Olive oil business going international

Abstract

"Olive Oil" Where does it come from? What is its origin, history, benefits, potential growth etc...? All of these are questions asked and answered within the thesis. We are mainly here to discuss such a topic not only to explain to people about olive oil and give them information or extra data. We are here to expand a small family business, to improve it and try lunching it internationally. In addition, this thesis is to give our small family business all the data needed for expanding such business and will be kept as a reference that must be helping in the near future. More than that, this thesis is to mention many other aspects and shall be seen from many perspectives. Some of the major questions related to the thesis are: What are some of the theories related to exporting? What are some of the recommendations suggested for such a business? How will exporting bring benefits to such family business? Will the business go directly international or will it pass through several phases before, and what do you recommend? As for me, so to know the relationship to practicum or job it is better to tell you briefly about my relationship with the olive oil industry. I come from a small village where its main concentration is agriculture. This was or used to be one of the main sources of living. Mainly most of the lands surrounding my village or owned by the villagers are planted olives that there age varies from newly planted trees to more than sixty years old trees. So I grew up seeing my grandfather involved with this routine, that my father then took it on his heels and until I was involved in it in a more sophisticated way. After that, my father opened the first olive oil mill for our family and now we own two. So all in all this business runs in my blood since I was born. With time, I started thinking why not expanding "exporting". I got this idea especially after taking the MIB Program. From this point forward the image started to clear up, and more than that the international perspective toward our business was not any more, vague. In addition, mainly the methodology used was derived from the internet, (books, magazines, journals, and web sites). In chapter one, all purpose needs and objectives were mentioned. As well as an overview of this industry was mentioned. Chapter two was more involved with the literature review. All theories that can help with the study, or relationships between Lebanese markets and other foreign markets were discussed. As for chapter three, it mentioned more the procedures and methodology used. Advantages and challenges of exporting were mentioned. Preparations to enter new markets were discussed. Chapter four was more related to findings, and especially the case study done on the Shafat region in north Lebanon Akkar. Finally, chapter five shall give the conclusions and recommendations so that this whole study shall end in success and can be dependent on to expand such business. Some findings were really of great help, such as advantages and disadvantages of exporting. Theories related to exporting and trying to link it with the olive oil industry. Also, a study related to the Shafat region where most of the olive trees are found in Akkar. Finally, managerial implications are done. Some of the theories found can be implemented others don't. But all in all, mainly a step shall be taken before going international, which is gain an identity, and image domestically and start on solid ground before exporting.