The case focuses on the challenges faced by Bata Shoe Organization, which is the largest manufacturer and retailer of footwear globally. The company is dealing with the task of determining its future long-term strategy and finding a top management team. Additionally, the case examines the potential problems that Bata may encounter due to political and economic changes occurring worldwide as it operates over 62 manufacturing units and owns 4458 company stores globally.
Based on the economic freedom scales, Bata could face different challenges in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. The Czech Republic had a high level of economic freedom, allowing Bata to freely operate its factory and participate in the free market. This enables Bata to continue its operations smoothly in the future. On the other hand, Slovakia was categorized as economically unfree, with the government imposing regu
...lations on business operations, production of goods, and labor utilization, pricing, and distribution in the market.
The Slovakian government is unwilling to return the factory to Bata and has prohibited them from rebuilding it with new resources. Consequently, Bata will encounter challenges in establishing a market presence in Slovakia due to extensive government interventions. What are the pros and cons for both Bata and the republic of Slovakia if Bata were to resume its former operations? Additionally, why do you believe the Czech Republic permitted Bata to reenter the market while Slovakia did not?
Bata attempted to achieve economies of scale by generating a large volume of sales at a reduced price. The company aimed to gain a significant portion of the market worldwide. Re-acquiring business in Slovakia would contribute to Bata's sales growth and generate revenue.
Nevertheless, the controlled economy, communist regime, and lack of government support posed significant challenges for Bata's operations in the country. The company had to navigate considerable government pressure, which could potentially impact its sales adversely.
Bata's acquisition of Slovakia's former operations would lead to increased employment and economic growth in the country. Industrial growth is always advantageous for a nation's economy. However, as a foreign company, there is a potential that Slovakia may not fully reap the benefits of Bata's profits. Additionally, domestic companies may voice concerns that the arrival of a foreign company would intensify competition for them. Unlike Slovakia, the Czech Republic prioritized economic freedom, emphasizing a free market and private ownership of property.
The country recognized that Bata had the potential to generate revenue and promote economic growth. Bata had relocated its operations from Czechoslovakia following the invasion by the Nazis. As a result, Bata was permitted to operate its factory in the Czech Republic. In contrast, Slovakia faced economic restrictions and its government played a dual role as both a policy maker and implementer, exerting significant control over company operations. Moreover, the country was heavily influenced by communism and was not supportive of international companies. They held a more cautious stance.
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