Value of the Case Study Set for an IBDP Economics Classroom

This set of case studies provides students with real-world applications of core microeconomic concepts such as demand, supply, externalities, and market interventions. Each case study offers practical examples of how businesses and industries respond to market dynamics, government regulations, and consumer behavior, encouraging students to apply economic theory to real-life situations. This approach enhances critical thinking, decision-making, and analytical skills.

List of Case Studies with Summation:

1. Zara - Spain: Non-Price Determinants of Demand in the Fashion Industry
   Explores how Zara adapts to non-price determinants like consumer preferences, environmental awareness, and income levels to meet demand for sustainable fashion.
2. Starbucks - USA: Competitive Market Equilibrium in the Coffee Industry
   Analyzes how Starbucks maintains market equilibrium by managing supply and demand fluctuations in the coffee market.
3. Tesla Inc. - USA: Supply and Technological Advancements in the Electric Vehicle Industry
   Examines how Tesla’s technological advancements in battery production affect supply and market strategies.
4. Whole Foods Market - USA: Market Equilibrium and Price Mechanism in the Organic Food Industry
   Investigates how Whole Foods manages supply constraints and pricing to achieve equilibrium in the organic food market.
5. Aldi - Germany: Behavioral Economics in the Grocery Retail Sector
   Explores how Aldi uses behavioral economics principles to influence consumer behavior and optimize shopping experiences.
6. Apple Inc. - USA: Demand and Consumer Preferences in the Smartphone Market
   Examines how changes in consumer preferences and income levels influence the demand for iPhones in a competitive market.
7. British Petroleum (BP): Externalities and Government Regulation in the Energy Sector
   Discusses how BP addresses negative externalities like pollution through compliance with government regulations in the energy industry.
8. Delta Air Lines - USA: Elasticities of Demand in the Airline Industry
   Analyzes how price elasticity of demand affects Delta’s pricing strategies for various routes and customer segments.
9. Housing and Development Board - Singapore: Government Intervention in the Housing Market
   Explores how government interventions, such as subsidies and price controls, help ensure housing affordability and stability in Singapore.
10. Pfizer Inc. - USA: Non-Price Determinants of Supply in the Pharmaceutical Industry
    Investigates how factors like raw materials, technology, and regulations influence Pfizer’s ability to supply vaccines in a global health crisis.