Business Wars
Wondery
Netflix vs. HBO. Nike vs. Adidas. Business is war. Sometimes the prize is your wallet or your attention. Sometimes, it’s just the fun of beating the other guy. The outcome of these battles shapes what we buy and how we live. Business Wars gives you the unauthorized, real story of what drives these companies and their leaders, innovators, investors and executives to new heights -- or to ruin. Hosted by David Brown, former anchor of Marketplace. From Wondery, the network behind Against the Odds and American History Tellers.Listen to Business Wars on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. Experience all episodes ad-free and be the first to binge the newest season. Unlock exclusive early access by joining Wondery+ in the Wondery App or on Apple Podcasts. Start your free trial today by visiting wondery.com/links/business-wars/ now.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 16, 2020 • 23min
Pizza Hut vs Domino's | Delivering the Goods | 3
In the cutthroat world of pizza during the '80s, Domino's launches a relentless expansion plan, gunning for Pizza Hut's dominance. As tensions rise, both brands scramble to innovate their delivery strategies. Pizza Hut’s introduction of a new Sicilian pan pizza faces skepticism from franchise owners while they deal with internal strife and a shifting market. Legal battles and personal stakes come into play, intensifying the rivalry. It's a delicious showdown filled with corporate drama and ambitious dreams.
Sep 15, 2020 • 16min
Sponsored | From Food Truck to Franchise: How David Choi Started Seoul Taco | 1
David Choi, the founder of the thriving Korean-Mexican fusion chain Seoul Taco, shares his inspiring entrepreneurial journey. He candidly discusses the risks he took, draining his bank account to launch his first food truck. The conversation reveals his passion for blending culinary traditions, emphasizing resilience and community support in overcoming early challenges. Choi's personal anecdotes highlight how family traditions fueled his love for cooking and set him on the path to success, transforming a humble food truck into a flourishing franchise.
8 snips
Sep 14, 2020 • 23min
Pizza Hut vs Domino's | Meltdown | 2
In the 1970s, Pizza Hut aims for glory with its stock debut, but internal chaos threatens its ascent. Meanwhile, Domino's founder races against time to rescue his struggling business. As Pizza Hut faces the pressures of rapid expansion and potential bankruptcy, Domino's strategizes a comeback amidst tough challenges. The tension escalates with both companies seeking innovative paths for growth, leading to unexpected alliances and fierce competition in the pizza industry.
8 snips
Sep 9, 2020 • 24min
Pizza Hut vs Domino's | Rolling out | 1
In the late 1950s, the pizza scene is heating up across America. Two brotherly duos aim to conquer the market: Pizza Hut in Kansas and Domino's in Michigan. As they navigate challenges, the cultural rise of pizza post-WWII is explored. A fierce rivalry brews amid ambitious expansion plans and branding battles. Innovations in delivery and advertising set the stage for pizza powerhouses. Dramatic setbacks, including a fire, add tension to this delicious competition, igniting a saga of corporate triumphs and trials.
Sep 7, 2020 • 23min
FedEx vs UPS | FedEx, UPS and Amazon’s Close Ties to the Postal Service | 7
Sucharita Kodali, a digital business strategy expert at Forrester Research, dives into the intricate web of the shipping industry, focusing on FedEx, UPS, and their ties to the U.S. Postal Service. She discusses Amazon's strategic moves to reduce reliance on these shipping giants. The conversation reveals how both FedEx and UPS utilize USPS for last-mile deliveries and the potential fallout of FedEx's plans for independence. With shipping rates and operational partnerships in flux, what does the future hold for logistics?
Sep 2, 2020 • 22min
FedEx vs UPS | Deal with the Devil | 6
The shifting terrain of shipping sees FedEx and UPS grappling with the rise of Amazon as a formidable competitor. After a disastrous holiday season in 2013, both companies face mounting pressures to deliver on time. As Amazon pivots towards in-house logistics, previously dependable partnerships turn into challenges. The intense rivalry intensifies, with FedEx opting to sever ties while UPS seeks to strengthen its relationship, reshaping the logistics landscape. The implications for e-commerce and healthcare are revolutionizing consumer access.
Aug 31, 2020 • 23min
FedEx vs UPS | On the Line | 5
In a fierce battle for dominance, FedEx risks big on China as UPS expands into Europe. Struggling with labor disputes, UPS faces a major crisis as drivers demand better conditions. Meanwhile, the rise of e-commerce reshapes both companies, forcing FedEx and UPS to adapt to new consumer demands. The 1997 UPS strike changes the game, creating openings for FedEx to gain ground. This rivalry brings suspense and strategic maneuvering, showcasing how two giants navigate a rapidly evolving market.
Aug 26, 2020 • 21min
FedEx vs UPS | When in Rome... | 4
UPS ventures into Western Europe but faces cultural clashes that threaten its expansion, including a major employee walkout in Italy. Meanwhile, FedEx grapples with internal strife over its risky ZapMail service, as CEO Fred Smith insists on innovation despite skepticism from his team. Tensions rise as both companies navigate differing business practices and set their sights on future growth, with FedEx eyeing opportunities in the Chinese market.
Aug 24, 2020 • 21min
FedEx vs UPS | We’re Gonna Need a Bigger Plane | 3
FedEx battles against government regulations to grow its fleet and compete effectively. Meanwhile, UPS, recognizing the urgency of the rivalry, decides to purchase its own aircraft for next-day delivery services. Tension escalates as FedEx's strategies push for deregulation, leading to a significant political maneuvering that reshapes the industry. The podcast dives into the fascinating strategic shifts during this 1980s delivery war, highlighting bold decisions that changed the game for both companies.
Aug 19, 2020 • 22min
FedEx vs UPS | Vegas or Bust | 2
FedEx faces dire financial troubles as it launches, struggling to stay afloat after an abysmal first day of just six packages. CEO Fred Smith takes a bold gamble in Las Vegas to secure funding and keep the company alive. Meanwhile, UPS is dealing with its own challenges, as its drivers mobilize for better conditions in a tense work environment. The rivalry heats up as both companies strategize to dominate the overnight shipping market, leading to pivotal decisions that could change the industry's landscape.
