This case focuses on Lemon Tree Hotels, a leading Indian hotel company that employs large numbers of people with disabilities and other socially marginalized groups including orphans, divorcees, widows, survivors of acid attacks, and members of the transgender community. Unlike other hoteliers, Lemon Tree puts these “opportunity deprived Indians” in front-line positions. Launched in 2007 as a charitable endeavor, this unusual human resources strategy (Inclusion Program) has evolved and is now an integral part of Lemon Tree’s business model and a source of competitive advantage.
Students will learn how to evaluate arguments for and against internationalization and the particular challenges confronting multinational enterprises from emerging markets seeking to enter advanced economies.
Instructors can find learning objectives in the teaching note that accompanies this case.