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  • December 2008 (Revised September 2009)
  • Case
  • HBS Case Collection

Cola Wars: Going Global

By: Frank V. Cespedes
  • Format:Print
  • | Pages:7
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Abstract

This case is meant to be used in conjunction with the extant "Cola Wars" case studies. It outlines the global positions of Pepsi and Coca-Cola as of 2008 in the soft drink market, and then provides an overview of their competitive situations in three markets: Mexico, China, and India. The case raises the issue of whether any or all of these markets are a) structurally attractive for soft drink firms, and b) if so, how can Pepsi best "catch-up" with Coca-Cola in a given market.

Keywords

Global Strategy; Globalized Firms and Management; Industry Structures; Competitive Strategy; Competitive Advantage; Food and Beverage Industry; China; India; Mexico

Citation

Cespedes, Frank V. "Cola Wars: Going Global." Harvard Business School Case 709-451, December 2008. (Revised September 2009.)
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About The Author

Frank V. Cespedes

Entrepreneurial Management
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More from the Author
  • Belden and Digital Transformation: From Product Sales to Solutions Sales By: Frank V. Cespedes and Amy Klopfenstein
  • Using Simulations to Upskill Employees By: Frank V. Cespedes, Trond Aas, Alex Hunt and Huw Newton-Hill
  • Aphro Beverages By: Frank V. Cespedes and Amram Migdal
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