You work for a company in Manchester, NH that manufactures a unique running shoe that has grown in popularity beyond the local region and is now being demanded across the United States. Your current distribution centers are located in Albany, NY, Phoenix, AZ, and Jacksonville, FL. Your company has also begun to receive inquiries from retailers in the European Union that are interested in selling your shoes. To begin selling overseas, your company has partnered with a company that will manage a distribution center in Munich, Germany.
A. Considering the transportation infrastructure in the United States, what long-term sustainability considerations will the transportation plan affect? How might such considerations affect the plan? For example, consider the infrastructure improvements that will be necessary in the upcoming decade to sustain current levels of operation. Support your answers with real-world examples or evidence. B. How might specific current and potential geopolitical factors affect your transportation to the European Union? How can you plan to allay future disruptions? Support your answers with citations from current news sources. C. Explain how issues may arise surrounding transportation to and from the immediate area around the central production plant in Manchester. NH as demand for the product increases. Consider factors such as noise, pollution, jobs, and environmental concerns. Be sure to include support for your answers. D. From a managerial standpoint, compare the advantages and disadvantages of partnering with firms headquartered in the United States versus firms headquartered outside of the United States. Which decision would you ultimately make? Explain your rationale.
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