Q.1 Why did Grolsch Globalize and how well has it performed internationally? Reasons for Global Expansion: Grolsch faced less demand in Netherland (Home) to its products in 1970’s. At the same time its rivalry Heineken was moving impressive in an international market. Grolsch acquired German brand called as Wickuler due to which the capacity of Grolsch was doubled. Grolsch also bought Ruddles, UK brand to create distribution network for its own brands. In 1990, Eastern Europe started opening up which resulted an investment in Poland & Russia. Although Gorlsch acquired aforesaid brands Wickuler was sold to to another German brand while Bass bought Ruddles for its distribution in UK. In Poland Gorlsch took over one brewery which had to be sold due to less profitability. Asian financial crisis & devaluation of Ruble in Russia forced Gorlsch to focus on developed markets. Gorlsch entered France by setting up its own distributorship. Around 51% of the total volume of Gorlsch was from international market. Overall Gorlsch did better internationally although not best.
Q.2 What are the Key Elements and Limitations on its emphasis on Adaptation? The key elements of the Grolsch adaptation strategy were in: Pricing Promotion Operations Distribution channels
Grolsch wanted to position their brand as a premium lager and charged a higher price in comparison to the Netherland standard lager cost. However, Grolsch priced its products at a discount in 3 of its 6 largest foreign markets (US, Canada, and Australia) in comparison to competing imports in order to build market share. In France and Russia, Grolsch premium Lager was priced significantly higher because the Amsterdam was the key volume producer in these areas. Grolsch also adapted their advertising and
