I really would like to see an analysis of Japanese companies expanding into overseas markets through acquisitions or mergers. Are there any standout successes? What factors limit Japanese companies when they expand in this way?
Moreover, the Japanese executives who are brought in to set things up (and whose responsibility it is to create said culture), mostly mull about going back to HQ instead of doing their jobs. This is especially the case for situations where relocations are hard for their families.
On the other hand, some of the best results often came when HQ was represented by someone much more wizened and experienced, almost retirement age. Almost all such folks I've met were exceptionally sharp and brilliant, and didn't have any obligations like family or HQ. Those guys didn't really give a shit and just gave the task their best shot, in very Japanese fashion.