Aims and Scope

CanManu $($a pseudonym$)$ is considering expanding its foreign operations. Its senior management

team has identified five potential countries for further investigation. These countries are

Argentina, Indonesia, Romania, South Africa, and Philippines. The management team has asked

you, a newly recruited business development analyst, to conduct a preliminary assessment of one

of these countries. You may choose any one of the five countries as the subject of your analysis.

The main objective is to evaluate the economic, political, cultural, and regulatory aspects of the

country$$s macroenvironment to help determine the attractiveness of the country as a location for

future investment. In addition to market potential and strategic fit, the management team is keen

to learn about different types of risks CanManu might encounter in these countries.

Company Background

With over $40$ years of experience, CanManu is a recognized leader in advanced welding and

metal fabricating technologies and processes. Headquartered in Ottawa, Ontario, CanManu is a

privately held firm specialized in building custom automated welding and assembly lines and

supplying standard products for applications including fastener welding, metal jointing,

resistance welding, metal coating, and metal forming $($Exhibit $1).$ CanManu$$s custom equipment

can integrate its standard products to extend equipment use beyond a single program. This

approach adds more value to capital equipment investments and can help minimize program

changeover challenges. CanManu$$s main clientele includes original equipment manufacturers

$($OEMs$)$ and Tier$-1$ and Tier$-2$ part suppliers in the automotive, mass transit, aerospace, and

household appliance. The company currently has manufacturing and sales operations in the USA,

China, Brazil, and France.

CanManu$$s innovative and quality equipment is supported by a full complement of

engineering, project management, training, and other services. The company prides itself in

being a complete partner that can assist its clients in launching new programs and implementing

improvements to existing production systems. The Branson Center of Innovation, housed in

CanManu$$s headquarters, is an advanced welding lab and training facility used to develop skills

in various metal joining technologies. The Center is also used for robotics and automation

programming training, weld process development, and pre$-$production prototype part welding.

Many of CanManu$$s products and services are patent$-$protected and many of its clients have

contributed directly to the creation of the Branson Center to ensure access to the latest

innovations in equipment and processes.

CanManu is dedicated to developing and enhancing employee skill sets and providing all

staff members with growth and advancement opportunities. It offers competitive wages and

benefits and provides a challenging and stimulating work environment. The company enjoys low

employee turnover and is committed to maintaining high standards of performance excellence

and dedication to customer satisfaction. CanManu participates in several apprenticeship

IBUS $5701$

$2$

programs with regional educational institutions and national trade associations to train those who

aspire to become a certified tradesman.