Aldi:

$1.$ Using Porter's framework as your guide, how would you describe the competitive structure of the U$.$S$.$ grocery retailing industry? What are the key forces driving the competitiveness of the industry? What major changes can one envisage looking ahead to the future?

$2.$ Why has Aldi emerged as a leader among hard$-$discounters in the grocery business? What are the roots of its competitive advantage? How has Aldi deployed its resources to secure competitive advantage in the industry? Do these advantages appear to be sustainable?

$3.$ As Aldi looks ahead to a future where its peers are nipping at its heels, what changes would you suggest that Aldi make in retaining its position as a leader? How can its peers compete against Aldi? What are the chinks in Aldi$$s armor that competitors can take advantage of$?$