Compare the Methods Used to Distribute Two Selected Products and Services Essay

In this report I will be comparing methods used by two different retailers on how they distribute two chosen products, of my choice, in two different retailing sectors. Seeing as the food and clothing sector both have very different styles of how they meet their product requirements, I will compare Tesco and JD; The products from these two companies itself that I’m going to compare is ‘Tesco Value Bread’ and Nike hoodies. For the food retailing sector (Tesco) there are many different departments that address what type of design is necessary for the distribution chain, the types that are available for a company such as Tesco is: frozen, chilled, and fresh foods, with packed goods too. However, for the clothing sector (JD) for a product like Nike hoodies JD need to consider various things like amount of the specific product they want, how they’re going to get them (whether it’s overseas or not) and will they have enough to reach customer demand, etc. Tesco have manufacturers that mass produce products such as their ‘Tesco Value Bread’ to keep up with their customer satisfaction in quantity. The goods travel from the manufacturer to the actual retailer (Tesco) and from there it’s sold directly to the customer for their consumption or any other need. However, for the Nike Hoodies to get to the customer Nike have to go through additional steps to get their item out on the market. As always, the product, in this case Nike hoodies, start off being massed produced by the manufacturer, which then get sent off to the wholesaler- which would be Nike; After all of this the final adjustments are done to the good (Nike hoodie) it’s sent to retailers, mainly abroad, for them to sell it directly to the customers. These two products production processes are quite different as they go through different their production quality is very different. Plus, the amount of time it takes to produce each product differentiates from the two also. The only main similarity they really have is the delivery procedures that take place; this could mean the shipping costs, the quality of transport and what’s expected. There are more outgoing costs in the production process for the Nike hoodies than the ‘Tesco Value Bread’ as the clothing’s going to more places, and costs a considerable amount more to make than the bread. The warehousing locations used to hold the goods (the food and the clothing) may be identical in size but the number of locations is most likely different. Because of the fact that the Nike hoodies are bigger in size compared to the ‘Tesco Value Bread’ one may be lead to believe that Nike have purchased/hired out a lot more warehouses to contain their goods compared to Tesco. On the other hand, even though Nike may seem to have more warehouses than Tesco it doesn’t necessarily mean that they sell more, as there are different levels of demand for both the products. Nike promote their hoodies through a lot of ways; Nike use mainly advertisements through the web, television and advertisements through shops-most of the time their own shops. They mass promote their Nike hoodies, whether they’re new releases or just old hoodies that need to go. Through companies like JD that sell Nike hoodies most of the time they put the hoodies on sell to promote the product further and make it more appealing to the customers that may want to purchase it. Tesco, to some extent, do in fact the same thing in regards to reduced cost methods but it isn’t even close to comparable when looking at how much of the total cost of the two items I’ve chosen are; for example: ‘Tesco Value Bread is around 45p, Tesco could suddenly decide to reduce it to 37p, there’s an 8p difference. JD however, sells Nike hoodies for around  £60- £70, they could choose to reduce it to  £30, and the difference would be ? 30-? 40. Now, the overall difference between the bread and the Nike hoodie is about  £29.92- £39.92; clearly looking at the statistics there’s a massive difference. Nike as a massive retailing company would find it easy to sell their Nike hoodie merchandise as they’ve already built up their reputation across the globe as to how much quality and various other reasons why the customer should buy their Nike hoodies; just like Nike, Tesco have also built up a fearsome reputation on the market for selli ng their goods at reasonably cheap prices that appeal to majority of people. Nike also have a wide range of the target market that they aim their products at, however, Tesco have more of a range on their goods, like their ‘Tesco Value Bread’ are aimed at pretty much everyone and anyone that wants cheap bread, but mainly targeted at a family orientated customer. Comparing Tesco and Nike to offers that occur after a trade/purchase is a really one sided comparison. Tesco excel the most at keeping their customers loyal and retained through keeping them updated on new offers/things that will benefit them greatly. Tesco are mainly known for their Clubcard points, the Clubcard points can be added up to give them a nice discount from their next exchange with Tesco, which again ensures that they always come back- it’s like a cycle. Currently Nike is trying their best to retain their customers. Nike aren’t that well known for trying to keep their customers loyal and retaining them but they’re slowly but surely increasing that weakness and turning it into a strength, just like how Tesco have. In conclusion, I have listed, explained and compared the methods that Tesco and Nike have/currently used to distribute their specific goods that chose, which were; ‘Tesco Value Bread’ and Nikes’ hoodies and how they impacted the market. I have also addressed their target market and how this may affect how they portray their company in order to distribute their goods.

Childrens’ Functional Health Assessment Essay

Short Answer Questions Address the following based on the above assessment findings. Expected answers will be 1-2 paragraphs in length. Cite and reference outside sources used. 1) Compare and contrast identified similarities as well as differences in expected assessment across the childhood age groups. As a child moves from being a toddler through preschool to school-aged, they are faced with many challenges to overcome. Development growth, which is subject to the child’s environment and sphere of influential people and pressures in their lives, is directly shaped and guided by their family’s culture, religion and value/belief system. The differences are seen in how each developmental phase interacts and responds within each health assessment pattern. The toddler and preschool child need more structure and routine, whether it’s brushing their teeth, eating or bedtime rituals. School-aged children take the values and learned behaviors of being a toddler and build upon them as they move toward building their own self-concept and sense of identity. There are similarities as the children strive for autonomy and the ability to express themselves verbally. As the child continues to learn, they will develop an understanding of good behaviors and bad behaviors. Play continues to be the primary activity for preschoolers as well as for toddlers. Preschoolers venture farther from home than toddlers do and many of their activities involve other children and involve modeling behavior. Pre-schoolers prolong bedtime routines more often than the toddler. They respond more maturely to stress than do toddlers. The preschooler has a longer and more rigid bedtime ritual than the toddler. School-age children, unlike toddlers and preschoolers experience few difficulties with going to bed (Edelman & Mandle, 2010). 2) Summarize how a nurse would handle physical assessments, examinations, education, and communication differently with children versus adults. Consider spirituality and cultural differences in your answer. According to Javis (2012), children should be treated as equal partners in the health care triad. Nurses should include the child in the introductory stage of the interview. When dealing the toddler and preschooler, the nurse should interact with the caregiver first, giving the child the opportunity to see the nurse’s interaction with their caregiver. This allows the child to see that the caregiver has accepted and trusts the nurse. For the toddler and the preschooler, the parent will be providing most, if not all of the health history. With the pre-school-age population, they may be the sole source of important data to the history (Jarvis, 2012). Strategies that the nurse might incorporate include awareness of the various developmental stages that children go through. When performing a physical assessment, toddlers and preschoolers should sit on their parents laps while school-age should sit on a Big boys or Big girls examining bed; nurse should be at an eye level maintain privacy, and should use for praise cooperation. When talking to the child and explaining concepts the nurse should use simple language that the child can understand. The nurse should allow the child to hold instruments, like a stethoscope, during the physical exam to help them feel like they are involved in their own care. Sharing reading materials or media to look at can help divert their attention away from the nurse (Jarvis, 2012). References Edelman, L. & Mandle, L. (2010). Health Promotion Throughout the Life Span (7th ed). Retrieved from https://pageburstls.elsevier.com. Physical Examination & Health Assessment 6thed. St. Louis, MI: Mosby. Retrieved from https://pageburstls.elsevier.com

The Role of Higher Education Institutions in Promoting Sustainable Development

The Role of Higher Education Institutions in Promoting Sustainable Development To care about sustainable development means to accept responsibility for the well-being of future generations and also of our habitat, of our planet. An affirmative attitude towards sustainability has to be an integral part of the moral foundation of our activities and of our lifestyle. This means that promoting sustainable development must be an important aspect of the educational agenda at all levels. It starts in kindergarten and it goes all the way to the university level and beyond.It basically involves three aspects: the buildup and reinforcement of a basic understanding of the problem of sustainability, an inspection of all aspects of our life under the criterion of sustainability and finally an active search for new methods and techniques to further sustainable development. In all of this, Higher Education Institutions play a crucial role. Clearly, the research agenda should be influenced – but not dictated – by striving for sustainability with the goal of inventing new methods to deal with all the big problems such as climate change, pollution, energy, hunger, infectious diseases, biodiversity, etc.Systematically thinking about justice and ethics, peace and good governance, not only about ecology, but also about economy might contribute in a substantial way to the establishment of a sustainable way of life. But the most important contribution is in education offered by institutions. Whatever particular subject is being taught, the question whether and how it may influence development towards sustainability must always be asked and discussed. Of course there are contexts in which it is difficult to make this connection, but they are much less frequent then one would expect.Should sustainability also be considered as a topic all by itself and be taught and discussed in special courses? The answer is a clear yes. Nowadays as we are moving towards thematic and prob lem-focused teaching and research, sustainability is a wonderful topic to bring together many different disciplines. Higher Education Institutions not only have to teach their own students, they have to explain the relevant problems to politicians and to industrial leaders as much as to a wider public.Here it is particularly important to show how to differentiate between scientific questions and results on the one hand and moral, ethical or ideological aspects on the other hand. But having said all this, we come to a point that often does not get the necessary attention. As Higher Education Institutions are to a large extent responsible for the training of teachers at the primary and secondary level, they are ultimately responsible for the development of new methods and new approaches to explaining sustainability to everybody, from pre-schoolers all the way to adults.It has to be said that quite a few impressive and successful steps in this direction have been taken, but nobody woul d doubt that much remains to be done. And much remains to be done in all domains of human life before we can claim to be fully on the path towards sustainability. The role of the educational institutions of the Ministry of Education and the school and the teacher is the cornerstone of the basic structure of the society through which we can build generations of intellectually and culturally sound and get rid of all nodes eternal.Teacher In addition to his sacred message of education must be to have another message, a rumor the spirit of democracy to achieve the goals of great importance remain stuck in the memory of the students also attached atoms dew flowers, Should the teacher change real to the imagination of the students towards a glimmer of hope to feel a moment of transparent wishlist using the method of modern education and the teacher to develop itself before it develops the disciples so that he could promote the reality Learning the right direction and uses all his efforts to highlight the humanity to dissolve all differences and to regulate its relations with his disciples to feel safe When listening to him and to have confidence when talking to him In the belief that the ideas addressed to reflect the expression of innovative ideas proposed by them.There is nothing ambiguous and overlapping between education and democracy and we need to find appropriate solutions Giving high doses of education without democracy, and vice versa will be has bad effects, we must make the themes pour in the course of a single coordinated harmonious hear the music fresh, comfortable with the human soul, the teacher make it clear that the surface in method of education and ideas and come in contact with a creative way what is going on in the interior of his disciples, and ideas and fluctuations Ituaha towards a formula amorphous deep knowledge of a democratic approach. From here stems the need to educate the community and then spread the spirit of democracy the existence of education has three objectives with one another, culture is to teach the individual how to accommodate education and receive the views of others, if you know the individual to listen properly to the ideas and proposals of others away from violence and acrimony in the debate and put forward his ideas with a structured format meaningful in this case we say that we have learned the first point of democracy.I must point out an important issue combines a teacher with the students a language to talk, he should attract voices of students and inspire the spirit to talk as he did (Algoskhoun) previously when lists his story, and try to deal with mental disorders among students in order to be able to express their opinions and not obscure desires and cultural needs and intellectual property that arise as a result of psychological factors stemming from within the family because of persecution and oppression of the FPL father and mother to the children, which generates feature sometimes turn to aggressive as a result of subjugation and repression of feelings and desires and can not be of educational institutions to contribute effectively to the success of the moral and intellectual isolation from family and occurs within it should unite the family's role with the role of school to become a cultural phenomenon in which we can achieve democracy in education. Teacher's role in this stage is very difficult because he needs to make another Maimlk of energy and effort to shift gradually towards the case creative students in order to harvest after years of effort, tired and needs to dissolve the differences among students by teaching them self belief of human value high and making the community and decryption problem between the attempt to access the ability to self-expression and social balance and what is created by the individual relationships between members of a sterile society in which they live.Hence the urgent need for the teacher is the first example to his disciples through the treated teachers with each other in a democratic manner the existence of the spirit of cooperation, tolerance and respect the spirit of constructive criticism, among them as can not talk about democracy in the absence of activating and harmony and the small capacity of teaching staff for the purpose of spreading the democratic life of the school . Democratic society in Iraq has a special form due to the circumstances presented by the society such as war and disasters that befell the families of Iraq (forced displacement and non-regulated) and sectarian killings created a lot of orphans who are left to attend school because of material need as a result of the absence of the father of all these things left a lot of Difficulties in the path of democracy, this issue requires upport from government agencies and civil society organizations and the family and the humanitarian organizations and human rights body in order to keep our feet on the first step and most difficult of the state of enhancing the concepts of real democracy, such as material and moral support and a lot of seminars, lectures and use of television, newspapers and magazines to educate society and the exploitation of some of the lessons received by students such as study of art education to output Doakhlhm by drawing on paper to be the case visible, listening to music to overcome cases of depression are enshrined within the hearts, extract the vital activity of exercise to use it in a creative state allowance to use on the differences which occur between the students and lead to hostile situations. Try to change the curriculum and not to impose curricula dry, but must keep up with updating curricula in line with progress in the world.Process subject to human beings and its ability to absorb the vocabulary of democracy and the provision of all supplies of intellectual success in order to create a generation democratic intellectuals keep pace with the rapid changes and act Petkaviip high based on social justice and respect for the law to reach the goals of a great void of class differences and nepotism, conflicts and hatred, social and all that calls for the demolition does not Building and creating an informed community can navigate life towards true equality and compensation for all of society at large without the use of random democracy which do correspond to reality, but we have to use mental intellectual honest and sophisticated approach to generation of creative art, commensurate with the culture of the world.

Critical analysis of two mental health web site Essay

Critical analysis of two mental health web site - Essay Example In order to begin this process it is a good idea to start with an explanation of each one and then to compare and contrast them. Beyond blue is a website about depression and it explains how people can cope with and relieve depression. On the first page it is clear to see that this is the topic because the news items are about depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and postnatal depression. Each of these is an aspect of depression and can be brought on by this disorder. From the first page an individual can link to a variety of interesting information throughout the website. On the right hand side of the website there are a variety of self-help programs and/or references that an individual can use if they have some type of depression. It is clear from this website that they are attempting to give all depression mood orders equal time. They have equal information about prevention, early intervention (symptoms) and it is very accessible to lay people who have no background in mental health education. There are several downloable fact sheets from the homepage. As an example, if you are someone who suspects you might have problems with depression, you can download a checklist for each of the depression disorders they have listed. The general depression checklist asks two questions and based on the answers to those they encourage you to move further into the checklist. The checklist allows you to take it and then they give you a score at the end and describe what you "might" need. The language on the site is very easy to understand and it is as though they are talking to a friend. Each section is broken down into a few paragraphs to give a general idea about depression and then there are links to click on more informa tion if you want to get more specific. An individual couple become overwhelmed by the amount of information that is at this site so it would be a good idea to send a client to one specific area if you were going to use it. Beyond blue is

APPLE INCORPORATED Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

APPLE INCORPORATED - Research Paper Example As of August 2010, the association began working 300 retail stores in ten countries and an online store where fittings and modifying things available to be purchased. Made on April 1, 1976 in Cupertino, California, and combined January 3, 1977, the association was aforetime designated Apple Computer, Inc., for its first 30 years, yet scatterbrained the proclamation "Computer" on January 9, 2007 to reflect the association's endless wander into the client fittings promote in mixture with its customary concentrate on Pcs (Livingstone, 37). Establishment and advancement Steve Wozniak and Steve Jobs, created Apple Computer in the 1976 out of the silicon valley. From the Apple Ii microcomputer familiar in 1977 with the Macintosh exhibited in 1984, Apple Computer has transformed into one of the heading machine originators on the planet. On the other hand, Apple's pace of the generally business fell as competition from Microsofts' Windows and the comparably efficient Ibm Personal machines wh ich were great machines that moved the business division in 1990s. This was the pivotal turning point for Apple from a beneficially lucrative association to an endeavour with debilitating cash identified incidents. Apple, made a couple of movements turn the business around yet again. On May 2001, Apple pronounced the opening of the Apple retail stores in critical Us client zones. These files were planned to stem the tide of Apple's declining partition of the machine publicize and to nullify a poor record of promoting, Apple things with their-assembling retail outlets. What's more, Apple introduced its first ipod conveyable electronic sound player later that year. It was a completely early item offering of its workstation business. Not long after the showing of ipod, itunes Store was made to offer online music downloads for Us 99 pennies a musical amalgamation for its ipod lines. Notwithstanding music, more than 2200 system shows, circulated full-length films from Disney. This extern al examination of Apple Corporation utilizes a mix of Porter's Five Forces, complementors, and parts of a Pest examination to investigate the danger levels in Apple's inclination. The logical arrangement is an amalgam of the sundry models, certain things are broken out for phenomenal thought underneath. The human resource hiring process Regularly, the meeting process is fluctuated. A few applicants share in 4 meetings with 4-5 individuals at once while others, contingent upon the position, may be subjected to the same amount as 10 meetings. A portion of the more key inquiries touch on why somebody needs to work for Apple with one candidate noting that they're testing for "obsessive brand grip.", The interviews at Apple inc are quite tricky in that they are follow up questions to the questions that are asked in a normal interview. One of the ways that one can get to work for apple more easily is wen they had an internship there. In the process there also includes brain teasers for on e to prove they are well endowed in the mathematics section. Strategies and executions Before all else, in order to get a vigor about that nature's domain, an audit of Apple is publicized. Mac is incorporated in two associations: the Pc market and the regalement as well as the market of the media. Its ways have been to fuse its punctual

Obesity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Obesity - Essay Example On the other hand, some of the psychological problems include low level of confidence and inferiority complex. To comment on the proposal, which suggested that parents who have obese children should have their children taken away or have other rather severe consequences. The research was extremely necessary to be conducted because parents of obese children generally have little or no awareness of the consequences of childhood obesity. Some parents do not know what impact obesity can have on their children in future. There is a big need of an in-depth research on the issue of childhood obesity which should not only highlight the impact of obesity on the future of children but also should made parents aware of the ways that they can use to prevent or deal with this health problem. Childhood obesity creates many risks for the future of children. Obese children do not live a healthy life. Smith (1999) states, â€Å"Obese people do not live as long as other people† (p. 5). Parents of obese children should not take this problem light because it can affect the psychological and physical development of their children. Parents should not let obesity take away their children rather they should deal with this problem effectively to help their children come out of this serious medical condition. Some of the major health risks or consequences of childhood obesity revealed through research were high blood pressure, joint pains, high level of cholesterol, heart problems, and decrease in stamina. On the other hand, some of the major psychological problems found in obese children were lack of self-confidence and low self-esteem. Some of the main ways using which parents can help their obese children include making children do physical exercises, stopping children from taking sugary drinks, providing balanced diet to the children instead of junk foods, and making children adhere to the principles of good body

Compartive analysis of New Black Panther Party for Self Defense and Research Paper

Compartive analysis of New Black Panther Party for Self Defense and the White Supremacist World Church of the Creator - Research Paper Example (The Creativity Movement in 2003) Â   New Black Panther Party for Self Defense is the largest black racist militant group founded in Texas. New Black Panther Party gained supporters through media coverage of its efforts of taking on racial discrimination issues under the pretext of civil rights. The group’s demonstrations call for racial violence ruining its efforts to promote black pride. In January 2009, a suit was filed against New Black Panther Party for intimidating a voter on Election Day 2008 in Philadelphia. (New Black Panther Party for Self Defense: Ideology 2012) The ideology of World Church of the Creator is ‘Creativity’ which is a racial religion aiming for the survival and expansion of the white race. The members of World Church of the Creator call themselves ‘Creators’ who view every matter as a white man’s perspective, resulting in attacks on followers of other religions and people of other races. Its slogans are ‘A Whiter and Brighter World’ and ‘RAHOWA" (RAcial HOly WAr)’. (Robinson 2012) Creativity was founded by Ben Klassen (1918-1993). The Church of the Creator (COTC) was organized by him which was succeeded by The Creativity Movement in 1973. After Klassens suicide in 1993, the group’s activity began to decline and it started to fade out but it was resuscitated by Rev. Matthew Hale (former head of the National Socialist White Americans Party) in 1996 and named it World Church of the Creator and was its Pontifex Maximus- the highest priest. He attracted a large number of followers, ‘creators’. He passed his bar exams but has been denied a license due to his religious beliefs. (Robinson 2012) Montana has been a centre of WCOTC activity. In the early 1990s Rev Rudy Stanko moved to Billings and began selling Klassen’s books. Rev. Slim Deardorf hosted the annual convention of the WCTOC every summer. Literature has been spread across the state in order to gain followers. In spite of

Analyze and assess the significance of Francis Bacon's New Atlantis Essay

Analyze and assess the significance of Francis Bacon's New Atlantis - Essay Example The New Atlantis may not be considered as a work of literature comparable to the classics that were produced during that time. However, the Baconian or scientific method which it asserts on is the most important content that has been serving as the framework for the succeeding experiments and practical scientific activities. It is apparent that without the Baconian method explicitly outlined, The New Atlantis would certainly be less relevant as a book of science. Neither would it even be significant as a literary work of fiction. The focal point that Bacon wishes to portray in The New Atlantis is that if his scientific method is applied scientists, it would be possible to construct a society similar to that in a fictional land which he called Bensalem. Such a society as described by Bacon is actually a utopia. Nevertheless, it clear that what he wants to impress on the readers is that a utopian society is possible for as long as the scientific method that he is proposing would be put to practice in all fields of science, be it natural, physical, or social. It is apparent in the novel though that even as Bacon insists on a certain framework for establishing scientific truths, he never goes to the extent of negating the very essence of the supposed antithesis of science: religion. In fact, even as Bensalem’s inhabitants and leaders follow a precise scientific method, they retain their belief in the supernatural. As a consequence of adhering to a system of studying scientific truths and applying these in governing Bensalem, the inhabitants in this society are described by Bacon to be very contented with their lives. The problems of hunger and strife common in societies in Europe are virtually non-existent; a utopia no less. In the world outside Bensalem, people have to work in order to obtain the most basic necessities. Satisfied with their economic conditions, they no longer desire to earn more than what they are already getting. A Bensalem inhabitant who welcomed the sailors said that â€Å"he must not be twice paid for one labor† (Bacon, 2007, p.7). Since he is already paid by the State for the service he offers to the guests, he explains that he should no longer accept anything from the guests themselves. Such gesture may be construed as honesty but such attitude would certainly not be developed if want and misery exist in Bensalem. It is clear that the society of Bensalem as described by Bacon is governed by what may be considered as an ideal welfare state. There are no private businesses mentioned all throughout the story. It is the state that ensures that the people are provided for according to their needs. The office governor of the House of Strangers articulates this when he tells the sailors that â€Å"ye shall also understand that the strangers’ house is at this time rich and much aforehand; for it hath laid up revenue these thirty-seven years, for so long it is since any stranger arrive in this part; and th erefore take ye no care; the State will defray you all the time you stay† (Bacon, 2007, p.11). It is evident here that Bacon’s utopian Bensalem bears the semblance of the society dreamt by the early socialists. However, it is also important to point out that this kind of society would not be possible if its level of economic advancement has not been bolstered by an accurate system in discovering scientific tru

1-page Marketing Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

1-page Marketing - Research Paper Example For example, annual percentage growth rates of GDP at market prices based on the U.S dollars, in 2010-2014, was 2.2%. Various factors and trends affect a company and this tend to bring some of the implications to the business such as state of the economy, technology, basic characteristics customers have in common like age and shifts in popular opinion which are strongly influenced by the media. Environmental issues also affect an industry in a great way. There has been a difference though in U.S in those three years as technology has progressed, there is access to distribution of channels, and also access of essential unique services. While different companies have different products, they have to make them saleable in the face of current and potential competition, thus they need to evaluate ways to be attractive to the industry. For example, they should have unique products compared to other companies, so as to gain the buyer power also for the customers with the knowledge of new trends and emerging channels, which offers an opportunity to develop a competitive advantage of major purchasers in future years. For example, the U.S. percentage of the export of goods and services as from 2010-2014 was 13.5, which shows an improvement in its estimated share, thus the growth of the industry. Feenstra, Robert C, Joseph E. Gagnon, and Michael Knetter. Market Share and Exchange Rate Pass-Through in World Automobile Trade. Cambridge (1050 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, Mass. 02138: National Bureau of Economic Research, 1993. Internet

Strategic Management Case of Volkswagon and Suzuki Essay

Strategic Management Case of Volkswagon and Suzuki - Essay Example Strategic management can be defined as a bundle of strategies that managers in an organization adopt and implement to positively influence the direction of the organization. These strategies will normally affect the performance of the company, and are desired to give the company a competitive advantage over other industry players. A global strategic partnership involves two or more organizations coming together and pooling resources in a bid to reach a wider market and strengthen their competitive advantage (Jeschke, 2008). In today’s business environment where there is massive competition from various players in the market, strategic management becomes a very important tool for survival. Strategic management gives an organization a fresh way to look at the existing business environment to remain both profitable and relevant amidst competition. In a bid to achieve relevance, organizations also link up together in strategic alliances to jointly pursue opportunities either in th e same operating environment or in a different one.The case between German carmaker Volkswagen and Japanese’s Suzuki is a classical case of how organizations pursue the concept of strategic alliances for gaining competitive advantage in their operations. The partnership between Volkswagen and Suzuki has been described by many analysts as a straightforward venture. This is because each organization had clear objectives that would easily be met upon the completion of the partnership.

Environmental Statutes Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Environmental Statutes - Research Paper Example The mission of the EPA is to safeguard and protect the natural environment, water, air and land (SBA.Gov, n.d). I work with a Pesticide Ingredients Production company, and it is one of the businesses highly subjected to the environmental laws; one of them being the Clean Water Act (1972). This Act is enforced by the United States EPA (Environment Protection Agency). The Clean Water Act (CWA) provides the fundamental structure for controlling discharges of pollutants into the clean waters and regulates the quality standards for surface waters (SBA.Gov, n.d). My employer through the help of the EPA offers the environmental pollution prevention and the compliance information to employees. This way the employees learn the importance of avoiding the emissions of hazardous wastes and discharge into the water bodies which would pose a danger to the plants, humans, and plants survival. The employer also has a special permit from the EPA so as to allow discharge of the industry’s harmless wastes into the nearby river. The wastes are first purified to ensure that no harmful substance is released into the water body. Most of industries and businesses all over the world complain about the environmental laws as they claim that they are too restrictive. This is true as these regulations cost the Pesticide Ingredients Production Company its profits, and its precious time and effort (SBA.Gov, n.d). For the wastes to be purified it requires the employer to put in place expensive and highly advanced machines to comply with the Clean Water Act. It also costs the employer a lot of money and other resources in the training of the employees on how to operate these high technology machines. Therefore, as much as the environmental regulation rules and regulations are for a better cause; they mean extra efforts, time, energy, and costs to the businesses they affect. They are thus a hindrance to some of the

My Understanding of Parents-Children Relationship Essay Example for Free

My Understanding of Parents-Children Relationship Essay During the past twenty years of my life, I was always regarding my parents as extraordinary and authoritative models of my life. I adored them so much as if everything they had done was not only right but also great. As for my parents, they paid much attention to setting a good example for me since I was a little girl. The situation lasts and I have never thought of any possible changes in the relationship between my parents and me. However, after reading the passage Predictable Crises of Adulthood written by Gail Sheehy, my old understanding of parents-children relationship is replaced by a totally new one - nothing remains unchanged forever and the parents-children relationship is no exception. Actually, there are changes in my relationship although I did not detect them before reading the passage. As I mentioned above, my parents were regarded as the models of my life and this impression was established firmly from my early childhood, influencing me greatly during the past years. In my eyes, they were so preeminent that they could have everything done well. In fact, they were intent on setting an example to me by building up such kind of holy and authoritative image in my mind. However, as I was growing up, I gradually found that my parents were not the God. It was impossible for them to control everything in life and sometimes they were confronted with difficulties. In the recent years, with the broadening of my horizons, I gain my own beliefs, some of which are quite differently from that of my parents. I find that they are no long as holy and remote as they used to be. Now my parents and I am sharing a more equal relationship. On the one hand, they respect my opinions, treating me as an adult. On the other hand, I would like to consult with them whenever I am confronted with difficulties. Therefore, the relationship between my parents and me has changed. They are no long holy and authoritative, but amiable and friendly. They are more like my friends rather than parents. In the next decade when I become a mother, my relationship with parents will be likely to get into a new stage. My parents are such good models of my life that I firmly believe that they are excellent and extraordinary parents. As a result, it is quite possible for me to develop similar parenting pattern. Also, my parents will certainly offer me suggestions whenever I am confused. The role of my parents in the  relationship changes again. At this stage, they will become my model in terms of parenting. At the last stage of their life, parents may become too old to take good care of themselves. Thus, special care for them will be needed, which will wholly shift the relationship between my parents and me. There exists an interesting phenomenon: the senior tend to become more childlike when they are getting older and older, while their children, who are at the best stage in their life, become the reliance of their parents. Thus, the roles of my parents and I will exchange as the process of life. I, in return, will take care of my old parents just as they took care of me years ago. The relationship will go to the opposite side of the one in the earlier stage of life. Except for the love between parents and children, nothing remains unchanged forever. The relationship between parents and children changes as the stage of life processes. These changes are inevitable, just as the life cycle goes on. We should accept the changes positively and face them bravely. Only by adopting the right relationship at the right stage can one lives a better life with the relationship between parents and children.

Consumer Buying Behaviour: The Cosmetics Industry

Consumer Buying Behaviour: The Cosmetics Industry Abstract Women have an inherent love of beauty. The rapid economic growth, coupled with the huge development of cosmetics industry in China, contributes to the significant changes of cosmetics consumer behavior. Cosmetics have become a routine tool to make women more presentable. Understanding behaviour of consumers is a key to the success of business. As a huge potential consumer group, understanding of their attitudes and buying behavior towards cosmetics seems to be necessary. This study focused on investigating and analysing the purchasing patterns for female college students. Via the systemic study, companies will be beneficial to have a better understanding of college females in terms of cosmetics purchasing. The survey was conducted with focus group and questionnaires. The results of questionnaires will be analyzed by using SPSS and data were analysed by frequency analysis, cross-tab analysis and multi-respond analysis. Introduction 1.1 Research background With the expansion of social group and rising incomes, beauty consciousness among women has changed. Cosmetics entered into womens lives on a daily basis. The act of beautifying physical appearance not only becomes a distinct way to express ones image but also a pattern to show respect to other people (Choi, Kim, Kim, 2007). Following decade of years tremendous economic development, the Chinese cosmetics industry is undergoing fast changes and advancement. It further enhances the consumption level of urban and rural residents, improve the consumption environment, optimize consumption structures, and contribute to expansion of the fields of consumption (Tao, 2005). Consumer categories such as cosmetics benefited from the rapid growth in consumer spending, and have become a huge money maker. Meanwhile, the increasing fashion and beauty consciousness, as a natural outgrowth of rising incomes, diversify consumers demands. Obviously, this potential has not only attracted international cosmetics companies, but also led to more domestic cosmetics producers trying to enter the market. As a consequence, competition will be further intensified among foreign and domestic companies. Previous research indicated that females spending on cosmetics still making up of the main income for the entire cosmetics market. An increasing number of female college students starting to show strong interest in enhancing their appearance through make-up (Huang, 2003). With a high level of interests in appearance, they have revealed a great potential. College students represent not only the remarkable consumption potential but also the future mainstream. Thus, the female college students patterns of consumption gradually become a major concern (Choi, Kim, Kim, 2007). Studying consumer behavior enables companies to understand why consumers make the purchase decision and predict how they will react to promotional messages. On the purpose of maintaining and expanding market share, understanding of consumer behavior will be required to suit their changing needs. Therefore, research need to be conducted to provide cosmetic companies with basic data required in establishing marketing s trategies for advancement into Chinese market to tailor consumption patterns of female college students. 1.2 Scope and objectives of study When reviewing the literatures on the cosmetic and toiletry industry, the existing research related to Chinese cosmetic consumer is typically concerned with the entire market. Not many studies are available specifically focus on college students buying behavior. In the regard, considering the massive size of China, the present study limits itself to the female college students. By and large, this dissertation makes an attempt to investigate and analyse purchasing pattern of female college cosmetic consumers. In particular, this study aims to achieve the following objectives: To pinpoint and obtain a general picture of the cosmetics industry in China. On completion of this objective, the intention would be to get an insight into the cosmetics environment and the rapid growth trend of the industry so as to have a good knowledge base that can support the study throughout the dissertation. To investigate and analyse cosmetics buying behavior of female college students in China. The intention of this objective would be to a) understand how college student perceive cosmetics, b) identify their characteristics in terms of cosmetics purchase, and c) develop a greater understanding of motivation for purchasing, different factors involved in purchase decision of cosmetics and how product attribute, such as price, quality etc, effects buying patterns, thereby mapping out a model for female college students purchasing behavior. Based on the analysis of the research carried out, briefly propose a number of key recommendations enable companies in the industry to target their marketing strategies at college cosmetics consumers. The data that plan to be gathered for this research will be obtained from both primary and secondary resources. The secondary sources of data will be derived from published articles from internet database, journals and magazines, theses, and related studies on cosmetics. On the other hand, the primary source of information regarding the study will be gathered from focus groups and questionnaires, prepared by the researcher, which will be delivered to the respondents of the research. 1.3 Significance of study The boom of cosmetics industry in China has brought about changes in consumer behavior. The importance of the study cannot be understated. It is anticipated that the outcome of this study will certainly contribute towards a better understanding of the changing perception and behaviour of cosmetics buyers. Furthermore, there are a number of literatures that have discussed the female consumer behavior with regards to the purchase of cosmetics. This study will combine the relevant literature with own findings from primary research to provide an in-depth discussion. Therefore, the study will be significant in terms of better positioning of products and more effective marketing communication to tailor the demand of college females. This means that the findings will not only be able to benefit both foreign and domestic companies who have the willingness to enter the market but also various retailers who want to expand sales. Literature review Many theories have been proposed to explain consumer behaviors within certain industry area. Understanding todays consumer is the key to realising the future needs and expectations of beauty consumers, and is potentially relevant to improving marketing effectiveness (Tang, 2008). Previous studies hold that knowing the psychological process by which consumers make purchasing decisions enables marketers to grasp opportunities and even predict the shifts and future development trend of the consumer markets. Additionally, it exerts positive impact on improving cosmetics sales (Yau, 1994). Previous studies regarding the patterns of purchasing cosmetics à £Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ãƒ £Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ãƒ £Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ãƒ £Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ãƒ ©Ã¢â€ž ¢Ã‹â€ Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ °Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ »Ã‚ ¥Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ¸Ã¢â‚¬ ¹Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ Ã‚ ³Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ °Ã¢â‚¬  displayà §Ã… ¡Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ¸Ã‚ »Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ¦Ã‚ Ãƒ ¨Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ãƒ §Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¹ à §Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ¸Ã¢â€š ¬Ãƒ ¦Ã‚ ®Ã‚ µÃƒ ¨Ã‚ ¦Ã‚ Ãƒ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ Ã‚ ¹Ã‚ ¼Ã‚ Ã‚ ¼Ã‚ Ã‚ ¼Ã‚  2.1 Relationships between cosmetics and females à §Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ¸Ã¢â€š ¬Ãƒ §Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¹Ã‚ ¼Ã… ¡Ãƒ ¥Ã…’-à ¥Ã‚ ¦Ã‚ Ãƒ ¥Ã¢â‚¬Å" Ãƒ ¨Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬ ¡Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ ¥Ã‚ ³Ãƒ ¦Ã¢â€š ¬Ãƒ §Ã… ¡Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ ¤-à ¨Ã‚ ²Ã…’ à ¨Ã‚ ¿Ã‹Å"à ¦Ã‹Å" ¯Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ ¹Ã‚ ²Ãƒ ¨Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã¢â‚¬  Ãƒ §Ã¢â‚¬ ºÃ‚ ´Ãƒ ¦Ã… ½Ã‚ ¥Ãƒ ¥Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â€ž ¢ à ¦Ã…“†°Ãƒ ¥Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã‚ ³consumer behaviorà §Ã… ¡Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ãƒ §Ã‚ Ã¢â‚¬  Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ®Ã‚ ºÃ‚ ¼Ã… ¸Ã‚ ¼Ã… ¸Ãƒ ¥Ã†â€™Ã‚ keralaà ©Ã¢â‚¬ ¡Ã…’à ©Ã‚ Ã‚ ¢Ãƒ ©Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ £Ãƒ ¦Ã‚  Ã‚ ·Ã‚ ¼Ã… ¸Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ Ã… ¡Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ¸Ã‚ ª300à ¥Ã‚ ­-à §Ã… ¡Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ °Ã‚ Ãƒ ©Ã¢â‚¬Å" ºÃƒ ¥Ã… ¾Ã‚ « Few systematic studies have examined that à ¦Ã‚ ¯Ã¢â‚¬ Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ ¦Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ¯Ã‚ ´Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ »Ã¢â€š ¬Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ¹Ã‹â€  à ¥Ã…’-à ¥Ã‚ ¦Ã¢â‚¬  Ãƒ ¥Ã¢â‚¬Å" Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ ¯Ã‚ ¹Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ ¥Ã‚ ³Ãƒ ¦Ã¢â€š ¬Ãƒ §Ã… ¡Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ãƒ ©Ã¢â‚¬ ¡Ã‚ Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ¦Ã‚ Ãƒ ¦Ã¢â€š ¬Ãƒ ©Ã‹Å" ¿ à ¤Ã‚ ¹Ã¢â‚¬ ¹Ãƒ §Ã‚ ±Ã‚ »Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ¹Ã¢â‚¬ ¹Ãƒ §Ã‚ ±Ã‚ »Ãƒ §Ã… ¡Ã¢â‚¬Å¾ à ¥Ã‚ ¥Ã‚ ³Ãƒ ¦Ã¢â€š ¬ à ¤Ã‚ ¸Ã‚ ºÃƒ ¤Ã‚ »Ã¢â€š ¬Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ¹Ã‹â€ Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ´Ã‚ ­Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ¹Ã‚ °Ãƒ ¥Ã…’-à ¥Ã‚ ¦Ã¢â‚¬  Ãƒ ¥Ã¢â‚¬Å" Ãƒ ©Ã‹Å" ¿ In this generation, cosmetics are used by women of practically all walks of life High-end cosmetics The desire to be beautiful could be considered a human tendency, as it is exhibited by almost every culture all around the world. KIRARA(PDF) Research suggests that beauty consciousness among people in general is changing. Vigneron and Johnson (1999) reported that peoples needs for appearances and materialism were increasing. That is human beings wanted to satisfy the need to look and feel good. This created a boom in the cosmetic and toiletries sector across the world. Chambers Encyclopedia defines cosmetics as (a) articles intended to be rubbed, poured, sprinkled or sprayed on, introduced into or otherwise applied to the human body or any part thereof for cleaning, beautifying, promoting attractiveness or altering the appearance and (b) articles intended for use as a component of such articles. Now a variety of cosmetic and toiletries ranging from natural to sophisticated items are available in the market. The pattern and preference of use of these items vary according to different segments of gender, age and socio-economic class. When we review the literature on the cosmetic and toiletry industry, not many studies are available especially about Indian scenario. 2.2 Patterns of women purchasing cosmetics Most early theories of consumer behavior were concerned with the purchasing characteristics and influential factors. Schutte and Ciarlante (Schutte Ciarlante, 1998)argued that in China the purchase decision is typically based on the usefulness of the product such as its physical characteristics and price value. However, recent studies outlined by Liang (Liang, 2008) suggested that womens purchasing pattern differs with men. Their buying decision tend to influenced easily by the purchasing environment, and have more impulse purchase. Besides, generally speaking, females have strong self-awareness when purchasing, which means majority of the decisions were made on the basis of personal preference or subjective impression, sensation. 2.2.1 Characteristics of purchasing cosmetics In general, female invest more money on various cosmetic products and even spared no expense because they pay more attention to appearance than men (Huang, 2003). The characteristics of modern Chinese females regarding cosmetics purchase can be summed up in three points: Easily affected by market atmosphere Normally, products promotion, advertising and other factors can easily tempt young females to make irrational purchases. In a research by Cong (Cong, 2008), results showed that 56% of females bought unneeded or unexpected cosmetics products as a result of discount, followed by the purchase due to interests aroused by shop environment and sales exhibition (40.8%). Accounts for 22.8% of females who bought useless products or had irrational consumption were affected by advertisement. Thus, compare with men, female is prone to be encouraged over-consumption by commercial appeals. Mood consumption Female tend to have more generous sentiments in the process of purchase. Their certain desires are prone to be roused and affected by mental activities. Oliver Yau (Yau, 1994) contended that mood consumption normally occurs in two situations. One of which might be triggered by delusion under particular circumstance. For example, lots of females had encountered situation that unexpected spending happens after being paid out the salary. Another circumstance that contributes to mood consumption is likely to happen in the case of that female with unusual mood. Such as, a considerable number of female go shopping when they feel frustrated and happy. Relatively low loyalty to brands Chinese cosmetics consumers show less passion on being loyal to brands. They would like to try several brands to compare them rather than be from the same brand (Labbrand, 2009). Besides, another reason that contributes to low brand loyalty is seasonal consumption of Chinese consumers due to the significant difference in climate between summer and winter (Mo, 2008). Customers have to change their purchase habit to suit the season. For instance, customer tends to use more sunscreen to protect their skin and less oily cream in summer than they do in winter. 2.2.2 Purchasing influences As established by Access Asia Limited (Access Asia Limited, 2008), Chinese consumers heavily rely on products, stores and services they know and trust. The same philosophy is applicable equally to product brands, with word-of-mouth communication proving to be a pervasive reason for consumers to change brands and most potent marketing tools in China. This is supported by Xuecai Liang (Liang, 2008) who claimed that among the females, friends group plays a very important role on information communicating about different brands of cosmetics. Some people will only buy products that they have been recommended by friends. However, the increasing effects of advertising on the urban and younger Chinese buyer cannot be neglected as their media exposure increases (Yang, 2004). In addition, the physical characteristics like reliability, innovative technology and high brand profile are the important factors when make a cosmetic purchase, a study by Yuyuan Huang suggested that (Huang, 2003). Taking different attitudes towards local and foreign brands as example, Huang explained that foreign brand represent high quality and status at the Chinese consumers view, while local brand are perceived as shortage of these selling advantages, even both product sold at the same price. Besides, it worth to notice that local cosmetics consumers now are prepared to pay more for better quality, service, and convenience. The variety of choice is seen as another factor. According to Shen, Liu and Huang (Shen, Liu, Huang, 2005), majority of the consumers will prefer to shop in large stores when they can easily reach such places, whereas finding the lack of product choice in smaller stores (especially in terms of range of price) to be embarrassed. It can be argued that larger stores will provide more bargains, which means the products tend to have higher price value. Such stores are also considered as being more convenient to shop in, contributing to the flourishing development of the discount retailing sector over recent years (Access Asia Limited, 2008). Moreover, in the eyes of Chinese consumer, the depth of communication brands had with their customers is vital. According to survey conducted by Labbrand (Labbrand, 2009), Chinese consumers have a strong demand to communicate with brands. For instance, they would like to receive inquiry from brand concerning their feeling about the products they use, or to be informed in time when brand have special events. Besides, consumers considered that from communicating with brand they can better compare and finally find the most suitable cosmetics for their specific needs and desires. Thus, it can be argued that companies who kept contact with consumers tend to have higher sales and brand loyalty. Industry review The huge advances witnessed over the past two decades have improved the living standards of millions of Chinese citizens. With the upgrade of living standards, private consumption among expenses has reached a higher level. The rise in private consumption translated into greater spending on personal care products in the booming cosmetics industry (Tao, 2005). In China, the development of the cosmetic industry has been to a new stage and it shows a sound momentum of growth. Market potential: Chinese cosmetic market continues to surge In recent year, the continuous rapid economic growth generates good environment and favorable development space for cosmetics industry maintaining a rapid rate of growth. In 2003, china had become the second-largest cosmetics market in Asia after Japan, and was the eighth largest in the world (Li, 2005). According to National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) of China, the Chinese cosmetics market generated total revenues of RMB ¿Ã‚ ¥488.3 billion in 2007, representing annual sales grew by 26.3 percent over the same period last year. In 2008 and 2009, the sales grew by 22.2% and 17.2%, respectively, over the same period, to reach respective values of RMB ¿Ã‚ ¥596.5 and RMB ¿Ã‚ ¥348.2 billion in 2008 (HKTDC, 2009). At the same time, it has also been taken note that the performance of the market is forecast to decelerate, but still increase by approximately 13% annually (Datamonitor, 2009). Overall, the cosmetics industry is surely faster than the economic growth which means the long te rm potential of the Chinese cosmetic market is fairly vast. Additionally, given its population of approximately 1.3 billion, China has the largest market potential. Chinas share of the global cosmetic market may seem small compared to huge markets like the US and Japan, but with a population of over a billion people, the growth potential there is staggering, said Lenka Contreras, vice president and head of the Consumer Products practice for Klines research division (Pitman, 2005). Chinas cosmetics market is still far from saturation.à ¨Ã¢â€š ¬Ã†â€™Ãƒ ¨Ã¢â€ž ¢Ã¢â‚¬ËœÃƒ ¤Ã‚ ¸Ã¢â‚¬ ¹Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ¦Ã‚ Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ¸Ã‚ Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ¦Ã‚ Ãƒ ¦Ã‚ Ã¢â‚¬â„¢Ãƒ ¥Ã¢â‚¬ ºÃ‚ ¾Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ¡Ã‚ ¨Ã‚ ¼Ã‹â€ HKTDCà ©Ã¢â‚¬ ¡Ã…’à ©Ã‚ Ã‚ ¢Ãƒ §Ã… ¡Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ãƒ ¥Ã¢â‚¬ ºÃ‚ ¾Ãƒ ¦Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬ ¡Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ ¯Ã‚ ¹Ãƒ ¦Ã‚ ¯Ã¢â‚¬ Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ¸Ã‚ ­Ã‚ ¼Ã…’à ¦- ¥Ã‚ ¼Ã…’xx ¼Ã¢â‚¬ °!!!!à ¨Ã‚ ¿Ã‹Å"à ¦Ã‹Å" ¯Ãƒ §Ã¢â‚¬ Ã‚ ¨datamonitorà §Ã… ¡Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¼Ã… ¸!!!!!!! Characteristics of chinas cosmetics market The consumer market development is vigorous With economy expanding and mass livelihood improving, awareness of personal well-being prompts strong and continuous growth in the consumer market. It not only reforms the consumption pattern but also drive the sales (Asia consulting, 2008). In that sense, it is predicted that the Chinese cosmetic consumer market is dynamic. Women stimulating the market growth Female is still an essential part of Chinese cosmetics market, especially those office ladies. As Chinese women are now increasingly beauty consciousness and awareness, the use of cosmetics has become a part of their daily routine (Fung, 2005). Accordingly, the rising proportion of young females in white-collar jobs has formed the loyal customer basis for this market, and the cosmetics sales have been driven. Their spending on cosmetic is outgrowing over other areas. National Bureau of Statistics has come up with data that shows women ages from 20-54 account for 27.21% of the total population. Being more economically independent, the enormous number of consumers in the group will generate huge demands than ever (HKTDC, 2009). The famous-brand effect appears day by day on the market The rising sales of famous-brand products reflected that customers attitudes concerning cosmetics have changed (Chen Xue, 2005). As the improving residents consumption level, people are willing to pay more attentions to those well-know cosmetic products which were considered with high grade, quality assurance and harmlessness. For example, customers will be highly delighted with brand-name products that can prevent wrinkles or keep moisture balance in the skin. Due to the impression lifted in mind, its sales increased dramatically and gradually become the main growth point of the entire market. Instead, few shows interest in low-end cosmetic products (China Consulting, 2008). Consumer In Chinese cosmetics market, consumers ways of spending are undergoing a significant change. Dianyi Zhang, president of China Cosmetics Association, claimed that modern customers behave more independently on consumption. Consumers tend to utilize different channels and rely on various measuring standard to get a pleasing cosmetics, rather than dependent on advertising. In addition, changes also occur on consumer group. Depending on the difference in requests on brand, quality, price and personal affordability, consumers were divided into low, middle and high classes. And, every class has a great number of loyal customers (HKTDC, 2009). Women of all ages were concerned with their lifestyle. The rising purchasing ability of women helped them to spend more on personal grooming. This grooming consciousness was encouraged by womens active participation in advertisement or fashion shows, such as the popular Fashion TV program (Pitman Simon, 2009). In china, consumption pattern of consumers is changing. The consumers have become globalized in their thinking and are ready to enjoy with some impulsive shopping. Access to various brands and products give them better knowledge towards cosmetics, due to fast-flowing information (Tang, 2008). Therefore, as a cosmetics producer, motivations and type of products purchased should be different depending upon the segment of consumer targeted. Competitive situation The business environment in China has been improving, especially since 2001, when the country joined the World Trade Organization. The commitment to opening its market in compliance with the WTO rules has further stimulated the market, with greater participation from international and domestic player. Consequently, competition between multinationals and local players is heating up across the country (Utsunomiya, 2003). 3.4.1 Foreign Brands Continue to Dominate in the Chinese Market International brands play a dominant role in the upper-end cosmetics market, such as PG (Olay), Unilever (Ponds), Shiseido, LOreal and Estee Lauder etc (See Table 1) , due to young womens pursuit of well-known brands in literary. These large multinational cosmetic players have entered the mainland market one after another to build their own manufacturing basis and sales network (Sunfaith China Ltd, 2005) and many of those players have been operating successfully in the China market, making their brands well-known and occupy about 80% of the total market share. According to certain statistics, the world top 15 brand of cosmetics had set up own specialty stores (HKTDC, 2002). Even so, those cosmetics magnates have accelerated expansion into low-end products. For example, Avon and LOreal launched low-end cosmetics one after another to suit the changing customers needs and purchasing behavior, and expand the market share (HKTDC, 2009). Table 1 Top Ten Preferred Colour Cosmetics Products, 2006 (Access Asia Limited, 2008) Brand % Share Maybelline 10.3 LOreal 9.9 Shisiedo 8.0 Lancà ´me 7.3 Avon 6.6 Està ©e Lauder 5.5 Yue Sai 5.1 Revlon 4.7 Amway 3.8 H2O 3.2 Others 35.6 TOTAL 100.0 3.4.2 Transformation of local Chinese companies is under way Compared with foreign companies domestic players have smaller market share due to several weaknesses. For instance, weak financial ability, lack of research and development capability, and lack of experience in brand management and marketing. Therefore, most of those players produce low-end product with only a small number making high-end product that can compete with foreign players (Li, 2005). Nonetheless, as the economic growth domestic companies has undertaken a transformation, gradually changed the impression with low quality and price, and entered into high-end market so as to become more competitive (Ocn, 2008). Facing with the open markets and trade liberalization in China, the previous mentioned increasingly fierce competition is inevitable. On the purpose of responding to the changing customer demands, market players have devised a variety of marketing strategies so as to create impressive product image in customers mind and drive them to spend more money on their own products. Distribution channel SWOT analysis of the female market Future develop trend http://www.cosmeticsdesign.com/Products-Markets/Asian-cosmetics-players-opt-for-natural-and-organic-standards Cosmetics players opt for natural and organic standards In karara (PDF) the main reasons for boom in cosmetic industry as increasing fashion and beauty consciousness coupled with rising incomes and focus on health and fitness. A natural and holistic approach attracts these women, especially where there is an interest in complementary health and in overall well being. Key issues à ¦Ã‹Å" ¯Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ¸Ã‚ Ãƒ ¦Ã‹Å" ¯Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ ºÃ¢â‚¬ Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ¯Ã‚ ¥Ãƒ ¦Ã…  Ã…   SWOT analysis à ¦Ã¢â‚¬ Ã‚ ¾Ãƒ ¥Ã…“ ¨Ãƒ ©Ã¢â‚¬ ¡Ã…’à ©Ã‚ Ã‚ ¢Ã‚ ¼Ã… ¸ Summary of key issues related to your literature and industry review The key issues section is where you, having completed the situation analysis consider what are the key issues facing the company and the market. So in a sense it is a summary chapter at the end of the first section of your report. In this chapter you should give an indication of what you think are the most important issues facing the company and the market. à ¤Ã‚ ¸Ã‚ ­Ãƒ ¥Ã¢â‚¬ ºÃ‚ ½Ãƒ ¥Ã…’-à ¥Ã‚ ¦Ã¢â‚¬  Ãƒ ¥Ã¢â‚¬Å" Ãƒ ¦Ã‚ ¶Ã‹â€ Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ´Ã‚ ¹Ãƒ ¨Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ ¸Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ãƒ ¥Ã…“ ºÃƒ §Ã… ½Ã‚ °Ãƒ ¥Ã…“ ¨Ãƒ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã¢â€š ¬Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ ­Ã‹Å"à ¥Ã…“ ¨Ãƒ §Ã… ¡Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ãƒ ©- ®Ãƒ ©Ã‚ ¢Ã‹Å" ¼Ã…’à ©Ã¢â€š ¬Ã… ¡Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ¿Ã¢â‚¬ ¡Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ¿Ã¢â‚¬ ºÃƒ ¤Ã‚ ¸Ã¢â€š ¬Ãƒ ¦Ã‚ ­Ã‚ ¥Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ºÃ¢â‚¬  Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ £ à ¦Ã‚ ¶Ã‹â€ Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ´Ã‚ ¹Ãƒ ¨Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ¡Ã…’à ¤Ã‚ ¸Ã‚ ºÃƒ ¥Ã… ½Ã‚ »Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ £Ãƒ ¥Ã¢â‚¬  Ã‚ ³ Consumer à §Ã¢â‚¬ ºÃ‚ ²Ãƒ §Ã¢â‚¬ ºÃ‚ ®Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½Ãƒ ¦Ã‚ ±Ã¢â‚¬Å¡ à ¥Ã‚ Ã‚ Ãƒ §Ã¢â‚¬ °Ã…’à ¥Ã…’-à ¥Ã‚ ¦Ã¢â‚¬  Ãƒ ¥Ã¢â‚¬Å" Ã‚ ¼Ã… ¸Ã‚ ¼Ã… ¸Ã‚ ¼Ã… ¸ Company à ¥Ã¢â‚¬ ºÃ‚ ½Ãƒ ¥Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ¼Ã‚ Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ¸Ã… ¡Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ ¸Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ãƒ ¥Ã…“ ºÃƒ ¥Ã‚ Ã‚  Ãƒ ¦Ã…“†°Ãƒ §Ã… ½Ã¢â‚¬ ¡Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ½Ã… ½Ã‚ ¼Ã…’ à ©Ã¢â€š ¬Ã… ¡Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ¿Ã¢â‚¬ ¡Ãƒ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ºÃ‚ ´Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ¿Ã¢â‚¬ËœÃƒ ¤Ã‚ ¸Ã¢â€š ¬Ãƒ ¦Ã‚ ­Ã‚ ¥Ãƒ §Ã… ¡Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ºÃ¢â‚¬  Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ £Ãƒ ¦Ã‚ ¶Ã‹â€ Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ´Ã‚ ¹Ãƒ ¨Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ãƒ ¦Ã‚ Ã‚ ¥Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ £Ãƒ ¥Ã¢â‚¬  Ã‚ ³Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ¿Ã¢â€ž ¢Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ¸Ã‚ ªÃƒ ©- ®Ãƒ ©Ã‚ ¢Ã‹Å" ¼Ã… ¸Ã‚ ¼Ã… ¸Ã‚ ¼Ã… ¸ Research methods 5.1 Approach 5.2 Data gathering method 5.3 Data Processing http://ivythesis.typepad.com/term_paper_topics/sample_dissertation_research_problem_and_objectives/ In this study, the self-administered semi-structured questionnaires will be used to collect quantitative data and the interviews will be used to provide qualitative insights into the data collected. The data will then be presented by means of graphical representations and illustration and the difference would be highlighted. à §Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬ Ãƒ §Ã‚ ©Ã‚ ¶Ãƒ ¦- ¹Ãƒ ¦Ã‚ ³Ã¢â‚¬ ¢ 38 à §Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ¸Ã¢â€š ¬Ãƒ §Ã‚ ¯Ã¢â€š ¬ à §Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬ Ãƒ §Ã‚ ©Ã‚ ¶Ãƒ ¦Ã… ¾Ã‚ ¶Ãƒ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¹ à §Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ºÃ…’à §Ã‚ ¯Ã¢â€š ¬ à §Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬ Ãƒ §Ã‚ ©Ã‚ ¶Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ °Ã‚ Ãƒ ¨Ã‚ ±Ã‚ ¡ à §Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ¸Ã¢â‚¬ °Ãƒ §Ã‚ ¯Ã¢â€š ¬ à §Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬ Ãƒ §Ã‚ ©Ã‚ ¶Ãƒ ¥Ã‚ ·Ã‚ ¥Ãƒ ¥Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã‚ · à §Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¥Ã¢â‚¬ ºÃ¢â‚¬ ºÃƒ §Ã‚ ¯Ã¢â€š ¬ à §Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬ Ãƒ §Ã‚ ©Ã‚ ¶Ãƒ ¦Ã‚ µÃ‚ Ãƒ §Ã‚ ¨Ã¢â‚¬ ¹ à §Ã‚ ¬Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¤Ã‚ ºÃ¢â‚¬ Ãƒ §Ã‚ ¯Ã¢â€š ¬ à ¨Ã‚ ³Ã¢â‚¬ ¡Ãƒ ¦-â„ ¢Ãƒ ¨Ã¢â€ž ¢Ã¢â‚¬ ¢Ãƒ §Ã‚ Ã¢â‚¬  Ãƒ ¨Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬ ¡Ãƒ ¥Ã‹â€ Ã¢â‚¬  Ãƒ ¦Ã… ¾Ã‚  Research question Secondary research: The following information could be considered using desk research to give a general review and help to assist analysis of primary researches: Cosmetics industry review The purpose of this part is to find out important information concerning the entire cosmetics markets in china. Main issues that need to investigate include: Main characteristics of Cosmetics Industry in china What current market development trend is What Competitive situation is within cosmetics market Development opportunities of the cosmetics market within china This information will be helpful to better understand and form general perceptions of industry situation in china. There are several ways to obtain required information above. Data sources: Internet Databases Go to college library website and use its databases, such as: Marketline Academic Search Premier Business Insights Access Asia Series Business Source Premier To look for industry reports and e-journals those contain information regarding the Chinese cosmetic market. Find out information about the current cosmetics market and even see what demographics suit Shiseido to introduce the product to. Applying databases is a good way to get information due to its huge information storage volume and reliability. Most of them are academic-based, and have a comprehensive understanding on specific field. Websites: Look up necessary websites such as www.shiseidochina.com where might be possible to get some internal data sources. The use of this data is to define the competitive position of the firm, an evaluation of a marketing strategy the firm has used in the past, or gaining a better understanding of the company. Even, their past researches on consumer behaviors. The internal data sources might be sales marketing reports and accounting financial reports of the company. Magazines Newspapers It is also possible to look at some Chinese cosmetics industry magazines so that to acquire valuable industry information and some current cosmetic issues happened in china. Quantitative Qualitative methods In order to ascertain consumers cosmetics buying patterns and product satisfactions, quantitative and qualitative researches are both required to be implemented. It should be noticed that the understandings of consumers would exert significant impacts on companys marketing strategies. Besides, it is valuable for coming up with comments and suggestions to Client Company after analyzing Chinese customer. The main objectives of quantitative and qualitative research falls into several parts as followed: Motive of Purchasing Cosmetic Product Motives are defined as general drives that direct a consumers behavior toward attaining his or her need and the motivational drive directly affects the specific benefit criteria consumers use to evaluate products. Thus, understand buying motivations will provide evidences to Client Company to better position its products. Information Sources There are differences in using information sources among various age groups. Knowing customers through what kinds of channels to get products information could help Shiseido sell products more effectively to target audiences. Evaluative Criteria for Purchasing Cosmetics As for criteria for purchasing cosmetics, the responses will be in order of quality, price and volume of content. It is crucial to see what element is more important to customers when buying cosmetics. This will do company a favor to develop products or marketing strategies. Place of Purchasing Cosmetics In terms of the place of purchase, primary research should focus on finding out the reasons for selecting these places of purchase. Then, company can identify the perfect place to sell its products on the basis of information provided by survey. Satisfactions and dissatisfactions It is well known that satisfactions with a product will perform huge influences on its sales volume. This primary research should identify the level of satisfactions towards Shiseido and try to find out any aspects that consumers wish to see changes. Quantitative research Questionnaires As the measuring tools of this study, questionnaire based on previous studies and results of preliminary research were used. In this case, this study was carried out in the country of China. Therefore, questionnaire in English should be translated into Chinese. To reach a variety of different customers, questionnaires are supposed to carry out at different city within china so that to get as many points of views as possible. Questionnaire is consisted of 3 main sections: Section 1 is simply some questions on demographical characteristics of respondents like gender, age and occupation etc. to profile consumers. Section 2 emphasizes on customers buying behavior on cosmetics. As objectives mentioned above. For instance, purchase motivation information sources, evaluative criteria for purchasing basic skin care items and color make-up products, store type of purchasing cosmetic product and reasons for store selection persons to exert influence upon purchasing and satisfaction/dissatisfaction on cosmetics purchased. Section 3 focuses more on investigating customers perceptions concerning Shiseido products. Such as, customers brand awareness of Shiseido, brand image and brand position in customers mind. Additionally, the results of questionnaires will be analyzed by using SPSS. The analysis conducted in the study with SPSS statistics package includes frequency analysis, cross-tab analysis, analysis of variance and Multiple Range test. Survey In order to keep questionnaire short enough to maintain respondents interests, there must be some questions cannot be asked. Thus in this project, I will also consider conductin

Strategy Of Tesco To Nigeria Commerce Essay

Strategy Of Tesco To Nigeria Commerce Essay This report seeks to analyse the different modes of entry into a foreign market available to an organisation, showing their relevant strengths and weaknesses. For the purpose of this, Tesco Plc. has been chosen, showing the various entry modes available to the organisation as it seeks to diversify into the Nigerian grocery market. In an attempt to evaluate these entry modes, this report has been structured into three main parts: First, PESTLE and Porters five forces as tools used to assess the attractiveness of a given market were analysed showing their strengths and weaknesses. The second part of this report focuses on the value chain and SWOT analysis as analytical tools which can be used by an organisation to gauge its internal capabilities. Finally, the different entry modes available to Tesco such as; exporting, licencing, franchising, joint venture and wholly foreign owned enterprise (WFOE) were discussed and the most appropriate mode of entry recommended. 1.0 INTRODUCTION Strategy is a long term direction of an organisation (Johnson et al 2011). It is a long term plan of action designed to achieve a specific goal, directed towards the achievement of the set objectives of an organisation. According to Jones and Hill 2010, strategy is a set of related actions that managers take to increase their companys performance. It shows the plans and actions carried out by managers in an organisation to improve its performance and gain a position of advantage over its competitors. Strategy shows the position of the organisation in relation to its external environment, the strategic choices and directions available to the organisation and the action plan on how to achieve the strategies in line with the organisations goal and objective. Strategy is a design or plan for achieving a companys policy, goals and objectives; it is a design or plan that defines how policy is to be achieved (Davies 2000). Huff et al 2009, sees strategy as a purposeful attempt to achieve an objective. This shows that the strategic plan of an organisation is intended and directed towards the achievement of the objectives of the organisation. Corporate Level StrategyThree levels of strategy exist in an organisation; Business Level Strategy Operational Level Strategy Figure 1: Levels of strategy (Adapted from Johnson et al 2011) The corporate level strategy is a strategy that affects the overall scope of the organisation, the business level strategy is a strategy made at the strategic business units in an organisation and such strategy does not affect the whole organisation. While the operational level strategy deals with the processes or people used in implementing both the corporate and business level strategies. In an attempt to understand these concepts defined above, this report will address the market entry potentials and the different modes of entry available to Tesco in its bid to internationalise into the Nigerian grocery market, using relevant tools and framework. This report will be structured to address three different tasks: First the analytical tools used in gauging the attractiveness of a given market such as; PESTLE, Porters five forces, Porters Diamond, Scenarios, BCG matrix etc. Secondly, analytical tools such as Value chain, SWOT, Strategy canvas, Ansoff matrix, Value network etc. used to gauge the internal capabilities of an organisation, with emphasis laid on the value chain and SWOT analysis, will be assessed. Finally the different modes of entry available to Tesco, such as exporting, licensing, franchising, sales subsidiary, joint venture, wholly owned enterprise will be discussed in details in this report and the most appropriate mode of entry recommended for the organis ation. 2.0 ANALYTICAL TOOLS USED TO GAUGE THE ATTRACTIVENESS OF A MARKET A strategic decision maker has a range of analytical tools which could be used for this purpose, such as; PESTLE, Porters Five Forces, Scenario Analysis, Porters Diamond etc. these analytical tools helps the manager to assess the attractiveness of a given market in terms of cost, profitability, competition and other external factors which might influence the smooth operation of the organisation in the market. Scenario Analysis: Scenario analysis helps strategic decision makers to manage and minimize relevant risk and it also helps them to address key uncertainties which might arise in future. A scenario may depict an explanation of how some future state evolves including the sequence of events, conditions or changes that precede or cause the future states to occur (Linneman et al, 1983). Porters Diamond: This tool proposes that the characteristics of the national environment influence the competitive advantages of a nation (Mann and Byun 2011). Four interrelated determinants of national advantage have been identified in the work of Dogl et al 2012, that influence competitive advantage of organisations such as; factor conditions, demand conditions, related and supporting industries and firm strategy, structure and rivalry. In order to assess the attractiveness of a given market, emphasis will be laid by this report on the PESTLE and Porters five forces, bringing out their relative strength and weaknesses. 2.1 PESTLE ANALSIS Pestle analysis is in effect an audit of organisations external environmental influences with the purpose of using this information for strategic decision making (CIPD 2010). It is an important macro-environmental audit tool, which shows the various factors in an organisations external environment likely to affect the operation of the organisation. These factors includes; political, economic, social, technological, legislative and environmental. Pestle analysis consists of carefully determining all these factors and finding out exactly in what way and to what extent these factors influence a certain organisation and it also provides the organisation with vital information about its environment; hence it is a mandatory analysis (Marketing Minefield 2012). Organisation Legislative Environmental Economic Social Political Technological Figure 2: PESTLE Framework of an organisation (Adapted from Marketing Minefield) Political: This represents the way through which the government and political situation of a country influence the performance of an organisation. Political forces can influence marketing decisions by setting the rules by which the business will be conducted (Jobber 2010). Some of the political factors which are likely to influence an organisation include; Political stability Tax policy and reforms Trade restrictions Consumer protection laws Government policies and rule of law The political instability evidenced in Nigeria at present and other government policies and laws are likely challenges to Tescos internationalisation strategy to Nigeria. Economic: Prevalent economic conditions in a given country will pose a great challenge to the operations of an organisation. According to Kotler et al 2008, the economic also consists of factors that affect the consumer purchasing power and spending pattern. Some of these factors are; Income distribution Labour cost Fluctuations in interest and exchange rate Rate of economic growth Inflation Cost of living Income distribution, poor infrastructure and inflation in Nigeria are some of the factors Tesco should consider before moving into the Nigerian market. Socio-cultural: Changes in the socio-cultural trends of a country such as the population growth rate, health, social attitudes, age distribution and cultural beliefs of the country can affect the operation of an organisation and therefore have a direct impact on the demand for the companys product. Technological: The rate of technological advancement today will pose a challenge to an organisation. Rapid change in technology is a huge factor that will influence an organisation. Hence organisations have to be aware of the current technological trend of the environment in which they carry out their business. Some of the technological factors likely to influence an organisation are; Internet and various information systems Speed of technology transfer Impact of emerging technologies. Research and development Legal: Laws such as, health and safety laws, consumer protection laws, licensing laws, competition and employment laws prevalent in any country will affect the smooth operation of organisations. Environmental: These are laws or factors on the surrounding environment of an organisation which can influence the way the organisations operates. Factors such as environmental laws and regulations, waste disposal, energy consumption, geographic location are likely to affect an organisation. 2.2 STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES OF PESTLE ANALYSIS STRENGTHS It provides the organisation with a better understanding of the prevailing conditions in their business environment. It helps organisations to detect or anticipate future problems and take necessary actions to avoid or cushion its effect. Opens up available business opportunities for the organisation to exploit. It encourages the development of strategic thinking within an organisation. WEAKNESSES PESTLE analysis could be time consuming and expensive to carry out. It does not take into consideration key players in the organisations industry such as the competitors (analysed by the five forces) which could be a great force to reckon. The analysis needs to be reviewed on a regular basis for it to be effective. Results of the analysis are often subjective and could be based on assumptions. 2.3 PORTERS FIVE FORCES Bargaining power of Suppliers Bargaining power of Buyers Threats of new EntrantsThe five forces framework helps to identify the attractiveness of an industry or sector in terms of the competitive forces (Johnson et al 2008). It offers a way of assessing the likely strength of competition in any given market (Blythe 2006). Competitive rivalry Threats of Substitutes Figure 3: Porters Five Forces Model (Adapted). The aim of the Porters five forces analysis is to identify the nature, strength and impact of these competitive pressures so that individual forms can create strategies that defend them from their impact or influence them in their favour (Kippenberger 1998). It forms a useful starting point for undertaking a competitive analysis (Brassington and Pettitt 2006). Threats of New Entrants: This refers to the possibility of new firms entering into the industry. New entrants into an industry have the potential of increasing the level of competition in such industry, thereby reducing its attractiveness. Some of the barriers of entry into an industry are; Economies of scale Capital requirement Customer Loyalty Experience Government restrictions (Licensing) The entry barrier in the Nigeria grocery market is low; hence this will not pose a challenge to Tesco moving into the country. Although there will be a strong retaliation from companies operating in the industry such as Shoprite and Spar. Threats of Substitutes: substitutes are products or services with similar benefits or attributes to a companys product. This may exist when the demand of a companys product reduces due to a change in the price or performance of a substitute product. Determinants of threats of substitute include, Price and performance of substitutes Relative switching costs to substitute products. Bargaining Power of Buyers: If the buyers have a high bargaining power, they can demand lower prices, product or service improvements and this will in turn affect the profit of the organisation. The most important determinant of buyer power is the size and the concentration of customers (Karagiannopoulos et al 2005). Bargaining Power of Suppliers: The bargaining power of suppliers will definitely affect the attractiveness of a given market. If suppliers of a companys products possess high power, they tend to fix the prices of their products and might eat up the profits of the company. Suppliers tend to possess more powers when; There few and concentrated suppliers Switching cost is high Suppliers provide a specialist or rare input. The bargaining power of suppliers in the Nigeria market could be between medium to high and Tesco has to consider this before moving into the country. A backward integration of maybe an alliance with the suppliers will be a good strategy to adopt in order to avoid the effect of suppliers powers. Competitive Rivalry: These are organisations in the same industry with similar products and services, also targeting the same customers. Threats from competitors are the most important challenge facing an organisation. The major competitors in the Nigerian grocery market which could pose a challenge to Tesco are, Shoprite, Spar and Mega Plaza. Tesco in order to avoid the effect of these competitors could be either cost focus by offering quality products at a reduced price or focus differentiation by targeting a different segment of the market. 2.4 STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES OF THE FIVE FORCES STRENGTHS The five forces shows the attractiveness of a given market It provides a detailed analysis of the key players in the industry such as the suppliers, buyers and competitors. It is a useful tool used in strategic planning in organisations. It opens up the relevant threats in the companys industry such as the threats from competitors. WEAKNESSES The model fails to consider other macro-environmental factors such as political, economic, legal etc. (like the PESTLE model) which might affect the operation of an organisation. Porters model does not pay much attention to non-market sources of change in an organisation (McGowan and Mahon 2000). It does not consider the possibility of creating a new market. 2.5 COMPARISON OF THE PESTLE AND PORTERS FIVE FORCES From the discussions of both analytical tools, the PESTLE focuses more on the macro-environmental factors that can affect an organisations operation and fails to take note of the key players in the organisations industry such as suppliers, buyers and competitors whose impact could also affect an organisation. The five forces while trying to bridge the gap by analysing the organisations immediate environment, took into recognition the buyers, suppliers and competitors, which is an important player in the industry. However, it fails to have a broader view and consider other factors within the organisations external environment which can affect the operation of the organisation. 3.0 ANALYTICAL TOOLS USED TO GUAGE THE INTERNAL CAPABILITIES OF A COMPANY Analytical tools such as the value chain, SWOT, value network, strategy canvas etc. are available for use by a strategic decision maker to assess the internal capabilities of a company moving into a new market. However, for the purpose of this report, the SWOT analysis and the value chain will be used, showing their respective strengths and weaknesses. 3.1 POTERS VALUE CHAIN A value chain is an interrelated series of processes that produces a service or product to the satisfaction of the customers. It involves internal linkages between a firms core processes, its supporting processes and its external linkages with the processes of its customers and suppliers (krajewski et al 2007). A value chain therefore refers to all those activities that support the process of value creation in an organisation. There are a lot of activities grouped into the primary and supporting activities that shows the internal capabilities of a firm as it creates value for the whole organisation. IT Infrastructure Supporting Activities Inbound Logistics Human Resource Margin Finance Procurement Outbound Logistics Services Marketing and Sales Operations Margin Primary Activities Figure 4: Porters Value Chain (Adapted) According to Kippenberger 1997, the value chain is designed to show the total value of a firm and consists of the firms value activities aimed at improving its margin. The values chain evaluates each activity in the organisation and the way it creates or adds value to the whole organisation through its margin (profit). The way an organisation creates value through its activities creates a good position about the organisation in the minds of its customers. This suggests that if an organisation creates adequate value through its activities and its relationship with its customers, it will gain a competitive advantage over its competitors and increase its margin as well. For Tesco to survive in the Nigeria grocery market, it is important that it understands and improve on its internal capabilities (resources and competences), thereby creating adequate value through its activities as this will give it a competitive advantage over its competitors. A companys competitive advantage largely depends on how it manages all its value creation activities in relation to competitors in the same industry. Tesco can create value for its through its activities by: Offering unique product or service. High quality and low-priced products (being cost focus). Immediate response to the changing environment and customer needs. Developing distinctive capabilities to meet the needs and demands of customers effectively. 3.2 STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES OF THE VALUE CHAIN STRENGTHS The value chain shows the activities and the processes involved in creating value in an organisation. Information provided by the value chain forms a basis for an organisation to develop alternative strategies. It enables an organisation to identify its internal capabilities, strengths and weaknesses. Value chain helps the organisation to determine its value creation to customers; this will enable them to note areas of improvement. It reveals an organisations competitive position with competitors in the same industry. It enables organisations to determine their strategic position and make good strategic decisions. WEAKNESSES The value chain analysis is designed only for the organisations internal purposes. Value chain activities of an organisation cannot exist individually; hence cooperation between the activities is required for the chain to function properly (Glaser 2008). It focuses more on profit and how to increase the margin of the organisation. 3.3 SWOT ANALYSIS Undesirable DesirableA SWOT analysis is a structured approach to evaluating the strategic position of a business by identifying its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. It provides a simple method of synthesizing the results of the marketing audit (Jobber, 2010). A SWOT analysis of an organisation shows a summary of the organisations traits or competences, which are its strengths and weaknesses, as well as the competitive factors it faces in its environment (opportunities and threats). A good SWOT analysis of an organisation will expose the opportunities available to the organisation as well as the threats which could pose a challenge to the smooth operation of the organisation. A proper understanding of the SWOT of an organisation will enable the organisation to convert its weaknesses into strength and the threats in its environment into opportunities. Strengths Weaknesses Uncontrollable Controllable Threats Opportunities Figure 5: SWOT Framework (Adapted from Novicevic et al 2004) The SWOT analysis shows a summary of the firms marketing situation which encompasses the findings form the internal and external strategic analysis that provides the back-end planning perspective of controllable and uncontrollable variables/events (Novicevic et al 2004). According to Duarte et al 2006, a SWOT analysis is a way to analyse the environment, allowing for the segregation of the environment into internal strengths and weakness and the external opportunities and threats as well as positive and negative environment. For Tescos internationalisation strategy, a SWOT analysis of the company should be properly carried out to assess its internal capabilities through its strengths and weaknesses, and its ability to survive in the environment by overcoming the threats and turning them into opportunities. SWOT analysis of Tesco Plc. is shown below; Strengths Weaknesses Strong brand image Unique products Strong financial position Large size Good customer service High reliance on the UK market Exposed to macro-economic issues in some markets Opportunities Threats Strategic alliances Diversification into new markets Increase international growth Develop additional services Strong and stiff competition Economic recession Political instability and government policies Fluctuations in exchange rate Figure 6: SWOT Analysis of Tesco Tesco has to adopt the conversion and matching strategies in order to use its internal capabilities to overcome its weaknesses and threats in the environment. Hence, weaknesses can be converted to strengths, threats into opportunities and its strengths matched with the opportunities. 3.4 STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES OF THE SWOT ANALYSIS STRENGTHS SWOT analysis is used to assess an organisations competitiveness, capabilities and core competences. It guides the organisation in setting objectives for strategic planning and decision making. It exposes the opportunities available to an organisation as well as the threats. It aids the organisation to take advantage of its strengths to address the weaknesses. WEAKNESSES High dependence on external factors relies on the PESTLE analysis and other environmental scanning models. It does not provide solutions or offer alternative decisions to issues identified. While SWOT is useful to profile and enumerate issues, it does not provide actual strategies to implement and take advantage of opportunities while leveraging strengths (Helms et al 2011). 3.5 COMPARISON OF THE VALUE CHAIN AND SWOT The value chain focuses on the internal capabilities of the organisation as it strives to improve on its activities to create more value while satisfying the needs of its customers. It fails to analyse external threats to the organisation or opportunities which could be explored by the organisation. Also, the value chain seeks to improve the margin of the organisation through it activities, rather than evaluate the strengths and opportunities which could be of great help in improving the margin of the organisation. SWOT analysis on the other hand, while trying to look at the internal capabilities of the organisation through its strengths and weaknesses, also considers the relevant threat and opportunities in the organisations environment. This guides the organisation in setting its objectives for strategic planning and decision making. Hence, an understanding of the SWOT analysis is very essential for any organisation as this will form the basis upon which it creates value for itself. 4.0 INTERNATIONAL MARKET ENTRY MODES There are several foreign market entry modes available to organisations seeking to internationalise into new markets. According to Sun, H. (1999), entry modes are seen as the forms of capital participation by an organisation in international enterprises and two basic entry modes exist; wholly owned subsidiary and joint venture. Internationalisation strategy of an organisation will involve great resource commitment; hence the mode of entry is a very important strategic decision to avoid failure. However, for Tescos strategy to enter into the Nigerian market, the following entry modes are available to them; exporting, licencing, franchising, alliances, mergers and acquisition, sales subsidiary, joint venture and wholly foreign owned enterprise(WFOE). 4.1 EXPORTING According to Joynt, P and Welch, L. (1985), most organisations begin their international operations through exporting rather than other means of entry such as licensing or foreign direct investment. Exporting as a mode of entry into a foreign market involves the exportation of countrys product into a foreign market. This could be driven by the need to extend customer base, increase profit, or due to limited growth potential in the home country. Exporting is particularly important in the exchange world system and it is largely used as a mode of entry into foreign markets for manufactured goods firm, especially those in the early stage of internationalisation (Khemakhem 2010). Exporting could be either direct, where the goods of an organisation is exported directly to a partner firm in the country or indirect through the use of intermediaries. 4.1.1 STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES OF EXPORTING STRENGTHS It is considered as the easiest, simplest and most used mode of entry. Risk involved is minimal due to limited investment. It creates an opportunity for the organisation to study the overseas market preferences before investing in the country. Exporting helps an organisation to achieve economies of scale by manufacturing its products in one location and exporting to a larger market. It is cost effective and improves the margin of an organisation. WEAKNESSES Trade restrictions and laws in some countries could pose a huge challenge to exporting. Transportation cost and distribution channel problems. Stiff competition from indigenous firms. Export licenses and custom laws may vary in different locations. 4.2 LICENSING This is a form of contractual agreement whereby the licensor grants access to property rights which could be patents, trademark or know-how to the licensee in exchange for some form of payment. According to Okoroafo (1992), licensing is seen as direct investment royalties, license fees and other fees for the sale of intangible property rights including patents, industrial processes, trademarks, copyrights, designs, know-how, techniques etc. 4.2.1 STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES OF LICIENCING STRENGTHS Licensing creates an opportunity for future investment into a given market. It enables expansion with limited direct exposure to risk and low investment. It creates rapid entry into a foreign market. Creates access to new markets not easily accessible by exports or other modes of entry. It maximizes return from an investment. WEAKNESSES There is limited control due to the contractual agreement. Difficulty in identifying what to licence. Terminating the agreement might be difficult till the expiration of the contractual duration. Licensing can create competition as the foreign partner might become a competitor. 4.3 FRANCHISING Franchising is a special form of licencing in which the franchiser makes a total marketing program such as brand name, logo, products or method of operation, available to the franchisee for a fee (Gillespie et al 2004). Franchising is often used for indirect entry into a foreign market and most local service firms get the exclusive right to a marketing concept, which may also include right to a certain operational mode (Gronroos 1999). In franchising, the franchisee obtains the right to sell the franchisors product or use his brand name or logo for business purposes, this method has been adopted by organisations in recent times and its mostly seen in the fast food industries. 4.3.1 STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES OF FRANCHISING STRENGTHS Franchising encourages rapid growth and expansion. It involves a low cost of investment with minimal risk. Franchisor can tap on the franchisees wealth of experience, financial and managerial capabilities. Franchising improves brand development. WEAKNESSES There might be cases of the franchisee giving the brand a bad reputation. Control restrictions on how the business would be run by the franchise agreement. There might be reduced margins or profit if the franchisee fails to manage the business efficiently. Difficulties experienced by the franchisee may directly affect the franchisor. 4.4 JOINT VENTURE Joint venture is a form of strategic alliance where two or more organisations pull resources together to create a separate legal entity. It is seen as a contractual agreement and a mode of entry into the foreign market, whereby a foreign firm brings in its wealth of experience and expertise to create a business with an indigenous organisation. Joint venture allows the firms to pull and combine their resources together for the purpose of creating a new entity. The parties involved share the risk, expenses and profits from the venture together. According to Davis et al 1996, joint venture provides a vehicle for the cooperation between organisations with different but complementary strategies. 4.4.1 STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES OF JOINT VENTURE STRENGTHS It creates access to organisations into foreign market and increases their distribution network. Inherent risk involved in the business, operating expenses and losses is shared between the two organisations. Joint venture pulls resources, expertise, core competencies and capabilities from different organisation to create a new entity. It creates synergy, sharing of skills, technology and experience between the organisations involved. It gives competitive strength to the new organisation and creates a stronger defence against competitors. WEAKNESSES There might be conflict of interest between the organisations. Problem of control and management of the new venture. Profit is shared between the organisations involved in the venture. Cultural differences, economic and political systems in the foreign environment might pose a challenge to the venture. 4.5 WHOLLY OWNED FOREIGN ENTERPRISE This is a mode of foreign market entry where an organisation creates its own enterprise in another country. For instance, Tesco moving into the Nigerian grocery market and open new Tesco stores. This mode of entry is different from the others because the organisation has sole ownership and management of the new enterprise. A wholly owned enterprise is seen as a permanent enterprise in the host country wholly owned by the entrant, where profits and responsibilities are assigned exclusively to th