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Business Decision Making Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Business Decision Making - Essay Example The cost for the patio house with 3 rooms and 2 washrooms is ?395,000. The normal cost for 2-roo...

Monday, September 30, 2019

Men Are Superior to Women Essay

Men are Superior to Women for the Appellation of ChineseThe cultures in china, Men are stereotyped as a muscular, tough, and strong figure. Until now, the positions of men are still the same. In the traditional Chinese point of view, they deem that men are better. I don’t deny this opinion because I am a man. As a result, my assumptions for the man culture in china in the following aspects, parental training, education and social expectations. First of all, in my country, parents or grandparents used to treat sons better than daughters. According to my culture, â€Å"men should take care of the outside (means earn money), and women should take care of the business inside (means domestic). † My assumption is in the poor area, when a lady is young; she is not got the best from her parent. They used physical punishments when she was misbehaved; she can not allowed to sleep on the bed or couch, instead, she had to sleep on the ground; while she can not allowed to receive education. Besides parental training, education is another area that I think being a man is better in china. My assumption is there are more choices for men in either high school or college most of the time. It is because in china, the educational system in high schools is divided to two major which is art and science. There are no such requirements that woman couldn’t take the science streams. As well as the education and parental training, there are conscious different in social expectations between males and females in china. It is always true that there are more social expectations of males than females. My assumption is â€Å"A male without a job is seen as somebody who is simply not fulfilling his or her major social role, whereas a woman without a job is more acceptable. † The responsibilities for men are taking care of their soul mate and their family. After leaving school, men just work. All the entire life is about work. However, there are no such things for woman. No one will blame a woman who does not have a job. Even so, once I born as a male, I deserve the challenge. Is it become a men are easier than women? There is no certain answer for this question. I strongly believe that men cultures make their life easier in the following aspects, parental training, education and social expectations. As a result, my assumptions for the men culture in china in the following aspects, parental training, education and social expectations. I am proud of being a man and I know my assumption is negative for the women. Indeed, I do not deny that most of the Asian’ nations limit the female’s opportunities. Thus, encouragement needs to be given to girls to help them get past the societies limits on girls. Today, woman power going up and a lot of people talk about men and woman should be more equal. My positive assumption for the future is Chinese culture will start change due to china opens the door to accept new thing form the west. It should be good for women and I hope women’s life will be better. Now they start trust that men and women are equal in importance, either one side has a heavier proportion.

Sunday, September 29, 2019

Distribution Plan Essay

The distribution and delivery section of LEAPh Incorporation aims to satisfy and create values for the customers in which the company operates. The distinguishing characteristics of the business will be the combination of management experience, sales and distribution experience, high quality, innovative products and exceptional customer service. In particular, the Leading Philippines Incorporation will do a full service distribution servicing the customers in the market with a fulfilling assistance. In addition, the LEAPh Inc. will have an exclusive contract to distribute a new, groundbreaking product that would enable the company to gain immediate access to a majority of the potential customer base. The LEAPh Inc. intends to become a recognized distributor of one of a kind Digital Single-Lens Reflex Camera (DSLR) in the Philippines and become an internationally known locale brand. Leading Philippines Inc. plans to develop strong relationships with key customers so that the company will be viewed as an indispensable partner, rather than just another manufacturer. The company will work closely with each customer to recommend product assortment unique for their retail base, appropriate stocking levels, pricing and display assortments, as well as promotional ideas and material to increase sales. The LEAPh will seek out and work with the retailers that represent to deliver the most innovative and exciting products possible to the customers that will be served. In order for the products to be received by the customers, the LEAPh will be going to distribute the cameras through sales representatives and through retail stores as well. The company will be using a three level distribution channel. In a three level channel structure, the retailers serve as intermediaries between the consumers and the manufacturer which is the LEAPh. Retailers order products directly from the manufacturer, and then sell those products directly to the consumers. This will enable the company to stay in touch with the retailers up to the end users of the products and understand their tastes, preferences and tendencies. This will also help the company to minimize the total distribution costs for the given products. MANUFACTURER RETAILERS CUSTOMERS Leading Philippines Inc. Department Stores Customers The intermediaries which are the retailer’s outlets provide several benefits to both manufacturers and consumers. It will improve the efficiency of the company; make a better assortment of products, the reutilization of transactions, and easier searching for goods as well as customers. The use of this level of distribution will also aid the search processes of both the buyers and sellers. Producers are searching to determine their customers’ needs, while customers are searching for certain products and services. A degree of uncertainty in both search processes can be reduced by using this channel of distribution. For example, consumers are more likely to find what they are looking for when they shop at retail institutions organized by separate lines of trade, such as grocery, hardware, and clothing store. In addition, producers can make some of their commonly used products more widely available by placing them in many different retail outlets, so that consumers are more likely to find them at the right time. The company will be implementing an individualized customer service which will provide the customers with what they want, when and how they want it with the help of the retailers. This fully integrated program for the customers will help the company to increase its sales through innovations of the products, creating promotions, advertising, custom marketing material and the word of mouth from its customers. In this way, the company has the full control over the distribution of the products as well. Here are the methods that will be used in this level of channel distribution of the products from Leading Philippines Inc.: †¢ Selling of products through the leading retail outlets and department stores nationwide. †¢ Selling the products by the orders that are received by telephone, email and fax which is also known as telemarketing. ( Made possible by advertising the products through websites) This stage of distribution channel will also be use in order for the products to be widely available in all leading department stores and retailer’s shops nationwide. And to optimize the product launch as well. The LEAPh will employ an intensive distribution to the customers so that the products could be distributed from as many department stores and retailers ‘outlets as possible to provide a location convenience for its consumers. It will also increase the sales of the company, and provide wider customer recognition. By communicating and building relationships with the members at each step in the channel, there should be a proper communication throughout the channel and every member in the channel should contribute for a healthy relationship. Transparency should be maintained throughout the channel.

Saturday, September 28, 2019

Victim Participation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Victim Participation - Essay Example In most cases, forensic criminologists and detectives work together with the criminal victims in order to gather evidence or encompass DNA samples, gather fingerprints at the crime scene or collect eyewitness statements. Alternatively, prosecutors also work with the criminal victims in order to establish the actual criminal events and testimonies during the trial (Das, 1997). Historically, the victim’s role in any criminal prosecution remains critical. The testimony of the victim therefore remains an important element in case there is need for an effective prosecution. In any prosecution and investigation, there is the need for a victim’s cooperation, which might often result in the prosecutor’s discretion exercise in favor of the prosecution. The participation of the victim in the criminal case is therefore critical and desirable (Das, 1997). However, within different basic frameworks, there are actions, which generally limit the role of the victims in participating in the criminal justice process. In most cases, the participation of the criminal victims in the case might be limited only when their presence will significantly make the process in effective (Das,

Friday, September 27, 2019

Considering Cases Of Bankruptcy And Reorganisation Of A Partnership Essay

Considering Cases Of Bankruptcy And Reorganisation Of A Partnership - Essay Example Bankruptcy is usually a legally declaration of individuals or organizations inability to pay their creditors. This request is done by the creditors in order for them to recoup a fraction of what they are owed by an individual or an organization. However, bankruptcy can also be initiated by the individuals themselves or organization in case they feel that they are not capable of paying their debts. In simple words, an individual or an organization is insolvent or bankrupt if it cannot pay his debts or discharge his liabilities on the due date. The creditors or the debtors themselves may present a petition to the court that a receiving order should be made. For this case, Beren took the correct step of filing an involuntary petition with the court of law to declare their partnership bankrupt as indicated in chapter 7. Indeed the partnership had exceeded their estimate of purchasing and renovating the office building to a point of accumulating debts amounting to $380,000 against the $200,000 they had set aside for this and effort by Beren to convince other partners to seek additional funds bore no fruits. On the other had Elliot and Mannino objected to Beren's idea of involuntary bankruptcy under Chapter 7. ... Under Chapter 7, there is an alternative relief for the debtors to avoid the issue of their partnership being liquidated and continue doing it business. For this case the involuntary petition filed by Beren may not be granted by the court which was done against the wish of Elliot and Mannino. (U.S Courts, 2006) Elliot and Mannino should file a petition under chapter 11 of the bankruptcy code. The debtors may argue that they would pay the debts if the payment period is extended. They may also argue that they may have a comprehensive reorganization. 1 The main objective of bankruptcy is to give an honest individual a clean bill of life or a fresh start after discharging certain debts. Usually the there is no responsibility of liabilities already discharged on the side of the debtor. Question Two Explaining Whether the Bankruptcy Court Confirms the Debtor's Plan of Reorganization A voluntary petition was filed by Richard under chapter 11. He filed a reorganization plan that divided his creditors into three classes. The three classes were: administrative creditors which were to be paid in full; the second class were unsecured creditors which were to receive 50% on their claims and the third class was the IRS which was to receive $20,000 on confirmation and the balance in future payments. There was no creditor who voted to accept this arrangement and the unsecured creditors were impaired since their legal, equitable, and contractual rights were being altered. (http://www.uscourts.gov/bankruptcycourts/bankruptcybasics/chapter11.html) To keep the firm running, debtors propose a plan of reorganization in order for them to pay their creditors in a considerable period of time. A

Thursday, September 26, 2019

Dinner at the Homesick Restaurant Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Dinner at the Homesick Restaurant - Term Paper Example So as we view the character of Cody in the novel, we can find that he is disturbed in the very beginning of the novel due to the uncomfortable situations in his child hood life. The very beginning stage of life of Cody is witnessing the hostile nature of his father and this gets stamped in the conscious and subconscious mind of Cody. The Freud’s theory explains that the conscious self when responds to the call of unconscious demands of id then the ego formulates. According to (Priestley) â€Å"The Freudian concept of the conscious self, responding to the unconscious demands of the id takes form in the ego†. The novel is strikingly explaining the Cody’s wild and adventurous nature and how he sees is life as a failure in the early years of childhood. Every child expects love and care from their parents and when they does not get what they expect, the ego and consciousness gets hurt Cody is described in the novel to be thirsty of love and warmth from both his mother and father. Since his father Beth left him in his early years of life, he can in one way develop grudge towards his father. If we dissect the character of Cody according to different factors explained by Freud’s, the explanation will be as below: The conscious of Cody is the interacting platform in which he acts towards the outside world. The conscious self has knowledge of day to day activities and react to people in different ways. The conscious personality of Cody is wild and adventurous but the situation at home is adverse to his personality. Cody feels that his mother is ignorant and unloving. This can make his personality obscure and irritable. Children in early years of their lives are extremely demanding and if parents cannot meet their demands then the subconscious mind reflect disparities in their behavior. Here, Cody is of the opinion that his mother favors his sibling Ezra too much and he is disliked by his mother to a great extend.

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Issues In Researching and Developing Media Projects Research Paper

Issues In Researching and Developing Media Projects - Research Paper Example The portrayal of multicultural aspect of European society commenced during the 1960s in Britain and France with the key motive of creating awareness among the migrant populations regarding the host society’s customs and policies. However, the contemporary media, has a completely reformed agenda, that of assimilating and integrating the migrant and multicultural populations within the predominantly white communities and cater to their needs and demands at par with those of their counterparts. The European mass media, today, through its multicultural approach, largely aims to eliminate or reduce the cultural misunderstandings through representation of culturally diverse communities, as opposed to the historical approach, of merely educating the migrants about the way of life of their host societies. It seeks to eliminate discrimination on the grounds of race, culture or social backgrounds of the individuals and encourage peaceful co-existence through intercultural exchange (Alle yne, 2010). This paper seeks to explore the extent to and manner in which multiculturalism is driven by advertising in different media. For the purpose of this study, various forms of mass media i.e. advertisements, books and films have been analyzed to understand the effect it has on promoting and depicting multiculturalism. The advertisements of popular brands, such as McDonalds, American Airlines, and Dove Real Beauty Campaign among others; the book ‘Londonstani’ by Gautam Malkani; and the film ‘Somers Town’ directed by Shane Meadows are studied, analyzed and discussed to gain a broader understanding of the subject. It concludes that the depiction of multicultural ideologies in the mass media, and advertising has facilitated a greater assimilation of culturally diverse communities and has fostered their identification as significant strata of society which is also a lucrative business

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Proposal and thesis statement Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Proposal and thesis statement - Essay Example The most important change should be making the curriculum more interesting and challenging for the students, once this happens one would witness a sharp decline in the dropout numbers. The curriculum should also be made challenging so that students study and accept their new challenge. It is very important to find out the reason for students dropping out each year, some dropout because they get bullied, some stop going to school because of poor grades and depression while some others get pregnant unexpectedly and decide to dropout, it is very important to know the right reason and take appropriate measures. â€Å"KIDS are dropping out of school as early as year 7 without any follow-up, a Springvale police officer says. Youth resource officer Leading Sen-Constable Leanne Cooper said many parents were happy to have their children at home, citing at least one 16-year-old girl who had not attended school since she was in year 7.† (Alarming School Drop-out rates) It is extremely im portant to check this long standing problem and to come up with steps which would eliminate it completely; it requires a lot of effort and diligence. References Alarming School Drop-out rates (2011). Rising Drop-out Rates. Retrieved from http://dandenong-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/alarming-school-drop-out-rates-in-dandenong/

Monday, September 23, 2019

Business law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 20

Business law - Essay Example It is suitable in a business environment in which the party are able come together and the party values a relationship that they have enjoyed. An example is the case in which one party to a contract has breached terms of a contract. The parties can come together with the aim of reconstructing the contract or finding a suitable remedy to the injured party. The negotiation process will involve the elements of the Bloom’s Taxonomy as the parties consider available alternatives. The parties will remember terms of the contract and reasons for the breach in order to understand their positions. They can then use the information to generate possible solutions. An evaluation of the possible solutions can then inform the parties’ decision into formulation of a remedy or a collection of remedies to the dispute. In implementing the Bloom’s taxonomy in negotiation, the party can reach a solution that is acceptable to both of them and one that can sustain their existing relati onship (Miller and Jentz 75; Overbaugh and Schultz 1). Mediation is another form of alternative dispute resolution system that parties in a business environment can use. The method involves the role of a third party that tries to bring the parties together in order to reach a solution. The party is always neutral to the dispute and does not impose any solution to the parties. The third party may however propose solutions and try to enlighten the conflicting parties of the benefits of the solution. The parties to the conflict however reserve the power to make a decision on whether to resolve the conflict or not and the solution to accept. Unfair business practice, such as blackmailing advertisement, is an example of a situation in which mediation can be used. In case, the parties may have a tense inter-business relationship that makes it hard for them to come together and agree. A third party can however bring them together and help them to reflect on the problem and understand its root

Sunday, September 22, 2019

A Knot in the Wood Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

A Knot in the Wood - Essay Example We sat in an old cafe in the West Village, an easy walk from NYU. Last week, an airline special caught his eye and I had to cancel my plans to accommodate his last minute trip. I was supposed to be in Vermont with my boyfriend Josh, who took his roommate instead. At first, I had felt ambushed, but then I remembered who my father was; or, rather, who he wasn’t: not spontaneous, impulsive, or effusive. Dad hadn’t been to New York since his honeymoon and he kept pointing to buildings to explain their architectural significance, starting sentences that trailed off like dust behind a car. He wouldn’t commit to anything, like seeing a play, walking through Central Park, or spending a day at the Met. All the tourist things my classmates did with their parents. People said grief aged you, but not my father, still handsome with a full head of salt and pepper hair. He looked too young to have a daughter in her mid-twenties; too young to be a widower. Hunched over his coffe e, he asked how school was going. â€Å"I’m taking a series of art history because there’s this program in Barcelona. I thought maybe I could spend a semester there.† â€Å"It’s far away.† He had said the same thing about my summer trip to Amsterdam. When I finally got around to sending him the package of souvenirs along with a stack of snapshots, he offered a terse thank you and said I looked too thin in the photos. Now here he was. I glanced around the cafe. We were upstairs in a window seat, and I took turns watching the customers downstairs and the pedestrians on the street. The weather turned last night, and that afternoon everyone was bundled in hats and scarves. Wind blew garbage and leaves down the street. Halloween decorations still hung in a few shop windows. Below, two men stood on a corner, both smiling. I could see their breath when they spoke. I felt that nagging guilt that I shouldn’t have chosen a school so far away. I had st ayed close for college, a two-hour drive away, so I could come home at least one weekend a month. It had been just the two of us from the start. I underestimated how hard it would be on him. â€Å"Is that why you came? You want me to transfer?† â€Å"No. Absolutely not. But you should come home for the holidays.† â€Å"I’ll be home for Christmas.† He closed his eyes for a moment as though he was in pain or trying to remember something. â€Å"Dad?† His eyes popped open and for the first time since he’d been in town, I felt like he was really looking at me. I watched as he took in my face. Even though he didn’t say it anymore, I knew he was thinking of how much I looked like my mother. It was difficult being a carbon copy of someone who was dead. His face relaxed and now it was I unable to meet his eyes. I rotated my cup, swishing my coffee to even out the sugar before taking a sip. Maybe I should have dyed my hair brown or red--anythin g but my mother’s blonde. â€Å"Do you want to take a walk?† he asked. I inventoried his clothes: a sweater but no jacket. I doubted he had packed gloves or a scarf. â€Å"It’s getting cold. You think you’ll be warm enough?† He nodded. â€Å"I can always buy something.† We rose from our chairs and shuffled our way down the stairs. My father held the door for me, ushering me into the cold. My hair whipped around my face and I wrestled on my hat, a pale green felt one my father had sent in a care package. He smiled. â€Å"I’ve always liked you in that color.† â€Å"Thanks. Let’

Saturday, September 21, 2019

Police officer essay Essay Example for Free

Police officer essay Essay Every person has his own dream or ambition in life. Someone wants to become a soldier, someone a doctor, some an engineer or a politician and so on. Some others aspire for the careers of authors, actors or singers. But my ambition is to become a police officer in my future life. In the drill class in my school, I was very serious, and always tried to follow and learn the rules of parade as perfectly as possible because I wanted to become a member of the police force. A police officer, as far as I know, has to be disciplined, honest and maintain the law and order in the society. He is also expected to possess an attitude of help and rescue towards the deserving cases with a selfless mind. When I grow and become a police officer, my motto will be to serve the society with an impartial attitude by saving the distressed persons and punishing the culprits. I will definitely try to infuse the sense of duty and an essence of discipline into the minds of the common man in the society. I promise not to misuse my power and soil my hands with the dust of corruption. I shall obey my superiors and give protection to my subordinate staff. That is how I shall try to prove myself as a perfect police officer. My father is a senior officer in the police force. He is an ideal example before my eyes. I want to follow his footsteps in my future life.

Friday, September 20, 2019

Critical Analysis Of The Strategic Issues Faced Starbucks Marketing Essay

Critical Analysis Of The Strategic Issues Faced Starbucks Marketing Essay The aim of this project report is to critically analyse the strategic issues being faced by an organization. The organization chosen for this task is the company Starbucks, which will be analysed using relevant concepts reviewed in the module using appropriate theory and models. The analysis will include assessment of the external and internal factors and also the competitive forces influencing the company Starbucks. This will be accomplished by the application of PESTEL analysis and the PORTER 5 FORCES model. A combined analysis would be carried out by undertaking a SWOT analysis for the organization. The project report would also include analysis of the Starbucks Corp using the ANSOFF Matrix and the BCG Matrix to suggest the strategic choices the company needs to make to counter the strategic issues outlined by this report. The report structure would start with a brief introduction to the company Starbucks followed by the strategic issues faced by the firm. The issues are outlined before in the report based on the analysis which has been carried out using the above models. After discussing the current and recent issues facing Starbucks the company analysis would follow which would be supported with relevant theory and application of suitable models. After completing the industry analysis conclusion and recommendations would be provided for Starbucks to counter the strategic problems. STARBUCKS AN INTRODUCTION The Starbucks Company was founded in Seattle in 1971 by Jerry Baldwin, Gordon Bowker and Zev Seigel with a vision to educate American consumers about the fine coffee drinking experience. In 1987 Howard Schultz took over the Starbucks Group, he wanted to create the Italian espresso bar experience in America by creating a personal relationship between the customers and their coffee. Just within a couple of years they grew from a small coffee business house to a multi-million dollar player in the industry by buying only the best coffee available and providing the people with an unmatched store experience. As standing, Starbucks is number one in the speciality coffee industry, with more than 12,000 shops in more than 35 countries. The Starbucks mission statement is To inspire and nurture the human spirit one person, one cup and one neighbourhood at a time. Freshly brewed coffee is the main product offered by Starbucks along with other drinks which include cold and hot teas, cakes and pastries. The Starbucks coffee comes in a many varieties each possessing a different taste, aroma and flavour. In addition to its extensive product offerings, Starbucks has many brands including; Starbucks Hear Music, Tazo Tea, Starbucks Entertainment, , Ethos Water, Torrefazione Italia coffee and Seattles Best Coffee. The successful management of all of these brands pulled together constitutes the Starbucks portfolio. Starbucks is also one of the most globally conscious corporations in the world.  Ã‚  In 2006 Starbucks donated $36.1 million in cash and products, volunteered 383,000 hours in local communities, required growers to use strict environmental guidelines, used 20% renewable energy in stores, and actively recycled in almost 80% of stores in US and Canada. Starbucks has established itself as the coffee leader in the world and has done so on a socially and environmentally conscious platform.   STRATEGIC ISSUES FACING STARBUCKS The major challenge that Starbucks is dealing with is the current financial crisis in the world economy forcing them to call closures of many stores around the world. Another challenge that Starbucks is dealing with is competitors. There are numerous coffee shops all over the world and being able to stand out to generate customers is important. Their main competitors are Dunkin Donuts, McDonalds, and Nestle in the US and brands like Costa Coffee and Caffà ¨ Nero in the UK, the two major markets for Starbucks. It is important that for Starbucks to know their competitors and what they are currently doing. Also Starbuck coffees are priced higher than other market competitors because of Starbucks only purchasing the highest quality coffee beans for their product, thus increasing the price of the drink giving the competitors a cost advantage over Starbucks. Also Starbucks inadequate marketing strategy on advertising is a hindrance in the business growth opportunities. They prefer to build the brand by promoting the drinks cup-by-cup with customers. The advertisement ends until they drink the coffee, reducing the chances to attract valuable customers. Starbucks also does not emphasize on distributing their products to supermarket because of being concerned with the quality of the coffee; if the coffees were packaged into plastic bags. Also the rigorous expansion strategy followed by Starbucks can take a toll on the firms brand image. As corporations grow there can be a tendency to focus too heavily on increasing output and locations, and less focus on quality and brand image. Starbucks needs to stay with its values and ideals that have made it successful. Also Starbucks policy of not franchising can be a cause of concern for the firm. Franchising would allow the company to open many new stores with less risk, and make considerable profits in doing so. Because of this the firms research and development costs would fall making use of the franchisee knowledge of the local market in terms of geographic, , psychographics, demographics, and the local country regulations. STARBUCKS ANALYSIS This part of the report would analyse the working of the business by application of PESTEL analysis, Porter 5 forces, the BCG Matrix, SWOT analysis and the Ansoff Matrix. PESTEL ANALYSIS POLITICAL Taxation policy High taxes levied on farmers in the bean producing countries, would consequently increase the rate at which Starbuck would buy the coffee beans and any such fluctuations in the taxation policy would certainly be passed on to the consumer, who now would have to purchase the end item at a higher price. International trade regulations and tariffs Trade issues would affect Starbucks directly when exporting and importing goods. When the government of the trading country imposes a tariff it would not only resulting in an efficiency loss for Starbucks but such large income transfers can also become inconsistent with equity. This extra charge would have to be borne by the consumers. Government stability A change in government policies has a direct impact on the taxation and legislation framework. Also the countries in political turmoil or civil war should be considered with great caution when considering probable market ventures. Employment law Reduction in the licensing and permit costs in coffee bean producing countries would consequently lower production costs for the farmers and any such saving would subsequently pass on to Starbucks when purchasing the raw materials and finally to the customers. ECONOMIC Interest rates High interest rates would mean putting off the investment and expansion plans of Starbucks, which would result in fewer earnings for the firm. Low interest rates should have the opposite effect. Economic Growth In periods of negative growth, the consumer incomes would fall leaving less disposable income thus impacting sales for Starbucks. Inflation rates Business costs will rise in times of inflation which would ultimately have to be borne by the consumer. Competitors pricing Competitive pricing from competitors would impact Starbucks pricing that would drive down the profit margin as they try to maintain their market share. Exchange rates If the currency value falls in a bean supplying country, Starbucks would get more for the same price, when importing the goods. This saving would be passed to the end consumer. SOCIAL Population demographics Identification of the target population at which Starbuck needs to aim their products is a significant factor in the business operations. The marketing campaign undertaken would focus accordingly. Coffee is a luxury product in some ways, so the people with the most amount of disposable income should be targeted. Working Population A large number of workers in big cities now go out for lunch and meals. Starbucks can cash this to their advantage and promote the shop as a place where people can meet and eat, boosting the sales. Location A good location which is easily accessible is vital to ensure that the customers visit the shop. TECHNOLOGICAL IT development Starbucks launched its first-generation e-commerce website in 1998. As a result, scalability and performance have improved, and the company now has the tools it needs to profile and target customers, analyse site data, and deliver new features to the market in the shortest time possible. New materials and processes Technology developments in coffee making machines and the computer systems that Starbucks use to operate their cash registers would enable the staff to work swiftly and efficiently. This results in customers being served quickly thus creating potential for serving more people in the day. Rate of technological change Technology is advancing at an astounding rate. Starbucks will need to invest majorly just to stand their ground in the always expanding and developing market, and also to try to stay ahead of competitors. ENVIRONMENTAL Pollution problems Starbucks customers create a lot of waste by disposing off the cup and the contents incorrectly. The material for the cup should be carefully selected to make it as biologically degradable as possible. Planning permissions Planning permission may not be granted to Starbucks if the construction would harm the environment. The land may be protected. Work disposal There are strict laws in most countries pertaining to waste disposal and non-adherence to these could lead to Starbucks being sanctioned, which would affects them financially and also tarnish the reputation of the brand name. Environmental pressure groups Starbucks should be aware of the influential and physical power of groups such as Friends of the Earth and Greenpeace. Any violation of animal or environmental rights by a company is usually followed by a swift and attention-drawing protest from one of the groups. Brand image and customer bases are often irreconcilably tarnished due to the actions of these groups. LEGAL Trade and product restrictions Starbucks need to follow the trade laws of the countries where they have established businesses. They must ensure that they are not in violation of any local laws. Certain countries impose a tariff that has to be paid accordingly when importing or exporting goods and this must be taken into account as well. Employment laws Each country has different employment laws, like limiting the number of hours a person can work per week, varying levels of minimum wage etc. Starbucks should be aware of such factors when considering business expansion. Health and Safety regulations By not maintaining high standards they would be liable for damages if found in violation as it is a legal requirement for them to enable that their staff and customers are safe when they are in their stores. Land use Starbucks have to abide by the laws of the building authorities when constructing shops or altering purchased sites and if found in violation of land rules, it can be panalised by the local authorities. PORTER 5 FORCES ANALYSIS 1. COMPETITIVE RIVALRY Starbucks is the leader in retailing and roasting of specialty coffee in the world. Major competitors include Costa coffee, Caffà © Nero, Seattles Best Coffee and secondary coffee providers such as McDonalds, Burger King and Dunkin Donuts. The competition is nowhere near to Starbucks volume of operations and sales. Consumption of coffee is not dependent on the price of the product but also on the differentiation between each product and several value adding variables such as the quality of customer services, brand, brand recognition and image of the company. Hence, Starbucks is not majorly sensitive to movements of other firms in this segment. 2. THREAT OF NEW ENTRANTS Starbuck is the world leader in its industry and has controlled access to distribution channels. Starbucks have extreme control over such distribution channels because of setting strict guidelines for the suppliers to follow. Starbucks is also constantly innovating and showing strong product differentiation to hamper the possibility of new entrants. However, the entry barrier for the industry is relatively low and any big firm where capital is not a problem could be a potential entrant. Some of the more current and on-going threats of new entrants include fast food chains such as McDonalds, Burger King and Dunkin Donuts which can become a major problem in the near future. 3. BARGAINING POWER OF BUYERS A big threat to Starbucks is the absence of switching costs in the speciality coffee industry, customers face no switching costs in switching from Starbucks to Costa Coffee or Caffà © Nero for a cup of coffee. Also a threat to Starbucks is the ability of customers to brew their own coffee. Starbucks tries to counter this threat by offering the Preferred Office Coffee Providers and also provides directions for making the perfect cup of Starbucks coffee at home, the perfect cup of course includes all ingredients which have to be purchased from Starbucks. Also with new entrants and competitors such as McDonalds who claim to offer premium roast coffee of reasonable quality for lower price, thus giving the customers some bargaining power. 4. BARGAINING POWER OF SUPPLIERS Coffee is the second largest traded commodity in the world. Central and South America produce majority of coffee traded. Starbucks depends upon both outside brokers and a mutually direct contact with exporters for supply of premium coffee beans. The quality of coffee beans sought by Starbucks is very high, proving to be a potential threat to the company. Only suppliers which meet Starbucks coffee standards are able to supply to the giant company. The supplying industry only has few firms which can deliver the quality giving them considerable bargaining powers. However, Starbucks counters this due to its massive size and being the primary buyer and also because of the importance of Starbucks business to any individual supplier as it would account for a large percentage of the total suppliers sales, thus reducing the bargaining power of suppliers. THE THREAT OF SUBSTITUTION Substitute products are the products that can pose as a trade-off for the product being offered by a company. In the specialty coffee industry, substitute products can be soft drinks, tea, energy drinks, fruit juices and other caffeinated drinks. Here innovation would play a huge role. To counter this Starbucks have given their menus a complete revamp and have differentiated so many of their products which are now part of the main product line. The menu includes various teas, hot and cold coffee, baked goods and various confectionary items. The only true direct substitute for specialty coffee would be the basic coffee, which is of lower quality than specialty and as such does not present any threat. BCG MATRIX RELATIVE MARKET SHARE HIGH INDUSTRY SALES GROWTH RATE HIGH STARS ( Growth Strategy ) Global stores Market Penetration and Development Backward, Forward or Horizontal Integration LOW CASH COWS ( Stability Strategy ) Product Development and Differentiation Diversification U.S Stores ANSOFF MATRIX Present Product New Product Present Market Market Penetration: Hotels, Grocery Stores, Businesses, Schools, Airlines and Industries Cafeteria Product Development: New Bold Fresh Lunch Programmes and Salads e.g. fiesta chicken salad, fruit and cheese platter New Market Market Development: Opening of stores all over the world. Expansion strategies into Brazil, Russia, Romania and India. Diversification: Music CDs, Clothing, Coffee Mugs and other accessories. SWOT ANALYSIS STRENGHTS Strong brand name Large retail distribution system Quality product Extensive product list Good supplier relationships Massive capital funding Valued and motivated employees WEAKNESSES Dependence on single source of business/income Prices relatively higher than competitors Strong dependence on suppliers Merchandise sales in stores Over reliance on home market Aggressive expansion leading to failure OPPORTUNITIES Overseas business expansion Business expansion into untapped U.S. markets Extension of brand name to new products and business lines Product range diversification to more food items THREATS Strong competitors with massive capital funding capabilities like McDonalds and Dunkin Donuts Economic conditions may make consumers unwilling to pay higher prices Political conditions overseas may limit business expansion U.S. speciality coffee industry approaching saturation RECCOMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSION Starbucks has to effectively pursue a Focus-Based Strategy in conjunction with differentiation and a cost leadership based strategy. Being a lower cost store will increase the difference between Starbucks and provide it with a competitive edge. At present, Starbucks competitors are attempting to specialize in the coffee business, therefore Starbucks must pursue focus strategy to increase its strength. Starbucks must reduce their product price by producing a new product of coffee using cheaper beans or can come out with special discounts and promotions to reduce cost, thus increasing sales enabling Starbucks to enter new low cost markets and increase profitability. Also needs to focus on building alliances in new markets/countries to reduce management focus and benefit from the local and experience curves. Should focus on advertising the brand through internet services for users to access, do road shows, hand out brochures etc. so that consumers become more aware of the brands strong international presence and brand name. Market penetration and market development will help increase the sales. Access unexplored distribution channels like making available packaged Starbucks coffee for consumers by displaying it nationwide in various convenience and shopping stores and not only Starbucks stores. Starbucks must adopt twin policies of Product Development and Product-Market Diversification to counter the stiff competition in international markets. It is important to understand this in the product development phase as they would need to focus solely on making their existing products better. The company can demonstrate product and market diversification through research and development coupled with creativity and innovation. Product differentiation has proven an excellent defence against threats such as bargaining power of buyers. Developing new products will offset such potential risks. A strategy should be formulated to tackle the competition by entering into agreements, long-term contracts, with the food service companies that they are competing against. This way their coffee would be sold at these outlets and they would gain access to new markets and increase sales while decreasing competition. Starbucks should continue to be a first mover into markets with new products and ideas. Being a first mover of new products into new international markets will be an excellent way for Starbucks to build customer loyalty and uphold its image as an innovative company. Starbucks should continue to locate their operations in high traffic areas, high visibility areas. The company should continue to take excellent care in picking locations. It is extremely important that Starbucks international stores reflect uniqueness in their location and layout. Having locations in a variety of locations will ensure large market exposure.