Spotlight on George Stalk

Purpose – The purpose of this article is to record an interview with George Stalk of The Boston Consulting Group. Design/methodology/approach – The article cites illustrative examples of a selection of notably successful companies including Toyota, Dell, CarMax, Ford Customer Service Division, Wausau Papers and the Batesville Casket Company. Findings – George Stalk points out that, despite the “hardball” competitive strategy advocated, the approach is “softball” in its human‐resource orientation and goal of growth. Stalk emphasizes that companies cannot cost‐reduce their way to prosperity. Originality/value – This article focuses on the need for companies to compete if they are to thrive, playing to win through competitive strategies aimed at creating unassailable advantage.