1. By the early 1970s IKEA had recognised itself as the largest furniture retailer in Sweden. What was the source of its competitive advantage at that time?
2. Why do you ponder IKEA's expansion into Europe went so well? Why did the company subsequently stumble in North America? What instructions did IKEA learn from this experience? Explain how is the company now applying these lessons?
3. How would you characterize IKEA's strategy before its missteps in North America? Explain how would you characterize its strategy today?
4. Explain what is IKEA's strategy toward its suppliers? How important is this strategy to IKEA's success?
5. What is the basis of IKEA's success today? Can you see some weaknesses in the company? What might it do to correct these?