Abstract

Sanyo is a Japan-based company with a presence in diverse businesses including consumer electronics, batteries, and semiconductors. The company has been a pioneer in developing alternate energy technologies like solar cells and rechargeable batteries. The case begins with a description of Sanyo's origins and its rise as a major electronics and components manufacturer. It then explains the reasons of the company's slide in recent years. The case describes the company's "Think GAIA" vision, the objectives of the vision, and the actions of the company in its efforts to effect a turnaround. The case ends with a brief discussion on Sanyo's financial state and the future of the "Think GAIA" initiative.

Learning Objectives

The case is structured to achieve the following Learning Objectives:

• Understand the turnaround efforts of a company
• Examine the importance of the right kind of vision in effecting a turnaround of a company in trouble
• Understand the need for strong financials in a company wanting to demonstrate corporate responsibility.

Keywords

Sanyo, Think Gaia, Sanyo Evolution Project, Turnaround strategy, Corporate Vision, Restructuring, Environment friendly products, Eneloop batteries, Sustainability