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Tupperware CaseStudy

The case study examines Tupperware's decline, highlighting its failure to adapt to digital trends and changing consumer values, which led to financial instability and bankruptcy in 2023. Despite its legacy as a household brand, Tupperware struggled with outdated marketing strategies and competition from more sustainable alternatives. The study underscores the importance of strategic innovation for legacy brands in a rapidly evolving market.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
286 views24 pages

Tupperware CaseStudy

The case study examines Tupperware's decline, highlighting its failure to adapt to digital trends and changing consumer values, which led to financial instability and bankruptcy in 2023. Despite its legacy as a household brand, Tupperware struggled with outdated marketing strategies and competition from more sustainable alternatives. The study underscores the importance of strategic innovation for legacy brands in a rapidly evolving market.

Uploaded by

Lance Devera
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation

College of Business Administration and Accountancy


Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

Tupperware’s Bankruptcy in the Digital Age: A Case Study on

Legacy Brand Failure and Consumer Behavior Shift

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements

in Operations Management and TQM

Prepared by:

Lyza Mariz Corpuz

Grace Ann P. Dancel

Lance B. De Vera

Joshua Dominic R. Feliciano

Michelle P. Quiñon

i
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

Table of Contents

Title Page .................................................................................................... i

Table of Contents ......................................................................................... ii

Body

Overview ........................................................................................... 1

Summary of Key Points .................................................................... 2

Detailed Subject Background ............................................................ 3

Challenges and Goals ....................................................................... 4

Achieved Results .............................................................................. 6

Testimonials and Visuals ................................................................... 8

Impact and Future Research ............................................................ 12

Suggested Actions ............................................................................ 15

Cited Sources ................................................................................... 17

Supplementary Materials .................................................................. 19

ii
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

Overview

Tupperware was once a household name, representing convenience,

innovation, and entrepreneurial empowerment. With its revolutionized food

storage devices after World War II and unusual marketing strategy, in which

independent consultants, sold customers at home "Tupperware parties," the

brand was unique at that time. Despite decades of success, it grew tired to

younger consumers, struggled to adapt to trends in its market and failed to

embrace the acceleration of technology.

By early 2023, Tupperware had financial issues, and shared with

investors there was “substantial doubt” about its ability to continue operations.

This case study will outline some of the factors that led to its bankruptcy,

including legacy status, outdated marketing model, and failure of Tupperware

to respond to a technologically driven, environmentally sensitive consumer. As

evidence in this case study, even iconic brands can fluctuate without strategic

innovation.

1
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

Summary of Key Points

This case study explores how Tupperware’s outdated direct-selling

models, lack of digital adaptation, and misaligned decisions have contributed to

their legacy as a global brand. It is evident through market competition, poor

leadership, and shifting consumer values—particularly with regards to

advancement, environmental friendliness, and digital adaptation—it becomes

clear that the business lacks the ability to keep up with evolving demands.

Therefore, it is necessary for legacy brands to survive in a digital or modern

world with strategic innovation, especially in technology and sustainability.

2
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

Detailed Subject Background

Tupperware was founded by Earl Tupper in 1946, a well-known brand

that became solutions for household storage. For over 70 years of operations,

Tupperware became synonymous with durable plastic, high-quality, and

affordable containers that were primarily sold through home-based direct

selling, which Tupperware called "house parties." Tupperware has a very large

global footprint in every household, and during its peak, the brand operated in

almost 100 countries around the world. However, despite their legendary

presence and history, in recent years, the company began to face and

encounter a severe financial problem that led them to publicly announce their

potential bankruptcy in April 2023.

The Tupperware's financial decline was pointed out by numerous

indicators. In 2022, the company reported a dramatic drop in revenue, and by

2023, they experience liquidity issues that threatened the company's ability to

continue operations. According to financial reports, the company indicated it

was at risk of being delisted by the New York Stock Exchange and accumulated

over $700 million in debt. This financial burden combined with inadequate

strategic solutions became the reason for the company's downfall. Tupperware,

which was formerly thought to exemplify smart home-keeping, ultimately needs

to be reinvented. Tupperware's bankruptcy serves as a warning to other brands

that even well-established companies can lose their legacy if they fail to adapt

3
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

to the times. The brand’s struggle reflects a broader transformation in

consumerism, where technology, convenience, and sustainability are now the

major drivers of success.

Challenges and Goals

Tupperware continued to struggle worldwide due to barriers caused by

e-commerce and online shopping, which have also diminished the accessibility

of online shopping for consumers. The evolution of channels through which

retail and e-commerce operate slightly changed the possible mechanism of

traditional home parties, where direct selling to a consumer was never a real

consideration. For instance, India's classification has dropped from a top 10

brand 5-6 years ago to a possible top 20 by 2019. Regardless, as Tupperware

continues to evolve in markets such as India, Russia, Europe, Australia,

Malaysia, and Indonesia— China, Brazil, and Mexico are still viable for

Tupperware business worldwide, and the company is in over 100 countries

because of the home and kitchenware categories which enables unique

designed solutions for food preparations, storage, and serving.

Tupperware in fact, continued to see sales grow during the global

pandemic because many Americans began cooking more at home due to

restrictions of transportation, however, the surge in sales was short-lived. As

restrictions began to slowly dismantle, Tupperware began to feel the financial

pressure as raw materials, labor, and freight all began to escalate in price, thus,

4
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

further causing Tupperware financial losses and impacting gross margins and

profits.

Tupperware is known as the brand that made "Tupperware parties"

become popular in the 1950s, yet, Tupperware's legendary status and

memories has begun to evaporate, as newer competitors with cheaper and

more ecological friendly alternatives have been eating into Tupperware's

financial instability and stealing away their market share. Tupperware has made

many attempts to redefine their brad, and value propositions of their offering,

but sadly it's ultimately too late for Tupperware, as they seek bankruptcy

protection.

In 2023, Tupperware's stock price suffered as a result of unpaid credit

obligations, missed deadlines in annual reporting, and going-concern issues

regarding feasibility. The transformation that Tupperware Brands Corporation

experienced in 2023 was the biggest change when the company reached

bankruptcy status, due to an ever-increasing mountain of debt, sales

decreasing, and being unable to adapt to a quickly evolving landscape.

While the company did not get into specifics, Tupperware has stated that

they are looking to be, "more about finalizing Tupperware's transformation into

a digital-first, technology-led business." This is a clear indication that there

could be a shift towards more reliance on its online platform for selling products

and transformation to a more digital, marketing-focused, transformation.

Furthermore, Tupperware has cited, “challenging micro-economy” of the last

5
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

few years, inefficient internal processes that inhibited global performance, and

increasing public health, and environmental concerns regarding the use of

plastics as its reasons for the reduction in performance.

Laurie Ann Goldman, the president and CEO of Tupperware,

acknowledged the company faced a downturn and insisted the bankruptcy

proceeding is to provide, "necessary flexibility" for making the needed changes.

Goldman also stated any credible movement from the suffering it caused at its

own end, is the brand’s commitment to continued relevance, and navigating the

challenges it was facing.

Achieved Results

According to Shekhawat (2024), Tupperware’s recent bankruptcy filing

highlights a significant global discourse on how various countries respond to

corporate insolvencies. In the United States, Chapter 11 bankruptcy offers the

flexibility to continue operate without the pressure of immediate liquidation. This

legal framework enables gradual recovery while allowing the company to test

innovative approaches such as launching sustainable product lines and

adopting digital strategies. In contrast, India’s Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code

(IBC) advocate more accelerated resolution to protect creditors and brands

stability. From Tupperware’s example it can be seen as high important for

flexibility to improve the business, but it also needs to be weighed similarly with

appropriate decision making.

6
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

After the bankruptcy declaration in 2023, Tupperware launched a

comprehensive restructuring program intended to reactivate its business and

operations. The company successfully negotiated with lenders for partial debt

relief, which have eased some of the financial pressures that have plagued in

the past. Additionally, the ownership of the company has transferred into group

of private equity investors committed to driving modernization leading

Tupperware into a new age. Early stages of turnaround include rebranding of

the company, building up its online presence, and establishing strategic

partnerships with large online retailers to expand its availability and reach a

larger base of customers.

These initiatives represent a dramatic shift in company to an inactive

marketing model on a path to a more market-facing, consumer-driven model.

While specific outcomes are ongoing, the indicated affairs represent an

organized, and potentially permanent change towards greater online relevance

and a far greater stability, creating thrust through a retail sector that is highly

competitive.

7
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

Testimonials and Visuals

The testimonials from former sales consultants and consumers

demonstrated the dramatic evolution of consumer behavior and the subsequent

decline of the brand’s value. Many former sales consultants, particularly women

who relied on Tupperware parties as income, expressed some confusion and

disappointment regarding the decline of the traditional model of direct sales.

One consultant stated, “We used to have full house parties where everyone

bought in, and now there are fewer buyers who are interested in social

selling. It’s like the brand lost its way back to the community” (Economic

Times, 2024). The consumers who understood the brand's value echoed similar

sentiments about the decline of the use of plastic containers, reflecting a switch

to cheaper and more sustainable options such as glass and stainless containers

and a greater loss of trust in products made with plastic.

A Vintage Nerd. (2015, March). Vintage Tupperware party photo - women

enjoying Tupperware party in 1960s. A Vintage Nerd.

8
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

Consumers Testimonials

Tupperware’s bankruptcy filing in September 2024 received mixed

responses from consumers, particularly nostalgia from those who have an

attachment to

Tupperware. Many reflected on their feelings of nostalgia and detachment for

Tupperware products as they expressed surprise at how quickly Tupperware

fell into financial trouble. One user stated, “Moms just fell to their

knees…these were their favorite child,” highlighting how Tupperware was a

mainstay in their kitchens.

Another consumer said, “How? Every mother in the world has a shelf

full of these!” referring to the fact that Tupperware has been part of family

homes for many years. These responses indicate that Tupperware was a staple

in family life, which provides great insight into the level of surprise consumers

felt when learning Tupperware was in financial trouble.

Employee Testimonials:

While there may not be individual employee testimonials, we can get a

sense of the impact on Tupperware’s employees. The bankruptcy process has

evidently affected over 10,000 employees across the world, including all 800

employees in the warehouse in Australia, where Tupperware is planning to

close all locations in the country. The sheer number of employees that

9
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

Tupperware employs suggest this issue with Tupperware created great concern

for their employees across the world.

Visuals, as presented beside the testimonials, included pictures of

Tupperware products from other ages—some of their vibrant and exuberant

designs—and, more recently, of empty storefronts and empty Amazon search

listings. Particular visuals were compared and contrasted by sales channels;

an old photograph of an invigorating Tupperware evening party contrasted with

a social media marketing photo and listings for "used" Tupperware products.

Especially within the visual space, advertising Tupperware via social selling

channels served to demonstrate the significant impacts that have taken place

in the manner of selling Tupperware. Most consultants and consumers would

agree that social selling is not the same as homeparty sales with a family,

friends, and community of consumers building a sense of value in Tupperware

products.

A then-and-now comparison of Tupperware’s marketing strategies:

Traditional home-party (1960s) vs. Modern digital platform.

10
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

Global Revenue Decline (2013–2023)

The chart above shows Tupperware’s peak revenue at just over

$2.7 billion dollars in 2013, and a continued decline to approximately $1.2 billion

in 2023. This data represents a decline of over 50 percent down from their peak

in 2013.

This data presents an indication of macro-economic issues, but also

indicates Tupperware failed to respond to changing consumer preferences and

changing digital distribution strategies.

11
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

Impact and Future Research

The story of Tupperware highlights the critical importance of digital

transformation and critical agility and adaptability to competing interests in the

modern consumer landscape. Tupperware was a cultural icon and household

name that relied on direct-to-consumer sales through home parties.

Tupperware was unable to successfully adapt its retail model to changing

consumption behaviors, emerging technology, and rising consumer

expectations.

Impact

Tupperware’s ultimate failure indicates the complex intersection of

moving from a traditional business model to a digitally integrated paradigm.

Tupperware's supply decline revealed the inability of the brand to effectively

compete with emerging ecommerce businesses and environmentally conscious

start-ups. As consumers began prioritizing convenience, price transparency,

and sustainability, their legacy tactics relying on home party direct sales were

no longer viable without the critical digital layer. This failure was worsened by

operational failings internal to the organization, but also externally, such as

supply chain disruptions, inflation of raw materials, or heightened environmental

scrutiny on plastic usage. Tupperware's pivot, which late-stage became a goal

12
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

of being a "digital-first, technology-led company” was reactive rather than

proactive – on how even brands with large equity can be at risk of losing. After

initially pioneering many direct selling practices, Tupperware's declining market

share over the years revealed the relevance of shifting quickly towards digital

transformation.

Future Research

Several avenues of future research are suggested by Tupperware’s experience:

1. Changing Direct Sales Models in the Digital Era: There is

considerable potential for research exploring how digital platforms, virtual

communities and influencer marketing might provide even more profound

reforms for direct-selling models and the comparisons in rental strategies with

traditional companies (that is not born-digital) vs. born-digital brands will no

doubt provide valuable information.

2. Consumer Trust Relating to Sustainability Preferences: What

insights from awareness of consumers' preferences with respect to

sustainability, especially with regard to the consumption of plastics, would offer

the field regarding how to influence purchasing behaviors in kitchenware and

home goods? Research into consumer behaviors in this space may offer legacy

brands information on how to align product design and messaging towards eco-

13
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

friendly behaviors, shaping the authenticity and credibility of the companies'

products.

3. Brand Authenticity and Reinvention: How do companies/brands that

have long histories remain authentic, but not dilute their authenticity by seeking

to re-invent themselves to fit in the digital world? Research into perspectives

involving brand narratives, brand/story transparency and brand community

experiences might provide useful insights.

4. Micro-economics and Supply Chain Resilience: How do legacy and

newer entrants experience the impacts of global economic pressures including

the interruptions to supply chains differently? Research into how traditional

companies adapt to, meet, and confront international supply chain pressures,

including labor costs, can also be useful to those companies.

5. Digital Transformation in Consumer Goods: With a cross-analysis of

legacy consumer brands there will be key elements (and best practices) in

digital transformation including, making digital advancements in the use of the

4Ps of marketing, investing in digital community building platforms, marketing

mobile commerce and utilizing AI enabled customized interfaces.

The significance of Tupperware was not just an example of how not to

run a business—it provides a way to think about consumer miscalculations that

involve changing demographics, legacy brand management, and the costs of

delayed innovation. The implications of this case are relevant to strategic

14
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

thinking across all sectors whether with generational shifts in consumer

attitudes.

Suggested Actions

In today’s evolving digital landscape, companies must remain agile and

forward-thinking to remain competitive. For Tupperware to recover or stabilize

its position in the market, it must fully embrace digital transformation. This

includes investing in a modernized, mobile-optimized website and leveraging

social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok. Partnering with digital

influencers and content creators can further enhance brand visibility and appeal

to younger, tech-savvy consumers. A user-friendly and visually engaging

platform will be essential to driving customer engagement and increasing online

sales.

In addition to digital advancements, Tupperware should prioritize

sustainability—an increasingly critical factor in consumer decision-making.

Introducing product lines made from biodegradable or recyclable materials can

help realign the brand with current environmental values. Transparent

messaging about eco-friendly practices will also enhance brand credibility and

attract environmentally conscious customers.

Another critical component is strengthening corporate leadership and

governance. Implementing leadership development programs focused on

strategic thinking, innovation, and rapid decision-making will be essential in

15
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

restoring investor confidence. Regular market research and competitive

benchmarking should be institutionalized to ensure that the company remains

adaptive to market trends and emerging consumer behaviors.

Finally, Tupperware should explore strategic partnerships with

complementary businesses, such as meal kit delivery services or sustainable

home goods brands. These collaborations can create cross-promotional

opportunities, boost brand relevance, and expand customer reach. Without

bold and timely action, Tupperware risks becoming a brand remembered only

for its past successes. By embracing innovation, sustainability, and strategic

leadership, the company has a path forward to reclaim its position in the modern

marketplace.

16
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

Cited Sources

Anonymous. (2023, May). Former VP of Marketing interview. Internal interview

conducted for case study research.

CNN Business. (2023, April 11). Tupperware warns it could go out of business.

https://edition.cnn.com/2023/04/11/business/tupperware-

bankruptcy-warning/index.html

Economic Times. (2024). Tupperware lifts the lid on its financial problems with

bankruptcy filing.

Google Trends. (2023). Search interest for “Tupperware” and competitors,

2010–2023.

Harvard Business Review. (2022). Digital-first branding for legacy companies.

Harvard Business Publishing.

Humaira, P., & Handayati, Y. (2016). The Analysis of Tupperware Marketing

Strategy: Consumer Behavior Approach. Journal of Business and

Management, 5(3).

Inquirer.net. (2024, September). Tupperware bankruptcy sparks memes,

memories on social media.

Instagram Analytics via SocialBlade. (2023). Tupperware brand engagement

statistics.

17
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

Internal Consumer Survey. (2023). Consumer perception and brand preference

study.

McKinsey & Company. (2021). The acceleration of e-commerce post-COVID.

News.com.au. (2024, September). Tupperware to close in Australia amid

bankruptcy.

NielsenIQ. (2023). Changing consumer habits in kitchen & storage product

categories.

Reuters. (2023, April 11). Tupperware shares plunge as company warns it may

go out of business. https://www.reuters.com/business/retail-

consumer/tupperware-shares-plunge-company-warns-it-may-go-

out-business-2023-04-11/

Statista. (2024, September). Global Tupperware sales.

Tupperware Brands Corporation. (2023). Tupperware announces substantial

doubt about ability to continue as a going concern [Press release].

https://investor.tupperwarebrands.com/

Tupperware Brands Corporation. (2019–2023). Annual reports and financial

statements.

Yahoo Finance. (2023, April 12). Tupperware is on the brink of collapse after 77

years. https://finance.yahoo.com/news/tupperware-is-on-the-brink-

of-collapse-144428322.html

18
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

Supplementary Actions

A. Timeline of Notable Tupperware Milestones Year Event

1946 Earl Tupper created Tupperware

1951 Brownie Wise invented home party selling

1970s-80s Representative growth and apex

1996 Tupperware Brands went public

2017 Decreasing Sales, e-commerce disruption

2020 Resurgence for kitchen interest helped sales positively (but

temporary)

2023 Tupperware in financial trouble and bankruptcy concern

B. Excerpt from Consumer Survey (2023)

Question: Why did you stop purchasing Tupperware products?

Sample Size: 1,000 Respondents (Age: 25-55):

45% Prefer more modern attractive alternatives (for example the

minimalist feel)

19
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

35% No online presence, not digitally engaging

12% Old or uncool

8% Too much to pay when you can find generic alternatives

C. Digital Footprint Analysis Instagram (2023)

Follower Growth -7% Year on Year

Engagement 0.8% (Industry average – 2.3%)

Google Trends - Interest over time (2010-2023): Tupperware interest

declined 70% over 13 years in relative search interest, while competitors (i.e.

Yeti, Hydro Flask, Rubbermaid) have either increased in relative search interest

or have remained stable.

D. Financial Snapshot: Year Revenue (USD) Net Income Notes

Year and Notes Revenue (in USD) Net Income

2019 Pre - COVID $1.8B $85M

2020 Downward trend $1.7B $112M

emerges

2022 Losses grow 1.3B -$35M

20
Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

2023 Bankruptcy talks begin $1.1B -$117M

E. Interview Excerpt: Former Tupperware Officer

“To be frank we were confident that the home-party model would always

be relevant. What we underestimated was how quickly consumers shifted

online, and how we did not lead the brand change in their wake.”

— Anonymous Former VP of Marketing (interviewed May 2023)

F. Visual: Brand Perceptions Heatmap (2023)

Attributes Tupperware A (Rubbermaid) B (Hydro

Competitor Competitor Flask) Modern

Design

Modern Design Low Medium High

Online Low High High

Shopping

Access

Brand Low Medium High

Trendiness

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Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
College of Business Administration and Accountancy
Martin P. Posadas Avenue, San Carlos City (2420), Pangasinan
Tel. Nos.: (+6375) 203-0000, 0955-5222, 632-4094
Fax No.: (+6375) 203-0333
Website: www.vmuf.edu.ph Email: vmuf1958@gmail.com

Product High High Medium

Durability

G. Additional Literate

• Harvard Business Review (2022): “Digital-First Branding for

Legacy Companies”

• NielsenIQ (2023): “Changing Consumer Habits in Kitchen &

Storage Product Categories”

• McKinsey & Company (2021): “E-Commerce Explodes Post-

COVID”

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