Diversificationas a Strategic Preemptive Weapon

This article examines the role that multimarket operations play in a firm’s ability to preempt entry into new markets when presence in a market does not commit the firm to remain there. Success in one market affects a firm’s incentives and, in turn, strategic power, to fight a rival fur survival in a related market. This is modeled as a way of attrition, and the risk-dominant equilibrium is derived. The model supports brand proliferation as a credible preemptive strategy for an established firm and also has implications regarding the strategic role of economies of scope and “deep pockets.”