Business organisation in a global economy. ALDI in Netherlands

Assignment Brief 

Title: Business Organisation in a Global Economy – ALDI in the Netherlands

This assignment asks students to explore how a specific business (ALDI) operates within the global economy, with a focus on its business activities in the Netherlands.

As the examiner, I am looking for the following:

1. Understanding of Global Business Operations

• You should explain what it means for a business to operate in a global economy.

• Discuss how globalisation affects companies like ALDI, think about trade, supply chains, international strategy, and global competition.

2. Company Background and International Strategy

• Provide a short overview of ALDI as an international business.

• Explain how and why ALDI entered the Dutch market.

• What strategy does ALDI use to operate globally, and how is it applied locally in the Netherlands?

3. Business Organisation in the Netherlands

• Explain how ALDI is organised and managed in the Netherlands.

• Discuss its business model (e.g., cost leadership, logistics, store layout, staff structure).

• Consider any adaptations ALDI has made to meet Dutch customer needs or local regulations.

4. Challenges and Opportunities

• Identify any challenges ALDI faces while operating in the Netherlands. These could include:

  • Cultural differences

  • Local competitors

  • Government regulations

• Also mention the opportunities ALDI has as part of the global economy.

5. Use of Theories and Concepts

• Apply relevant business or economic theories (such as globalisation, competitive advantage, or market entry strategies).

• Show you understand how theory relates to real-life practice.

6. Analysis and Critical Thinking

• Don’t just describe – analyse. For example:

  • Why does ALDI’s model work (or not work) in the Netherlands?

  • What lessons can be learned from ALDI’s experience?

7. Structure and Presentation

• The report should be clearly structured with an introduction, main body, and conclusion.

• Use examples and evidence to support your points.

• Reference all sources using the correct academic referencing system 

Sample Answer

Business Organisation in a Global Economy – ALDI in the Netherlands

Introduction

We live in a time where businesses do not only operate in one country. Many companies work across borders and are part of a global economy. This means they buy, sell, and manage things in different countries. One example is ALDI, a popular supermarket chain from Germany.

In this assignment, I will explain how ALDI runs its business in the Netherlands, a European country where ALDI has many stores. I will look at how ALDI is organised, what challenges and benefits it faces, and how it has adapted to working in a different country while staying part of the global economy.

ALDI as a Global Business

ALDI started in Germany but is now found in many countries, such as the UK, Australia, Spain, and the Netherlands. It is known for:

• Low prices

• Simple store design

• Limited but quality products

• Fast and efficient service

ALDI follows a global business model, meaning it uses the same main idea everywhere, but makes small changes based on the local market.

ALDI in the Netherlands

ALDI entered the Dutch market in the 1970s. The Netherlands is a good place for global business because:

• It has strong transport and trade links

• People are used to modern retail stores

• It is close to Germany, ALDI’s home country

There are now over 500 ALDI stores in the Netherlands. ALDI’s aim is to offer quality products at the lowest possible prices.

Continued...