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The learning outcomes are as follows: identify how tools and frameworks of strategic management can be applied to understand the evolution of the timeline of a firm; analyse the core competencies and weaknesses of a firm and understand their relevance in strengthening the competitive advantage of a firm; and design appropriate business models that are grounded in an integrated strategic analysis.

The case series traces the attempts of Nisrine Khalifeh to save her family’s ailing Lebanese artisan micro-enterprise that produces handmade glass blown jars, jugs and cups. Despite their unique traditional know-how in glassblowing, The Khalifeh struggle to survive since the early 2000s until today in a context of a growing concurrence by more competitive glass products. After each triggering event faced by the Khalifeh firm, Nisrine’s exploits opportunities offered to her in an archaic business model approach that provides short business solutions. Nisrine seems not to realize that her business approach is just keeping her family business from dying today instead of tomorrow while keeping it on the verge of going under. Facing an additional dilemma, she is challenged to realize how competitive and sustainable the Khalifeh business model is, and which actions she should take to withstand the competitive threats. More sustainable business options exist to this traditional micro-enterprise which carries a strong growth rate potential if sustainable business models are developed and deployed using key tools and frameworks of strategic management analysis.

Undergraduate Business Students,

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CSS 11: Strategy.

This study aims to synthesize pigment and resin from agro-wastes and use them in the formulation of eco-friendly surface coatings.

The pigments and resin were synthesized through a chemical modification of agro-wastes. The pigments were characterized by infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and were screened for their antimicrobial activities. The physicochemical characteristics of the cashew nutshell liquid (CNSL)-modified resin were evaluated. These precursors and other natural additives were used to formulate surface coatings, and their drying and adhesive properties were evaluated using international testing methods.

It was observed that the curing of the CNSL-modified resin depended on time and temperature. The pigments exhibited antimicrobial activity against E. coli and S. aureus and had high melting points, affirming their stability. The chemically modified precursors successfully yielded surface coatings with acceptable drying times and adhesion to the base substrate.

The use of agro-wastes as the main components of the surface coatings implies waste valorization, a reduction in production costs and the creation of job opportunities for sustainable development. To increase the chemical, physical, corrosion resistance and antimicrobial qualities of paint compositions, chemically modified peanut skin extracts and CNSL can be used as pigments and resins, respectively. This could be a green approach to achieving the targets of Sustainable development goals 11 and 12.

The paper outlines a prospective approach to use unwanted waste (peanut skin, cashew nutshells) and other natural additives as industrial raw materials. These novel surface coating precursors are cost-effective, readily available, eco-friendly and could replace conventional precursors.