Beyond Meat, a producer of plant-based meat substitutes, was founded in 2009 in Los Angeles, California. The company's vision is for consumers to enjoy a meat-like taste and texture in their favourite dishes while avoiding the many chemicals used in processed meat and reducing the number of animals killed every year. Wanting to reduce global meat consumption by 25 percent by 2020, the company works to educate consumers about the superior benefits that eating vegan products will provide not only to the consumers but to the environment they live in and the animals they live around. The largest market for Beyond Meats is the younger generation, which is more health and environmentally conscious and, ultimately, the driving force behind using plant protein for food. Can the company reach beyond this demographic to increase sales of its products? Will the food tastes of Americans change quickly enough to ensure that growing profits will attract more investors?
By 2013, Victoria's Secret, one of the most successful intimate apparel companies in the world, controls 35 per cent of the global lingerie market from its headquarters in California. However, the company's gross profits are beginning to decline because of higher buying and occupancy expenses and higher promotional costs. This slide in profitability, if left unchecked, has the potential to destroy the share price and brand equity of this eponymous brand. What can be done to reverse these financial trends?
Sony has become one of the most successful innovators of technology. Recently, however, the company’s significant setbacks have led analysts and investors to question its long-term viability. Sony’s PlayStation 4 was launched in the North American market in 2013, to be followed by releases in the United Kingdom and Japan. After experiencing high sales and profits from the PlayStation 4’s two precursors, Sony anticipates the new release will also attract high sales. This case focuses on the idiosyncrasies of the gaming console industry and Sony’s strategy to ensure success for the launch of the PlayStation 4.