Uber’s bumpy ride in China

Abstract

Theoretical basis

The purpose of this paper is to explore all the strategies adopted by Uber China to gain more and more market shares of Chinese markets. It included localization of its core product, adaptation to Chinese demands and tying up with different Chinese companies.

Research methodology

The case study has been prepared after thoroughly studying Uber’s business in China. Secondary data is collected from credible sources such as the Uber website, newspapers, interviews and journal publications. This data helped in arriving at a basic understanding of the company, its objectives, strategies and the business model. The strategies formulated by Uber and the challenges it faced while operating in China are studied and explained based on this secondary data. Various published papers, reports released by reputed organizations and universities, interviews of managers and experts and research papers were also used to develop this case.

Case overview/synopsis

This case is developed considering the bent of today’s consumers toward sharing economy. The scope of businesses based on the concept of sharing economy is very wide and is increasing. China’s sharing economy sector was one of the fastest economies in the world. The case chronicles ride of Uber in China: from its entry in the country, strategies adopted, challenges faced and to the exit from China.

Complexity academic level

International business management at the undergraduate and postgraduate programs in management

Citation

Singh, G., Dwesar, R. and Kumar, S. (2020), "Uber’s bumpy ride in China", , Vol. 16 No. 2, pp. 185-214. https://doi.org/10.1108/TCJ-03-2018-0040