The Hangzhou Wahaha Group: an insight into diversification strategy of China's private enterprises

Abstract

Subject area

Strategic Management, Entrepreneurship, Business Management.

Study level/applicability

This case is of medium level of difficulty and is designed for students in School of Economics and Business Management, also an optional course for students in other majors who have strong interest in strategic management and entrepreneurship. Students from all disciplines are welcomed and encouraged to take this course; however, it will be better if registered students have already gained basic ideas about industry, company analysis and marketing.

Case overview

In 2010, Hangzhou Wahaha Group (The Group), a leading Chinese beverage company launched its new brand – Edison milk powder. Meanwhile, people were concerned about food security because of several scandals and Wahaha had to convince the mass public during the high time. The decision makers had to balance various options besides Edison. In this case, we would mainly discuss several possible long–term strategies of this eye–catching private enterprise. The Group intended to carry out diversification strategy in several industries domestically and internationally to maximize its profit.

Expected learning outcomes

Have an insight into China's beverage industry and dairy sector, with the representative Hangzhou Wahaha Group., Know how to develop analytical and decision skills facing multi–choices. SWOT model is recommended here., Have a comprehensive understanding of diversification strategy and how to make priorities.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes.

Citation

Li, L., Xia, L., Liu, M. and Ling, Y. (2011), "The Hangzhou Wahaha Group: an insight into diversification strategy of China's private enterprises", , Vol. 1 No. 4. https://doi.org/10.1108/20450621111186156