Select a firm from the top ten firms from a European country (exclude financial institutions; a list may be found at www.forbes.com/lists/ – choose the country option for selection). Go to the company website and download the most recent annual report. Before selecting the company, ensure that it is engaged in international business. From a reading of this document and with particular reference to this chapter:

a Review the goals of the MNC. Is there a mission statement? Are there notes on the company’s policy towards the environment, its workforce, etc? Generally, review statements of intent in the document.

b How far do you think that the company’s development can be explained by theories of international business as outlined in this chapter?

c What international business methods does this company principally employ? What do you think is the reason for their international business strategy (i.e. why do they not pursue other strategies)?

d Outline the international opportunities and international risks faced by this company. Where these are not specifically stated, outline what you think are the likely opportunities and risks. In your view, how great are these international risks and international opportunities?