Reference no: EM133412652

Questions:

1. After reviewing Porter's Generic Strategies, you are asked to determine which of these strategies was the approach Disney utilized prior to the acquisition of Pixar. Did this approach change after 2006?

2. Prior to the acquisition of Pixar by Disney, Steve Jobs became the largest shareholder and eventual single shareholder of Pixar. George Lucas was in a spot (divorcing and didn't see a clear vision for the soon to be Pixar) and was willing to sell Pixar. How did the initial deal with Disney and Pixar impact both companies financially and modify their brand images?

3. The initial deal between Pixar and Disney resulted in an uneven financial position for Pixar. Jeffrey Katzenberg brought Disney's distribution and marketing, but Pixar owned the technology and its innovative applications. Pixar had developed a strong reputation for its techniques and storytelling, but Disney held the stronger hand in marketing. The agreed on a 3-picture deal. After the success of Toy Story, Steve Jobs and Michael Eisner negotiated another deal for a 50/50 split of revenue. However, non-financial issues were beginning to take their toll. What eventually caused this relationship to become untenable?

4. How did the ultimate acquisition further impact HR concerns such as motivation, satisfaction, and retention of employees? How were the corporate cultures different between Pixar and the Walt Disney Company? How did Steve Jobs foster a climate of creativity? Did the management style of Michael Eisner and his replacement Bob Iger impact the climate at Disney?

5. How would you describe the Pixar brand image and reputation prior to and at the time of the acquisition? How would you describe the brand as of February 2023? How has it changed since 2006 and what is the fallout on brand trust, value, and recognition?

6. Pixar has become a valued member of the Walt Disney Company. How has Pixar contributed to the value of the WDC, its theme parks, and streaming services? Why has the share value of Disney continued to decline over the past two years in light of Pixar's many contributions? How can Disney "right the ship" with the help of the Pixar subsidiary?