Publications
Publications
- November 2023
- HBS Case Collection
From Imitation to Innovation: Zongshen Industrial Group (Abridged)
By: Willy Shih and Nancy Dai
Abstract
Like other small shops based in Chongqing, China, Zongshen Industrial Group started by assembling motorcycles from "standard" parts. The quality of its early products was good enough for rural Chinese buyers, though wealthier consumers usually purchased premium Japanese-made models. Zongshen struggled to differentiate itself since its competitors assembled motorcycles using essentially the same parts. This case looks at its struggles and how it continued to grow and improve. This is a classic setting for disruptive innovation, and the case offers insight into the mechanisms.
Keywords
Disruptive Innovation; Growth and Development Strategy; Organizational Change and Adaptation; Competitive Strategy; Supply Chain; Product Positioning; Manufacturing Industry; Motorcycle Industry; China
Citation
Shih, Willy, and Nancy Dai. "From Imitation to Innovation: Zongshen Industrial Group (Abridged)." Harvard Business School Case 624-056, November 2023.