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Paper Packaging White Paint

Prokura Case: Packaging Paper Reduction Strategy
New answer on Oct 31, 2023
2 Answers
530 Views
João Paulo
Skilled
asked on Oct 30, 2023
Preparing for McKinsey interview

Hey Everyone!

I would like to clarify the following point:

  • The solution for the Question Nº4, says that “Currently for paper packaging, the white paint contributes 80 EUR/ton”. 
  • I believe the above sentence was based on the “Table 1”. However, we have the cost of Paint (white + other paints) per ton of Packaging Paper = 80
  • How can we assume that 100% of this cost is related exclusively to white paint? Why do we eliminate the “other paints” from the equation?
  • From my understanding the White paint should have an weight of 41% on the total paint cost (80).

Thank you very much in advance. 

Best regards,
João Paulo Figueira

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Best answer
Cristian
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Oct 31, 2023
#1 rated MBB & McKinsey Coach

Hi João,

That's a fair concern. 

The same way you did it here, I would also bring it up with the interviewer.

The interview is meant to replicate a conversation with a client at the end of the day, so the more conversation you're making it and the more you show that you're thinking through the case, the better.

Best,
Cristian

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Ian
Expert
Content Creator
replied on Oct 31, 2023
#1 BCG coach | MBB | Tier 2 | Digital, Tech, Platinion | 100% personal success rate (8/8) | 95% candidate success rate

Hi Joao,

This is a great catch! this is a great example of a “risky assumption” that you should always clarify with the interviewer.

It truly depends on the interviewer's answer here: As long as you check with them, you are safe!

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Cristian gave the best answer

Cristian

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