Discussion: Bourts is operating at (above or below) the industry average...which indicates that they are advantage of opportunities to mitigate against threats. Question 2: What possible strategies can Bourts Retailing implement to overcome the threats in its external environment? Encourage the them to think beyond the usual social media, social media, social media... - (CORPORATE) OPTION - Stay the course. - (BUSINESS) OPTION - Compete by entering a different strategic group via eg line of exclusive "Made in Jamaica" custom furniture - (FUNCTIONAL) OPTION - Promote (differentiated) product and service offerings: signature Bourts look and feel; refreshments offered in salubrious environment; repair facility; convenient location with ample parking. - New sales models: Website + Delivery = limited customer exposure to high crime environment, shop in convenience of your own home Question 3: Discuss the FIVE FORCES of the industry environment of Bourts Retailing and examine the competitiveness of the company to each of these forces. Analysis entails the use of Porter's Five Forces (1-5) + Wheelen and Hunger's 6 th Force. 1. Threat of New Entrants - HIGH. Barriers to entry are low. MegaPlus is planning to enter 2. Threat of Competition - HIGH. Intensive rivalry among competing stores as evidenced by firms operating in distinct strategic groups competing for dwindling market share