1. Examine Urban Axes' strengths and weaknesses for expansion in the United States. Apply the resource- based view (i.e., VRIO framework) and the concept of core competencies to conduct an internal analysis. 

2. Analyze and evaluate the US market for Urban Axes' growth. 

a) Conduct a GDPEST analysis to determine the general environment. 

b) Use Porter's five-forces framework to analyze the general industry. 

c) Based on your analysis above, what were the challenges and opportunities associated with being a first mover in the axe-throwing industry? 

3. What generic business strategy has Urban Axes chosen to pursue? 

4. Given its resources and core competencies, what is Urban Axes' best option for growth? 

5. What are the most significant challenges that growth through geographic diversification poses to the organization?