These original negotiation scenarios are used in McGill-Desautels negotiation classes. Each simulation is designed around a specific strategic, ethical, or interpersonal dynamic and can be completed in under one hour. Role instructions are distributed via QR codes and should remain confidential between parties.
Maple Syrup
Fine Foods Group vs. La Sucrerie Gaspésienne
A European gourmet food chain is negotiating its annual maple syrup contract with a Canadian family-run producer. The buyer wants to secure 10,000 bottles for its organic stores, while the seller aims to maintain pricing that reflects quality and sustainability investments. Previous deals between the two provide a pricing benchmark.
The Catalog
Platinum Elegance vs. Alexey Lensky
A luxury jewelry brand discovers that a key image used in its new catalog may not have been properly licensed. With catalogs already printed and promotional campaigns underway, the new publishing head must reach out to the photographer to resolve the matter before distribution.
Zonite
MBA Candidate vs. HR Officer
A graduating MBA student negotiates a potential job offer with an international consulting firm. The conversation covers six elements: salary, location, vacation days, signing bonus, remote work flexibility, and early responsibilities. Each side brings strong preferences to the table and must work within structured limits.
The Vineyard
Vineyard Broker vs. Family Representative
A vineyard broker contacts the representative of a well-known estate in Provence on behalf of a private client. The broker seeks to purchase the estate quickly and discreetly. The family, which owns the estate, is open to discussions and has received other offers. The broker and representative must discuss terms for a potential sale.
The Walkout
The Originals vs. The Next Gen
A creative studio collective is under pressure after a quiet fee discrepancy between founding members and newer recruits becomes public. The Originals say the newer team uses more resources and joined a system that was already built. The Next Gen argues they contribute more revenue and visibility, and deserve a fairer structure. Both sides must now decide whether to renegotiate terms or walk away for good.
The Folded Note
Sinclair vs. Brenner, with a Mediator
Two co-founders of a boutique gifting company face mounting tension as creative vision and financial control collide. One partner believes that design and detail are the heart of the brand, while the other insists that discipline and cost management are the only way to keep the business alive. The company has just $8,000 left in the bank, and a mediator has been brought in to help navigate a possible restructuring or separation. The parties must choose a resolution method and decide whether they can move forward together.
Strive
Corporate Representative vs. Franchise Owner
Strive Urban Fitness is transitioning from franchising to corporate ownership and is looking to reacquire one of its earliest downtown clubs. The location is profitable but outdated, and both sides arrive with constraints that have not been fully disclosed. A competing offer may be in play, and Strive faces pressure to close the gap in a high-visibility market. The parties must explore whether a deal can be reached under time and budget pressure.