Learning Outcomes:

LO1 Demonstrate an increased knowledge and understanding of current economic issues and the way in

which they occur as well as assessing their implications

LO2 Utilise fundamental theories and principles in order to measure and analyse key business issues

A major expectation of all assessments whilst at DMU/DMUIC is that

students work in the English language and generate their assignments in

the English language. Initial work should therefore be produced in English,

NOT a second language. This means that the use of any language

generation, paraphrasing or translation software, or web sites, is actively

discouraged. The use of such tools may be considered as Bad Academic

Practice and as such the consequences outlined in the module guide will

apply. Failure to observe these instructions may result in a loss of mark

awarded.

INDIVIDUAL ESSAY

Introduction

Increased globalisation in the 21st century has been demonstrated by alliances between countries, the

emergence of new trading blocs, mergers, acquisitions and takeovers, sometimes joining most unlikely

business partners./nTASK

You are asked to produce an essay to analyse the potential impact of the recent acquisition of

skyscanner Limited by Ctrip.com International, Ltd. (Ctrip)

As appendices you should provide a PESTLE model to analyse a range of impacting factors for

Ctrip.com with regard to this venture, and a Porter's Five Forces Model analysing key points, and

both focusing on the global perspective. Other models might include a SWOT analysis, Ansoff

matrix, Boston Matrix.

The essay must contain clear evidence of research; therefore, you will need to link your discussion

to a variety of academic and factual sources of information such as recent publications (journals,

books), news articles and media coverage of the acquisition.

Further information:

Ctrip.com International Limited acquisition of Skyscanner Limited

Source: The 10 Largest UK Acquisitions of the Past Decade 04-02-2021

Skyscanner operates an online travel comparison website. It allows the user to compare flights, hotels, and

car hire, allowing customers to book and plan flights directly. Skyscanner's unique selling point is the ability

to cross-match prices across over 600 partners and sources, ensuring users are securing the best rates.

The company was acquired by Chinese-based company Ctrip, an international travel agency that

specialises in solo clients-targeting both business and leisure travellers. The total consideration paid was

£1.4b, making Skyscanner Scotland's first unicorn company. The deal was predominantly paid in cash, and

is the largest travel technology acquisition in Europe to date.

Ctrip allows Skyscanner to continue operating independently, and the company is now available in over 30

languages and accepts over 70 currencies.