This module is assessed by a group assignment (groups of 2 students). Each group

This module is assessed by a group assignment (groups of 2 students). Each group will choose one sector, from the following choice of sectors: Soft drinks Beer Spirits FMCG Telecoms Banking Car parts Video games Internet only companies Aero/Defence Vehicles/Electric vehicles Bikes/Electric bikes Alternative energy: solar and wind power Groceries/supermarkets Motorbikes Food sector Agricultural equipment Construction equipment Management consulting Catering Hotels Steel/aluminium Utilities Software Entertainment Mobile phones Pharma Or a different sector, providing this is signed off by the module leader (note: the airline sector is not permitted as a choice). Each group will then choose either a single country or a homogeneous region (for example the Balkans/Benelux/Austria & Germany). Each group will then choose either a single country or a homogeneous region (for example the Balkans/Benelux/Austria & Germany). Part one (40% of marks) Make an assessment of the country or region in terms of its attractiveness for international companies within the chosen sector. Groups will need to investigate and analyse the international business environment, paying attention to the macro and micro aspects in the chosen country/region and its level of attractiveness. Part two (40% of the marks) Select one major international player from the sector with a meaningful presence within the country/region (the company cannot originate from the country/region!). Critically evaluate its international business activities including market entry methods, competitive strategy, product/service development, commercialization of the marketing mix. Part three (20% of the marks) Identify a sector international market challenger and make recommendations as to how the company can effectively compete with your chosen major player within your chosen country/region. Length of report: 5,000 words (no + word count permitted) excluding appendices and references. Assessment criteria relate to the group’s ability to critically appraise international strategic issues and apply theory from the module. Groups may also include theory concepts from Strategy Formulation and Marketing. However, of most importance is theory from BIBS. Marking criteria: Demonstrates understanding of international business environment/issues for chosen sector Identify a key player and promising sector challenger Draws conclusions (parts 1 and 2) and recommendations (part32) Uses research to provide information/data for the project Use of theoretical concepts studied during the module Evidence that this is an integrated assignment rather than individual questions answered in isolation by each group member MBA standard of presentation/use of English Confirmation both members have contributed equally to the assignment. Any assignment exceeding (above or below) the word count limits specified in the following table will be penalised 10% of the final grade. Students must use Century Gothic, double-spacing, 12-point font with 1-inch page margins (2.54cm).