IPL, or How to Instill an Entrepreneurial Culture through Spin-Off

Description

IPL, or How to Instill an Entrepreneurial Culture through Spin-Off: Abstract

This case presents the experience of IPL, a company that has developed an extensive network of small firms in its immediate environment by supporting employees who wish to go into business for themselves. The strategy, originally introduced by IPL’s founder Émile Métivier in the early 1960s, enabled what was originally a small family business located at some distance from major cities to carve out a niche for itself on the international market.

By 2002, IPL had more than 1100 employees and had become one of the leaders in the North American plastic moulding sector. When this case was produced, 130 new products were under development.

Additional information

Also available in French.

Teaching notes are available for professors. Contact the HEC Montréal Case Centre.