In 1970 a 3M chemist, developed a new glue that was not very adhesive. Eventually, other 3M colleagues started using bookmarks made with the unsticky adhesive and were soon asking for more product “samples”. As usage quickly spread within the 3M Product Development Laboratory, it became clear that these unsticky notes were a very useful office product. The Post-it® Note was born.

The case describes the situation in the desktop printer industry in August 2002. Rumours suggest that Dell is planning to enter the industry. The case describes the structure of the industry, the main players, and the events leading to these rumours. Some possibles motives for Dell entering the printer industry are discussed, as well as the entry barriers.