Abstract In this article, the writer analyses Unilever's corporate strategy and main initiatives in order to see their appropriateness in the current globalisation environment. The writer examines the relevance of Unilever's different key strategic perspectives. This report also provides some key factors and suggestions that Unilever could examine so that the company remains a global leader in the food and home and personal care (HPC) products. The writer concludes that from a general perspective, it can be said that Unilever is and will remain a powerful global company for years, if its managers keep on implementing such a strong corporate strategy.
Table of Contents:
Summary
Introduction
Part 1 - Unilever's Corporate Strategy
Unilever Key Strategic Perspectives Growth Strategy
Restructuring Strategy
Divestment and Retrenchment Strategy
Branding Strategy
Innovation Strategy
Strategy Analysis
Five Forces Model of Competition
SWOT Analysis
Part 2 - Unilever's Strategic Initiatives
Acquisition of Ben and Jerry's (B&J's)
Acquisition of Bestfoods
Part 3 - Development OF Unilever's Strategy
Unilever's Recent Initiatives
Recommendations for fFuture Strategic Direction
References
Appendix A Unilever's Strategies
Appendix B Unilever Portfolio Perspective Appendix C Balanced Scorecard
Appendix D Unilever's Path to Growth Strategy
From the Paper "One of the options to expand is the mergers and acquisitions (M&A). The benefits are that products are ready made and an organisation enters an unknown market thanks to another which already has the knowledge of the environment and the know-how. Competition is neutralised, a market is penetrated, investments are lower and synergy are created such as economies of scale. A rapid geographical, products range and financial expansion is gained. Unilever's acquisitions are detailed further. There is a paradox between cooperation and competition. A company decides to cooperate to eliminate an existing competitor but takes the risks of creating a stronger competitor by cooperating with it because mutual knowledge and strengths are shared.
The aim is to enhance the profitability and quality of the business. In support of this, developments may serve to introduce the organisation into new geographical areas, to increase the sectorial position."
Abstract The paper presents the ethical perspective of globalization using utilitarianism. It looks at the movement towards globalization and analyzes the meaning of this phenomena. The paper argues that globalization is a number of systems and examines the ethics behind this movement. The conclusion is that advantages and disadvantages are determined by a number of factors.
From the Paper "One of the most controversial issues in recent years is globalization. There is considerable disagreement about what globalization even means. However, most researchers agree that globalization is essentially the integration of various systems on a global scale. For example, when discussing overreaching features of international systems Thomas Friedman declares, The globalization system is a bit different. it also has one overarching feature- integration. The world has become an increasingly interwoven place, and today, whether you are a company or a country, your threats and opportunities increasingly derive from who you are connected to (Friedman 157)."
Abstract This paper takes an in-depth look at the politics and economy of Zimbabwe under Robert Mugabe. The author discusses the nation in context with its relationship with other countries, and as part of the global economy. The paper focuses on Zimbabwe through three perspectives: Realism, Liberalism, and Structuralism.
From the paper:
"Global Political Economy is surely one of the most crucially important social sciences of the modern era. It has been argued that there is virtually no aspect of our daily lives which is not circumscribed by this field of study 1) the evidence abounds of how political decisions affect economic policies and vice versa. Just as the results of a macro-economic programme can affect the future of a political party, the profits of a Multi-National Corporation are affected by the ideology of the political elite in a nation. Moreover the modern world order is characterized by a level of interdependence that is unparalleled. States and economies are affected by events which are thousands of kilometers geographically removed from their own location. In light of the focal way in which our lives are affected by the GPE, it is a meritorious undertaking to examine the critical situation in Zimbabwe within the framework of the discipline."
Abstract This paper examines how the biotechnology sector is one of the most research and development-intensive and capital-focused industries in the world. It confronts the problems facing the industry, proposes solutions, and provides viable alternatives. A specific comparison is made between the United States and the European Union, including ethical considerations and consumer perceptions.
Outline
Executive Summary
Biotechnology Market Analysis
Assumption
Key Biotech Sectors
History of the Biotech Industry - An EU Perspective Current Industry Context - Global Basis
Key Markets
Outlook
Alternatives
Recommendation
Appendices
From the Paper "Agricultural biotechnology applications, primarily Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs), have been widely accepted in the US. Conversely, in the EU, conflict rages on regarding the genetic engineering or hormonal growth and enhancement in food sources. Recently, several French farmers were charged with the of destruction of private property for destroying test fields from neighboring farmers for fear of the modified seeds spreading and tainting their own crops.23 Biotech applications including pharmaceutical, bio-warfare prevention, genetic malfunction and detection of abnormal activity and correction through re-engineering of cellular level laboratory creations and manipulated organisms is still in alignment with some of the US sentiment and most EU denizens as long as it does not include stem-cell research."
This paper examines author Robert Went's book "Globalization: Neo-liberal Challenge, Radical Responses" while focusing on the writer's view that the current trend towards globalizing the economy must be demystified and demythologized.
Abstract This paper reviews and analyzes the views of the author and Dutch economist Robert Went as detailed in his book "Globalization: Neo-liberal Challenge, Radical Responses." In his book, Went attempts to put the phenomenon of globalization in its proper historical perspective, rather than normalizing it as an inevitable and positive development from capitalism's supposed victory over world socialism. This paper also discusses Went's fears that life-threatening ecological deterioration and a pervasive dictatorship of the market will result from globalization. This paper explains and details Went's views on the nature of globalism, which the author contends has fundamentally changed for the worse due to the significant increase in the number integrated global markets.
From the Paper "The first of the harms perpetuated by globalization are social inequality. 1960 the average income of the richest 20 per cent of the world's population was 30 times higher than that of the poorest 20 per cent. In 1995 this disproportion between the incomes of rich and poor had grown to 82:1, according to Went. If globalization is allowed to continue in its current form, Went warns that worldwide social inequality will intensify, that there will be a long lasting leveling of lower income and working class wages, and a general worsening of working conditions for all people, all over the world as an eventual result. Went also fears that life-threatening ecological deterioration and a pervasive dictatorship of the market will result from globalization, if the current pace of globalization is not kept in check and its form is not altered."
Abstract This paper analyzes the way in which technological advancements have made it much easier for the people around the world to be connected to each other. The paper discusses how it has become much more convenient for people to travel, communicate and do business internationally. It discusses the expansion of the corporate sector and policies of trade liberalization and financial market deregulation.
Table of Contents:
What is Globalization Historic Background of Globalization Analytical Perspectives about Globalization Social/Global Stratification
Positive Impacts of Globalization Negative Impacts of Globalization Conclusion
From the Paper "A common perception of globalization is like treating the world as a shared market by breaking the physical and politico-cultural barriers. Its practical implication is in the terms of corporate companies deciding to take part in the emerging global economy and by establishing themselves in foreign markets. These companies in a global environments, adopt their products or services to the final user's cultural requirements. The technology plays a vital role in expansion of the businesses beyond traditional boundaries. These companies make best utilization of the Internet revolution and establish a virtual presence on the international marketplace with a multilingual corporate website or even as an e-business. Globalization is not a new concept any more, but it remains as intrigue as it was at its time of inception. It is an inevitable phenomenon. It has helped in bridging the gulfs between the world's economic, political and cultural values and practices. The last two decades have witnessed a tremendous advancement in the field of technology canalizing way for much faster and dramatic application of the concept of globalization thereby coining the term of a 'global village' for the entire world. Its impacts on different nations, however, remain much debatable."
Tags: deregulation, economy, global, globalization, liberalization, market, marketing, trade, village
Abstract This fourteen page undergraduate paper examines Canada and globalization. The author notes that proponents of globalization and many free trade theorists contend that global trade creates enough economic gains that every Canadian involved can benefit, as long as the gains are widely redistributed between national trading partners. The writer points out that unfortunately, globalization cannot guarantee that this redistribution will actually occur, and its proponents are limited to predictions that there will be winners and losers in all participating countries involved in free trade.
From the Paper "Proponents of globalization and many free trade theorists contend that global trade creates enough economic gains that every Canadian involved can benefit, as long as the gains are widely redistributed between national trading partners. Unfortunately, globalization cannot guarantee that this redistribution will actually occur, and its proponents are limited to predictions that there will be winners and losers in all participating countries involved in free trade. These advocates of globalization studiously avoid admitting that many of the losers are and will be average working Canadians, while many of the winners will be people in the upper income brackets, often in other countries."
Abstract This paper gives a detailed examination of global warming, including how it developed as an issue. The author also attempts to establish the validity of global warming, and to understand whether the average lay individual believes in this theory. The paper then examines the controversy and debate about global warming in light of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other powerful organizations' declarations that global warming is a possible severe risk to the world. This analysis looks to analyze how lay individuals see the debate and concludes by testing their understanding of global warming.
From the Paper "Overall the interview process revealed no real surprises. The majority of individuals who actually believe in global warming do so because of media influence. Their understanding of global warming as a specter of danger rather than concrete scientific definition is extremely disturbing. It is also an accurate picture of the reality of the American public's perception of global warming. Only a very small slice of the pejorative population actually understands the facts behind global warming. Upon understanding these facts, few are inclined to completely thrust themselves into the mainstream understanding of the dynamics of the greenhouse effect and how such an effect will cause dramatic damage to the Earth. Through this interview and the survey, a vivid and diverse picture of global warming and its actual understanding on the populace has been painted."
Abstract The debate over the phenomenon of globalization with respect to culture is comprised of a number of different arguments and perspectives. This paper will examine three of these arguments: (1) globalization of culture as technological imperialism; (2) globalization represents the "Americanization" of local cultures; and (3) globalization is inevitable.
Abstract This paper reviews globalization from a modern perspective, meaning that international trade can be as simple as local trade. According to this paper, the catch is that globalization means that businesses that are hoping to keep up with the trends of globalization, also have to keep up with technological advancements.
From the Paper "The modern interpretation of globalization suggests that trade can be accomplished across borders with the same ease in transaction that it can be accomplished within local markets. However, globalization, unlike local trade, was created to ensure that prosperity would come to all countries participating in global trade, bolstering profits, and sending financial capital across every border. This trade, therefore, allows the world to become one single marketplace wherein all businesses have the opportunity to grow. Yet, globalization also insists on businesses aligning themselves with new technologies in order to be part of the competition. "
Abstract The paper, illustrated with graphs, discusses the basic effects of global warming, its underlying causes, and attempts to reduce it with the co-operation of all individuals. The paper relates that, as a result of global warming, climate changes have reached abnormal levels with rainfall and hurricanes of unusual intensity. The paper also warns of what will happen if action is not taken in time and discusses positive and negative economic probabilities. The paper concludes that it takes time for people to change their attitudes but in changing, the end result will be worth it.
Outline:
Introduction
Global warming and cliimate change
Predicted or noticed changes
Economic perspectives New industries
A few industry sectors
Full economic impact
Conclusion
From the Paper "The fact is that global warming, in its smallest stages, is a natural occurrence. Everyday gases such as carbon dioxide are released to warm the earth, allowing it to be a place that can be inhabited by all living things. However once the human element, became higher in population, the warming of the earth was easier to identify. Humans needed to heat their homes, clean their clothes, as well as light their homes. Instead of doing this naturally as had been done for centuries, electricity, gases, and aerosols were created to make human lives easier. All these things and many more have contributed to the increased temperatures of the planet and the profitability of it as well."
Abstract This paper discusses how from a social evolutionary perspective, globalization represents a shakeout of existing cultural diversity. It looks at how globalization as an event has obviously been ideal and beneficial for some cultures--such as American and Western cultures--while others have suffered and disappeared as a consequence--such as many Third World cultures and societies. It also contends that globalization will never be able to destroy all cultural diversity as it expands its influence largely on local market demand.
From the Paper "There are two major problems with this approach to the development of a global society. First, it assumes that culture is entirely a consumable product. While it is true that culture is largely material in nature, which is not the same as saying that all culture can be bought and sold in the same way as hamburgers and cups of coffee. Even if the products introduced into new markets can completely supplant local offerings, which is not the same thing as saying that those products are also replacing the local culture--as if local culture is little more than a collection of mom-and-pop storefronts. "
Abstract The writer of this essay provides an exploration of the perspectives of opponents and proponents of globalization, with respect to its impact on the world's diverse cultures. The writer examines multi-national enterprises. Liberalization of trade is discussed. The writer also looks at the rise of democratic governments. In this paper, the writer also discusses the matter of interdependency.
From the Paper "A number of trends and developments have paved the way for globalization, the homogenization of the world's cultures into a global marketplace of trade. As Legrain maintains the beauty of globalization is that it can free people from the tyranny of geography. Leading the way in the move toward globalization are those structures known as multi-national enterprises. The increasing spread of democratic governments, liberalization of trade, liberal neo-economic reforms, the rise of technology and the emergence of a truly global market for goods
Tags: WTO, NAFTA, IMF, EU, ASEAN, environment, standard of living, McDonald's, language, Middle East, Al Qaeda, MNEs, global brands, consumerism, Americanization, economics
Abstract This paper reviews the impact that global warming has on human communities and ecosystems, and how it represents a great challenge for the entire planet. The paper reports that specialists recommend we try to find alternative sources of energy, and meanwhile, use less of the fossil-fuel energy. The paper further discusses the Kyoto Protocol.
Outline:
Abstract
Historical Perspectives of the Problem
The Impacts on and Responses of Humans or other living organisms to the Environmental Variation
Changes in the Ecosystem and Biosphere Structure
Ecosystem Dynamics Relative to Repair and Restoration
Economic Costs and Social Costs of the Ecological/Environmental Impact
Prevention and Public Awareness Effort Aimed at the Problem
Conclusion
From the Paper "Another issue is represented by the more and more often natural disasters like storms, floods and hurricanes that damage and even destroy people's establishments. The regions most vulnerable to sea-level rise are river deltas such as the Nile delta in Egypt, the Ganges in Bangladesh, the Yangtze and Hwang Ho in China, the Mekong and also the United States that could loose 8000 square miles (20,000 km2) of land, valued at about $650 billion, and 30-80% of its coastal wetlands . Insurance companies are also affected by the natural disasters that come along and in order to avoid bankruptcy they try to develop new strategies on the market and diminish the risks."
Abstract This paper discusses how sociology may be seen as an attempt to understand the way people do what they do in society. However, not everyone approaches this attempt in the same way. In fact, people have different ways of looking at the matter, or theoretical perspectives. Currently, there are three major theoretical perspectives, namely the functionalist perspective, the conflict perspective, and the interactionist perspective. This paper presents an explanation of the functionalist perspective.
