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Flevy Management Insights Q&A
What impact do emerging global economic trends have on the strategies for corporate restructuring?


This article provides a detailed response to: What impact do emerging global economic trends have on the strategies for corporate restructuring? For a comprehensive understanding of Restructuring, we also include relevant case studies for further reading and links to Restructuring best practice resources.

TLDR Emerging global economic trends necessitate organizations to restructure for Digital Transformation, Globalization, and Sustainability, ensuring resilience and long-term success in a dynamic economic landscape.

Reading time: 4 minutes


Emerging global economic trends significantly impact the strategies organizations adopt for corporate restructuring. These trends, including digital transformation, globalization, and sustainability, require organizations to rethink their operational models, market approaches, and innovation strategies. This adaptation is crucial for maintaining competitiveness and achieving long-term success in a rapidly changing economic landscape.

Impact of Digital Transformation on Corporate Restructuring

Digital transformation is reshaping industries by altering how organizations interact with their customers, develop products, and streamline operations. A report by McKinsey highlights that organizations leading in digital transformation are achieving revenue growth and profitability that far outpaces competitors. In the context of corporate restructuring, this necessitates a shift towards more agile, technology-driven business models. Organizations are now focusing on integrating advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain to enhance operational efficiency, customer experience, and innovation.

For instance, companies are restructuring to create more cohesive digital units that can innovate and respond to market changes more rapidly. This involves reevaluating traditional roles and departments, leading to the creation of cross-functional teams that leverage technology to drive business outcomes. The restructuring process also includes significant investments in digital skills training for employees to ensure they are equipped to thrive in a digital-first environment.

Moreover, digital transformation encourages organizations to adopt a data-driven decision-making process. This shift requires restructuring data management and analytics capabilities, ensuring that decision-makers have access to real-time, actionable insights. For example, Amazon's continuous restructuring around its data analytics and AI capabilities has enabled it to remain a market leader by offering personalized customer experiences and efficient supply chain management.

Explore related management topics: Digital Transformation Customer Experience Artificial Intelligence Supply Chain Management Agile Internet of Things Data Management Data Analytics Revenue Growth

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Globalization and Its Influence on Restructuring Strategies

Globalization has expanded market opportunities for organizations, but it also brings increased competition and the need for a more diverse and adaptable workforce. Organizations are restructuring to better position themselves in the global market, focusing on building a presence in emerging markets and optimizing their supply chains for global efficiency. PwC's Global CEO Survey indicates that many CEOs are looking at strategic alliances and joint ventures as a way to facilitate global expansion without the overhead of traditional growth methods.

This trend towards globalization necessitates a restructuring towards more globally integrated operations. Organizations are developing regional hubs that serve as centers of excellence, supporting global operations and ensuring that best practices are shared across borders. This model not only helps in optimizing costs but also enables organizations to be more responsive to local market needs and regulatory requirements.

Additionally, globalization has led to an increased focus on cultural diversity and inclusion within organizations. Restructuring efforts are increasingly aimed at creating more inclusive work environments that can attract and retain talent from diverse backgrounds. This approach not only enhances innovation and employee satisfaction but also prepares organizations to better understand and serve global markets.

Explore related management topics: Supply Chain Best Practices Joint Venture Globalization

Adapting to Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

The growing importance of sustainability and CSR is driving organizations to integrate these considerations into their core business strategies. A report by Accenture indicates that companies with high performance in sustainability practices tend to outperform their peers in financial terms. Corporate restructuring in this context involves redefining organizational values and operations to align with sustainability goals. This includes adopting green technologies, improving energy efficiency, and ensuring fair labor practices across the supply chain.

Organizations are also restructuring to better report on sustainability and CSR efforts, responding to the increasing demand from investors, customers, and regulators for transparency and accountability. This has led to the creation of new roles and departments focused on sustainability, as well as the integration of sustainability metrics into performance management systems.

For example, Unilever's Sustainable Living Plan is a prime example of how organizations are restructuring to embed sustainability into every aspect of their business. By setting ambitious sustainability goals and restructuring its operations to achieve them, Unilever has not only reduced its environmental impact but has also driven growth and innovation.

Emerging global economic trends are compelling organizations to rethink and restructure their strategies and operations. By embracing digital transformation, adapting to the demands of globalization, and integrating sustainability into their core, organizations can ensure resilience, competitiveness, and long-term success in the face of changing economic landscapes.

Explore related management topics: Performance Management

Best Practices in Restructuring

Here are best practices relevant to Restructuring from the Flevy Marketplace. View all our Restructuring materials here.

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Explore all of our best practices in: Restructuring

Restructuring Case Studies

For a practical understanding of Restructuring, take a look at these case studies.

Organizational Restructuring for a Global Technology Firm

Scenario: A global technology company has faced a period of rapid growth and expansion over the past five years, now employing tens of thousands of people across multiple continents.

Read Full Case Study

Retail Inventory Restructuring for Omnichannel Efficiency

Scenario: A leading retail firm operating across multiple channels is facing challenges in managing its inventory effectively.

Read Full Case Study

Strategic Growth Plan for Boutique Real Estate Firm in Urban Markets

Scenario: A boutique real estate firm specializing in urban residential properties is facing a strategic challenge requiring reorganization.

Read Full Case Study

Restructuring Strategy for D2C Brand in North America

Scenario: The company, a direct-to-consumer (D2C) apparel brand in North America, is facing a turbulent financial landscape.

Read Full Case Study

Operational Turnaround Strategy for Mid-Size Warehousing Company

Scenario: A mid-size warehousing company is at a crossroads, needing a strategic turnaround to address a 20% decline in operational efficiency and a 15% drop in customer satisfaction over the past two years.

Read Full Case Study

Turnaround Strategy for Mid-Sized Machinery Manufacturing Firm

Scenario: A mid-sized machinery manufacturing firm is at a critical juncture requiring a strategic turnaround to address a 20% decline in market share over the last two years.

Read Full Case Study


Explore all Flevy Management Case Studies

Related Questions

Here are our additional questions you may be interested in.

How can companies ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements during a wind down process?
Companies must adopt a multi-faceted approach involving understanding legal frameworks, managing financial obligations, and effective stakeholder communication to ensure compliance during a wind down process. [Read full explanation]
What emerging consumer trends are critical for companies to consider in their turnaround strategies?
Organizations must adapt to critical trends like Eco-conscious Consumerism, Digitization and Personalization, Health and Wellness, and Experience over Ownership in their Turnaround Strategies to thrive in the evolving market. [Read full explanation]
How can reorganization initiatives be used to foster a more inclusive and diverse corporate culture?
Reorganization initiatives offer a multifaceted approach to creating a more inclusive and diverse culture through Strategic Planning, Change Management, and leveraging technology and data, driving innovation and performance. [Read full explanation]
How can restructuring initiatives be designed to enhance customer experience and satisfaction?
Restructuring initiatives aimed at improving customer experience and satisfaction should integrate Strategic Planning, Digital Transformation, and Operational Excellence, focusing on customer-centric approaches to drive revenue growth and increase loyalty. [Read full explanation]
What are the legal considerations for companies undergoing restructuring in different jurisdictions?
Organizations restructuring across jurisdictions must navigate complex legal, Employment Law, Corporate Law and Governance, and Financial and Tax considerations, requiring strategic compliance and planning. [Read full explanation]
What strategies can be employed to maximize asset value during a wind down phase?
Maximizing asset value in a wind-down phase involves Strategic Asset Liquidation, Operational Restructuring, and exploring new opportunities through Strategic Partnerships and Asset Repurposing, guided by market and consulting firm insights. [Read full explanation]
How can companies use restructuring as an opportunity to reevaluate and strengthen their supply chain?
Restructuring allows companies to conduct a thorough Supply Chain assessment, strategically redesign for efficiency and resilience, and implement continuous improvements, leveraging Digital Transformation and Sustainability for long-term success. [Read full explanation]
What are the best practices for integrating acquired companies during a restructuring phase?
Successful integration of acquired companies during restructuring demands thorough Strategic Planning, Cultural Integration, and Systems and Processes alignment, guided by best practices like due diligence, communication, and Operational Excellence. [Read full explanation]

Source: Executive Q&A: Restructuring Questions, Flevy Management Insights, 2024


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