Critical Analysis Of Sports Direct

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Introduction As the retail industry is confronted with extraordinary challenges (Deloitte LLP, 2011), firms are facing increased competition. Porters leading authority on competitive strategy is largely accountable for the increased importance to a firm’s strategy. The retail industry is becoming highly saturated as the world is becoming smaller; this point alone makes strategy a vital component to a firms success. Strategic management is critical to the development and expansion of all organizations. Sports Direct must align its mission and vision with its operations to keep itself accustomed with its surroundings (Joseph & Eshun, 2009). The firm must consider potential strategic issues surrounding the importance of sustaining their competitive position without compromising on cost or value, whilst maintaining superior operating efficiencies. This report will focus primarily on the internal and external macroeconomic analysis coined with a critical analysis of Sports Directs business and corporate level strategy before recommendations are made. This will highlight how the organisation can sustain their competitive position in todays increasingly globalised, hypercometitive market (Hanssen-Bauer & Snow , 1996). 2.0 Sports Direct Overview Founded in 1982, Sports Direct is the UK’s leading sport retailer by revenue and operating profit, overtaking JJB sports in 2006. Operating out of 500 stores and employing in excess of 11,000 individuals, Sports Direct now have an estimated worth of £4.3 billion and provide its consumers with an unrivalled range of sportswear and equipment at an unbeatable value from a wide variety of third-party and Group-owned brands. 3.0 Sports Directs strategy Competitive strategy is about being diff... ... middle of paper ... ...rior staff training is also recommended to ensure that the workforce is equipped with the specialist knowledge about the products they sell and provide a superior customer service. Conclusion Sports Directs current strategy has proven successful during the 2008 global financial crises. Its discount culture has provided them with the ability to develop a low-cost competitive advantage. Through effective decision-making and superior efficiencies, they have emerged as the UK’s leading sports retailer, at the expense of former rival JJB. However, as the economy begins to recover, in order to sustain their competitive position Sports Direct must evolve to cater to an emerging consumer trend. The implementation of the above recommendations in conjunction with a reformed strategy will enable the firm to continue to capitalise on the sportswear market.

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