Review the Management Focus on Tesco.  Then answer the following questions:

a) Why did Tesco’s initial international expansion strategy focus on developing nations?

b) How does Tesco create value in its international operations?

c) In Asia, Tesco has a long history of entering into joint venture agreements with local partners.  What are the benefits of doing this for Tesco?  What are the risks?  How are those risks mitigated?

d) In March 2006, Tesco announced that it would enter the United States.  This represents a departure from its historic strategy of focusing on developing nations.  Why do you think Tesco made this decision?  How is the U.S. market different from others Tesco has entered?  What are the risks here?  How do you think Tesco will do?