BEM1083DA Business Environment and Organisational Strategy Assessment 1 2026/27: IKEA Case Study Report | University of Exeter

BEM1083DA Business Environment and Organisational Strategy – Assessment 1 Case Study Brief (IKEA)

This degree apprenticeship case study asks students to analyse IKEA’s markets, macro-environment and internal capabilities with module models, then justify strategic recommendations in a professional report written for a managerial audience.

Assessment Task

Using the short case study provided, module content and your own research, answer four questions:

1. Using module models and frameworks, provide a detailed analysis of the market(s) in which IKEA operates. (approx. 25% of the word count)
2. Discuss the current wider macro-environment, its impact on IKEA and its competitors. Critically appraise the key factors you identify according to the extent of impact, for example highlighting factors that might be tractable, wicked or soft problems. (approx. 25%)
3. Using module models and frameworks, provide an analysis of the internal resources, capabilities and culture of IKEA. (approx. 20%)
4. Prepare strategic recommendations for IKEA, with a well-reasoned and argued justification explaining how the strategy will position IKEA for the future. (approx. 30%)

Further Guidance

• Address all the intended learning outcomes assessed in Assignment 1.
• Ground the report in theory and practice: academically robust, drawing on course content and independent research, and of real practical value to the organisation.
• Substantiate points with evidence and references; avoid opinion or belief.
• Synthesise and critique chosen theories (description alone is insufficient for high marks) and use clearly presented qualitative and quantitative data as the rationale for recommendations.
• Include critical analysis, such as the limitations and risks of your approach and any missing, ambiguous or disregarded information.
• APA 7th in-text citations and full reference list.

Structure, Style and AI Use

• Professional report format with headings and sub-headings, not an essay.
• Professional style for a managerial audience; avoid the first person and use formal language.
• AI-Assisted: GenAI may be used ethically for developing ideas, research, understanding concepts, identifying trends, planning structure, proofreading and formatting citations, but never to present AI-generated material as your own. Declare use and include a list of prompts as required