Case Study

Read the case and watch a video, answer following questions:

1. Cirque du Soleil was able to gain and sustain a competitive advantage for many years. What strategic choices did Cirque du Soleil select that enabled it to be successful while most other circuses barely survive?
2. Which “industry” does Cirque du Soleil compete in? Who are its competitors?
3. Which factors contributed to Cirque du Soleil losing its competitive advantage, and as a consequence led to a 50 percent drop in its valuation? Look at both external and internal factors.
4. Cirque du Soleil’s new owner has retained you as a consultant. Which recommendations would you make to address some of the external threats and internal weaknesses to once again gain and sustain a competitive advantage? How would you implement your suggested changes?

Note: Each answer should be fully grounded in course concepts with appropriate citations and references. Simply stating opinion is insufficient.

At least 500 words.