royalty or fee. Licensing allows the firm to exploit its core competencies and expand its market reach without investing in foreign assets or operations. However, licensing also limits the firm's control over the quality and distribution of its products or services and may create potential competitors if the licensee acquires the firm's know-how.
Joint venture: Joint venture is a mode of international market entry that involves forming a partnership with a foreign entity to share the ownership, control, and profits of a new business venture. A joint venture allows the firm to access local resources, knowledge, and networks, and to share the costs and risks of entering a new market. However, the joint venture also requires the firm to coordinate with its partner on strategic and operational decisions and to deal with potential conflicts of interest, cultural differences, and legal issues.
Franchising: This is a mode of international market entry where the firm allows another firm in a foreign market to operate under its brand name and follow its business model and standards, in exchange for a fee or royalty. The franchisor provides the franchisee with training, support, and guidance, while the franchisee bears the costs and risks of setting up and running the business. Franchising has the advantage of low risk and low investment, as well as leveraging the brand recognition and reputation of the franchisor.
Wholly owned subsidiary: this is a mode of international market entry that involves establishing a fully owned and controlled entity in the foreign market. A wholly owned subsidiary gives the firm the highest degree of control over its foreign operations and enables it to protect its proprietary assets and exploit economies of scale and scope. However, a wholly-owned subsidiary also requires the most commitment and investment from the firm and exposes it to the political, economic, and social risks of operating in a foreign environment.