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CASE STUDY

The principles behind logistics and supply chain management are not new, but it is only in the last 10 to 15 years that logistics has achieved prominence in companies boardrooms. This is primarily because of the impact that the application of supply chain techniques can have on a companys competitive position and profitability.

Most retail companies today face fierce competition and the search for new ways to increase competitiveness is accelerating. Companies seek to innovate throughout the entire supply chain, developing new strategies and business models.

Select a retailer that you have an interest in for this assignment, find the information you need to complete the assignment using different databases and resources. You should not wholly rely on the retailer to provide you with the information you need.

QUESTIONS

1. Describe the current climate and situation that your massmart retailer finds itself in as it attempts to compete. Describe what is occurring in the industry. Provide a brief overview of the retail sector in which the retailer operates. What environmental and economic factors are affecting the retailer? Describe competitive pressures, changing demographics and buying preferences, consumer behaviour issues, image issues, etc. that affects this retailer and how they conduct business? How has the industry changed as a result of ecommerce and technology? (15)

2. How has your retailer changed and evolved over time? What is your retailers primary business? What is their business model (how do they choose to operate)? What is their corporate strategy? What are their goals? What parts of their business are growing and generate the most revenue? How is your retailer seeking to increase revenue in the future? (15)

3. Corporate Analysis: Who is the parent company of your massmart What retailers are part of their portfolio? What is the parent companys overall market strategy and how does this retailer fit into their overall strategy? (10)

4. Who are the massmart competitors (both direct and indirect)? How does your retailer compare to these competitors in terms of its size, market dominance/share, sales, profitability, etc.? What is your retailers competitive strength? How do they try to compete? Are there strategies that have not worked for them? What retailers have they identified as competitive threats? Why? (10