Case: Coolblue vs. MediaMarkt

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Can structure explain the difference?

30-04-2025 770 views 0

Coolblue vs. MediaMarkt

Two tech giants, two styles. But how do they work on the inside?

Coolblue and MediaMarkt both sell electronics — phones, laptops, TVs, and more. But their style, customer service, and communication are very different.

Are these differences just marketing — or are they connected to how the companies are organised behind the scenes?

In this assignment, you will investigate how both companies are structured.
You will use available sources like websites, job pages and company videos.
You don’t need to find a full organogram — just look for clues and explain what those clues tell you about how the company works internally.

Suggested sources

Coolblue

coolblue.nl/over-ons

werkenbijcoolblue.nl

RTL Late Night: Coolblue CEO explains company growth

MediaMarkt

mediamarkt.nl/specials/over-ons

werkenbij.mediamarkt.nl

MediaMarkt YouTube channel

Wikipedia: MediaMarkt Nederland

Why this assignment matters

A company’s internal organisation affects everything — from customer experience to daily decisions. By comparing two well-known brands, you will discover how structure and strategy go hand in hand.

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Assignments for students

What to do?

Do your research
- Use the sources above to explore how each company is structured.
- Look for departments, teams, leadership style, or internal culture.
Describe and compare
- What can you say about the internal organisation of each company?
- What differences can you identify in structure or style?
Reflect
- What does this tell you about how each company operates?
- Which company would you prefer to work for — and why?

Assessment Criteria

1. Source awareness and use

Pass: You refer clearly to at least two sources (one per company) and base your analysis on them.
Merit/Distinction: You refer to three or more sources and use specific insights to support your comparison of internal organisation.

2. Analysis of differences

Pass: You identify and explain at least two relevant structural differences between the companies.
Merit/Distinction: You identify three or more meaningful differences and explain how these impact decision-making, culture, or customer experience.

3. Quality of reflection

Pass: You give a clear preference and support it with at least one valid argument.
Merit/Distinction: Your reflection is well-argued, uses examples from your analysis, and shows awareness of how internal structure affects working style.

Submitting your assignment

Use the Core button in Businessbase to answer the questions and submit your work. You may be asked to upload examples or links.

Core assignments for students

Discover whether you master the essence of this case by completing the corresponding core assignments. If necessary, you can share your answers with your teacher or supervisor.

Coolblue vs. MediaMarkt

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1a. Describe – based on your findings – how Coolblue is organised internally.*

1a. Coolblue – How is this company organised? This is your interpretation based on the available sources. Please use clear keywords where possible (for example: departments, teams, leadership, tone of voice, company culture).

1b. MediaMarkt – How is this company organised?*

Describe – based on your findings – how MediaMarkt is organised internally. This is your interpretation based on the available sources. Please use clear keywords where possible (for example: structure, roles, management levels, communication style, service approach).

2. What are the main structural differences? Name at least two relevant differences in organisation or working style.*

Explain what these differences tell you about how the companies operate.

3. What overall impression do you have of both companies?*

Based on what you’ve read and seen, how would you describe the overall character of each company? Think about tone, working style, customer approach, and internal culture. This is your personal impression — supported by the sources.

4. Which company would you prefer to work for — and why?*

Support your answer with at least one valid reason, based on your impression and findings.

5. What sources did you use?

List the sources you based your comparison on. Be specific (URL or name). You may use the suggested list or add your own.

6. Self Assessment | To what extent do you think you have met the requirements of this assignment?*

Tick all that apply.

Select up to 5 choices.

I based my answers on at least two reliable sources.

I explained two or more relevant differences between the companies.

I supported my preference with a clear and valid reason.

I used examples and business terms where possible.

I showed how internal structure affects behaviour or performance

Do you want to add any other information, relevant to this assignment? If so, keep it short.

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Edvard Spaapen

Editor of content during development stage