Deli Meat Producers

Case Study Prompt

You have been hired by a producer of deli meats to investigate the cause of its recent decline in market share.

The firm produces plastic-wrapped packages of sliced deli meats at all price points (generic, midrange, and premium). The market share loss is primarily in the premium category. The deli meats carry a well-known brand label.

Products in the premium category carry a higher price and have slightly higher margins. Although price decreases will garner market share, the competitors have maintained prices during the recent loss in market share.

What is the cause of its recent decline in market share? The client would like an action plan for resolving the cause of this decrease. Check out the case study overview before proceeding. 

Case Study Overview

In this Strategy& case study, your client has come to you to find the source of their recent decline in market share. You are also being asked to develop a strategy to turn the tide and stop the decrease in profits. It’s up to you to analyze the data, get to know the market and make sound recommendations.

The Market Study Framework will help you solve this case study, but allow yourself to work outside the framework and build a specific solution. It’s always a good idea to showcase your creativity and unique business experience.

There are no math exhibits in this case. This a beginner level case interview with a qualitative difficulty score of 2 out of 4. This case study is ideal for a first round interview at Strategy&.

Strategy& Interview Tips

What does Strategy& look for in its case interview candidates? Creativity in problem solving and a knack for innovation.

It’s essential to show you are comfortable working outside the frameworks and can find a unique solution.

As you review the case study overview and work through the case, focus on a couple of things:

1. Time yourself (2min to build structure and 2min to present it; 2min each for a brainstorming question; 2min for final recommendation)
2. Focus on finding one area you can improve next time

For out-loud practice with an expert, book an hour with an ex-MBB coach.