Core Disciplines: Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR); Strategy & Management; Sustainability
DESCRIPTION: This case describes the strategic and environmental challenges at Tandus (formerly Collins & Aikman Floorcoverings, Inc), one of the world’s leaders in floor covering products. Case A gives an overview of the U.S. carpet industry and the environmental strides of different players. It then follows protagonists Mac Bridger and Lee Schilling through their efforts to make Tandus an environmental leader in the carpet industry. Bridger and Schilling were challenged to keep Tandus 2010, their blueprint for the company’s 2010 environmental goals, afloat through acquisitions and international expansion. Case A asks students what Bridger and Schilling should consider moving forward. Case B gives an update on the pathway that Tandus followed from 2002 to 2009.
TEACHING POINTS: "This case can be used by an instructor to make the following points: PVC recycling is no longer a distinctive game and product innovation will be key to the company's continued success PVB represents the next big PVC-free technology. To provide maximum differentiation from Interface, Tandus should leverage its PVB experience by establishing PVB recovery capability in Asia (perhaps India rather than China) and Europe. The Crossley and Monterey acquisitions represent both problems and opportunities. PVB will buy time, but ultimately, the company will need to “leapfrog” to bio-based or other “clean” technologies to solidify its position as a sustainability leader. "
Secondary Tags: Consumer Products; Manufacturing Sales Rank: #295