In Response to Meghan Hardy's Post

"Do you think that the opening ceremony was a chance for Canada to attract tourists?"

What a perfect opportunity to display the "good" qualities of a particular country. Canadian marketers strategically used television to promote their unique culture and customs. The elaborate ceremony, will ideally, attract more people, potentially increasing profits for Canadian businesses. I am sure the the ceremony was intended to attract not only tourists but many other people with differing agendas and priorities. What are some other ways in which a country can promote itself?

Global Markets

As the world becomes "smaller", it becomes more competitive. Companies operate around the globe and have to appeal to many different cultures. Firms that take advantage of this opportunity reap the benefits. For example, Wal-Mart operates over 6,500 stores in fifteen countries, while Starbucks owns over 12,000 shops in thirty-seven countries. (Text 93) There are many new markets in which to sell products. A lot of people want/need/desire certain products, services, and ideas. Marketers have to always remember the environmental forces when moving to new regions. Does outsourcing have any benefits?