A Clash of cultures : Levene and Company Limited

Abstract

Paint and decorating entrepreneur, David Levene, sold his family business to public company, Skellerup Group, in 1994. At that stage, the 52-store family firm had been trading for 70 years. Yet within three and a half years, what had once been a flagship of New Zealand retail industry was placed into receivership under its new owners. This case explores both the rise and fall of Levene and Company. It examines the elements of the business culture and strategy that enabled the firm to go from first to second generation family enterprise, including, the successful rejuvenation of the business in the late 1980s, when Levene and Company, moved from discount retailer to up-market decorating store. In the second part of this case, the sale to Skellerup Group and the eventual demise of the firm is examined