Ben Barry and the Fashion Industry

Abstract

This case focuses on issues faced by a young Canadian entrepreneur, Ben Barry, who is attempting to create a profitable modeling business in an industry whose underlying value system does not match his own. The pressure to conform to industry standards forces Ben to change his idealistic approach to competing in the industry in order to keep his business going. However, such compromises set up internal conflicts which force Ben to reevaluate his business approach. This analysis leads to the development of a new strategy that allows him to create a viable business while living up to his principles. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]