Alexander Bain and the First Fax

Faxing is by definition a method of encoding data, transmitting it over a ​telephone line or radio broadcast, and receiving a hard copy of the text, line drawings, or photographs at a remote location. The technology for fax machines was invented a long time. However, fax machines did not become popular with consumers until the 1980s. Alexander Bain The first fax machine was invented by Scottish mechanic and inventor Alexander Bain. In 1843, Alexander Bain received a British patent for â€Å"improvements in producing and regulating electric currents and improvements in timepieces and in electric printing and signal telegraphs†, in laymens terms a fax machine. Several years earlier, Samuel Morse had invented the first successful telegraph machine and the fax machine closely evolved from the technology of the telegraph. The earlier telegraph machine sent Morse code (dots and dashes) over telegraph wires that was decoded into a text message at a remote location. More About Alexander Bain Bain was a  Scottish  philosopher and  educationalist  in the  British school of empiricism  and a prominent and innovative figure in the fields of  psychology,  linguistics,  logic,  moral philosophy  and  education reform. He founded  Mind, the first ever journal of psychology and analytical philosophy, and was the leading figure in  establishing  and applying the  scientific method  to  psychology. Bain was the inaugural  Regius Chair  in Logic and  Professor of Logic  at the  University of Aberdeen, where he also held Professorships in  Moral Philosophy  and  English Literature  and was twice elected  Lord Rector. How Did Alexander Bains Machine Work? Alexander Bains fax machine transmitter scanned a flat metal surface using a stylus mounted on a pendulum. The stylus picked up images from the metal surface. An amateur clockmaker, Alexander Bain combined parts from clock mechanisms together with telegraph machines to invent his fax machine. Fax Machine History Many inventors after Alexander Bain, worked hard on inventing and improving fax machine type devices. Here is a brief timeline: In 1850, a London inventor named F. C. Blakewell received a patent what he called a copying telegraph.In 1860, a fax machine called the Pantelegraph sent the first fax between Paris and Lyon. The Pantelegraph was invented ​by Giovanni Caselli.In 1895, Ernest Hummel a watchmaker from St. Paul, Minnesota invented his competing device called the Telediagraph.In 1902, Dr. Arthur Korn invented an improved and practical fax, the photoelectric system.In 1914, Edouard Belin established the concept of the remote fax for photo and news reporting.In 1924, the telephotography machine (a type of fax machine) was used to send political convention photos long distance for newspaper publication. It was developed by the American Telephone Telegraph Company (ATT) worked to improve telephone fax technology.By 1926, RCA invented the Radiophoto that faxed by using radio broadcasting technology.In 1947, Alexander Muirhead invented a successful fax machine.On March 4, 1955, the first radio fax tran smission was sent across the continent.

The Movie Departed Essay - 1326 Words

The Departed The movie I have chosen to do my project on is the movie â€Å" The Departed.† The characters play an important role in the movie showing various criminal acts that they chose to play out. In my essay I will talk about the crime that is being taken place in the movie, Merton theory on Anomie, Strain, and the Social, Cultural, Economic source of organized crime. I believe these theories define the characters personality in the movie. The movie â€Å" The Departed† is a movie about Two Boston State police Officers that both share different opinions about the law. The two are Undercover in the State Police, the one happens to be working with the Irish Mafia (Matt Damon) and the other happens to be a real undercover police officer†¦show more content†¦His Therapist was Madolyn (Vera Farmiga) it so happens to be that she has a connection with another police officer. She started a relationship with Collin Sullivan, and during her relationship with Mr. Sullivan; she had a brief interaction with Mr. Costigan. Mr. Sullivan isn’t totally out of the picture, as informant for Frank Costello and Boston State police officer. He was giving Frank Costello tips on when he was being watched, when he was being followed, and when the police were tapping into the mob organizations cell phones. Now in order for someone to give, you must received something in return. In return Mr. Costello was giving up people in his organization, and other illegal activities that were being taken place. It all seemed like Mr. Costello had everything planned out. The State police was put on his radar, since everything was going as planned he would be able to move his shipment of product. By the end Frank Costello organization was taken down, most of his associates were either dead or taken into custody. As For Mr. Costigan and Mr. Sullivan they both were still out for one another. Then, finally the two of them started talked to each other and everything that was going on the whole time started adding up, and it ended up ending in chaos. One of the theories I have chosen is Robert Merton’s â€Å" Anomie, Strain and Crime.† Merton believed that crime was rooted in the socialShow MoreRelatedMartin Scorseses The Departed Essays523 Words   |  3 Pages The Departed, a film written by William Monahan, Alan Mak, and Felix Chong, directed by Martin Scorsese, was in my opinion a spectacular crime-thriller deserving of less criticism from overly sentimental viewers. Though this film is in some scenes brutal and vicious, I praise Martin Scorsese’s refusal to cower away from the undeniable truth that organized crime in the United States is murderous in nature just to satisfy certain viewers as critics advocated he should. 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In This Case - the Holding Company of James Hardie Group Is KHIL

Question: Discuss And Critically Analyse The Court/Tribunal Decision And The Reason For The Decision In View Of The Corporations Act? Answer: Introduction The Corporations Act, 2001 (Cth) is the applicable act in Australia, governing the duties of the directors. The case of Australian Securities and Investments Commission v Macdonald (No. 11) [2009] NSWSC 287 is one of such cases where the Supreme Court of New South Wales determining whether or not, the officers and directors of the company JHIL, i.e., James Hardie Industries Ltd had contravened the duties covered under this act, through its section 180(1). This section relates to the statutory requirement of duty of car and diligence, and this was raised in the context of the approval of board and released a defective media statement to the ASX, i.e., the Australian Securities Exchange (Hargovan, 2009). In the following parts, this case has been detailed, where by the contentions made by the ASIC, i.e., Australian Securities and Investments Commission, along with the decision of the court in this matter have been detailed. But before the same can be done, a discussion has been carried on the duties breached as per the governing act, along with the factual background of this case. ASIC v Macdonald (No 11) (2009) In this case, the holding company of the James Hardie Group was KHIL, which manufactured, as well as, sol the asbestos products till the year of 1937. Two of the wholly owned subsidiary companies of the JHIL, Jsekarb Pty Ltd, aka Jsekarb, and James Hardie Coy Pty Ltd, ala Coy, from 1937 to 1987 were also the manufacturer and seller of the asbestos products (Czoch and Mulder, 2010). In the initial period of February 2001, JHILs board formed a foundation by the name of Medical Research and Compensation Foundation. The purpose of this foundation was to manage and pay the claims relating to asbestos which were made against the James Hardie Group. Regarding the formation of the foundation, a draft announcement for the ASX was approved by Board and the same had to be circulated as public release (Lavan, 2017). At the same time, a deed of covenant and indemnity was entered into by JHIL with both Jsekarb and Coy, as a result of which, JHIL was indemnified from all of the liabilities which were raised due to the manufacturing or sale of the asbestos products (Czoch and Mulder, 2010). An ASX announcement was then released by the James Hardie Group, as per which the Foundation contained assets to the value of $293 million and that the same would have been adequate for meeting all of the legitimate compensation claims, which were anticipated from the individuals who were injured as a result of the asbestos products. When a press conference was held, it was stated that the CEO of JHIL, i.e., Macdonald had made a statement which showed the sufficiency of funds in the Foundation. And ASX announcements, having the same theme, were made in the following weeks regarding the Foundation. However, none of the ASX announcements contained a disclosure about the Deed (Norton Rose Fulbright, 2010). One the Foundation was established, a new holding company, JHINV was formed which was actually a restricting of the James Hardie Group and the same was incorporated in Netherlands. Macdonald made overseas presentations in 2002 regarding the James Hardie Group and represented the sufficiency of funds in the Foundation (Plessis, Hargovan and Bagaric, 2010). For their misleading and deceptive conduct, continuous disclosure reaches and the false statements made regarding the securities, in February 2007, the ASIC initiated civil proceedings against both JHNIV and JHIL (Czoch and Mulder, 2010). Duties Breached As per section 180(1) of the Corporations Act, 2001, the directors, along with the other officer in any company/ corporation in Australia have a civil obligation of exercising their powers, and discharging their obligations in a manner, which depicts a degree of both care and diligence, which any prudent individual would undertake, in case they occupied the same office and had the same responsibilities as such director and officer, or if the individual was himself the officer or director of such company (Australasian Legal Information Institute, 2017). A contravention of this section results in attraction of penalties as per section 1317E, which relates to the declaration of contravention by the Court (Federal Register of Legislation, 2017). This duty is usually applied with the provisions pertaining to the deceptive or misleading conduct of the directors, in cases where the directors have been sanctioned with the release of some important or crucial information which results in a civil claim being raised against the company for such a misleading or deceptive conduct. Hence, it is crucial for the directors to take care and ensure diligence when the information is released, and have to be certain that no information is contained which is likely to deceive or mislead (Gadens, 2010). Section 181 of this act imposes a civil obligation on the directors, along with the other officers of the company, to discharge their duties, and exercise their powers for a proper purpose, which is in the best interest of the faith and with good faith (Department of the Premier and Cabinet, 2016). The penalties for contravention of this section are same as section 181(1)s contravention (Federal Register of Legislation, 2017). Court Decision When the court was giving its decision, it was held by His Honor Justice Gzell that: Regarding the draft announcements of ASX, all of the 7 previous non-executive directors, the CFO, the CEO and the General Counsel of the JHIL had all breached the section quoted above, i.e., 180(1) of the governing act, as all of them failed to make certain that this particular draft ASX announcement relating to the sufficiency of funds in the hands of Foundation for paying the compensation to the individuals was not deceptive or misleading (Czoch and Mulder, 2010). Regarding the Deed, the General Counsel and the CEO had contravened the quoted section of the governing act, as they failed in giving the advice to the Board in an appropriate manner, which could have led to the disclosure of the said Deed (Jacobson, 2009). Regarding the ASX Announcements which were approved, a breach of section 180(1) of this act was done by the CEO of the company by his failure in making certain that these announcements were not deceptive or misleading. In addition to the breach of section 180(1) of this act, there was an absence of breach of sections 995(2), as well as 999, of this act as the ASX Announcement was released, which was held to be both misleading and deceptive (Sixth Floor St James Hall Pty Limited, 2009). For the presentations which were made by the companys CEO, there was a breach on part of this CEO regarding the breach of section 180(1) of this act, due to the failure in making certain that these presentations could be taken as both misleading and deceptive. There was also a contravention on part of JHINV pertaining to sections 1041E, as well as, 1041H of this act by engaging in a conduct which is both misleading and deceptive regarding the presentations which were made to the Australian Securities Exchange (Czoch and Mulder, 2010). It was also held by His Honor Justice Gzell that on part of ASIC, there was a failure in establishing a range of different allegations which were made against the James Hardie Group, its executives and its non-executive directors. One of the allegations in these was related to a claim which was made against the CEO of the company, for breaching section 181 of this act, regarding his obligation pertaining to acting in good faith (Czoch and Mulder, 2010). A range of factors were considered by His Honor against the executives, directors containing both executive and non-executive, of the James Hardie Group in his findings, and these included the intelligence and sophistication of the directors, the experience, the importance of restructuring, the nature of the company, in addition to the fact that a considerable professional advice was given to the non-executive directors regarding the restricting (Czoch and Mulder, 2010). The submissions from all the parties where heard by the Court in late July 2000 regarding the exoneration of the defendants as per sections 1317S or 1318 of this act pertaining to these breaches, and also regarding the form of sanction or penalty, which should be imposed over the defendants (Austin, 2012). A contention was submitted by the ASIC to the Court, as per which: The disqualification of the CEO from managing any company for a period of twelve to sixteen years and the CEO should also receive a penalty in terms of fine, which had to range between the amounts of $1.47 million to $1.81 million. There should also be a disqualification of the General Counsel from the management of any company, for a minimum period of eight years, and that he should also receive a fine, which had to range between the amounts of $350,000 and $450,000. All of the non-executive directors were proposed to be banned from the management of any company for a period of five years and all of them should be given a fine ranging between $120,000 and $130,000 There should also be a disqualification of the CFO from the management of any company, for a minimum period of six years, and that he should also receive a fine, which had to range between the amounts of $150,000 to $250,000. And lastly, 90% of the costs of ASIC should be jointly and severally be paid by the defendants (Czoch and Mulder, 2010). Another submission was made by the ASIC to the Court regarding the consideration of the penalties which had to be imposed upon the case defendants and that the issue of indemnity should also be taken into consideration. Even though, the Corporation Act restricts any Australian company from indemnifying against such kind of civil penalty, a submission was made by ASIC that some of the defendants could be indemnified within the James Hardie group by the foreign companies (Czoch and Mulder, 2010). The defendants sought to be fully exonerated from the claims of ASIC as they contended that the banning orders and the fine sought out by the ASIC were excessive in nature, with the exception of the CEO as he had admitted the seriousness of these breaches (Czoch and Mulder, 2010). However, Justice Gzell, on August 20th 2009, refused to exonerate any of the former members of the board and he also handed down certain penalties, which were as follows: The General Counsel was disqualified for a period of seven years from the management of any company and was also liable to pay a fine amounting to $75,000 (Taylor, 2012). The CEO was disqualified for a period of fifteen years from the management of any company and was also liable to pay a fine amounting to $350,000. The CFO was disqualified for a period of five years from the management of any company and was also liable to pay a fine amounting to $35,000. All of the non-executive directors, individually, were disqualified for a period of five years from the management of any company and were also liable to pay a fine amounting to $30,000 individually. And lastly, the company, JHINV was liable to pay a fine amounting to $80,000 (Czoch and Mulder, 2010). ASIC considered this particular case as a leading decision in the corporate governance of the nation as it presents the crucial direction and guidance to the boardrooms regarding the practical applicability of the content and the scope of the duties of the executives, when they take any significant matter to the board and regarding the disclosure of these matter in the market. This was in addition to the direction and guidance pertaining to the responsibility of the non-executive directors of any public companies, when they are questioned regarding the consideration of strategic matters by the board, as well as, for the approval of disclosure in market regarding the decisions of the board (Australasian Legal Information Institute, 2009). Conclusion Civil proceedings were initiated in this case by the ASIC against JHIL, JHINV, i.e., James Hardie Industries NV, along with the previous seven non-executive directors, and the three former executives of the JHIL, for breaching the governing act, regarding the preparation, as well as, approval of the public statements. The decisions taken in this case highlights the significance which is placed over the directors role, which includes both the executive and the non-executive directors, along with the senior executives of a company, when the crucial strategic matters of the company are considered and implemented. Keeping the corporate governance issue aside, the decision in this case raised the broadening focus put over the senior executives below the board level and the non-executive directors. References Austin, R. (2012) The High Court decides the James Hardie case. [Online] Minter Ellison. Available from: https://www.minterellison.com/files/Uploads/Documents/Publications/Alerts/NA_20120509_JamesHardieDecision.pdf [Accessed on: 26/04/17] Australasian Legal Information Institute. (2009) Australian Securities and Investments Commission v Macdonald (No 11) [2009] NSWSC 287 (23 April 2009). [Online] Australasian Legal Information Institute. Available from: https://www.austlii.edu.au/au/cases/nsw/NSWSC/2009/287.html [Accessed on: 26/04/17] Australasian Legal Information Institute. (2017) Corporations Act 2001 - Sect 180. [Online] Australasian Legal Information Institute. Available from: https://www.austlii.edu.au/au/legis/cth/consol_act/ca2001172/s180.html [Accessed on: 26/04/17] Czoch, K., and Mulder, M. (2010) Australia: The James Hardie Decision: Australian Securities Investments Commission v Macdonald (No. 11) [2009] NSWSC 287. [Online] Mondaq. Available from: https://www.mondaq.com/australia/x/106690/Corporate+Governance/The+James+Hardie+Decision+Australian+Securities+Investments+Commission+v+Macdonald+No+11+2009+NSWSC+287 [Accessed on: 26/04/17] Department of the Premier and Cabinet. (2016) 7.3 Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) (the Corporations Act). [Online] Queensland Government. Available from: https://www.premiers.qld.gov.au/publications/categories/policies-and-codes/handbooks/welcome-aboard/member-duties/corp-act-2001-c.aspx [Accessed on: 26/04/17] Federal Register of Legislation. (2017) Corporations Act 2001. [Online] Federal Register of Legislation. Available from: https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/C2013C00605 [Accessed on: 26/04/17] Gadens. (2010) Misleading and deceptive conduct in the corporate sphere. [Online] Gadens. Available from: https://www.gadens.com/publications/Pages/Misleading-and-deceptive-conduct-in-the-corporate-sphere.aspx [Accessed on: 26/04/17] Hargovan, A. (2009) Australian Securities and Investments Commission v Macdonald [No 11] Corporate Governance Lessons from James Hardie. Melbourne University Law Review, 33(3), pp. 984-1021. Jacobson, D. (2009) ASIC v James Hardie Decision: Company, Directors and Officers Were Misleading. [Online] Bright Law. Available from: https://www.brightlaw.com.au/asic-v-james-hardie-decision-company-directors-and-officers-were-misleading/ [Accessed on: 26/04/17] Lavan. (2017) The responsibility for continuous disclosure announcements in the light of James Hardie - Australian Securities and Investments Commission and Macdonald (No 11) [2009] NSWSC 287. [Online] Lavan. Available from: https://www.lavan.com.au/advice/banking_finance/the_responsibility_for_continuous_disclosure_announcements_in_the_light_of [Accessed on: 26/04/17] Norton Rose Fulbright. (2010) Insurance Financial Services Bulletin. [Online] Norton Rose Fulbright. Available from: https://www.nortonrosefulbright.com/knowledge/publications/30007/insurance-financial-services-bulletin#section12 [Accessed on: 26/04/17] Plessis, J.J.D., Hargovan, A., and Bagaric, M. (2010) Principles of Contemporary Corporate Governance. 2nd ed. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, p. 59. Sixth Floor St James Hall Pty Limited. (2009) ASIC v Macdonald (No 11) [2009] NSWSC 287. [Online] Sixth Floor St James Hall Pty Limited. Available from: https://www.sixstjameshall.com.au/recent-cases/2016/7/14/australian-securities-and-investments-commission-v-macdonald-no-11-2009-nswsc-287 [Accessed on: 26/04/17] Taylor, T. (2012) James Hardie The final instalment NSW Court of Appeal disqualifies and penalises company officers. [Online] Holding Redlich. Available from: https://www.holdingredlich.com/corporate-commercial/james-hardie-the-final-instalment-nsw-court-of-appeal-disqualifies-and-penalises-company-officers [Accessed on: 26/04/17]

Views on Nike Brand

Table of Contents Introduction The Nike Corporation Brand Equity Brand Positioning Brand Identity Conclusion Reference List Introduction According to Wood (2000) the word â€Å"brand† refers to a sign, name, term, symbol or design or even a combination of them all with the intent of giving identity to the goods and/ or services of a single seller (or a group of sellers) and to give them uniqueness from their competitors. In reference to consumer- manufacture relations, a brand makes the source of promises given to the consumer by the manufacturer (Ahmad, Simmons and Clifton, 2009).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Views on Nike Brand specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Nevertheless, the same brand initiates the relationship between the manufacturer and the consumer in the first place. In addition, brand makes the perfect tool of name and symbols that are the unprecedented source of a company’s produ cts and/ or services. Furthermore, for a company to be successful and have a future, its initiator must be keeping a single concept within his mind; brand. Ultimately, brand can be best described as the sum total of a single customer’s experience with an organization. The Nike Corporation Guerrero (2008) describes the Nikes Corporation as the top- most suppliers of apparel and shoes. Such levels of success were attained by giving the corporation the most solid foundation; an appropriate brand. It is no doubt that the origin of the brand name â€Å"Nike† (from the Greek goddess of victory) has been a definition of Nike’s ambition to be a big success and take the sporting industry by a storm. There is always a brutal fact as far as branding is concerned; the business notion that exists in the mind of the initiator will either happen or stay in the mind, depending on the branding. Nike is a corporation that has absolutely used its branding to bring the business not ion in to reality. According to eHow (2010), Nike’s products include apparel, which are usually for sports and other activities like yoga and dance. Additionally, casual clothes for both men and women are also produced largely. Nevertheless, many people wear Nike’s clothes for purposes of association with the big brand name. Other products are equipments where mostly sports equipment such as balls, bats, and golf clubs are sold. Additionally, a number of accessories are also known to be from Nike’s products, for example watches, socks, bags and the like. Lastly, a number of stores are also known to be under Nike. There are many departments and online stores that are basically set up for purposes of selling Nike’s products. Niketown for example is the biggest store with many braches around the world. Additionally, there are many factory outlets that usually sell Nike’s products at a reduced price. Brand Equity Nike has over time gained the trust and loyalty of all its customers. This is essentially because the popularity and fame of high standard products and service delivery have added more strength to the Nike brand. Furthermore, Nike decided to peruse the production of apparel for an arena that is always kinetic and at the same time very dynamic; sports.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Many sportsmen who would go for a Nike product would do it just for the purpose of getting sports attire or simply because their clubs bought the Nike sports products. Nevertheless, as a sportsman does well in the sports field, many fans are usually seen to want to associate themselves with the sportsman even in clothing. In this case, Nike goes ahead to gain the fame and popularity for the non- athletic crowd as well. Wood (2000) explains that a brand can be defined from either the perspective of the consumer or that of the manufactu rer. The Nike brand has seen a development in its image by thinking in the lines of the consumers and with a wide variety of products at hand. The consumer’s perceptions of Nike’s brands have totally been developed by Nike Corporation itself. Nike has made available a number of products to the customers so that the image that customers have on them develops positively over time. Additionally, by having their products diversified and internationally available their brand image has gained the better chance of being known and liked more than their competitors. Ultimately, brand associations are available in many different products for a consumer to choose from. This has been a major smart move by Nike. Nike has made steps to even produce accessories that are not necessarily sports oriented, such as watches and the like. In this case, even outside the attires of sporting, fans can still associate with their sports stars. As a result, Nike’s brand equity is developed to a high level, spread across a wide variety of customers, ranging from male to female, adults to children while at the same time keeping on customer loyalty. Such varied accessories give a variety of products for any customer to choose from whenever he would want to associate himself with the brand. Brand Positioning Nike brand has basically positioned itself within the international realm in a stronger and better way as compared to many of the competitors. The customer’s loyalty with Nike seems to have been worked on by the company so that even in the availability of other brands, more of Nike would be asked for. The smartest idea was the creation of a unique brand essence; â€Å"authentic athletic performance† so that any customer who would want to be associated with any good standards of athletics would be seen to be going for Nike. Additionally, the slogans â€Å"just do it† and â€Å"I can† have been recently translated from the previous slogan, t herefore identifying with more customers who would not easily engage in athletics; the brand essence is applicable to every customer.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Views on Nike Brand specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Besides, the Nike slogans give a very strong assurance to the customers, promising them of the best sporting apparel and the best accessories that can ever be. In this case, Nike’s brand promise has gained unprecedented followers, giving it a better position in the markets as compared to all its competitors. More so, Nike’s brand personality is definitely sporty and fashioned. All this descriptions can even be felt in their slogans. This brand personally is very much the way to go for today’s customer and therefore Nike has been a relevant brand to the current market. Brand Identity Nike’s brand identity can be looked at as simple but at the same time the most successfu l of all times. Nike’s brand identity can most appropriately be looked at from the brand logo. Nikes logo is represented by a simple tick. The tick gains approval from almost every customer. This is because, in the minds of the consumer, the tick represents the very best option, the answer to the most difficult challenge and the required go- ahead for anything. Therefore, Nike has gained major fame with all its customers due to giving itself a better image and definition as compared to all its competitors. Conclusion According to Marketing Teacher (2010) Nike has no factories but at the same time it is a global corporation. I definitely think, that a brand that has grown to the levels of international recognition and deal with such apparel and accessories should beyond any doubt consider venturing into setting up factories. This is due to the reason that factories ensure the delivery of products as specified by the company according to their most interactive observation of wh at the customers need. This will even ensure a better brand is made out of Nike. Reference List Ahmad, S., Simmons, J., Clifton., R. 2000. Brands and Branding. New York, Bloomag press.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More eHow. October, 2010. Nike product Information Web. Guerrero, K. 2008. Nike Case Study Web. Marketing Teacher. October, 2010. SWOT analysis Nike, Inc Web. Wood, L. 2009, September. Brands and equity: definition and management. UK: MCB University press. This essay on Views on Nike Brand was written and submitted by user Malaki J. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Abercrombie and Fitch External Analysis and Internal Analysis Essay Example

Abercrombie and Fitch External Analysis and Internal Analysis Paper Abercrombie Fitch is an American fashion retailing company headed by president and CEO Michael Jeffries. Abercrombie Fitch brand focuses on offering apparel that reflected the youthful lifestyle for a target audience, which was college students, designed to encourage teamwork and creativity On February 2007, AF retailer operated 944 stores in 49 States, District of Columbia and Canada. Furthermore, AF currently operates four other brands, which are: AF, Abercrombie Kids, Hollister Company, and RUEHL. With the running of those four brands, the company is collectively targeting consumers of 7 through 35. David T. Abercrombie founded the company in 1892, AT managers promoted it as: †The Finest Sporting Goods Store in the world†. At its early beginnings, AF had been an outfitter of sporting goods and rugged apparel, but also a place where individuals could learn skills and get involved in the community. Since 1960, the company encountered continued financial losses until The Limited purchased it in 1988, when Michael Jeffries became president and chief executive of AT launching the trademark slogan â€Å"casual luxury†, new style of Abercrombie. This case highlights the strategy of Abercrombie and Fitch, an upscale sporting good retailer who has turn into a leader in trendy apparel. In order to find the key issues, both internal and external analyses will be drawn and the company business strategy will be described. CONTEXT IDENTIFICATION External analysis and Internal analysis SWOT †¢ Strengths: The AF company strengths stand, firstly, in its strong brand portfolio. The retailer managed four brands: AF, Abercrombie, Hollister Company and Ruehl, which make them able to target a population from 7 to 35 years old. We will write a custom essay sample on Abercrombie and Fitch External Analysis and Internal Analysis specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Abercrombie and Fitch External Analysis and Internal Analysis specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Abercrombie and Fitch External Analysis and Internal Analysis specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer The company has also gained a strong brand image, because of its uniqueness as a â€Å"casual luxury† brand and thanks to its stores design, which are implemented through an exciting store format, in order to communicate a consistent message in each stores. Abercrombie Fitch achieved revenues of $2. 85 billion and its net income rose to $334 million. During the same year, the company opened 63 stores and hired 20,600 employees. From 2001 to 2005, the company Financial Performances has done nothing but increasing, in each sectors (see Exhibit 4). That it to say, AF achieved a strong financial performance. When looking at Exhibit 1, we can see that AF also has a strong balanced sheet. The company has no debt/capital ratio, no debt as % of net working capital since 2002 and its Annual high-low stock price is much better than it’s competitors’. †¢ Weaknesses: The company is faced with a low inventory turnover ratio, because they choose not to distribute its apparel and accessories through wholesale, license or franchise, unlike other businesses. AT is the only responsible for creating and managing its brands. The company is implemented only in London, Milan, Canada and Tokyo abroad; thus they needs to focus on their expansion because it represents a limited geographic reach. †¢ Opportunities: The fact the company is only implemented in London, Milan, Canada and Tokyo represents an opportunity to expand in new markets, by targeting other kinds of population. Making investment in infrastructures would also be an opportunity for Abercrombie to improve customer services as its staff in the stores, its merchandising and store design, in order to merger from the competitors. The company can work on developing new concepts, in order to anticipate competitor’s moves, now that their own concept of being a â€Å"casual luxury† brand is a success. AF are not really presented online and should it would be an opportunity for the company to increase online sales. †¢ Threats: The main threats the company is faced with stands in the fact that US rental rates are increasing while the US economy is slowing down. Furthermore, the competitors are numerous on this kind of market; that is way AF must be vigilant and anticipate the competitor’s moves. †¢ Macro-environment analysis Political/ Legal: As AF has always been a brand generating controversy, they have to pay attention at not being disrespectful toward the US laws. The company have generated a lot of scandals, like in April 2002, when they launched a line of T-shirts with matching ethnics slogans: â€Å"Wong Brothers Laundry Service Two Wongs Can Make It White†; â€Å"Wok-N-Bowl†; â€Å"Buddha Bash: Get your Buddha on the Floor† (Gamble and Thompson, 2009:414). Since, the US is a country of vigilance against discrimination, sexual crime and alcoholism, Abercrombie has to comply with the US laws, which are really strict, and stop engaging in risky practices in order to attract attention. The company also have to prevent counterfeiting, since the US is a big country and it a lot of company have been faced with this kind of problem. Economic: The retailer market sector is a huge market, which implies a lot of concurrence: American Eagles Outfitters (AEO), Gap (GPS), and J. Crew Group (JC) (Gamble and Thompson, 2009:406). In addition, the fashion retail market sector is a sensible one, which means that if trends or lifestyles change, the market will be affected. That is currently the case in the US due to the financial crisis occurring and it has had an impact on Abercrombie finances. Moreover, AF has always been on the top of the competition in its sector, but since the American economy has entered a recession, because of the financial crisis, the company has to strengthen its pricing strategy and try to maintain its status by paying careful attention to its competitors. Social: Abercrombie benefit from an enviable target market, the teenagers, given the fact that Ablan (2003:21, cited in Gamble and Thompson, 2009:413) stated teens spent approximately $170 billion on goods and services in 2002, with one-third of that amount going toward apparel. AF target market have, most of the time, responded positively to their provocative campaigns, because of their strategy, which consists in getting closer to the teenagers by providing products with whom they can identify. Technological: Continuous technological progress allowed company to sell via the Internet more easily as on the AF website. The progress in technology also enables to extend the company database and get more and more customers by mailing the products provided through an electronic catalogue. Additionally, AF have had the opportunity to start experimenting with radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, which permits to fight against counterfeited products. †¢ Industry Analysis Five Porter’s Forces Power of Suppliers: Abercrombie pertains to the fashion industry retail market, where consumers have a strong power because of the fact this market is sensitive to their needs and behaviour, which can change from a moment to another. That is the reason why, Abercrombie is supposed to have to hold little power on its suppliers. On the contrary, in this case suppliers hold little power because of the several existing factories in America and as a matter of fact, it enables Abercrombie to argue and negotiate with its suppliers in order to maintain a high price on merchandise. Power of Customers: Customers have always had a lot of influence over the retail industry due to their price sensitiveness. Given the fact that websites and direct mailing are increasing, it gives a stronger power to the customer since they have the opportunity to compare prices, quality and have a large panel of the same products purposed. That is to say, the existence of website purposing the same products, is a threat for fashion retailers because it can push the customer to competitors and gives a significant power to them. Customers loyalty can oblige Abercrombie to re-evaluate its prices, because if they don’t they will lose their customer’s loyalty. Power of Rivalry: The rivalry in this sector is intense and forces Abercrombie to continuously work on innovating and merger from the others, in order to maintain its status. The main competitors are: American Eagle Outfitters Inc. (AEOS), and Gap Inc, who are publicly held firms and J. Crew group, Inc (JC) who is a privately held firm (Gamble and Thompson, 2009:406). Those three competitors are operating on the same segment than Abercrombie and tried, by several unsuccessful strategies, to become leader, while AF stays number one. Gap is the largest AF’s competitor, but there are lots of other competitors on this market segment that haven’t been cited in the case. Thus, Abercrombie have to continuously work on its strategy and compare to the others, in order to stay competitive. Threat of new entrants: A large number of new entrants exist in the specialty apparel industry. For example, Metropark, is a West coast chain for 20- to 35-year-old shoppers, who sold True Religion and Joe’s Jeans casual apparels and plan to opened additional 50 stores by 2007. (Gamble and Thompson, 2009:418). The barriers to enter this market are low, because purchasing and producing garments costs are cheap. Threat of substitution: Even if consumers are ready to pay a premium price in order to have better quality and brand name produces, the threat of substitution is considered as high because of some existing companies who imitate brand name products and sell them at a lower price. For example, Gamble and Thompson, (2009:415) state that: â€Å"AF launched an anticounterfeiting program in an effort to protect its brand and prevent low-cost manufacturers in Asian factories from making imitations of its products†. Industry Life Cycle: Abercrombie Fitch, as well as the other apparel shops are situated in the maturity stage of the industry life cycle. Fashion apparel introduction on the market has been done a long time ago and because of the numerous competitors existing on this market, the industry can be considered as mature. †¢ Driving Forces: Three driving forces were found as having a significant impact on the industry: -The Power of rivalry, Threat of new entrants and threat of substitution will have a NEGATIVE impact on the industry competition. -Technological and Legal forces will enable to prevent from counterfeiting and given the new strategies launched by Abercrombie and American authorities, this will have a POSITIVE impact on the industry. -Power of Customers and Social aspects will have a POSITIVE impact on customer †¢ Competitive intelligence analysis: The three main competitors of the company are the following: American Eagle Outfitters (AEOS) who is based in Pennsylvania and sold lower-priced casual apparel and accessories to men an woman ages 15-25 (Gamble and Thompson, 2009). The company revenues and net incomes are increasing, and they are focusing on an new target market, between ages 24-40, by creating a new intimate apparel sub-brand. J. Crew (JC) operates 200 stores in the United States. They have a joint venture in Japan, with 45 stores. This company has suffered from a series of losses because of its inept strategy. J. Crew is the smallest competitor of AF’s. Gap Inc is the largest competitor of AF’s. Gap Inc, operating worldwide with 3,000 stores. Both revenues and net income are high; it is operating at high-quality level and low-priced level, which makes Gap a really strong competitor to look after. †¢ Strategic map Operating revenues in 2005 (Millions) 16,267 2,785 2,309 850 851 3000 Numbers of shops in the world (hundreds) When looking at the map, we can see that the main competitor of Abercrombie is Gap because of its positioning. Gap is clearly differentiated from the other company, because of its numerous stores worldwide and its operating revenues, which are very high levelled. †¢ Organizational structure and culture: Michael Jeffries runs Abercrombie Company since 1992; he is president and chief executive of AF. The company slogan is â€Å"trend transcends age† and as a matter of fact AF goal is to fits the need of a cool, attractive and fashion-conscious target audience (Gamble and Thompson, 2009). The structure of the company is built on the management of four brands at the same time, which are: AF, Abercrombie, Hollister Company and Ruehl. Analysis of the business-level strategy of the firm †¢ Business strategy of the firm PRIMARY ACTIVITIES Following Porter (1985) description, the primary activities of the company are presented as such: Inbound logistics AF purchase their merchandise from a large panel of factories and suppliers around the world. In effect, the company have never sourced more than 50% of its apparel from a single factory or supplier. They act this way in order to get merchandise at a reduced cost, in order to spend more money on its design services. AF has centralized its design services in a unique headquarter, in order to get a more efficient logistic process. Operations The distribution centre of the company is also situated in this unique headquarter. AF sells its products only in its stores and via its website. The company does not act like the other company, they do not want to use wholesaling, and licensing or franchising to distribute the product they offer. Outbound logistics All the products of the industry are assembles, inspected and designed in its Ohio headquarters. Then, the products are distributed to stores via contact carriers (Gamble and Thompson, 2009). This process permits to lower up the cost of the process. Marketing and sales AF core corporate values are â€Å"nature, friendships and having fun† (Gamble and Thompson, 2009). As a matter of fact, they invest a lot of money in design. One of their main marketing strategy remains on the design of their stores. AF stores are reflecting the values they want to attract the consumers with. It means that, each store is designed one precise model, each stores are unique and implemented in an â€Å"exciting format† (Gamble and Thompson, 2009). AF put emphasis on communicating their specific message around the world, by building â€Å"perfect† stores. Also the AF website has been created in away it matches the best possible with the feel and aura of its stores (Gamble and Thompson, 2009). AF try to launch at least two new items in its stores each week, in order to be competitive and develop customer loyalty to the brand, by demonstrating, they care about customer’s needs and are different from the other. SUPPORT ACTIVITIES Following Porter (1985) description, the support activities of the company are presented as such: Procurement Porte (1985) states: â€Å"An efficient procurement department should be able to obtain the highest quality goods at the lowest prices†. In effect, AF procurement department should be considered as an efficient one, as aid previously AF have centralized its design and development process in a unique headquarter, lowering work force coasts and improving efficiency. Human Resource Management â€Å"Human resources are increasingly becoming an important way of attaining sustainable competitive advantage† (Porter, 1985). AF busiest seasons are spring and fall, when they hire extra staff, keeping control over the situation. Human resources management at AT is attentively managed; everything is done to make the staff feeling comfortable and confident. AF brand representatives have to adhere to the Abercrombie dress code. Technology Development AF is developing a managing-in-training program for seniors and graduates (Gamble and Thompson, 2009). AF began experimenting with radio frequency identification technology (RFID), which is a really efficient development since it prevents from thief and counterfeiting. |Key success factor/ Strength|ABERCROMBIE |AEOS |GAP |J. CREW GROUP | |measure | | | | | | |Rating/ Score |Rating/Score |Rating/Score |Rating/Score | |Quality/Product performances| | | | | |Rating: 0,2 |8/1,6 |7/1,4 |9/1,8 |6/1,2 | |Image | 6/1,2 | 8/1,6 9/1,8 |7/1,4 | |Rating: 0,2 | | | | | |New product innovation | | | | | |capability |8/1,6 |6/1,8 |9/2,7 |4/1,2 | |Rating: 0,3 | | | | | |Manufacturing capabilities | | | | | |Rating: 0,2 |8/1,6 |5/1 |7/1,4 |5/1 | |Customer services | | | | | |capabilities: 0,1 |8/0,8 |6/0,6 |8/0,8 |6/0,6 | |OVERALL RATING/SCORE | | | | | | |38/6,8 |32/6,4 |42/8,5 |28/5,4 | The overall strongest competitor is: GAP The overall weakest competitor is: J. Crew Group †¢ Key elements and specific problem of the industry After a precise analysis of the AF case, it seems obvious that the three key elements of the company are: -To anticipate competitors moves In order to anticipate competitor moves, AF have to continuously compare its industry to the competitors, in order to define where and when the company m ust take decision and employ a new strategy. Acting this way, AF will be able to figure out what kind of strategy they have to adopt in order to undertake those of the competitors. To improve customer service: AF must go on training employees and make sure them feel confident in their company. Keeping the dress code outlined in Abercrombie Associate’s handbook is imperative because it permits to merger from the competitors, by showing the authenticity of the brand. This also enables to attract clients by being faced with effective and well-qualified employees. Furthermore, AF must invest more in RFID because it is an easy and simple way to generates more business advantage in their company, as it figures out what are the real needs of customers by making quick and simple inventories of the merchandise. -To maintain consumer loyalty AF have to make sure they comply with customer needs by putting links on the website or sending direct mails to its database customers. It will enable the company to get in touch with its customers, but also to gain information and get an accurate perception of customers needs. †¢ Recommendations First of all, AF must work on their marketing campaign and stop doing controversial campaign, because nowadays it hasn’t the same impact than it has at the AF early beginnings. Even if they have became famous acting this way, the period is not the same and Abercrombie is enough experimented to try another way of advertise its industry. Secondly, AF should continuously improve their website design, since it is the way to attract more and more clients. The actual website of the company is not enough exiting and fashion-conscious as the brand pretends to be. Thirdly, AF should work on its expanding abroad. They are not really present in the world and shall work on this point, because they could target more customers. Even if the brand reputation is strong, it would be an opportunity to open more stores in big capitals, as in Amsterdam or Paris, where there are lots of teenagers. Fourthly, organising featured events could help the company to obtain more customer loyalty, because young customers are attracted by some kinds of events as: concerts, parties and would be pleased to join AF events. It will permit to broaden the â€Å"existing† aspects Abercrombie wants to show to the client. Fifthly, AF should invest in FCID. This new system is the way to increase customer services and maintain consumers loyalty because it enables to fight against theft and counterfeits goods, which are too much present nowadays. To conclude, FCID would bring a very competitive advantage to AF if they choose to apply this system to the four brand owned. References: Porter, M. E. (1985), Competitive Advantage: Creating and Sustaining Superior Performance, New York: Free Press. Gamble, J. , Thompson A. , Jr. (2009) Essentials of Strategic Management: The Quest for Competitive Advantage, New York: Mac Graw-Hill Irwin GAP AF AEOS Abercrombie and Fitch External Analysis and Internal Analysis Essay Example Abercrombie and Fitch External Analysis and Internal Analysis Essay Abercrombie Fitch is an American fashion retailing company headed by president and CEO Michael Jeffries. Abercrombie Fitch brand focuses on offering apparel that reflected the youthful lifestyle for a target audience, which was college students, designed to encourage teamwork and creativity On February 2007, AF retailer operated 944 stores in 49 States, District of Columbia and Canada. Furthermore, AF currently operates four other brands, which are: AF, Abercrombie Kids, Hollister Company, and RUEHL. With the running of those four brands, the company is collectively targeting consumers of 7 through 35. David T. Abercrombie founded the company in 1892, AT managers promoted it as: †The Finest Sporting Goods Store in the world†. At its early beginnings, AF had been an outfitter of sporting goods and rugged apparel, but also a place where individuals could learn skills and get involved in the community. Since 1960, the company encountered continued financial losses until The Limited purchased it in 1988, when Michael Jeffries became president and chief executive of AT launching the trademark slogan â€Å"casual luxury†, new style of Abercrombie. This case highlights the strategy of Abercrombie and Fitch, an upscale sporting good retailer who has turn into a leader in trendy apparel. In order to find the key issues, both internal and external analyses will be drawn and the company business strategy will be described. CONTEXT IDENTIFICATION External analysis and Internal analysis SWOT †¢ Strengths: The AF company strengths stand, firstly, in its strong brand portfolio. The retailer managed four brands: AF, Abercrombie, Hollister Company and Ruehl, which make them able to target a population from 7 to 35 years old. We will write a custom essay sample on Abercrombie and Fitch External Analysis and Internal Analysis specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Abercrombie and Fitch External Analysis and Internal Analysis specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Abercrombie and Fitch External Analysis and Internal Analysis specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer The company has also gained a strong brand image, because of its uniqueness as a â€Å"casual luxury† brand and thanks to its stores design, which are implemented through an exciting store format, in order to communicate a consistent message in each stores. Abercrombie Fitch achieved revenues of $2. 85 billion and its net income rose to $334 million. During the same year, the company opened 63 stores and hired 20,600 employees. From 2001 to 2005, the company Financial Performances has done nothing but increasing, in each sectors (see Exhibit 4). That it to say, AF achieved a strong financial performance. When looking at Exhibit 1, we can see that AF also has a strong balanced sheet. The company has no debt/capital ratio, no debt as % of net working capital since 2002 and its Annual high-low stock price is much better than it’s competitors’. †¢ Weaknesses: The company is faced with a low inventory turnover ratio, because they choose not to distribute its apparel and accessories through wholesale, license or franchise, unlike other businesses. AT is the only responsible for creating and managing its brands. The company is implemented only in London, Milan, Canada and Tokyo abroad; thus they needs to focus on their expansion because it represents a limited geographic reach. †¢ Opportunities: The fact the company is only implemented in London, Milan, Canada and Tokyo represents an opportunity to expand in new markets, by targeting other kinds of population. Making investment in infrastructures would also be an opportunity for Abercrombie to improve customer services as its staff in the stores, its merchandising and store design, in order to merger from the competitors. The company can work on developing new concepts, in order to anticipate competitor’s moves, now that their own concept of being a â€Å"casual luxury† brand is a success. AF are not really presented online and should it would be an opportunity for the company to increase online sales. †¢ Threats: The main threats the company is faced with stands in the fact that US rental rates are increasing while the US economy is slowing down. Furthermore, the competitors are numerous on this kind of market; that is way AF must be vigilant and anticipate the competitor’s moves. †¢ Macro-environment analysis Political/ Legal: As AF has always been a brand generating controversy, they have to pay attention at not being disrespectful toward the US laws. The company have generated a lot of scandals, like in April 2002, when they launched a line of T-shirts with matching ethnics slogans: â€Å"Wong Brothers Laundry Service Two Wongs Can Make It White†; â€Å"Wok-N-Bowl†; â€Å"Buddha Bash: Get your Buddha on the Floor† (Gamble and Thompson, 2009:414). Since, the US is a country of vigilance against discrimination, sexual crime and alcoholism, Abercrombie has to comply with the US laws, which are really strict, and stop engaging in risky practices in order to attract attention. The company also have to prevent counterfeiting, since the US is a big country and it a lot of company have been faced with this kind of problem. Economic: The retailer market sector is a huge market, which implies a lot of concurrence: American Eagles Outfitters (AEO), Gap (GPS), and J. Crew Group (JC) (Gamble and Thompson, 2009:406). In addition, the fashion retail market sector is a sensible one, which means that if trends or lifestyles change, the market will be affected. That is currently the case in the US due to the financial crisis occurring and it has had an impact on Abercrombie finances. Moreover, AF has always been on the top of the competition in its sector, but since the American economy has entered a recession, because of the financial crisis, the company has to strengthen its pricing strategy and try to maintain its status by paying careful attention to its competitors. Social: Abercrombie benefit from an enviable target market, the teenagers, given the fact that Ablan (2003:21, cited in Gamble and Thompson, 2009:413) stated teens spent approximately $170 billion on goods and services in 2002, with one-third of that amount going toward apparel. AF target market have, most of the time, responded positively to their provocative campaigns, because of their strategy, which consists in getting closer to the teenagers by providing products with whom they can identify. Technological: Continuous technological progress allowed company to sell via the Internet more easily as on the AF website. The progress in technology also enables to extend the company database and get more and more customers by mailing the products provided through an electronic catalogue. Additionally, AF have had the opportunity to start experimenting with radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, which permits to fight against counterfeited products. †¢ Industry Analysis Five Porter’s Forces Power of Suppliers: Abercrombie pertains to the fashion industry retail market, where consumers have a strong power because of the fact this market is sensitive to their needs and behaviour, which can change from a moment to another. That is the reason why, Abercrombie is supposed to have to hold little power on its suppliers. On the contrary, in this case suppliers hold little power because of the several existing factories in America and as a matter of fact, it enables Abercrombie to argue and negotiate with its suppliers in order to maintain a high price on merchandise. Power of Customers: Customers have always had a lot of influence over the retail industry due to their price sensitiveness. Given the fact that websites and direct mailing are increasing, it gives a stronger power to the customer since they have the opportunity to compare prices, quality and have a large panel of the same products purposed. That is to say, the existence of website purposing the same products, is a threat for fashion retailers because it can push the customer to competitors and gives a significant power to them. Customers loyalty can oblige Abercrombie to re-evaluate its prices, because if they don’t they will lose their customer’s loyalty. Power of Rivalry: The rivalry in this sector is intense and forces Abercrombie to continuously work on innovating and merger from the others, in order to maintain its status. The main competitors are: American Eagle Outfitters Inc. (AEOS), and Gap Inc, who are publicly held firms and J. Crew group, Inc (JC) who is a privately held firm (Gamble and Thompson, 2009:406). Those three competitors are operating on the same segment than Abercrombie and tried, by several unsuccessful strategies, to become leader, while AF stays number one. Gap is the largest AF’s competitor, but there are lots of other competitors on this market segment that haven’t been cited in the case. Thus, Abercrombie have to continuously work on its strategy and compare to the others, in order to stay competitive. Threat of new entrants: A large number of new entrants exist in the specialty apparel industry. For example, Metropark, is a West coast chain for 20- to 35-year-old shoppers, who sold True Religion and Joe’s Jeans casual apparels and plan to opened additional 50 stores by 2007. (Gamble and Thompson, 2009:418). The barriers to enter this market are low, because purchasing and producing garments costs are cheap. Threat of substitution: Even if consumers are ready to pay a premium price in order to have better quality and brand name produces, the threat of substitution is considered as high because of some existing companies who imitate brand name products and sell them at a lower price. For example, Gamble and Thompson, (2009:415) state that: â€Å"AF launched an anticounterfeiting program in an effort to protect its brand and prevent low-cost manufacturers in Asian factories from making imitations of its products†. Industry Life Cycle: Abercrombie Fitch, as well as the other apparel shops are situated in the maturity stage of the industry life cycle. Fashion apparel introduction on the market has been done a long time ago and because of the numerous competitors existing on this market, the industry can be considered as mature. †¢ Driving Forces: Three driving forces were found as having a significant impact on the industry: -The Power of rivalry, Threat of new entrants and threat of substitution will have a NEGATIVE impact on the industry competition. -Technological and Legal forces will enable to prevent from counterfeiting and given the new strategies launched by Abercrombie and American authorities, this will have a POSITIVE impact on the industry. -Power of Customers and Social aspects will have a POSITIVE impact on customer †¢ Competitive intelligence analysis: The three main competitors of the company are the following: American Eagle Outfitters (AEOS) who is based in Pennsylvania and sold lower-priced casual apparel and accessories to men an woman ages 15-25 (Gamble and Thompson, 2009). The company revenues and net incomes are increasing, and they are focusing on an new target market, between ages 24-40, by creating a new intimate apparel sub-brand. J. Crew (JC) operates 200 stores in the United States. They have a joint venture in Japan, with 45 stores. This company has suffered from a series of losses because of its inept strategy. J. Crew is the smallest competitor of AF’s. Gap Inc is the largest competitor of AF’s. Gap Inc, operating worldwide with 3,000 stores. Both revenues and net income are high; it is operating at high-quality level and low-priced level, which makes Gap a really strong competitor to look after. †¢ Strategic map Operating revenues in 2005 (Millions) 16,267 2,785 2,309 850 851 3000 Numbers of shops in the world (hundreds) When looking at the map, we can see that the main competitor of Abercrombie is Gap because of its positioning. Gap is clearly differentiated from the other company, because of its numerous stores worldwide and its operating revenues, which are very high levelled. †¢ Organizational structure and culture: Michael Jeffries runs Abercrombie Company since 1992; he is president and chief executive of AF. The company slogan is â€Å"trend transcends age† and as a matter of fact AF goal is to fits the need of a cool, attractive and fashion-conscious target audience (Gamble and Thompson, 2009). The structure of the company is built on the management of four brands at the same time, which are: AF, Abercrombie, Hollister Company and Ruehl. Analysis of the business-level strategy of the firm †¢ Business strategy of the firm PRIMARY ACTIVITIES Following Porter (1985) description, the primary activities of the company are presented as such: Inbound logistics AF purchase their merchandise from a large panel of factories and suppliers around the world. In effect, the company have never sourced more than 50% of its apparel from a single factory or supplier. They act this way in order to get merchandise at a reduced cost, in order to spend more money on its design services. AF has centralized its design services in a unique headquarter, in order to get a more efficient logistic process. Operations The distribution centre of the company is also situated in this unique headquarter. AF sells its products only in its stores and via its website. The company does not act like the other company, they do not want to use wholesaling, and licensing or franchising to distribute the product they offer. Outbound logistics All the products of the industry are assembles, inspected and designed in its Ohio headquarters. Then, the products are distributed to stores via contact carriers (Gamble and Thompson, 2009). This process permits to lower up the cost of the process. Marketing and sales AF core corporate values are â€Å"nature, friendships and having fun† (Gamble and Thompson, 2009). As a matter of fact, they invest a lot of money in design. One of their main marketing strategy remains on the design of their stores. AF stores are reflecting the values they want to attract the consumers with. It means that, each store is designed one precise model, each stores are unique and implemented in an â€Å"exciting format† (Gamble and Thompson, 2009). AF put emphasis on communicating their specific message around the world, by building â€Å"perfect† stores. Also the AF website has been created in away it matches the best possible with the feel and aura of its stores (Gamble and Thompson, 2009). AF try to launch at least two new items in its stores each week, in order to be competitive and develop customer loyalty to the brand, by demonstrating, they care about customer’s needs and are different from the other. SUPPORT ACTIVITIES Following Porter (1985) description, the support activities of the company are presented as such: Procurement Porte (1985) states: â€Å"An efficient procurement department should be able to obtain the highest quality goods at the lowest prices†. In effect, AF procurement department should be considered as an efficient one, as aid previously AF have centralized its design and development process in a unique headquarter, lowering work force coasts and improving efficiency. Human Resource Management â€Å"Human resources are increasingly becoming an important way of attaining sustainable competitive advantage† (Porter, 1985). AF busiest seasons are spring and fall, when they hire extra staff, keeping control over the situation. Human resources management at AT is attentively managed; everything is done to make the staff feeling comfortable and confident. AF brand representatives have to adhere to the Abercrombie dress code. Technology Development AF is developing a managing-in-training program for seniors and graduates (Gamble and Thompson, 2009). AF began experimenting with radio frequency identification technology (RFID), which is a really efficient development since it prevents from thief and counterfeiting. |Key success factor/ Strength|ABERCROMBIE |AEOS |GAP |J. CREW GROUP | |measure | | | | | | |Rating/ Score |Rating/Score |Rating/Score |Rating/Score | |Quality/Product performances| | | | | |Rating: 0,2 |8/1,6 |7/1,4 |9/1,8 |6/1,2 | |Image | 6/1,2 | 8/1,6 9/1,8 |7/1,4 | |Rating: 0,2 | | | | | |New product innovation | | | | | |capability |8/1,6 |6/1,8 |9/2,7 |4/1,2 | |Rating: 0,3 | | | | | |Manufacturing capabilities | | | | | |Rating: 0,2 |8/1,6 |5/1 |7/1,4 |5/1 | |Customer services | | | | | |capabilities: 0,1 |8/0,8 |6/0,6 |8/0,8 |6/0,6 | |OVERALL RATING/SCORE | | | | | | |38/6,8 |32/6,4 |42/8,5 |28/5,4 | The overall strongest competitor is: GAP The overall weakest competitor is: J. Crew Group †¢ Key elements and specific problem of the industry After a precise analysis of the AF case, it seems obvious that the three key elements of the company are: -To anticipate competitors moves In order to anticipate competitor moves, AF have to continuously compare its industry to the competitors, in order to define where and when the company m ust take decision and employ a new strategy. Acting this way, AF will be able to figure out what kind of strategy they have to adopt in order to undertake those of the competitors. To improve customer service: AF must go on training employees and make sure them feel confident in their company. Keeping the dress code outlined in Abercrombie Associate’s handbook is imperative because it permits to merger from the competitors, by showing the authenticity of the brand. This also enables to attract clients by being faced with effective and well-qualified employees. Furthermore, AF must invest more in RFID because it is an easy and simple way to generates more business advantage in their company, as it figures out what are the real needs of customers by making quick and simple inventories of the merchandise. -To maintain consumer loyalty AF have to make sure they comply with customer needs by putting links on the website or sending direct mails to its database customers. It will enable the company to get in touch with its customers, but also to gain information and get an accurate perception of customers needs. †¢ Recommendations First of all, AF must work on their marketing campaign and stop doing controversial campaign, because nowadays it hasn’t the same impact than it has at the AF early beginnings. Even if they have became famous acting this way, the period is not the same and Abercrombie is enough experimented to try another way of advertise its industry. Secondly, AF should continuously improve their website design, since it is the way to attract more and more clients. The actual website of the company is not enough exiting and fashion-conscious as the brand pretends to be. Thirdly, AF should work on its expanding abroad. They are not really present in the world and shall work on this point, because they could target more customers. Even if the brand reputation is strong, it would be an opportunity to open more stores in big capitals, as in Amsterdam or Paris, where there are lots of teenagers. Fourthly, organising featured events could help the company to obtain more customer loyalty, because young customers are attracted by some kinds of events as: concerts, parties and would be pleased to join AF events. It will permit to broaden the â€Å"existing† aspects Abercrombie wants to show to the client. Fifthly, AF should invest in FCID. This new system is the way to increase customer services and maintain consumers loyalty because it enables to fight against theft and counterfeits goods, which are too much present nowadays. To conclude, FCID would bring a very competitive advantage to AF if they choose to apply this system to the four brand owned. References: Porter, M. E. (1985), Competitive Advantage: Creating and Sustaining Superior Performance, New York: Free Press. Gamble, J. , Thompson A. , Jr. (2009) Essentials of Strategic Management: The Quest for Competitive Advantage, New York: Mac Graw-Hill Irwin GAP AF AEOS

April 1865 The Month That Saved America

April 1865 The Month That Saved America Free Online Research Papers Jay Winik, the author of April 1865 the Month that saved America, shows his writing genius when he writes this book. He has only written two books. Although he has written two books he writes like a veteran. In this book Jay Winik clearly states over and over again that April 1865 is the month that was the most crucial to America. He also writes that April 1865 is the month that could have dissembled America. It was the month that could have destroyed America but instead it saved it. Jay Winik states that the country didn’t rise by its self. He also mentions that the constitution mentioned nothing about a nation. Jay Winik does a lot more than just list the battles in chronological order. He goes thorough and tells of the events that happened before the Civil War. He goes in depth while talking about Abraham Lincoln. He also talked about Thomas Jefferson. He talked about how he owned slaves but he really didn’t like the practice. He begins the book with the life story of Jefferson. On from that he just tells us about the battles. He tells us of the struggles of the North. He also tells us struggles of the South. There are some things is the book that aren’t agreeable to some. He gets the readers to feel sorry for Lee. He also gets the readers to underestimate general Grant. He also often says things over and over again. He says them so the readers can understand what he’s talking about. He wants to get his point across which is fine, but he could have done it in a better way. This is historically relevant because every battle is historically correct. The way he put Lincoln’s assassination is correct also. He also describes Jefferson’s views of slavery correct also. In conclusion this is a very historically correct book. It is filled with action and suspense . This book should be recommended for people who are interested in the Civil War and history fanatics. Research Papers on April 1865 The Month That Saved America19 Century Society: A Deeply Divided EraHarry Potter and the Deathly Hallows EssayEffects of Television Violence on ChildrenHonest Iagos Truth through DeceptionMind TravelThe Effects of Illegal ImmigrationWhere Wild and West MeetQuebec and CanadaThe Spring and AutumnHip-Hop is Art

The Advertising Effect on Adolescents in Saudi Arabia Essay

The Advertising Effect on Adolescents in Saudi Arabia - Essay Example The availability and effect of modern media, particularly from Western sources of production, such as television, movies, and music in Saudi Arabia will be reviewed from contemporary reports and placed in the context of wider social change movements such as the â€Å"Arab Spring†, democratization, and reform that seemingly threaten traditional values and identities in the Kingdom. The introduction of Western and modern values or identity constructs through commercial advertising will also be analyzed with reference to youth movements and new developments in the Saudi economy resulting from lifestyle pattern changes. The economic and social results of this process will be further related in context to the issues of globalization, democratization, and modernization as they portend a change in values in Saudi Arabian culture. The emphasis of this study will be in analyzing the effect of advertising on Saudi adolescents particularly, as this is psychologically when the most import ant aspects of personal character definition are formed, and socially this represents the time period when human individuals are most open to experimentation with patterns of identity, character, and personality formation.The research methodology of this essay will include a comparison of research into adolescent identity structures and behavior in the U.S. and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in order to determine the similarities and differences between the two experiences both subjectively and objectively. Rather than assuming that Saudi and American youth culture will develop on the same patterns of expression.