This case investigates how Philips became a globally integrated enterprise - how it “de-risked” its business and internationalized its supply chain (moving most production from Europe to Asia). The objective is to highlight the factors and analysis involved in “location cost economics.” (The case is developed around the leadership of INSEAD alumna and board member Barbara Kux.)

Founded by Noraini, a young Malaysian entrepreneur, by 2005 SIPRO Plastics is a leading manufacturer and assembler of plastic parts and components for the Malaysian auto and electronics industries.

Otis has negotiated two joint-venture contracts in Vietnam for the manufacture of elevators. The aim is to erect entry barriers and to build a service organisation before their competition. However, competition heats up immediately in a small, short-term oriented market suffering from regulatory uncertainties.

Describes some of the organisational and administrative challenges of Matsushita - one of Japan's most successful multinationals - as it tries to respond to changes in the strategic requirements of its different businesses.