The organization under analysis is a sporting goods store Sporty & Trendy that is a small family business with many loyal customers. The motto repeatedly used in the store is “we will help you be sporty and trendy.” Hence, the strategic mission can be defined as meeting customers’ needs and going beyond. The owner of the store often tries to help his customers to choose the most appropriate item after a discussion of their needs and wants. A customer-oriented approach is the utilized strategy that has proved to be effective.
Based on the information mentioned above, it is possible to identify the company’s competitive priorities. First, it is noteworthy that sporting goods are quite popular due to modern people’s focus on healthy lifestyles and wellness. The media promulgate this way of life making sporting goods popular. However, this business is rather competitive since many stores and online retailers offer sporting items. Large retailers can offer high-quality goods at lower prices as well as attract customers with a wide range of products. The competitive priorities of Sporty & Trendy include customer-centered service, special offers, fashion trends, and community impact.
The analysis of order qualifiers and winners can be instrumental in identifying the effectiveness of the chosen strategy. Order qualifiers are services and goods regarded as essentials by customers and offered by the vast majority of organizations operating in a certain business (Collier & Evans, 2016). Order winners are goods and services that are unique to a particular organization. The company’s order qualifiers are sporting goods, friendly assistants, delivery service, and gift cards.
The store also offers some unique goods and services such as local entrepreneurs’ products and gifts to loyal customers. The owner of the store emphasizes that being trendy requires paying attention to details, so local producers’ items are regarded as trendy touches every sporty person needs. These are mainly wristbands, bracelets, belts, bags, and similar items. All customers are informed about the producer of each piece and their stories. The owner of the store pays special attention to their contribution to the community. Besides, each year, loyal customers receive some gifts that are chosen according to their interests.
The major competitive advantage of the organization in question is the use of a customer-centered approach. However, it is possible to improve the company’s performance by enhancing certain operations. The relationships with customers are essential for the success of the store, so this area can be further developed. Although the owner and assistants try to meet their customers’ needs, they tend to concentrate on their stock rather than customized products.
It could be beneficial for the store’s employees to ask clients about their ideas as to things they might want or even dream about. This information can be the basis for the development of new products. Local manufacturers are likely to produce certain goods for the store. It will be necessary to collect people’s feedback, which will help identify the most and least popular items.
In conclusion, it is possible to state that the sporting goods store under consideration is quite successful due to the chosen approach. The value is created by the focus on customers’ needs as well as people’s interest in trendy details. However, the company can become more successful if customers’ needs and wants are identified and documented. Quick surveys or even some questions during a conversation with a customer can help employees understand potential order winners.
Reference
Collier, D. A., & Evans, J. R. (2016). OM (6th ed.). Boston, MA: Cengage Learning.