There are four characteristics that need to be implemented in the former Wild Oats stores namely: high market responsiveness, fast developments, low cost, and finally high levels of efficiency so as to address the need of their local markets. However, such characteristics are dependent upon the type of work teams that are the backbone of Whole Foods wherein through the utilization of a variety of management practices a seamless integration of vertical and horizontal means of collaboration are implemented in order to create a stable organizational structure for proper operations. Based on the case data, it was seen that Whole Foods placed a considerable emphasis on the proper treatment of its employees through the use of generous performance based incentives.
This was done in order to create a workforce that was more inclined towards better more hospitable service towards the clientele at their various stores. This was stated within the article as one of the competitive advantages of the company since their in-store representatives are some of the friendliest and most hardworking in the business of selling organic food. As such, this strategy should be implemented in the various former Wild Oats locations so as to create an increase in operational efficiency and consumer satisfaction.
Development of Community Citizenship Activities
Another action plan that should be put into effect is that the various Wild Oats stores that were acquired should develop community citizenship activities that would create better relationships and visibility between the store and the local community. As seen in the case study, Whole Foods attempts various iterations of social activism/community citizenship through charitable donations, paying premium prices for locally produced items, creating a loan program for regional farmers as well as the sponsorship of various not-for-profit organizations. Such activities can create a greater level of product patronage on the part of consumers since they would consider the company as a positive influence on the local community.
These activities can be similarly implemented on a local scale by the former Wild Oats stores by sponsoring local activities that help the local community and emphasizes the consumption of organic food. This can come in the form of sponsoring a weekend farmers market, creating a local not-for-profit organization to promote awareness regarding the consumption of organic food as well as implementing the “Community Giving Days” that are present in other Whole Foods stores wherein 5% of that day’s income goes towards a local or regional non-profit organization. These activities should create a positive reaction among members of the local community and thus lead to higher rates of sales and consumer patronage.
Store Layout
The last action plan that should be implemented revolves around changing the interiors and methods of merchandising of the former Wild Oats stores into the Whole Foods format. As seen within the case study, one of the competitive advantages Whole Foods has over its competitors is the use of in-store chefs in open kitchens, bakeries that prepare bread from scratch, food preparation stations and wide selection of gourmet food items. Basically, the entire Whole Foods in-store layout is meant to entice and impress potential customers by making them curious enough to check out the various enticing displays the store has to offer. This is one of the selling points of a Whole Foods store and should be implemented immediately at the various Wild Oats branches that have been acquired.