Caterpillar Tractor Co.

Christopher A. Bartlett

Case | HBS Case Collection | February 1985 (Revised September 1988)

Caterpillar Tractor Co.

Abstract

Describes the structure and evolution of the earth moving equipment industry worldwide in the post war era, particularly focusing on developments in the 1960s and 1970s. Describes Caterpillar's strategy in becoming the dominant worldwide competitor (industry market share exceeding 50%). Includes details on CAT's manufacturing, marketing research and development, and organizational policies. Concludes with a description of some environmental changes occurring in the early 1980s, and raises the question of how these might effect Caterpillar Tractor Co.'s record 1981 performance and require changes in its highly successful strategy.

Keywords: Business Growth and Maturation; Business Strategy; Manufacturing Industry; Agriculture and Agribusiness Industry;

Language: English

Format: Print

21 pages

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Citation:

Bartlett, Christopher A. "Caterpillar Tractor Co." Harvard Business School Case 385-276, February 1985. (Revised September 1988.)

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Caterpillar Tractor Co.

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