Mattel’s approach to supply chain management

Module name: BSc International Business

 

** For coursework, the submission word limit is 3,000 words. You must comply with the word count guidelines. You may submit LESS than 3,000 words but not more. Cover sheet, numerical tables, bibliography, appendices and annex are NOT included within word count calculations. Other tables and charts containing text ARE included in word count. Any work exceeding the 3,000 word limit will not be marked.

** You are required to use only Harvard Referencing System in your submission

** There is no set format for writing your report but you are expected to pay careful attention to your structure and layout to make the document clear and compelling to read, with an obvious and logical flow of content and information.

Use of headings, sub-headings and numbering will be important for structure and use of charts, diagrams and models may be important for improving appearance and the effectiveness of communication.

A basic structure for your answers in the report would be to follow the same order as the questions.

 

Research

You are expected to carry out your own extensive research on Mattel from various sources. A case study is NOT provided.

Student Guidance

The assignment requires you to address key topics from the syllabus, explore the concepts and principles behind those topics and apply them to Mattel. It will test your skills in a number of ways, for instance your:

1) Knowledge of the syllabus.
2) Ability to apply and integrate key concepts in a practical situation.
3) Understanding of the concepts behind international business expansion and management.

 

 

 

2.1 Assessment Summary.

Mattel

This module is assessed through the submission of a written report aimed at assessing some key international business challenges faced by Mattel the multinational toy company.

The specific requirements of the report will be aligned to the Learning Outcomes and to several topics covered in this module.

 

2.1. Questions

Mattel is the one of the main global players in the toy industry. Founded in California in 1945 the company’s portfolio of brands includes Fisher-Price, Hot Wheels, Barbie, American Girl and Monster High amongst others.

The company already has global presence but market conditions are ever-changing and decisions need to be taken about priorities to protect the long term health of the business.

You have been tasked with critically analysing the Mattel business to gain a deeper understanding of the issues it faces now and in the future. In particular you are tasked with evaluating the strategic importance of the USA as a key market for Mattel.

In carrying out these tasks, you will need to carefully and thoroughly research and analyse certain aspects of the business. You are expected to demonstrate your understanding of international business principles by providing insight on the Mattel business.

 

 

You have been asked specifically to address the following in your report:

à1)  The U.S. market (Part a=15 marks, part b=10 marks; part c=10 marks; Total = 35 marks)

1. a)  Identify and critically evaluate three key factors of the U.S. market to explain if and why it is an attractive and strategically important market for Mattel’s future. (15 marks; 5 marks for each factor evaluated)
2. b)  Identify and critically analyse one current significant political factor that specifically affects the Mattel business in the U.S. (10 marks)
3. c)  Offer a justified recommendation to deal with the current political factor/challenge identified above in part (b). (10 marks)

à2)  Innovation and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) (30 marks total)

1. a)  Using credible evidence to support your discussion, identify two key factors in the toy industry that are influencing innovation at Mattel. (10 marks; 5 marks for each factor correctly identified and discussed).
2. b)  Identify and critically analyse two international business challenges that Mattel faces in responding to the innovation influences discussed in part (a) above. (10 marks; 5 marks for each challenge correctly identified and discussed).

 

1. c) Identify and critically analyse two CSR considerations Mattel must make on an international scale as part of their ongoing innovation process. (10 marks; 5 marks for each CSR consideration correctly identified and analysed).

à3)  Mattel Supply Chain Management (25 marks total)

1. a)  Critically analyse Mattel’s approach to supply chain management (SCM) by examining two specific elements of the supply chain. (20 marks; 10 marks for each supply chain element correctly identified and analysed)

 

1. b)  As part of your answer, please explain – with evidence – any strengths or weaknesses you identify in the SCM and explain how they contribute to the competitive advantage or disadvantage of Mattel. (5 marks)