Stories and Strategies from Real Life: 6/12/15

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Some of the best learning happens when you read stories about real people and real companies. Read them for ideas, for lessons, and inspiration. This week’s stories and strategies from real life are about Bayer, J. Crew, Apple, PepsiCo, and Ashland Addison Florist.

From Avivah Wittenberg-Cox: How Bayer Developed a Cross-Cultural Senior Team

“For the last five years, Bayer has been quietly transitioning from being an international company to a truly global one. There is a difference, says CEO Marijn Dekkers. ‘You are not a global company because you do business in 120 countries. You are a global company if you understand countries and customers so well that you are able to do business optimally everywhere. In a world where no one ever has a monopoly anymore, it isn’t about differentiating with a better aspirin. It is about a company’s ability to deeply build a profound affinity with a country – every country. That’s what being global means.’ that you are able to do business optimally everywhere. In a world where no one ever has a monopoly anymore, it isn’t about differentiating with a better aspirin. It is about a company’s ability to deeply build a profound affinity with a country – every country. That’s what being global means.”

From Julie Creswell: J. Crew Flounders in Fashion’s Shifting Tides

“The retailer’s sales have slumped because of two industrywide trends — ‘athleisure’ wear and fast fashion — but it has also made its share of missteps.”

From Julia Love: Why has Apple spawned so few startups?

“With a portfolio of smash-hit products and a reputation for innovation, Apple at first glance seems like an ideal place for a young entrepreneur to work before leaving to start the next big thing. But in reality, the world’s most valuable company plays by a set of rules that few other firms can get away with — let alone a startup.”

From Jennifer Reingold: PepsiCo’s CEO Indra Nooyi was right. Now what?

“Years ago Indra Nooyi made an audacious strategy shift beyond unhealthy snacks and drinks. She was prescient—as well as disciplined and tough—but the challenges are still daunting.”

From The Distance: Special Arrangements

“A family-owned florist still cultivates a personal touch in a global industry.”

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