The term "global industry" refers to industries that effectively operate in all, or most, of the markets across the world. The industry offers roughly equivalent products or services to customers in every market, and the competitive position of companies in that industry depends on performance across all markets.

Identifying Features

Global industries have several identifiable features. As a rule, they operate an information technology and communication infrastructure that spans the globe. The products or services the industry provides require little or no modification to serve customers in all markets. For example, razors serve a universal need and require no modification to sell in almost any market. The industry secures advantageous economies of scale by serving a global market.