SWOT Strengths: There are over 350 stores across the United Kingdom, Ireland and internationally in Asia, the Middle East and Europe. They also have 6 online sites operating in 4 currencies. This emphasises the how River Island has located itself all around the United Kingdom and are also expanding internationally. They have over 60 years of retail experience and is one of the top best known and adored brands on the high street giving them the advantage of having a loyal customer base spanning over the years. There stores still feature a retro 1970’s and 1960’s style Chelsea Girl range aimed at the slightly younger end of their customers. Weaknesses: River Island do not offer student discount throughout the year like other high street retailers do who are similar e.g. Topshop and New Look. Not all River Island stores have menswear and kids within them which is a weakness as people may not be able to easily access those collections. River Island do not have a plus size collection which is a weakness as other retailers now are introducing their own plus size collections e.g. New Looks, Boohoo and many others. They also do not have a maternity wear collection which the likes of Topshop have. Opportunities: They …show more content…
All of these represent the costs to the buyer. River Island are quite likely to bargain with their suppliers to ensure that the quality of the goods which they are purchasing of them are at the best possible standard to ensure they are giving their customers the best they can. A strong supplier is likely to make an industry more competitive and decrease their profit potential for the buyer. Although on the other hand a weak supplier will make an industry less competitive and increase the profit potential for the