Businesses That Will Be History by 2012

America lives and dies by its competitive market. Each year businesses sprout up and die out as if it were by natural selection. Some companies have the right product at the right price to spark a public interest and others do not. In 2010, the biggest loser of them all seemed to be Blockbuster when the once superpower of the VHS and DVD world filed for chapter 11. Substitutes like Netflix and "public goods" like free viewing of movies and TV shows on the internet drove the powerful chain into the ground. In this globally struggling economy, expert economists have looked at businesses that are showing signs of trouble. It looks as though a few previously thriving businesses may have their number called in 2012.

Saab: The Swedish automotive company showed a budding growth from the 60's to the 90's which attracted GM to buy have its stock in 1989. What has slowed Saab's growth in the European car market was a lack of identity status. Saab does not make very inexpensive, practical, gas efficient cars like Volks Wagon. Nor does it make flashy, fast, luxurious cars like Porshe. Its potential buyers don't see the use in paying plenty for a middle of the pack Swedish car. Cadillac and Chevrolet also stole show as GM's largest players which made it difficult for Saab to develop as a brand.

Myspace: Once the world's largest social network that paved the way for Facebook has been surpassed by its pupil. In 2005 NewsCorp bought the site for $580 million which was considered a steal at the time based on its growth potential. Myspace currently has less than 20 million users whereas Facebook has just over 700 million. Facebook seemed to have more attractive features to a younger hipper group with better online security from unwanted viewers. While Facebook grew Myspace had no answer and now it seems to be a thing of the past.

Kellog's Corn Pops: Moms today are becoming more conscious about what they serve their kids. Kellog's describes this product on the box as "crispy, glazed, crunchy and sweet." It also has high counts of saturated fat and artificial sweeteners that substitutes like Cheerios and Frosted Flakes don't. But what may be hurting this product more than its contents is the high rise of the price of corn. Because corn and Corn Pops are compliments of one another, the price of the Pops rise with the price of corn.

http://finance.yahoo.com/family-home/article/112989/brands-disappear-2012-247

By Mark Manthe