NorthCan Packaging and Logistics: Leveraging Growth through International Expansion

The chief executive officer (CEO)of NorthCan Packaging and Logistics (NorthCan) was considering options for NorthCan’s planned expansion into the United States. He had to decide whether NorthCan should (1) construct or purchase a facility in the United States; (2) develop a strategic partnership with an established, complementary US-based packaging solutions company; (3) franchise sales and service in the United States; or (4) expand into the United States, while keeping core operations in Canada. The CEO had to ensure that, with any option, the full-service and value-added aspects of NorthCan remained central. He had to also consider the social and economic costs and benefits of each option, including potential for international growth and competitive advantage, sustainability, regulations, and stakeholder preferences.

This case is suitable for use in senior undergraduate- or graduate-level business (master of business administration) programs in courses on strategic management or international business. It is particularly well suited to discussions of balancing comprehensive business practices with scaling operations via international expansion. In the context of a master of business administration program, the case is designed as an introductory or orientation teaching aid to be used at the commencement of the courses to prepare students for the critical thinking required for more complex business cases. Students must prepare a feasible US expansion strategy for NorthCan’s fresh produce packaging division. Through completion of the case, students will develop critical thinking skills as they do the following:<ul><li>Develop a holistic, multi-stakeholder solution balancing strategic growth with competitive advantage.</li><li>Describe the purpose and business need for a well-positioned enterprise to expand internationally.</li><li>Understand the core corporate competencies used to develop and recommend growth initiatives.</li><li>Assess the company’s competitive advantages (e.g., current resources, capabilities, and key success factors).</li><li>Analyze, compare, and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of the expansion alternatives.</li><li>Understand the influence of stakeholder interests on organizational decision-making.</li></ul>

• international strategy
• stakeholders
• produce
• food packaging