Case | HBS Case Collection | 1995 (Revised from original version)

Ellis Manufacturing Co.

by Roy D. Shapiro

Abstract

Ellis finds itself in a weakening competitive position largely due to the lack of rationalization in its plants. Driven by a strong traditionally decentralized sales organization, Ellis finds that all plants want control over all product lines. As a result, overall economics of scale are not achieved, and duplication of resources has weakened Ellis' cost position. Case gives enough data for students to make specific recommendations.

Keywords: Factories, Labs, and Plants; Cost; Data and Data Sets; Brands and Branding; Performance Capacity; Competitive Strategy; Construction Industry;

Citation:

Shapiro, Roy D. "Ellis Manufacturing Co." Harvard Business School Case 682-103, May 1995. (Revised from original June 1982 version.)