Firms are rushing to create brand portfolios, especially for the Single European Market. Patrick Barwise and Thomas Robertson look at means of developing portfolios -- from geographic brand extension and brand acquisitions and brand alliances -- and the advantages and limitations of each...

A study of marketing expenditure in five industrial countries found that most firms regularly report one or more of six marketing metrics to the Board. Market share (79 per cent) and perceived product/service quality (77 per cent) are most used, while estimated customer or segment lifetime value...