Easycar Swot Essay

EasyCar is one of the companies under the easyGroup brand name created by Stelios Haji-Ioannou. It is the fastest growing car rental company in Europe because it offers value for money. This is achieved by simplifying the car, and passing on the benefits to the customer in the form of a lower price. This low cost car rental idea is not for every consumer. Since the market is segmented into business and leisure travelers easyCar tries to focus all of its efforts to the price sensitive leisure segment. It has taken them two years for easyCar to break even, and Stelios intends to quadruple its sales in the next two years. Swot Analysis: Strengths: Leverage on established brand reputation of easyJet (by easyGroup): EasyCar is a member of the easyGroup brand which first developed the easyJet air carrier. The other companies under the easyGroup umbrella mimic the low cost, no frills business strategy. This business model has been quite successful in the rental car industry, has a presence in the internet cafà © industry, and easyCinema is expected to be launched soon. Competency of Stellos: Stelios Haji-Ioannou is an entrepreneur who founded easyJet, and has been expanding the easyGroup brand. Stelios is described as a flamboyant entrepreneur who has been aggressive in expanding his brand into many different industries that fit his low cost, no frills business model. Stellos’ excellence is a direct reason of how easyJet broke even after two years of operations. No agent (disintermediation): EasyCar has been able to maximize the amount of revenue they receive because they deal with the majority of the bookings themselves. For other rental car companies ninety percent of their bookings are made by agents (intermediaries), and these agents require a portion of their sales. EasyCar manages 100% of its rentals so it is able to gain the maximum amount of revenue. 90% utilization of assets: There are three main strategies that easyCar utilizes to gain the highest utilization rate out of the major car rental companies. Firstly, their information system evaluates projected demand, and expected utilization quite accurately, and adjusts price accordingly. Secondly, they only offer one car type on each lot. The customers know that and they will automatically be matched to any car in the fleet. This removes the risk of decreased utilization as a result of customer picking certain cars over others. Finally, they offer demand based pricing. This ensures that for any given demand the maximum number of cars are rented out. Weaknesses: Only one type of car: Having one type of car can also be seen as a negative to customers because it offers them no choice. If customers value selection and quality over price then they will not rent from easyCar. Process of car picking up is time consuming for customers, given the low staffing levels: When a customer wants to pick up a car they usually have to wait between a half hour and an hour at the lot to finally pick up their car. This inhibits the company’s ability to sell more in a day, and the customers become dissatisfied from waiting. Public relations issues regarding its policies: The Office of Fair Trading has passed legislation stating that easyCar has to grant customers seven days form the time they made a booking to cancel it and receive a full refund. The company is scared that this process will inhibit their plans for a 2004 IPO. They have also received bad press from their clean car policy. The company requires the car to be fully cleaned when returned, and it’s very strict regarding this policy. They have received some bad press, but 85% of their fleet are returned with an acceptable amount of cleanliness. Finally, there are many additional charges that are explained in the fine print. When easyCar first opened they received a lot of bad press because they didn’t explain their costs clearly. Recently they have been trying to make their charges more transparent to the customer. Opportunities: Expand into other European markets: Experts of the car rental industry feel that Europe is â€Å"ripe for consolidation.† This is significant since it will allow easyCar to work together in different countries across Europe and further strengthen its brand. Broaden the fleet size to offer customers more choices: To further expand easyCars market share they could offer more selection. Customers value choice, but this is only realistically possible if the prices remain low. Further develop the one hour car rental service provider: To compete with local transportation like buses and cabs they can target citizens of each city who only want to rent a car for an hour or a short amount of time to complete less time consuming tasks. Threats: Legal Challenges: If the company is unable to amend the seven day full refund law than there could be serious consequences. The utilization rate would be expected to fall from 90% to 65%, and it could also delay their expected 2004 IPO. There is also legal criticism with the posting of peoples faces on the website who have overdue cars. Competition: There are several internationally recognized car rental companies, and domestic companies that easyCar competes with. For example, domestic or national companies usually account for 50% of their country’s sales. New low cost companies are going to be popping up since they have seen the success of easyCar, thus easyCar needs to widen its gap between its competitors.

No More Sunshine on Leith Essay

It was a cold, frosty night in Edinburgh, and yet people still insisted on going to the pub for an evening drink. Two of these people were Mike and Danny Roxborough who were headed to their favourite pub, the Persevere. The lampposts brightly lit their path. The moon was ever-present tonight, as there was not a cloud in the sky, meaning that there would probably be a frost tomorrow. When they reached the pub and Mike turned in, closely followed by Danny, the first thing they did was scan the room for any familiar faces to talk to. As he looked around Mike couldn’t see anyone he knew so he sent Danny to get them a couple of beers and headed off to their usual table – only to find someone else sitting there. He stood there, gazing at the pair, who looked as camp as camp can get. Both were men wearing bright purple and yellow suits, like something out of the 1950’s. As they were talking and Mike watched them, he noticed a growing similarity between their behaviour and the kind that gets people beaten up in the streets for being homosexual. Just as he was about to go and explain his situation, being left without a seat in a busy pub with someone else in his seat, when Danny came up to him carrying their drinks. â€Å"Couldnae find us a seat then, eh? Ah well. Ah might no stay long anyway. By the way, did y-† he was cut off as Mike raised his hand to Danny’s face. â€Å"These people have nicked our seats! Aren’t you goin’ to dae sumthin’ about it?! † â€Å"Yeh ken me Mike,† said Danny, cowering away and shooting nervous glances at the gentlemen occupying their table, â€Å"Ah dinnae like fightin’. † â€Å"Yer an eejit Danny! † said Mike as he approached the two camps. â€Å"S’cuse me fella’s, but I think yer in our seats. Would ye mind movin’ fir us? Cheers. † They looked at each other for a second before the purple-suited one turned back. The tension in the air could be easily felt, and the surrounding tables were starting to turn around and watch. â€Å"Ooh I do believe that we had these seats first, my friend! I’m afraid that I didn’t see your name on them, therefore we have a right to sit here. † â€Å"SHUT UP! † shouted Mike so loud that the rest pf the pub turned around to watch and even made Danny, who was used to these outbursts, nearly jump out of his skin. â€Å"Outside, if you please,† and then he bowed pointing the way to the emergency exit. â€Å"I object to this treatment! I’m going to sort you out once and for all,† and the purple suited one led the way outside, followed by the yellow suit and then Mike and Danny. Outside was freezing cold by now and a bitter wind had picked up, blowing leaves around in circles on a stretch of concrete that was marked off as a loading bay/car park. Danny and the yellow suit stood back to watch the sparks fly, frightened to get involved, whilst Mike and the purple suit stood, not moving a muscle, staring each other down. Then, suddenly, the purple suit caught Mike by surprise by rugby-tackling him to the concrete and kicking him on the ground. However, it would take a lot more than that to keep Mike Roxborough down. As he got back to his feet and lunged for purple suit, he staggered and fell onto a crate, smashing it. It looked like purple suit had actually taken him out of the running. As Mike stood up once again, purple suit started running rings around him and laughing his head off hysterically. Mike started swinging hooks at him then but couldn’t hit him. His reactions were just too slow. After a lot of swinging and laughing, Mike seemed to be really annoyed and Danny could see that. Mike was tired of being humiliated like this and wanted it to stop. He then picked up a sharp piece of wood from the smashed crate when purple suit was chatting to yellow suit and they started to leave. He ran straight for them and this time his aim was true. The sharp plank impaled the purple suit from behind and he screamed out before sinking to the ground with an expression of disbelief on his face. As all three remaining people stared in disbelief at the scene that was before them, Mike turned around and looked up at Danny with a guilty yet pleading look on his face. Danny knew he couldn’t do anything, and so stepped backwards into the shadows and headed home, leaving Mike on his own. He didn’t want anything to do with a murder.

International Trade and Globalization Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words - 1

International Trade and Globalization - Essay Example The paper will analyze the globalization of international business, for instance, in regard to market entry techniques and the importance of multi-national global brands and corporations, from different perspectives. Comparative advantage determines international trade. Theory of comparative advantage argues that the common rate of profit and the standard of wages are not at equilibrium internationally as they are in a domestic market. The assumption of comparative advantage theory is that capital cannot be moved from less profitable to more profitable sectors of production. If this is the case, it would lead to an equalization of the profits rates like in the domestic market. Consequently, the wage rates are not equalized in the international market due to lack of labor movement. A nation is said to be at a comparative advantage in the production of commodities if the opportunity cost of generating the product is lower compared to other countries. The comparative advantage theory is concerned with a trade of homogeneous products. On the other hand, new trade theory focuses on intra-industry and inter-industry trade. Intra-industry trade is the exchange of similar products within a common industry for example goods at various levels of production. Intra-industry trade is the exchange of similar products within a common industry for example goods at various levels of production. Inter-industry trade is the exchange of goods from various industries, for instance, trading agricultural products for equipment and machinery.

Joseph Heler Cheese Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4500 words

Joseph Heler Cheese - Essay Example The company’s market dominance is explained in terms of the multiple advantages, managerial competence, market forces among many other positive determinants that operate within the food and beverages industry. Strategic expansion and diversification have helped the company overcome difficult operational conditions in its various market segments. Part of the forces that attended to the company’s transformation from a relatively small company to one of the leading players in the cheese production industry include the diversification of its range of products and the adoption of policies that helped spur progress in many of its undertakings (Joseph Heler, 2013). Competition from other companies within the industry is one of the threats that have affected the company’s performance over the years. Other threats include macroeconomic factors such as unpredictable economic situations, changing preferences by the local and global clientele and other issues that attend to the performance of big businesses in the United Kingdom and around the world. Despite the challenges that have slowed the growth of the company, Joseph Heler remains a leading force within the cheese production industry with strategic processes that relate to the diversification of the product range and partnership with a leading food production company. Financial statements indicate past and current consistency in steady progress, which suggest strong possibilities of further growth in the future. Introduction Currently Joseph Heler is ranked as the fifth largest cheese producers in UK (Joseph-Heler, 2013). The growth was a culmination of previous strategies, which included reaching out to new market segments and expanding the company’s revenue flows throughout the world. The same statistics indicated that the company had achieved significant improvement in terms of its annual total revenue. The company has maintained an impressive lead in the cheese production sector in Bri tain to levels that have enhanced its profitability and expansion in processes. Currently, the company employs nearly thousands of workers distributed in its retail stores and firms throughout the world. According to analysts, Joseph Heler’s growth on the market is partly a product of the leadership of the current founder and current chair Joseph Heler. The chair has presided over the expansion of the product lines to levels that contributed significantly to the growth in the revenue bases (Joseph Heler, 2013). The company has developed strategies that include the development of various outlets within areas that were previously dominated by competitors. The consistent growth of the company over the times has been made possible by a range of strategies that included the development of various cost-cutting measures and the opening up of increased avenues for revenue flow. Background Since its formation in 1957, Joseph Heler Cheese Company has maintained a remarkable lead in Bri tain’s cheese production through strategic expansion, effective marketing strategies, and the supply of high quality products. Joseph Heler formed Joseph Heler Chee

Assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 3

Assignment - Essay Example The Domain supports any video input, be it USB 1.0 and 2.0 or Window DirectX (WiredRed 2008). (iii) Strategic current and feasible domain definition: The domain supports enhanced definitions of 720P or higher resolution but lower than HD frame rates. For instance, Logitech Fusion and Ultra Vision are two popular examples that produce surprising high-resolution images wonderfully at fine business-class rates (WiredRed 2008). (i) User perceived values: The User perceived values for the domain include easy installation, best multiparty video and audio quality, real-time PowerPoint sharing, the fastest desktop sharing and proxy friendly remote controls, real-time presenter’s controls, record and playback, secure web conferencing and true web administration and management (WiredRed 2008). (ii) The domain is currently based in countries in Nigeria and Malaysia (Sarawak) with its product range across other locations in the countries. In education, the software has been used in Kent College, where students could cheaply discuss with their off-site teachers (WiredRed 2006). (iii) The products are Windows compatible: this means that the User can use any USB 2.0 web cam. Also, it works well with any S-video as an out cable mated to a Windows compatible video capture card (WiredRed 2008) (iv) The users could move from one product to the other in the domain. This explains interconnectivity among the product range. And this would facilitate multiple functionalities that would be cost-efficient (Gough & Rosenfield 2006). (i) Some of the products in the domain help to facilitate quick and clear video conferencing, but some constraints arise as a result of product’s components, compatibilities and programming context. For example, a product that is Windows compatible has problems working perfectly with non-Windows operating systems. And different programming procedures used in producing the software/solutions constitute a

Inclusion of Children in South Korea Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words

Inclusion of Children in South Korea - Essay Example Special education is focused on providing education to children or individuals with special needs. In the past, Koreans used to have a negative opinion towards people with disabilities. (Americans with Disabilities Act, Ohio State University) They used to think that having a family member who has disabilities is something to be ashamed of. (Kim and Kang) For them, disability was a problem that was for the individual to overcome for himself, all by himself. Over the years, with a number of developments in Korea's legislation that have provisions for the rights of the disabled, this negative concept has made a 180-degree turn. With this very positive development, and their keen interest in how to improve their education system, Koreans are very much intent to leave no stones unturned. For children who have minor disabilities, the Korean education system has embraced inclusive education. Inclusive education is defined as system of education or a school system wherein all children, regardless of their abilities or disabilities are all considered active components of the school community. Inclusive education aims to provide an academic environment where all students are given equal opportunities and therefore leaves little or no room for discrimination. (Kim) Students who have minor disabilities are recommended to attend regular schools. ... (Kim) B. Vulnerable Children defined A vulnerable child, in general, is defined as a child 18 years old and below who lost their parents or guardians. This could be a permanent situation, as there are those who lost both parents through death, and some were temporarily displaced because of certain unfortunate events and are in need of care. (Smart, 2003) In general, this includes orphans, street children, children who have certain medical conditions, children with certain disabilities and others. (Unicef, n.d.) C. Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Model Urie Bronfenbrenner is considered as one of the world's leaders in the study of developmental psychology (Wikipedia, 2006). One of his most significant contributions is the development of the Ecological Systems Theory. Urie Bronfenbrenner's ecological theory discusses the major factors that affect a child's development. According to his concept, relationships and environment play a major role in a child's development. As child matures, the more knowledge, culture and values he acquires from his education, cultural heritage, parents and peers. His interactions in his affinities and his environment form in him a set of what he considers "norms'. A child's needs vary as he goes through the cycle of life. These transitions that he will encounter will slowly reveal how his influences affect the development of his personality as he deals with them head on. Bronfenbrenner has identified four levels of systems that make up the Ecological Systems. These are the microsystem, mesosystem, exosystem, macrosystem and chronosystem. These so-called systems are actually environments and situations that have a great influence in a person's development. (The Ontario Institute for Studies in Education of

Baces of Marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words

Baces of Marketing - Essay Example s important in the sense that when structures are formed taking the shape of a pyramid it should not discourage the use of people horizontally across the departments. This is crucial for acquiring effectiveness in accomplishments of several tasks simultaneously. Matching Authority with Responsibility In a management structure, it is crucial to associate responsibility with matching authority because without having freedom for decision making, organizational effectiveness cannot be achieved. This will increase the chance of favorable outcome besides increasing job satisfaction among employees. Task Description and Interaction among People In a dynamic world, processes and technologies keep on evolving necessitating employees to learn new things and undergo suitable changes. Michael Vanbruaene argues that job details need not be briefed with elaborate description – to avoid rigidity among employees and for the purpose of mutual cooperation among staff members. Work Unit Expectat ions All work units within the organization must be clearly briefed with performance goals and objectives. Necessary flexibility to achieving performance objectives should be granted without specifying tasks much in detail. Association with Work Unit All employees must be associated with some department or work group and the department must have a position to guide employees professionally, if needs arise. Supervisor at Work Unit Effective organizational structure demands that each work unit or department is controlled by supervisor or manager because they work as a bridge between and within the work units. Understanding Management Structure Management structure is crucial for the effective functioning of an organization. For a new employee, it is necessary to understand the working... This report approves that marketing thinks about long-run outcomes while sales function is concerned about immediate results. Marketing and sales have been kept under the same structure and that is sure to cripple branding and long-run positioning activities. It is more likely that marketing will become a sales support function and will lose its grip over formulating effective marketing strategies. Structure is incapable to deliver what is required for its long-term survival. In this structure, there is no provision to avert systemic risk. It is not clear how customer needs will be met with – without which it is impossible for the company to grow and expand. Structure implies that CEO will continue to perform day-to-day activities without having any time for a long term planning and execution. The structure cannot provide needed direction for the long-term growth and support to new verticals. Often strategy changes due to change in external environment; however, management fai ls to make a suitable change in management structure. That means a new strategy is implemented within the same management structure. Any change in structure seems unnecessary due to existing expectations, interpersonal relationships, roles, and current functions. It is a fact that people do not accept change if there is a possibility of loss of authority and power. This essay makes a conclusion that effective management structure is certainly an important necessity for success of any modern enterprise. Further, whenever there is any change in organizational strategy, management structure needs to be redesigned so that day-to-day operational efficiency and long-term effectiveness of the organization are not compromised. Moreover, management structure should strike a balance between decentralize autonomy and centralize control for establishing efficiency and effectiveness both in the organization.

Human Understanding Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Human Understanding - Essay Example It is indeed undeniable that people recreate the things that are already existent within their own society. The fact that they have already been able to see what they could do regarding a certain type of field, they intend to even do better the net time that they deal with the same invention. Yes, humans never get tired of reinventing everything there is in the environment. Why is this so' Human intelligence has always been noted by philosophers as the primary factor that makes the human creation different from that of the other God-made creations. The humans' ability to innovate their own achievements to even better results for the present generation to see, has particularly noted them to be those who are capable of reinventing themselves to be able to evolve from generations to generations. Hence, the ways by which humans understand the things around them clearly defines the capability of humans to efficiently use intelligence for their best benefits. This is primarily because of the fact that the human brain never ceases to improve its way of reasoning out especially when it is nourished in the right procedure. Along with this, considering critical thinking and its importance is also relative to the matter. Critical thinking is an important aspect to the logical feature of a person and the acquisition of knowledge. It mainly employs the usage of the human ability of logical analysis to develop an adequate and proper judgment regarding a specific scenario that a person is faced with. It is the analysis of the propositional arguments, which are presumed to be true and the evaluation of the information in forms such as evidences and subsequent facts. Thus, it is important to critically analyze and examine all the facts that are available to create a clear and concise jud gment regarding a specific issue. Performing a critical analysis is not usually easy for an individual because of the abundancy and ambiguosity of the facts pertinent to the scenarios that are to be analyzed. Some cases requires further scrutiny to uncover unknown details which are really important thus initial skepticism and open-mindedness are often required in developing good critical thinking. Take for example a certain job regarding work relation in a specific office. A certain piece of valuable went missing and the whole work community in the office is already chattering blaming a shy and timid employee as the thief who stole the missing valuable. Employing critical thinking would not let someone to hastily judge that employee because of his social diffidence. Instead of inappropriate judgment, analyze first the case at hand and evaluate the details pertinent to it to find clues and information leading to the solution. Failure to practice critical thinking will only lead to inaccurate and often wrong conclusion thus neglecting the purpose of the human logical capabilities. Proper judgment requires the critical thinking and analysis of the available information and specific details. It is very important that one must first utilize his or her brain before jumping to any hasty judgment to avoid mistakes and further aggravation of the problem already at hand. Thus, solution and accurate knowledge can only be attained by having critical analysis of the facts leading to the plausible conclusion. Conclusion Overall, it could not be

How did the relationship between individual and state change over the Essay

How did the relationship between individual and state change over the course of the twentieth century - Essay Example This was a philosophy held by John Locke in the 17th century. In the traditional governments, only the high class citizens were allowed into politics and this did not include women. The Montagnards took up leadership and implemented revolutionary economic and social policies that resulted in revolts and violent reactions from the citizens. In the 19th century, most nations across Europe, North America and Spanish America adopted liberalism which opposed traditional conservatism and promoted representative democracy and the rule of law in government. Over the 19th and 20th centuries, there was a characteristic change in the ideologies of citizens that influenced their relationship with state. The French revolution was characterized by various liberal movements including the women’s march on Versailles which forced the royal court back in Paris. Before World War I, the European political scene was dominated by liberalism but this was slowly replaced by socialism in the early 20th century. The Soviet Union communism was based on Marxism–Leninism ideology which held that the policies of understanding social life were the prevalent truths since the party was enlightened. It denied the possibility of multiple truths. Nazism was a form of socialism in the 20th century that was featured by theories of racial hierarchy, expansion of power and subjection to a single strong leader. The Nazis under Adolf Hitler aimed at eradicating social divisions to promote a strong homogenous society by expanding its territories at the expense of its neighbors. Like the most previous ideologies, Nazism excluded women from political involvement and classified them as children. It was against interracial interactions and trained young girls to avoid race defilement. In the book Under a Cruel Star by Kovà ¡ly, the writer describes her trials as a Jew during the Communism and

New Communication Structure Essay Example for Free

New Communication Structure Essay Communication is important in every aspect of our lives. This is also true for the communication used in our professional lives. When at work we â€Å"depend on cooperation with others to accomplish our goals, and communication is the critical human process we use to promote such cooperation.† (Kreps, 2011; sec. 1.1) Understanding communication is the best way to make sure it is being used effectively correctly. When communication is effective then organizational components will run smoother and efficiently. Smoother and effective communication means that an organization has a greater chance of following its mission and achieving its goals. Successful communication can be as important to organizational productivity as any other component used. There are five concepts that are important for successful communication within an organizational setting and this proposal will discuss their necessity in an organization. Culture is something that needs to be recognized and aware of when we are communicating with everyone. It is also important in organizational communication. Organizational culture includes the norms and attitudes of the organization. To support clear and effective communication in an organization the employees must be pay close attention the organizational culture. The process of socialization will also help an employee to adapt to an organization’s culture. The process of socialization is where, â€Å"established members of cultural groups educate others and enforce adherence to established cultural rules or norms for appropriate behavior.† (Kreps, 2011; pg. 17) In understanding the norms in an organization communication will be smoother because there will be less chance for misunderstandings. An example of organizational culture would be the style of dress in the office. If an organization is one where the employees dress in suits and formal business wear then an employee who came to work in shorts and a t-shirt would affect  the culture in a negative way. Those communicating with those employees could become uncomforta ble, or distracted. This may result in avoiding communication with this employee and over all communication will breakdown. Avoidance of communication with only one employee is enough to cause a gap in efficiency. The book â€Å"Communications in Organizations† explains, â€Å"Strategic organizational communicators initiate and develop strong, effective, and satisfying relationships with others to promote cooperation and coordination in organizational life.† (Kreps, 2011; pg. 15) Understanding the organizational culture also builds trust and respect among employees which in turn brings higher production. Paying attention to organizational culture helps to build the relational communication to support effective communication. Part of an organization’s culture is the forms of communication used. Informal and formal communications are two types of communication that play an important role in an organization. The difference in both forms of communication can be explained as â€Å"Formal patterns of organizational communication follow the power hierarchy within organizations, whereas informal patterns of communication do not necessarily follow along power hierarchy lines† (Kreps, 2011; sec. 1.5) Formal communication is used to address important job related material. Paying close attention when receiving or using formal communication will stop an employee from making a mistake and will also give them the information to be successful. However, when filtering through formal communications such as emails it is important to avoid information overload. Information overload takes place when, â€Å"so many different messages are impinging on a person that the person has difficulty making sense of all the information available.† (Kreps, 2011; pg. 174) Scanning email for the most important and relative messages is a skill that is necessary but recognizing formal emails for their importance will ensure that the information involved will be received. In understanding the nuances of informal communication an employee can avoid getting themselves in trouble by offending a supervisor or missing important information. In regards to organizational communication conflict resolution can be the difference in success or failure when working with others to meet company goals. Conflict is inevitable, and happens when people communicate. It can come from assumptions, miscommunications, or one way communication. The good news is conflict can be turned into a positive thing. A quote in  the book, says An Introduction to Leadership, that, â€Å"The most important single ingredient in the formula of success is knowing how to get along with people.† (Weis, 2011, pg 2) Working through conflicts can build better communication skills, as well as trust and understanding. In using conflict resolution steps new and better ideas can be generated for the organizations. A gentleman named Mr. Tim Scudder wrote a book in which he describes five steps to conflict resolution. An interview he gave he made the point that in conflict â€Å"both parties want the same thing.† (Scudder, 2011) He also stressed the importance of anticipating conflict. By anticipating conflict an employee will take time to think, and in thinking they will realize that the person they may have a conflict with wants the same thing. This puts the employee in a positive frame of mind and helps to come to a reasonable solution for both involved. In the article â€Å"How to Deal with Annoying Co-Workers† gives a suggestion to help in dealing with co-workers. It suggests that, â€Å"With most types of annoying co-workers, the solution is simply to be straightforward and assertive.† (Green, 2011) Working through a conflict helps co-workers to come to a better understanding of each other. When people understand and respect each other communication is smoother and more effective. Once again, smoother and effective communication benefits the organization. Formal communication, informal communication, and conflict resolution involve two parties. Each of these communications involves a time where another party receives information. In face to face communication active listening is a technique that will ensure that messages are received correctly and will allow the listener to formulate the best response. Active Listening is not only an important part of conflict resolution but communication as a whole. Active listening means, â€Å"being fully engaged in paying attention to your relational partner’s communication with you. It is not just hearing skills. It involves paying close attention to your partner’s verbal and nonverbal behaviors.† (Kreps, 2011; sec. 4.3) In other words, it’s a way of showing respect for those you are communicating with. It sounds as simple as just listening but it’s not that simple. It takes a conscious effort to begin with before it becomes habit. If you are fully engaged in what your partner is communicating then you will get all of the information being sent. It may also evoke the norm of reciprocity which will have your partner giving you  their full attention. The norm of reciprocity is, â€Å"the urge to act in-kind that often encourages these relational partners to provide you with information and treat you similarly to the way you treat them.† (Kreps, 2011; pg. 15) The importance to an organization of its members practicing active listening is participants receive all the information that is coming to them. This means that they have all they would need to know to complete their jobs successfully and meet organizational goals. Organizations have both formal and informal leaders. Formal leaders typically are ‘assigned their positions of authority within the organizational hierarchy and hold titles such as president, vice president, division leader, and manager.† (Kreps, 2011; pg. 19) Informal leaders are little harder to define by position or tile but â€Å"emerge with organizational life based on credibility (usually a combination of charisma, dynamism, expertise, and trustworthiness), ability to accomplish complex tasks, and access to relevant information.† (Kreps, 2011; pg. 19) Even if you are not a formal leader you can still have influence over others as an informal leader. Informal leaders are not defined by title but by quality of character. Understanding leadership strategies and what being a leader entails helps to motivate workers to meet organizational goals. It is important for organizational leaders be able to communicate in different ways for different situations. There are several different leadership strategies that can be employed for different situations. To understand leadership strategies it’s important to think about how leaders may see those under them. Douglas McGregor used X and Y models of leadership to explain the relationship between leaders and followers. Theory X makes the assumption about workers they do not like work and will do anything to avoid it. This model will make leaders be more directed because they think that is what workers prefer and need. McGregor’s Theory Y assumes that workers do not dislike work and will work hard if they feel the value of their effort. The Theory Y suggests that if workers are given a degree of autonomy and a chance to use their imaginations they will strive to be successful in their tasks. Depending on how leaders see workers can dictate their leadership strategies. One of three helpful leadership styles is the autocratic leadership style. This is a leadership style that would come from a leader who is a believer in Theory X. An autocratic leader â€Å"makes most  organizational decisions without consulting with others. The leader calls all the shots, tells workers what to do and how to do it.† (Kreps, 2011; sec 7.6) This type of leadership style would have little use for upward communication from those who follow. Upward communication is, â€Å"communication that travels up the power hierarchy.† (Kreps, 2011; pg. 10) This would be difficult for a leader who believes in Theory X because, â€Å"upward communication enables workers to express their concerns and ideas, to provide and ask for feedback, and seek clarification from managers.† (Kreps, 2011; pg. 10) The autocratic leadership style is best suited not for driving workers but in emergency situation where there is little time for collaboration. Organizational participants would appreciate a direct approach in times of pressure. On the opposing side of autocratic leadership is democratic leadership style. When using the democratic leadership style you, â€Å"share responsibility and involve other organizational participants in decision making, although the process for the final decision may vary from the leader having the final say to them facilitating consensus in the group.† (Kreps, 2011; sec. 7.6) This type of leadership style is something that followers respond positively to. It also bolsters the leader’s position because the workers feel a â€Å"buy in† to the process. This is something that Theory Y talks about. The ability of helping the workers feel that their efforts and work are valued, and helping them to see the value. The drawback to this type of style is that it is time consuming, and can lead to conflict if not used correctly and in the right situation. Lastly, there is the laissez-faire leadership style. The laissez-faire leadership style would have the leader, â€Å"share power with workers and delegate decision-making authority to those individuals who are directly involved in the decision-making situations.† (Kreps, 2011; sec. 7.6) This leadership style could be considered an extension of the democratic leadership style. In using this style it is important for a leader to know the capabilities of those under them. The employees under this leader must be experienced and skilled in the tasks that they are being given a degree of control over. This type of leadership style will help a leader delegate those things they have little time for. Delegation is an important skill. In the article â€Å"A Tool Kit for the Real World† it says that, â€Å"Business people don’t get accolades for being smart, but for being effective. That is measured in  things like increased sales, increased earnings and an increased number of licensing agreements. Not, alas, by the fruition of one employee’s great idea.† (Motluk, 2011) However, this should not be used as a way of having others do their work for them. This would be damaging to the leader and certainly the organization in that it can bring a degree of disorganization that would be extremely difficult to correct. The leadership strategies above are mentioned because they show the need for a leader to be able to decipher the right strategy for the right situation. Each has one distinctive way to deal with leading and each has its drawbacks when used outside of its best application. Therefore the situational model of leadership may be the best strategy when it comes to leadership. The situational model of leadership is, â€Å"based on the assumption that there is no right way of leading. Rather, the best leaders adapt to the unique situational constraints to exhibit the appropriate leadership style for the situation.† (Kreps, 2011; sec. 7.6) A leader must be able to analyze situations, those involved, the choices, and the preferred outcome. If it’s an emergency and little time involved then use the autocratic leadership style. When time is available to employ upward communication, and bolster workers self esteem and organizational value a leader should employ democratic leadership style. If a leader is feeling overwhelmed or they are feeling pulled in too many directions, perhaps a laissez-faire leadership style might help to delegate tasks to that can handle them. Understanding leadership strategies helps to use communications with workers that will work best in certain situations. The most important thing about communication in the work place is awareness. As the book â€Å"Communications in Organizations† points out, â€Å"Organizations and the way they communicate play critical roles in our lives.† (Kreps, 2011; pg. 25) The key to effective communication is awareness. All of the five concepts of organizational communication mentioned above have some type of awareness piece built in. Communication is smoothest when those communicating are aware of those they are communicating with, their culture, and their style of communication. Thinking before speaking, anticipating change and conflict, and knowing what actions to take will help a leader communicate effectively with workers. After presenting the five concepts for successful communication within an organizational setting above it is clear to see their necessity for  successful communication. References Kreps, G. (2011). Communications in Organizations. San Diego: Bridgepoint Education, Inc. Green, A. (2011, January 6). How to Deal With Annoying Co-Workers. Retrieved from http://money.usnews.com/money/blogs/outside-voices-careers/2011/06/06/how-to-deal-with-annoying-co-workers Motluk, A.(2011) A Tool Kit for the Real World. Retrieved from http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn19969-a-tool-kit-for-the-real-world.html?full=true (2011). Tim Scudder Interview. Retrieved from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_E7YVkjJQ0 Weiss, J. (2011). An Introduction to Leadership. San Diego, Bridgepoint Education, Inc.

How Tesco Compete in a Highly Competitive Environment

How Tesco Compete in a Highly Competitive Environment Topic of the Research How TESCO compete in highly competitive environment with low price of products and service Background to the Study The successes of organizations are measured through analysing the productivity of organizations. Productivity of an organization is highly dependent on the market share of the organization where they have the demand for the products of the organization. In a competitive environment having a proper market share is dependent on variety of factors. Accordingly the market share and the demand for the products has become a crucial factor for the success of all organizations. Keeping and growing the market share consistency is a critical factor especially in a very competitive environment. In most situations organizations implement and apply different strategies to ensure that their market share is strong and stabilized. Accordingly they develop magnificent range of market strategies as one method and at the same time different products such as diversifications are introduced to the market. Anyhow having a range of different strategies organizations try to keep and expand their market share. This is a best area where a future manager or a leader should identify and study because as with the totally competitive market today organizations needs to apply different methods to keep their market share. Therefore to become a successful manager it is the duty of a potential manager to gain a magnificent knowledge in this particular area. This knowledge will provide an insight and a proper framework to become a strategic manger in the field of work. Accordingly it was decided to study about the particular field of study on how the organizations become successful in a competitive environment while keeping their market share. When it comes to the study area it should be narrowed down in order to obtain a proper knowledge and skill in the field of studies. Accordingly it was decided to study about how an organization competes in highly competitive environment with low price of products and service. Accordingly it was decided to conduct the study for the TESCO PLC. Research Problem and Justification As described earlier it is not just an easier task to compete and survive in a competitive business environment. Therefore it is required to identify how several organizations implement their strategies to compete in a competitive business environment. This is a critical problem where each and every manger should address to identify different strategies implemented by organizations. As per the subject area is too widen at once it is impossible to conduct a research on identifying different strategies of range of organizations. Therefore the best option is selecting a one organization in the competitive market and analyse the different strategies implemented by particular organization. Accordingly it was found that TESCO Plc has become more successful in the business for a long time of period and currently as well in a growing success. At the same time TESCO is in a very competitive market environment where market leaders such as ASDA and Sainsbury are also competing. At the same time TESCO maintains a range of low cost products and still having an extraordinary market share. Considering all these aspects it was decided to conduct the research on Tesco under the following topic, How TESCO compete in highly competitive environment with low price of products and service. This study will provide a comprehensive analysis on how Tesco compete in highly competitive environment with low price of products and service. Objectives of the Study To identify different type of strategies implement to compete in a competitive market To gain an overall knowledge on TESCO To identify the strategies implemented by TESCO to compete in the market Scope and Limitations of the Study The successfulness of Tesco with the competitive market may not only due to the actions done in order to be stable in the market there may be different several reasons which affects for the success of the organization. For an example the long brand image, the quality of the products may be merely the reason for the organizational success in the market. But this study only measures up a particular area which is the impact of strategies of the organization in order to survive in the competitive market. But when come to the actual situation there may be many more reasons which create the demand for the organization. Apart from that this study should not be conducted to a one particular organization; it should be conducted to a range of organizations under the title of affect of organizational strategies to survive in a competitive market with low cost products likewise the study should be expanded to a level where we can do the study for several case studies which will provide a better framework to critically identify the factors behind successful organizations in terms of survival in a competitive market. It will cover a vast area of research study and will provide a better environment to identify the reasons behind organizational success in terms of retaining the market share. But here the scope of this study is limited only to identify the strategies of Tesco in order to be successful in the competitive market. It is true that this scope of study covers a vast area but to be more successful this research study can be expanded to that area. Literature Review The literature review on this study is consisted with two main parts one is identifying about general strategies applied in order to achieve success through having a proper market share and then it is explained the literature on TESCO plc. Tesco was established in 1919 by Mr. Jack Cohen who began the business to sell additional groceries from a stall at the East End of London.C:Documents and SettingsAdministratorDesktopuntitled.JPG In 1924 Jack sold out his own-brand product and at that time the first product was Tea production. After that he developed the business by intensifying it as TESCO stores. Accordingly the branches of TESCO were opened United states, Taiwan, China etc and now they have become as a leading chain of supermarkets providing a high class customer service in UK and as well as in outside UK. Following is a SWOT analysis of Tesco Plc. Strengths Weaknesses The business has an Increasing market share. Tesco has held a 13% share of the UK retail market. Successful trade in Insurance, Tesco Personal Finance reached the milestone of one million motor insurance policies in fiscal 2003 Tesco -online Super market- Tesco Provides an online supermarket and it is the worlds major online supermarket and this year the group had sales of over  £577 million High Brand value for the business- The earnings for the operations of this organization has enlarged in 75% covering the countries in Europe, Asia and Ireland in the last fiscal year Has reinforced the UK market leadership- Tesco has developed a unbeaten business strategy that has increased its advantage. Tescos UK sales are now 71% larger than Sainsburys who is a competitor for Tesco Dependence mainly upon the UK market- still mainly dependable on the UK market. 73.8% of there revenue is from there UK market decrease of Debt- Tesco is not predictable to decrease its debt until at least 2006 Opportunities Threats Non-food trade high demand- The growth in Tescos hypermarket format in the UK means that there are prediction of seeing its 13% share of retail sales Increasing demand for Health and beauty- Tescos UK health and beauty ranges go on to grow Further international expansion on the business area-expanded business to Asia Europe structural modify of UK could flash a price war Overseas income could be reduced due to hazards in those countries International growth of competitors The Corporate Strategy of TESCO The fundamental for the corporate strategy of TESCO is to widen the range of the business which can bring strong sustainable long-term growth by following the customer into large growing markets at residents such as financial services, non-food and telecoms and new markets abroad, initially in Central Europe and Asia, and more recently in the United States. Accordingly the strategy of diversify the trade of TESCO was started from 1997 and it became the basis of Tescos success in recent past. The objectives of Tesco corporate strategy are as follows, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢To become a unbeaten international retailer à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢To grow the heart of the business in UK à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢To become powerful in non-food services as in food service. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢To put up retailing services such as Tesco Personal Finance, Telecoms and Tesco.com à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢To give main concern to the community on what Tesco does. The Strategies of Tesco is based on five main elements as Core UK, Community, Non-food, Retailing services, International. Maintaining UK as the Core Growth in the UK business Tesco is more consider to new spaces, additions to existing stores and a multi-format approach. Sales of non-food, which shapes another key part of their strategy, also add to the overall UK growth picture. Consider about Community They are having Community Plans in each nation which based around their community promises actively behind local communities; buying and selling their products responsibly; caring for the environment; giving customers healthy choices and good jobs for local people and replicates the needs of the local communities they serve. Non Food Business Their strongest range of non-food can be seen in Extra stores and Homeplus, including electrical, home entertainment, clothing, health and beauty, stationery, cook shop and soft furnishings, and seasonal goods such as barbecues and garden furniture in the summer. Retailing Services The Tescos main strategy on this is they consider that their customers are diverse and their needs are changing always. So they try to offer more than one way to shop. Accordingly they are having Tesco Personal Finance (TPF), Tesco.com, and Tesco Telecoms to offer wide range of services. Consideration on International Market Tesco operations operate in 13 markets outside the UK, in Europe, Asia and North America. Their latest strategy is to enter into the Indian market where they have taken first step in last year, by establishing a cash carry business. The above literature covers a vast area on the TESCO which is highly important in doing a research study because in actually without having a proper understanding about the organization it is difficult to study a particular area of the organization. Accordingly after gaining an overall understanding about the organization the following literature has been discussed on strategies done to ensure competitive advantage in general and as well the specific strategies of Tesco to compete in high competitive market. Competitive Advantage Many firms put their fullest attempt to achieve the competitive advantage. Some businesses try to get the competitive advantage by offering lesser prices or providing excellence services or other benefits that rationalize a higher price. But organizations must always try to build the strongest competitive advantage which is a strategy that cannot be simulated by the other companies. Michael Porter (1980) introduces three strategies to accomplish competitive advantage as Cost leadership Differentiation Focus Once the competitive advantage is accomplished it is not the end result, because once accomplish that company should try to retain in that situation. It means the firms should have to be in a sustainable position. The competitive advantage of that stage is sustainable competitive advantage. In order for a firm to reach a sustainable competitive advantage, its broad strategy must be stranded in a quality that meets four criteria. Those are as follows: Valuable -it is of value to consumers. Rare -it is not commonplace or easily obtained. Inimitable -it cannot be easily imitated or copied by competitors. Non-substitutable-consumers cannot or will not substitute another product (Info Abstracted by: Competitive Advantage. Encyclopaedia of Business, 2nd ed. By Dena Waggoner) The following section assesses the different strategies implemented by Tesco in order to compete in highly competitive environment with low price of products and service. The analysis of data and information of Tesco Plc was done by identifying the different faces of brand management and how can that effect to achieve the competitive advantage. As the introduction was given about brand management at the literature review if an organization need to be in a position of sustainable competitive advantage position. That brand should bear following four characteristics. Valuable -it is of value to consumers. Rare -it is not commonplace or easily obtained. Inimitable -it cannot be easily imitated or copied by competitors. Non-substitutable -consumers cannot or will not substitute another product (Info Abstracted by: Competitive Advantage. Encyclopaedia of Business, 2nd ed. By Dena Waggoner) Competitive Advantage strategies of Tesco A company should be strategic enough to assess the possible techniques of brand management and then select the most appropriate and worth enough competitive advantage method. According to Michael Porter differentiation is a one best method of strategic competitive advantage. Differentiation can be done by People differentiation, market differentiation, price differentiation, and product differentiation and so on. In this differentiation accompany should be able to make sure the customer wants, understands, and understands the difference offered. If we get the product differentiation that difference should be significant, unique, superior, communicable, primitive, reasonable, and profitable. Otherwise that variety will not become a competitive advantage and it will be a waste to the organization. When an organization do a differentiation which is important, distinctive, superior, communicable, primitive, affordable, and profitable, it will get popular within the society and immerge as a brand. That is the success of the competitive advantage. So if we get the case study of Tesco Company, it first came out with the Tesco brand in 1924. Today Tesco is known as the British largest retailer by global sales an also domestic market. And as well it is the third largest retailer of the world. So the study of the manner that they are controlling the brand name Tesco in order to achieve the competitive advantage is a good opportunity to gather massive knowledge in this subject area. It was done by studying different viewpoint of brand management in Tesco. Brand value of Tesco: As per the literature embraces on consumer ideas the main reason for this strong brand image is because of the good quality, consistent goods that represent outstanding value. Tescos original ways of improving the customer shopping understanding, as well as its hard work to branch out into finance and insurance have also capitalized on this brand image. Because of this brand value the profits of Tescos operations in Europe, Asia and Ireland enlarged by 78% during the last fiscal year. Their main market base is UK. So the way that they are doing the brand management is as follows. Brand Management of UK Market Base As the prime retailer in the UK, the customer expectation on Tesco is high. So a small failure in upholding the brand image will lose the trust and confidence of the organization. That is why they gained competitive advantage should be sustainable and brand management should be done to retain that. So the consideration of potential risks for the Tescos brand image is extremely important. According to the analysis we can describe they have used the present affecting Tesco brand image of people to expand into new areas such as retail services and non-food and to identify the commercial urgent to do the exact thing for all their stakeholders and evade the loss of such loyalty of people. They are upholding Tescos values at every level and the organizations Code of Ethics guides staffs behaviour in their transactions with customers, employees and suppliers. They try to work out with all the levels stakeholders to get their views and to make sure that the strategies are reflects of the stakeholders. The initiate of the Community Plan in 2006 which was established their pledge to engaging in a wide range of social and environmental issues. Tesco is having eminent level of committees, including the Executive Committee, Corporate Responsibility Committee and Compliance Committee, to guide and monitor their policies. International Brand Management Tesco is having more than ten years of experience in foreign countries; they are using strategy based on six basics in international brand management: Be flexible each market is exceptional and requires a diverse approach Act local local customers, local cultures, local supply chains and local regulations require a modified offer conveyed by local staff Uphold focus on a few countries to be the leading local brand is a long term effort and they believe that it cannot do like growing mushrooms. Use multi-formats no single format can reach the whole of the market. A whole range from convenience to hypermarkets is necessary and they require to take a discounter move towards all the way through Develop ability Its not about scale, its about skill so they want to build that they have enough capability through people, processes systems Build brands brands allow the building of significant continuing relationships with customers. Methodology of the Study The methodology of this research study can be divided into several sections. The first section of the research study deals with the literature review on several aspects, firstly it finds out various articles, definitions, different studies to exactly define about different strategies of organizations applied to compete in a challengeable business environment. After clarify above two from the literature, above broad review of literature has been carried out on TESCO plc starting from its history in to a broad study of organizational products, services, low cost products and strategies. This will be a major part of the literature review which really analyses the literature on organization in analysing its strategies to compete in highly competitive environment with low price of products and service. After that comprehensive literature study the questioner survey will be conducted with the clients of the Tesco to find out its impact on strategies. Apart from that a study will be conducted as a direct interview with the senior management of Tesco selecting a proper sample. Conclusion This is a research proposal based on the topic of How TESCO competes in highly competitive environment with low price of products and service. Accordingly this study discusses about the background to the study and the problem of the study and the justification of the study. After that the consideration was given to identify the objectives of the study and then it was discussed the scope of the study and as well the limitations of the study. After identifying the above topics the methodology of the study has been described and after that a comprehensive literature review has been conducted. As a conclusion that this research proposal provides a better and a comprehensive framework to conduct the research study in a meaningful manner. Accordingly it can be elaborated that in the real research study further we can find out more secondary information on the organization and as well on the factors behind successful strategies to become highly competitive environment with low price of products and service. Further the research study can be completed as a study which discusses a wide area on the factors in finding competitive strategies of organizations with fruitful findings to apply for national and international business environment.

Televisions Impact on Young Teens Essay -- Cause Effect Media Image E

Television's Impact on Young Teens   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  With the ever growing world of mass media becoming more accessible to our children, we must realize the effect television has on the youth of today. The views and images portrayed on television go right to the heart of American youth. Young men and women are being taught that being over weight or not being skinny enough means that you are unattractive and lazy. The ideal female body which television portrays as being normal has gone from the voluptuous figure of Marilyn Monroe and Mimi VanDoren to the skinny waist and bust-line of Pamela Anderson and Brittany Spears. It has become an obsessive, unattainable goal for our young teenage women. These teens find themselves in an endless battle to try and attain figures that are only made possible through cosmetic surgery and a profession that pays you to look a certain way. Many girls who find themselves unhappy with their appearance turn to starvation, which later turns to binge eating, then to self-induced vomiting(B attegay 54).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Eating disorders are far more common in the United States than in any other country. While some countries like Russia and Bosnia are struggling to find food, Americans are creating problems by consuming too much of it. Americanized countries or even any other industrialized countries with the direct influence of television are found to have considerably more problems with eating disorders. Carolyn Costin states in her book The Eating Disorder Source that western women seem to be at greater risk for developing disorders and the degree of Westernization seems to increase the risk. Costin then goes on to say that Evidence suggests that anorexia nervosa is uncommon outside the Western world and in less affluent Western countries. Furthermore, when immigrants move from less industrialized countries to more industrialized countries they are more likely to develop eating disorders. Costin is trying to say that you are at a greater risk of developing an eating order such as anorexia or bulimia in an Americanized culture because of the importance and constant reminders in forms of mass media that you should look thin, loose weight and keep the weight off. These are all things that are ongoing in our brains and degrade the self-image we behold of ourselves. Constin goes on to say: â€Å"Advertisements for taking off weight and keeping it off are fo... ... the product, but also causes insecurities of what we should look like holding the product. The consumers feed the fire of the sources flurry to put products in our faces.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Overall, media has increased its knowledge of its audience more rapidly than ever before. We are monitored by sources we would have never imagined and the problem is getting worse. With the new age of wireless internet and Cracker Jack baseball card sized phones, companies are tracking our every move. They know what we watch, who we call, where we go, and what we buy. They know what products to offer us and they know where to find more people like us so they too can be targeted.(Cantor p.32) The bottom line is that the media’s effect on us through television is much greater than we know. If they can convince us that our bodies are not slim enough, they can convince us that their products are worth buying. We need to rally for tighter standards from the Gatekeepers of television and the rest of mass media. The producers will only keep giving us more and as the audience becomes more and more desensitized we will only continue to want it until we become a warp ed society without values, morals or standards.

Crown Casino Essay -- essays research papers

The casino industry in Australia operates under an environment of uncertainty. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics Australia’s 13 casinos recorded a total operating loss of $288 million in 97-98. Outsiders predict a gloomy future for the casino industry in the next few years due to the reduction in international high rollers and the low level of management talent in Australia’s young casino industry. In this business environment Crown must implement business strategies will carry it into the next century as one of the worlds most successful casino complexes. The Crown was set up as a multimillion-dollar establishment in order to attract international gamblers especially the Asian junket gamblers. However with the economic meltdown of countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia Asian gamblers are fewer and have less money to gamble. The present focus of Crown casino towards the Asian market is fruitless as its competing in a highly saturated international market. International casinos have a much better operational efficiency compared to Crown due to the high levels of tax and intense monitoring experienced by Australian casinos. Nevertheless this excessive regulation reduces the perception of corruption which can be used to market Crown as a reputable operator in the world stage. Its current strategy of focusing on the Asian market is an inefficient management of resources. Crown should focus on the growing local market, which would stabilise the b...

The treatment plan

A client profile:   John Moran is a thirty-four year old man who lives with his fiancà ©e in the town centre of Galway. He is the bar manager of a local venue and is a singer in a rock band. He is a very busy man and seldom has time for himself. His job is very stressful as his boss puts him under a lot of pressure.He also finds dealing with drunken customers very stressful and often ends the night with a headache. He doesn’t get much sleep ( about six hours a night at the most) because he finds it hard to switch his brain off when he is trying to sleep and doesn’t have a day off. He is a non-smoker but feels that the smokey working atmosphere is having a toll on his lungs. On average he does at least one gig a week with his own band. They play all over the country so he spends a lot of time traveling at the weekend. Although he puts a lot of time into the band, organising bookings etc he finds this very enjoyable. He does find however those things can get on top of him and he gets a bit overwhelmed. Because of the amount of time he spends at work he gets little time to exercise. He was once very fit, he use to work on a building site, but would see himself as been very unfit now. He has put on a bit of weight over the last couple of years and is finding it hard to lose it as he loves his sweet stuff and eats a lot of microwave meals.The treatment plan: Because John Moran has no serious health problems, and I found no areas of tension or stiffness, I intend to make John’s sessions as relaxing as possible. I will put more emphasis on effleurage and petrissage movements and stray away from frictions and percussion. This will also help him with his sleeping problems. I will try to make the session as relaxing as possible to help him get some time away from his stresses. I will encourage him to try to eat more healthily and try to take some exercise. I will suggest that he cuts down on his caffeine intake and try to relax a bit more.SESSION ONEDetails of how the client felt du ring and after the treatment:   John Moran seemed to be a bit nervous at the beginning of the session so I asked him what his concerns where. He told me that he had never gone for a massage session before and wasn’t really sure what was going to happen. I explained that he would be covered with towels at all times apart from the area that I was working on.I explained that I would start on his legs, go to his abdomen, followed by his head shoulders and arms. I would then ask him to turn over and I would work on the back of his body. I told him that if at any time he was feeling uncomfortable, tender or in pain to let me know. He seemed a bit calmer and relaxed after this and so we proceeded with the session.Reflective practise:   Judging by the amount of stress that John is under form work I was expected to find areas of tension in his body. However over the entire message I found no area of significant stiffness or tension. All his muscles seemed quite relaxed.Details of home care advice given:   For homecare advice I suggested that he cut down on his caffeine intake as this may be a factor in his sleeping patterns. I also encouraged him to drink plenty of water as he drinks very little to none at the moment. I also suggested that he cut down on his sweet and biscuit intake and try to eat a more balanced diet.

Compare

English in your country to study English in other country, but in general there are more differences. Both options can be beneficial when you decide study English. In this essay will be discuss all the similarities and differences between learn English in Mexico to learn English in Australia, mention the class structure, teachers and the environment outside class. Paragraph 2: Sub topic 1 – Compare (class Structure') To begin with classes with 15-20 students in a classroom, this can be change all the time is not exactly always but it is the common number of students.Secondly, the teachers teach grammar, speaking, writing, listening and reading. There are exams or tests every week and it is important to pass them. Thirdly, everyone can learn English in a private school or in English courses. You need to take a course to present the TOEFL or EELS. Paragraph 3: Sub topic 1 – Contrast To begin with Mexico, there are only 3 levels of English: basic, intermediate and advance. However, is not to common to teach pronunciation. Studying in your country is cheaper than studying in overseas. The classes during about one or two and half hours.Instead, in Australia are more levels for English, also academic English. You can decide to do a Bachelor or study the University. Although, is more expensive and the classes are full time.. If you study in Mexico, depend the course that you want to take, maybe for 6 months or a couple of weeks. You know that the English School is near your house or you only need to drive. But if you decide to study in Australia you need to stay in that country no less than 4 months and can decide to stay more than 1 year with the possibility to extend more.Paragraph 4: Sub topic 2 – Compare (environment outside class') In Mexico like in Australia moreover, you can meet new people , and a great point is that all those people take the course for learn a new language, English. It is a good way to open more your ideas about learning English because every different person that you meet have different ways or manners and you can learn about all these stuff too. Paragraph 5: Sub topic 2 – Contrast In Mexico, after English classes you still speak your own language (Spanish).As well, you are near you family and friends, with all the things that you know. For example, food, public transport, the City, etc. However can be a slow process for learn English. On the other hand, in Australia you speak English all the time, in school, in the street, in the place that you live. Every time. Although, study English in Mexico has less possibilities to meet people from others parts of the world, it is more common to meet new people from Mexico, but if you decide to learn English in Australia you meet people from over the world.Paragraph 6: Sub topic 3 – Compare (teachers') First in Mexico and in Australia the English teachers speak very well English. They have a certificate or accreditation to confirm that they can teach this language. In lasses there is only one teacher to teach everything. Such as, grammar, speaking, reading, writing, listening, everything. And the same teacher does the tests or exam for the students. There are many kinds of teachers. For example, funny, strict, serious, easy going, difficult, and every teacher has their different way to teach English.Paragraph 7: Sub topic 3 – Contrast On the contrary, in Mexico the teachers are from the same country, they need to learn English before teach to students. Sometimes or in general it is more common to communicate in a formal way or depend the teachers but this happened more hen you study the high school. In Australia whereas, great point is that the teachers are natives they talk naturally English, and a better point is that can be teachers from others apart of the world. For example: England, from America, New Zealand, etc.There are more easy going and it is good for the person who start to learn English because their listen accent, pronunciation, the native language Paragraph 8: Conclusion In conclusion, It is important to mention that everyone to choose study English must to study hard and be concentrating all the time. Nevertheless, there are people homo get quickly English because is easier for others. Study English for first time could be difficult, because it is a new and different language.A good point is that all the people that you can meet have similar purpose and you cannot feel bad for known English or for learn slowly. Additionally, you need to know that Australia is totally opposite from Mexico it is so far. And for a long time you will live far from your country, family and friends, and maybe you can have ‘homesick for a short period or always. But the experience that you can have when you learn English in Australia is en of the biggest goals. For instance, you meet people from over around the world, but sometimes you only meet people to come to study English not native peopl e.For example, you have many new friends from Thailand, Korea, and Brazil but maybe you don't know anybody from Australia. Further to this, study in other country has more extra qualities, for example: you can mention in your resume that you learn English in Australia and has experience in different things. And all this can help you to find a better Job. Study English can open more doors in different ways, whatever you iced if study in Mexico or in Australia, but choose study in Australia can change the way that you see the live in many amazing ways.

Benefits of Coffee Essay

How much coffee have you consumed already this morning? One cup? Or maybe even two? Like most college students I enjoy my cup of Joe in the morning! Coffee is one of the greatest sources of antioxidants in the global diet. Consuming large amounts is not advised, but having reasonable amounts everyday can be very beneficial to your body. Today, I would like to inform you about some of the benefits of drinking coffee. 1. Lower Chances of Death. a. Let’s face it we are all going to die. b. Appears to lengthen time for people with heart disease and diabetes c. Kristen Kirkpatrick said that a study in 2012 showed that three or more cups of coffee a day lowers the risk of death regardless of whether participants drank caffeinated or decaffeinated coffee. 2. Makes your reproductive system happy. d. Men would you like a drink that could lower your chances for prostate cancer? And ladies wouldn’t you like to lower your risk for endometrial cancer? e. Kirkpatrick also says that a 2011 study found that men consuming at least six or more cups a day reduced their risk of prostate cancer by 20 percent! Another study published in the Journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention found that women who drank more than four cups of coffee a day had a 25 percent lower risk of endometrial cancer. 3. Lower risks of Type 2 diabetes. f. A 2012 study found that a compound in coffee can actually help block a substance in the body called human islet amyloid polypeptide that may play a role in the development of diabetes. Further studies have demonstrated that caffeinated coffee consumption is linked to decreased diabetes risk as well. 4. Protects your brain. g. When you wake up to the smell of coffee in the morning do you usually smile? h. Coffee drinkers are less likely to develop dementia and Alzheimer’s later in life according to a study done in 2009 i. The smell of coffee can help reduce stress that could be associated with loss of sleep 5. Good for skin. j. Drinking coffee may help you to ward off basal cell carcinoma So, the next time you are wondering whether you should have that second cup of coffee to perk you up, relax. At least now you know how it could help you!

Strategic Analysis of ALDI Essay

1. Introduction Albrecht Discount Inc., globally known as Aldi, is a German based family owned global discount chain of supermarkets. Aldi constitutes of two independent groups, that are Aldi Nord (North) and Aldi Sud (South) legally and economically independent but family related (Aldi Sud Business, 2013). It is the market leader in the industry of international grocery retailing and owns and operates chain of discount grocery stores in Europe, Australia and United States. It’s stores retail and supply general merchandise and food including meat products, fresh meat, frozen and refrigerated foods,  sweets and snacks, dairy and bakery products, beverages and pantry items in addition to home care and personal care products (Report Linker, 2013). In the present Aldi Inc.’s strategic analysis is carried out to identify and evaluate its strategies against its business environment to critically analyze whether the strategies pursued by Aldi are effective in maintaining its market leader position or not. In doing so environmental analysis of international grocery retailing industry is carried out to bring about the opportunities and threats the industry is facing and SWOT analysis is carried out to shed light on Aldi’s strengths and weaknesses and opportunities and threats the industry is facing on the whole. Aldi’s strategies are then evaluated against the SWOT to analyze the effectiveness of its strategies in maintaining its market position. 2. Brief Background on Aldi Aldi Inc., was founded by Karl Albrecht and Theo Albrecht in 1913 in Essen and started trading in bakery products, later in 1914 Karl Albrecht’s wife Anna Albrecht opened the first grocery store. In 1919 they acquired a commercial and residential building in Essen and enlarge the grocery store. 1945 the brothers took over the family business and opened more stores and by the end of 1948 they were four Albrecht stores. In 1954 Albrecht expanded further more and opened its stores outside Essen and branch enlargement took place with 77 stores with core business as food self service. In 1961 two legally separate groups were established known as Aldi Sud and Aldi Nord yet the family remained connected. 1962 first ALDI – Albrecht Discount branched was opened in the discount principle and entire branch network was changed into ALDI format. Gradually internationalized its business by first entering in Austria with acquisition of Hofer retail chain, then further expanded in Germany, entered in the United States, UK, Ireland, Australia, Switzerland, Slovenia and Hungary, in that order (Aldi Sud Facts and Figures, 2013). Aldi Group is active in nine European countries and in European market is one of the leading retail companies and a well known retail chain all over the world. Aldi Sud is into retail food trade and comprises of 31 companies located in Southern and Western Germany and Aldi Nord operates its own branch network of 2500 outlets in the northern and eastern Germany (Aldi Sud  Business, 2013; Aldi Nord, 2013). Aldi Group has more than 10000 stores worldwide with annual turnover of 75bn yet its core market is Germany (Fitzgerald, 2013). Aldi stores are known for their efficiency, no frills stores, low levels of staff, few big brand names and modest opening hours (Fitzgerald, 2013). Their main core competency is cut price through cost cutting, selling cheap and low quality products(Grocery.com, 2013) and its mission is â€Å"simply smarter shopping† (Aldi US, 2013). Aldi’s big rivals include TESCO, Morrison’s, Sainsbury, Asda, Carrefour and Lidl (Sky News, 2013; Butler and Bowers, 2013). The Albrecht’s has expanded into new territories but remains a closely guarded company and never disclose its profit margins citing commercial sensitivity and do not share much information with other branches managers (Fitzgerald, 2013). Aldi has to triple its staff and check outs to cater to the extra one million customers coming to its 500 stores in UK. The firm shunned premium big brands for its cut price own versions of premium ranges to attract new customers looking for cheaper products (Steiner, 2013). The retail market is seeing intense competition and big retail supermarkets are losing market share to discount stores and up market grocers such as Aldi all over Europe and other international markets. 3. Market Identification of Aldi It is an intensely family owned private company. Both Aldi Sud and Aldi Nord operate in retail markets however Aldi Nord mainly in Europe whereas Aldi Sud operates in the United States and Australia among other international locations. It has Aldi stores are located in Germany, Austria, Australia, Denmark, France, Belgium, Greece, Ireland, Hungary, Netherlands, Luxemburg, Poland, Slovenia, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, United states operating in 36 states and United Kingdom (Grocer.com, 2013). Its customers are mainly ‘do it yourself’ shoppers and bargain hunters (Grocer.com, 2013). Aldi in 2013 has outshined its biggest rivals in UK with doubling in annual profits and sales increase of 40.6% being a cut price grocer and holds 3.7% of market share in UK (Steiner, 2013; Sky news, 2013). It earned profit of 157.9 million in 2012 from 70.5 million in 2011 and sales increased from 2.7 billion in 2011 to 3.8 billion in 2012. It opened 34 new stores that were crucial in its strong performance in 2012 (Steiner, 2013). Aldi Ireland revenues increased by 30.7% in 2012 outstripping its German rival Lidl,  opened 3 more stores, in addition to 40 stores in Ireland that are being refurbished or extended. Together Lidl and Aldi control 12.5% of Irish grocery market (Fitzgerald, 2013). Aldi United states’ annual revenue is $68,700 million (U.S) with 1400 stores in 36 states employing 11,000 employees (Grocer.com. 2013). Aldi SUD in Germany consists of 31 independent companies, with more than 1820 branches, employing more than 33,600 employees (Aldi Facts and Figures, 2013). Aldi Nord operates in Eastern, Western and Northern Germany with around 2500 outlets (Aldi Nord, 2013) 4. Environmental Analysis International grocery retailing industry is facing intense competition and become a real battleground, retailing giants are offering plenty of price discounts to attract customers, that is seriously impacting their suppliers and pressure to regulate the sector is growing (Fitzgerald, 2013). The following section analyzes in detail the opportunities and threats the retail grocery industry is facing through PESTEL Analysis. 4.1 PESTEL Analysis 4.1.1 Political factors Legislators of European countries are being pressurized to regulate the retail market because intense competition and price cut is negatively impacting the manufacturers and suppliers (Fitzgerald, 2013). Retail companies are being accused of paying the lowest price to their suppliers, which is harming their business seriously, and are on the brink of collapse. Political campaigns are being carried out and interest groups are asking customers not to buy products their because of that (Osborne, 2012). 4.1.2 Economical factors Economic slowdown in developed countries and Euro zone crises has affected the industry greatly as customers with less income to dispense are forced to shop for cheaper and retailers owned goods swallowing their brand and switching from expensive brands. High flying retail giants are feeling the pinch as there was considerable drop in their sales and profits and more and more customers are switching to discount stores and up market grocers  (Butler and Bowers, 2013). Cash strapped households due to shrinking in their budgets as a result of high inflation that is not proportional to wage rises are flocking to discount stores (Sky News, 2013). The below graph shows consumer retail expenditure five year growth rate of UK (Verdict, 2009). Figure 1: Total consumer retail expenditure of UK- five year growth rate (Verdict, 2009) Burgeoning population, rise in immigration, developed nations beginning to emerge from recession and economic recoveries, falling in unemployment rates, urbanization leading to renewal of growth in retail industry. Disposable income, GDP and consumer spending are the macroeconomic factors that affect retail industry directly (Reuters, 2012). Asia pacific is dominating the industry as it driving the increase in global retail trade, representing 35% of the global retail market and will grow highest among all other regions between 2012 and 2017 (Reuters, 2013). 4.1.3 Social and cultural factors Consumers are becoming more and more socially responsible and considering increasingly the social impact of their purchases and supporting mainly those retailers who are also socially responsible and assert sustainable practices. Consumers are avoiding retailers who they think are irresponsible, encourage sweat shops, exploit suppliers, and outsource manufacturing and carryout unethical practices. Consumer preferences are changing more rapidly than ever before and retailers are struggling to cope up with their changing preferences. Economic recession is giving rise to generational differences, as whole generation experiencing recession are using money more cautiously and less credit cards (Mack, 2013). 4.1.4 Technology factors Technology is changing the way consumers shop retail products and the way retail businesses operate in bad and good ways. Online retail shopping has increased in manifolds along with creating more awareness among consumers, leading to price comparisons to find the best deal across the world. It is presenting both opportunity and threat as technology is helping in boosting retail stores performance but also forcing them to adapt to new changes  brought forward by technology or else give way to competitors who are doing so (Mock, 2013). Technological growth such as mobile commerce has provided opportunity for retailers to better interact with customers and give them more convenience and better service (Reuters, 2013). RFD Radio Frequency Identification Device has facilitated end to end tracking of ingredients and better stock control through business intelligence tools (PWC, 2013). 4.1.5 Environmental Factors Retail chains are being pressurized to be more socially responsible and adopt sustainable practices as their low price strategies are affecting the suppliers and the environment as a whole. Retailers are also accused of harming the environment as they are blamed for increased consumption of food products and causing global food insecurity and also for increased used of harmful plastic material for packaging. They are also accused of indulging in unethical practices to drive the products prices down and not caring for the environment (UNEP, 2003). To minimize this negative trend retail chains have to sustainable materials for packaging and carrying and in turn putting that costs on consumers (Osborne, 2012). 4.1.6 Legal factors Tax issues such as VAT, excise duties, environmental and property taxes, HR taxes, cross border transactions tax issues, corporation taxes and compliance with laws and legislations and increasing costs of corporate social responsibility are presenting challenges to retail industry and increasing their cost of operations. Accounting regulations like adopting of IFRS and passing of Sarbanes Oxley legislation on demand of stakeholders heightened the regulatory pressures on the retail and consumer industry (PWC, 2013). 4.2 Key Trends affecting the industry Consumers are switching from up market retail chains to low price retail chains (Butler and Bowers, 2013). Price inflation of retail products putting more pressure on retailers to decrease its impact on customers and cut down on profit margins (Butler and Bowers, 2013). E commerce and M commerce are increasing leading to increase in online retail (Mack, 2013) Customers are more aware and comparing prices online to gain best deal (Mack, 2013) Burgeoning population, urbanization, economic recovery are renewing growth  in retail sector (Reuters, 2013). Consumers preferences are changing more rapidly than before (Mack, 2013) Consumers are seeking more convenience and using other mode of payments like credit card, debit card etc. (Osborne, 2012; Mack, 2013), New consuming habits such as value shopping in FMCG products and clothing, luxury shopping in furniture and technology (PWC, 2013). Trends towards retailers being more socially responsible and sustainable retailing (PWC, 2013). Consumers supporting local suppliers and against outsourcing (Fitzgerald, 2013) Customer polarization that is have are shopping in up market stores, have not shopping more in low price stores, driving the growth of the industry (Sky News, 2013). Global retail trade growth is driven by Asia Pacific markets and will see highest growth rate. 5. SWOT Analysis 5.1 Strengths Highly efficient stores, staff levels are kept low, operates with only few big brand names and opening hours are fairly modest (Fitzgerald, 2013). High brand value and large extended network of branches covering major developed markets in the world. Continuous expansion in new markets to cater to increased footfall of customers. Basic packaging and limited advertising to keep costs low. Cost advantage derived from economies of scale (Fitzgerald, 2013) Own cheap luxury brands giving stiff competition to expensive luxury brands (Fitzgerald, 2013) Increase in sales mainly coming from new stores (Butler and Bowers, 2013) Discount pricing are impressively cheaper attracting shoppers away from bigger retail giants such as Tesco, Sainsbury Cherry pick bargains offered by Aldi increasing the number of shoppers (Butler and Bowers, 2013) Robust growth over the years (Fitzgerald, 2013) Good for buying staples (Ferruza, 2011) 5.2 Weaknesses In England Aldi does not accept payments through credit card restricting customers who want to pay through credit cards (Osborne, 2012) Charges  customers for a carrier bag (Osborne, 2012)  Low staff levels not able to handle increased customer footfall Reputation damaged because of recent horsemeat scandal and employee spying accusations (Snoops, 2013; Stuart, 2013; The Guardian, 2013). Serious limitation of product selection only 2800 products varieties are offered while other supermarket offer 30000 and shopping cart has to be rented for a quarter, (returned later after cart is kept back) (Grocery.com; Ferruza, 2013) Less glamorous store , interior ambience of stores is not so great, stores are like warehouses, does not decorate shelves, spends very less in packaging, stocking and transportation (Grocery.com, 2013) Stocks low quality products (Ferruzza, 2011). Less glamorous stores, ambience not attractive in stores, it’s like warehouse style store, no frills Stocks low quality products Limited product selection Low level of staff Charges for carrier bags and shopping carts Does not accept payment through credit cards Reputation damaged due to horse meat scandal and employee spying Sells mostly own brands label and limits the number of outside brands Very low advertising and store promotion and only in-house advertising Opportunities Economic recovery in development markets, burgeoning population, urbanization renewing growth Technology such as m-commerce and e-commerce increasing sales Customer polarization increasing discount retailers sale Economic slowdown in the past, inflation and high unemployment rate forcing customers to buy cheaper products Global retail trade growth is high in Asia pacific region and driving the market Price inflation moving customers to discount stores Threats Customers inclination towards sustainability, corporate social responsibility and preference to local suppliers threatening the cost efficiency of discount stores Taxation, and heightened regulations Technology creating operational complexities Consumer changing consuming habits and preferences threatening the industry 6. Identification and evaluation of the Strategies pursued by Aldi Aldi’s competitive strategy is to gain competitive advantage over its rivals through efficiency. Its competitive strategy is low cost leadership that it derives from economies of scale, cost efficiency, low staff level, low quality products, limited product selection and high bargaining power with suppliers (Fitzgerald, 2013; Butler and Bowers, 2013; Steiner, 2013). Its strategy to achieve its mission of simple smarter shopping it has implemented the following strategies in view of its changing business environment. 6.1 Strategies implemented by ALDI Constant rolling out new stores with increased size between 10,000 and 15,000 sq.ft in all countries it is operating (Fitzgerald, 2013). Backward vertical integration, producing cheaper luxury products to attract consumers who are  switching from expensive luxury brands (Grocery.com; Fitzgerald, 2013). Renovation and expansion of existing stores (Fitzgerald, 2013). Started using advertising campaigns to attract more up-market customers to promote its own luxury brand labels deviating from its past strategies (Butler and Bowers, 2013). Increased checkout points and staff level in its store to cater to extra one million customers coming to its stores all over Europe (Steiner, 2013). Delivering high value to customers who are looking for cheaper deals through efficiency in transportation, presentation and packaging (Steiner, 2013). Online sales and apps for attracting internet savvy consumer and engaging customers through social networks (Aldi App, 2013). Sustainable sourcing and reducing environmental impact through recycling and minimum packaging (Aldi Nord, 2013). 6.2 Critical Evaluation of the Strategies In view of Aldi Inc.’s SWOT and the strategies it has implemented it can be said that Aldi’s strategies are in sync with its changing business environment and taking advantage of its strengths and minimizing its weaknesses. By expanding its store sizes, renovating and redecorating its existing stores and opening new stores of bigger sizes it has tried to minimize its weakness of less glamorous warehouse type store. And by opening more stores consistently over the years it is taking advantage of burgeoning population that is resulting in increase of customer footfall (Fitzgerald, 2013). It has also taken care of its weakness of low staff level and increased staff level and checkouts to cater to increased customer footfall (Steiner, 2013). It has started rolling out advertising campaigns for promotions to attract luxury customers and elevated its market positioning by retailing luxury products and changing its reputation of a retailer of low quality products (Butler and B owers, 2013). Aldi is gradually moving from discount store principle to convenient store principle, opening stores in affluent locations, offering luxury products, delivering both value and quality to broaden its consumer base (Skynews, 2013). Through vertical backward integration it has taken advantage of the opportunity presented by the consumer shifting from expensive luxury products to comparatively cheaper luxury products by producing its own luxury label offering them at less price. Broaden its customer base by opening stores in affluent  locations and changing its positioning from a discount store to a convenient store, this is to take advantage of opportunity presented by economic recoveries of developed countries. It has sustained its cost efficiency competitive advantage by lessening costs on packaging, transportation and offering cherry deals. Aldi apps facilitate m-commerce, and it also sells online and interacts with customers using social networks, thus it is taking advantage of op portunities presented by digital media technology. It has minimized threat presented by environmental factors by adopting recycling and has become more socially responsible by adopting sustainable practices for sourcing to minimize the threat presented by customers inclination towards sustainability. However Aldi has not fully taken advantages of other opportunities such as taking advantage of growing Asia Pacific market, it is operating only in Australia and has not yet entered Asian countries where high growth is expected and many governments have opened foreign direct investment in retailing. Price inflation of products and heightened laws and regulations will threaten its cost leadership strategy and in future might increase its operational costs and it may not be able to sustain its competitive strategy for long however it has not taken any measures to address these threats. Increasing staff level will increase its labor costs adding to its operational costs further. 7. Conclusion Aldi Inc. is evolving and implementing strategies to take advantage of opportunities and thwart threats presented by its environment by exploiting its strengths and reducing or eliminating its weaknesses. It has resulted in success as Aldi has experienced great success in 2013 with increased profit and sales compared to other supermarket chains however it may not be able to sustain its competitive advantage for long because prices and costs are increasing and profit margins are decreasing with retail market being saturated in developed countries, it has to expand its operations into new markets for sustaining growth and maintaining market leader position. 8. References Aldi App, (2013), Smart Phone, Aldi App, Aldi Us, Available at https://www.aldi.us/en/services/smartphone-app/, Accessed 25 November, 2013. Aldi Nord, (2013), â€Å"Business†, Aldi Nord, Available at http://www.aldi-nord.de/unternehmen.html, Accessed 28 November, 2013. Aldi Sud Business, (2013), â€Å"Aldi Sud Business†, Aldi Sud, Available at https://unternehmen.aldi-sued.de/de/ueber-aldi-sued/unternehmen/, Accessed 24 November, 2013. Aldi Sud Facts and Figures (2013), â€Å"Aldi Sud Fact and Figures†, Aldi Sud, Available at https://unternehmen.aldi-sued.de/de/ueber-aldi-sued/unternehmen/daten-und-fakten/, Accessed 21 November, 2013. Aldi US, (2013), â€Å"Aldi US Corporate†, Aldi Us, Available at https://corporate.aldi.us/, Accessed 27 November, 2013. Butler, S., and Bowers, S., (2013), â€Å"Britain’s big supermarkets lose ground to cut price rivals and up market grocers†, The Guardian, Available at http://www.theguardian.com/business/2013/nov/19/britain-supermarkets-market-share-fall-tesco-sainsburys -lidl, Accessed 22 November, 2013. Ferruzza, C., (2011), â€Å"Forget Trader Joe’s let’s hear it for Aldi†, Pitch, Available at http://www.pitch.com/FastPitch/archives/2011/07/18/forget-trader-joes-lets-hear-it-for-aldi, Accessed 19 November 2013. Fitzgerald, K., (2013), â€Å"Germany the history of Aldi Supermarkets†, Meat Trade News Daily, Available at http://www.meattradenewsdaily.co.uk/news/300413/germany___the_history_of_aldi_supermarkets_.aspx, Accessed 23 November, 2013. Grocery.com, (2013), â€Å"Aldi Foods†, Grocery.com, Available at http://www.grocery.com/aldi-foods/, Accessed 27 November, 2013. Mack, S, (2013), â€Å"Social Factors Affecting Retail Business†, Small Business Chron, Available at http://smallbusiness.chron.com/social-factors-affecting-retail-business-71662.html, Accessed 23 November, 2013. PWC, (2013), â€Å"Industry Issues†, PWC, Available at http://www.pwc.co.uk/retail-consumer/issues/retail-and-consumer-ind ustry-issues.jhtml, Accessed 22 November, 2013. Osborne, H., (2012), â€Å"The Aldi Experience: Supermarket shopping with a difference†, The Guardian, Available at http://www.theguardian.com/money/blog/2012/oct/08/aldi-supermarket-shopping-difference, Accessed 25 November, 2013. Reportlinker, (2013), â€Å"Aldi Inc. – Strategic SWOT Analysis Review†, Report Linker, Available at http://www.reportlinker.com/p0500369-summary/Aldi-Inc-Strategic-SWOT-Analysis-Review.html, Accessed 29 November, 2013. Reuters (2013), â€Å"Research and