https://hdl.handle.net/10419/299747 Fri, 09 Oct 2026 06:41:29 GMT 2026-10-09T06:41:29Z https://hdl.handle.net/10419/301224 Title: Lufthansa: A century of international growth Authors: Schmid, Stefan; Xia, Zhengtian Abstract: Over the last century, the passenger airline industry has undergone a series of transformations, with Lufthansa being a key player not only in Europe, but also worldwide. This case study traces Lufthansa's development, from its origins up until its current status, and outlines its expansion by adding destinations, its role in establishing the Star Alliance and engaging in joint ventures, as well as its acquisitions and minority stakes in airlines such as Air Dolomiti, Swiss International Air Lines, Austrian Airlines and Brussels Airlines. The case study not only explains Lufthansa's internationalization strategy, but it also discusses its efforts to optimize its portfolio. Finally, the case study ends with the sustainability challenges Lufthansa faces, opening up questions of how the company will address environmental concerns. Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT https://hdl.handle.net/10419/301224 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://hdl.handle.net/10419/299750 Title: Spotify: From music streaming start-up to global audio company Authors: Schmid, Stefan; Romey, Tobias Abstract: During the last few decades, the internet and digital technology have fundamentally changed the global music industry. As a consequence, new companies and novel business models have emerged. Spotify, one of the new players in the music industry, has expanded its business activities and grown to become the leading streaming company worldwide. Today, Spotify offers a wide variety of audio products, such as podcasts and audiobooks, to subscribers, as well as significant service solutions for artists and music producers alike. This case study describes the development of the music industry before the advent of Spotify. After presenting Spotify's origins and after discussing Spotify's market entry into the most important music market in the world, namely, the US, the case study focuses on the company's growth. We show that acquisitions of other companies enabled Spotify to develop its services further, as well as to diversify its product portfolio. We also shed light on Spotify's internationalization as another important driver of firm growth. Over time, Spotify's relationship with major labels has changed, and this case study reveals how Spotify has gained power while getting more independent from the major labels. Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 GMT https://hdl.handle.net/10419/299750 2022-01-01T00:00:00Z https://hdl.handle.net/10419/299749 Title: Takata: International configuration and coordination of a Japanese automotive supplier Authors: Schmid, Stefan; Roedder, Felix Tue, 01 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMT https://hdl.handle.net/10419/299749 2019-01-01T00:00:00Z https://hdl.handle.net/10419/299748 Title: Entering new markets and diversifying business: The role of Amazon's acquisitions in international growth and development Authors: Schmid, Stefan; Baldermann, Sebastian Abstract: E-commerce has grown considerably in recent decades and has had a disruptive impact on the retail industry. In this context, Amazon, one of the major players in (online) retailing and beyond, has been able to expand its business activities continuously in many countries. The present case study sheds light on the internationalization of Amazon, with a particular focus on the company's acquisitions. The study illustrates that Amazon's acquisitions over the last decades had two major objectives. First, acquisitions helped Amazon enter new markets and strengthen its presence in specific regions. Second, taking over other companies allowed Amazon to broaden its activities, for instance, by expanding the product portfolio, improving customer service, gaining additional knowledge and expertise or by opening up new business areas. Tue, 01 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMT https://hdl.handle.net/10419/299748 2019-01-01T00:00:00Z