This case was developed using a qualitative, exploratory approach. Primary data were collected through two semi-structured interviews with the entrepreneur between March 2025 and May 2025. The first interview lasted approximately 90 min and focused on the establishment phase, early challenges and financing experiences. A follow-up interview of approximately 30 min was conducted to clarify strategic developments and financial data. Financial data were cross-validated using internal records provided by the enterprise. Secondary sources were used to contextualise the growth of the poultry industry in Tripura. Comparative analysis of similar hatcheries in the region offered additional insights into competitive positioning and operational challenges.Written informed consent was obtained from the participant to use her name, experiences and enterprise details for teaching and publication in an academic case. No vulnerable populations were involved, and the activity posed no physical, psychological, social or legal risk.
The case study presents the entrepreneurial journey of Archita Roy, a female entrepreneur from the northeastern state of India, Tripura. Overcoming societal norms, financial constraints and operational challenges, Archita established Kanup Hatchery, one of the first private hatcheries in Tripura to be run by a woman. The case examines a strategic growth dilemma faced by Archita Roy. After achieving operational stability in a saturated local market, Archita must choose among three growth paths – feed-related expansion, geographic market development or processed poultry diversification – each differing in capital intensity, operational risk and alignment with existing capabilities. The case invites students to evaluate these alternatives under institutional, logistical and capability constraints typical of entrepreneurship in emerging markets.
This case is primarily designed for graduate-level courses in Strategic Management and Entrepreneurship, where the focus is on growth under constraint, strategic choice and capability development. The dilemmas around business expansion and resource allocation mentioned in the case offer important lessons for courses focusing on strategic management while discussing decision-making, resource planning and execution of growth strategies. It may also be used selectively in Marketing Management courses to examine segmentation, positioning and market entry decisions in resource-constrained contexts.For any business, it’s important to look out for diversification options or product line extensions to continue to grow the business in the face of competition. Through this case study on Kanup Hatchery, one can understand the importance of being able to analyse market conditions to make informed decisions about business expansions. Effective marketing strategies, identifying resource needs and optimisation of business operations are other important aspects for consideration while planning for business scaling. This case study can encourage students to apply the above concepts to real-world scenarios.
