3) Product: What are the competitive advantages of the firm? Competitive advantage is anything that a company has, or does better, that customers value but the competition cannot match. This is usually manifested in terms of a lower cost or a differentiated product or service. With 3960 stores in the US and more than $209 billion in annual sales, Wal-Mart stands top in its position and it is an incessantly profit-driven company. With profit as the goal and service as the process the company is at its core. According to Friedman (2005), Walmart’s greatest strength is its inventory control which is achieved through its effective distribution centers which he labels as “Walmart symphony with no finale; it just plays over and over” (Friedman, …show more content…
Even its slogan says “everyday low prices”. This has helped in all the major decisions at Walmart including the use of technology, marketing, and distribution. According to Ortega (1998), Walmart’s simple mission was “offer the lowest price. Cut costs to the bone, and keep cutting so you can offer the lowest price.” Wal-Mart focuses on providing lowest possible price among competition, instead of providing promotions. This attracts more customers eventually leading to higher revenues and hence higher profits for the …show more content…
It has launched many superstores which offer groceries and also a good shopping environment. It has been successful in creating a brand name and good reputation as the leader in the industry. Their everyday low prices philosophy was influential in developing the loyalty of customers that prompted the growth of the company. This constancy in price and service empowered Wal-Mart to establish a reputation of loyalty. Customer loyalty has been increased by development of reputation and brand name which has helped in reducing the price elasticity of demand. Wal-Mart also offers guarantees and return policies which assure the customers of their purchase. Method of providing guarantees and warranties also act as a barrier to entry because new entrants also provide high quality goods and offer customers competitive services which are often very