Case | HBS Case Collection | 1994 (Revised from original 1978 version)

Cumberland Metal Industries (A): Model Year 1978 Negotiations with Beta Motors

by Benson P. Shapiro

Abstract

Provides the background on Cumberland Metal Industries' entry into the automotive components market as a supplier of emission control equipment parts. Cumberland Metal must decide what bid to quote on Beta Motor's 1978 model year business. The company previously had a three-year contract for 100% of Beta's business, but it is now faced with a competitive situation in which a small market share, yet one greater than 50%, is a virtual certainty.

Keywords: Decisions; Bids and Bidding; Market Participation; Negotiation; Competitive Strategy; Manufacturing Industry;

Citation:

Shapiro, Benson P. "Cumberland Metal Industries (A): Model Year 1978 Negotiations with Beta Motors." Harvard Business School Case 578-170, October 1994. (Revised from original April 1978 version.)