Nabisco’s Market Share

Case Prompt

The salted food division at Nabisco has been steadily losing market share over the past two years, from a high of 20% to the current level of 18%. 

Profits as a percentage of sales, however, have been growing. 

Nabisco’s largest competitors are two multinational consumer products companies that feature complete lines of snack foods. Together, the two companies have about 50% of the market share.

Nabisco’s sales reps are regarded as the best in the industry.

What structure would you use to examine the current profitability situation?

Case Overview

In this Oliver Wyman case study interview, your client, Nabisco foods, has experienced a market share loss over the last several years. They have come to you to help them identify the root cause and assess the current market and competition to determine a way to resolve the situation. It’s your job to dive deep into the market, do your research and make a recommendation for moving forward.

The Market Study Framework will help you develop a structure for this case, but we recommend that you don’t stop there. Use your creativity and business experience to come up with a solution that is specific to this case. The most sought after candidates show initiative and the ability to blend frameworks when it’s called for.

There is one math exhibit in this case. With a qualitative difficulty score of 2/4, this Oliver Wyman case study interview would most likely show up in a first round interview. 

Interview Tips: Oliver Wyman

Oliver Wyman looks for someone with a logical problem-solving process and high levels of quant proficiency.

If you are struggling with the math portion of the case, our math drills may be a helpful resource for shoring up your quant skills.

As you work through this Oliver Wyman case study interview, find 1 key takeaway or area of improvement and time yourself as you present your solution (2min for structure, 5min for math, 2min for brainstorming, 2min for conclusion.)

Need help creating a case interview prep plan? Book a session with an ex-MBB coach who can help you set that up.