IKEA is a brand famous for its focus on innovative solutions to the business of selling high-quality, low-price home furnishings. Anders Dahlvig, IKEA’s Group President and CEO, argues that long-term strategic planning is a key to their success. For the financial year ending August 2008, IKEA posted a 7 percent increase in sales over the prior annual period, recording €21.1 billion in revenue. The firm has more than 128,000 employees and operates in 24 countries.
Be prepared to discuss the following concepts and questions in class:
• Concepts 

• Vision and mission 

• Long-term strategy 

• Stakeholders 

• Global economy 

• Strategic leaders 

• Organizational culture 

Questions

1. What is this firm’s vision?
2. What is the firm’s mission or business idea?
3. Describe its competitive advantage. Why do you think competitors have found this concept difficult to imitate?
4. What is in the news about this company?
5. Describe Anders Dahlvig as a strategic leader.
6. Do you believe Anders Dahlvig is constrained in his strategic decision making because of the unique organizational culture at IKEA, or is he free to create and implement strategic decisions as he sees best for the firm?