Case Study

Growth dilemmas: Amazon or Alibaba in India

12 pages
November 2018
Reference: IMD-7-2043

This case highlights the differences in the business models of Amazon and Alibaba, respectively. Readers need to analyze the characteristics of India with respect to culture, wealth and income distribution, demographics, economy, infrastructure, digital potential, diversity, and foreign direct investment policy. Based on their assessment, they need to decide which company represents the better strategic fit for success in India. Theoretical models illustrated are Hambrick’s strategy diamond, SWOT analysis, customer segmentation, concept of clockspeed by Charles H. Fine (double helix model), and principles of platform business models.

Learning Objective
  • Strategic evaluation using Hambrick’s strategy diamond
  • SWOT analysis
  • Customer segmentation
  • Concept of clockspeed by Charles H. Fine (double helix model)
Keywords
Logistics, Platform, eCommerce, Diversity
Settings
India
Amazon, Alibaba Group, Consumer Services, Retail
Current
Type
Published Sources
Copyright
© 2018
Available Languages
English
Related material
Teaching note
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