Marketing Analysis Of Marks And Spencer

Marketing Analysis Of Marks And Spencer Success is the ability of a firm to do well than its competitors. By 1990s MS had been massively successful in terms of market share profit. Therefore, we can take up that the firm was overtaking its competitors in term of market share and profit. This was attained by different approaches. The companys maturity, strategies, philosophy and control of the value chain were all vital to its success. Strategy of product and service differentiation was the main feature for MS . The development of brand St Michael and its creation as a sign of British manufactured quality, at a sensible price were essential to the company. By providing a welcoming, co-operative service that guarantee superior shopping comfort and handiness to customers, distinguished MS from further high street retailers. The company quickly turn into a household name, with a solid corporate image, that could be trusted upon to give good value for money. This prepared it stand out from the rest and therefore more fruitful. As MS matured, and it advanced along its experience curve, it was able to benefit from an accumulation of experience, process innovation, economies of scale and improving customer brand loyalty (Porter M. 1980. pp163-164). This assisted the company to deliver improved service at a low cost, to customers who were less price-sensitive, thus assuring success. Simon Marks, well-known as aggressive Leader for his expertise over the business and his thought. His firm thoughts and realization of core values provided the company a strongly devoted ethos culture. This ethos was continued through the employ of staff that would fit-in and turn into part of the family. Staffs of MS were very faithful, which meant that they could be trusted upon to provide the true level of service to the clients. They actually were Customer oriented through the start of the business to be crucial to the success of the company. MS deployed a very thoughtful style of strategy, which empowered whole control of all features of the business. Thru its was effective years, the company kept and remained true to the durable core values, firstly set in place by Simon Marks. Every store manager tracked central route on all matters with devotion to rules and the company fundamental ethics and values. This confirmed that the MS image was steady throughout the nation and assis ted to support the business identity. The culture admired the policy and strengthened the companys victory through differentiation. Simon Marks recognized the market necessity for great quality at reasonable price. It was his trust that most of the British suppliers could arrange for these items and he rapidly forged close ties with his belief suppliers. This connection was so vital, it was incorporated in the companys central principles. Suppliers had to deliver products of the high quality and description and this assisted to give MS a large manufactured goods range that customers could trust on. The locked-in suppliers, captive distribution, owned retail outlets, effective in-house service network and strong after sales support meant that MS had a strong vertically integrated system that controlled most of the value chain (Porter. Ibid. p128). Guaranteed products from a assured chain assisted make MS so fruitful. The achievement of MS was not only owed to the company itself, a certain amount of good fortune is also required for any business to succeed , creativity, hard work and market requirement. Back in the late 1880s, Michael Marks had not continued with the penny bazaars or Simon Marks not carried back ideas from America proceeding how to advance the business, then it is more than probable that the company would not have been a achievement. MS was so effective because it occupied an area of the retail market that no one other had. It distinguished itself and continued high criteria in product quality and customer deal whereas keeping price reasonable. MS managers were devoted to the company beliefs and operated closely to produce strong links with British suppliers. Market Penetration: i.e. existing products in existing markets. Additional product lines have been offered in the food and clothing categories to gain more market share. MS has introduced a designer collection with the aim of entering different segments of the younger (Thompson, 2001). Also, different product ranges such as cosmetics, furniture, books and CD, financial services etc have been introduced. Certain marketing events has been introduced by MS such as growing advertising, employing an outside agency for public relations and launching the marketing department to take a more dedicated customer orientation. MS has upgraded its product lines through innovation. E.g. Buying in new fabrics and colours, increasing product offerings (MS 1998 annual report). Product Development: i.e. new products in existing markets. MS offers customers a more extensive choice based by the highest quality and safety standards. MS introduced in-store bakeries, rear-service delicatessen, hot food counters and so on into stores to differentiate itself from competitors for providing new selling opportunities for unique product ranges (MS 1998 annual report). Some innovative products are added such as washable silk, jumpers and etc. (MS 1998 annual report). Furthermore, MS introduces sub brand designer in order to supply a collection of womens clothing for the fashion conscious woman (http://marksandspencer.com, 18/03/02). Market Development: i.e. existing products in new markets. MS increased selling space by 410,000 sq ft in 1998 through opening 4 new stores, extending 16 stores and purchasing 19 selected stores from Littlewoods (MS 1998 annual report) in order to upgrade and make the stores more pleasure experience for the customer. Also, MS has opened a number of stores at UK railway station and airports. MS has tried to enter into the young segment by offering more fashionable clothing and introducing some designer brand. Moreover, MS is now offering a mail order for busy people and those living in remote areas. Mean while the company continued to established markets in Western Europe, Canada, USA, and the Far East, this was now being done via a franchise method. Diversification: i.e. new products in new markets. Apart from its core products: food and clothing, MS developed a new strategic direction within the UK through its diversification into financial services, home furnishings etc. (Maureen Whitehead, 1992). MS also diversified into US retail food market by purchasing Kings Supermarkets (http://www.clm1.org, 24/04/02). Until 1998, MS has already had more than 20 outlets. MS also diversified into the world market. They were following-up on their worldwide reputation that they had gained since the 50s by only selling quality items at value pricing. Current Strategic Situation: Due to successful again MS must to inspect what made them successful originally Simons Marks understanding of customer preferences and trends. This led MS to meeting the customers requirements in the market and launching some very solid core capabilities, which over time commanded to others. Though, where MS pass on wrong is that they lost touch with the developing market and hence requirements of customers; customers needs transformed but they didnt. To re-establish this success MS must certify they know the market exceptionally well and decide what section of the market they wish to acquire. By going back to their original rudiments, inspecting their existing strengths and deciding on a market segmentation strategy that best matches these strengths, MS should be able to become moneymaking once more. Continuous satisfactory market research must be accompanied to certify MS does not lose touch again with their target market as another blunder could critically damage the organisation . Today MS is operating in a highly competitive market where purchasers have a comparatively high percentage of disposable income and are spending large amounts. This gives them high negotiating power specially since they are well knowledgeable about competition and so it is important to use the most cost effective suppliers to be able to save costs and grow the profit. With modern manufacturing techniques consumers are expecting high quality even at this low cost. Buyers presume a minimum standard and a market accumulation situation had established. The large number of substitute products in the market today also helps makes it this highly competitive atmosphere; there are many other retailers having competition for both the top and bottom end of the market share. This necessitates MS to have an aggressive marketing strategy to recapture market share. MS needs to take opportunities which form on its current strengths and be cautious about current threats that could potentially lead to more difficulties. By structure on existing strengths or core capabilities MS should goal to strengthen its market place and form new competencies earlier boarding on a noteworthy expansion program. Once a number of strong core competencies have been established MS can consider dangerous growth. SWOT Analysis STRENGTHS MS became Well Known MS has created a Good image for their customers. Their store locations were prime. Clothing is a requirement but several peoples also purchase a wide-ranging variety of clothes to match their different events or desires. Urge purchasing accounts for a high share of sales. Customers are continually purchasing new clothes to fill their wardrobes, either for the reasons of fashion or to switch worn-out stuffs. The UK industry is stronger in design fashion. Less common for people to get prepare their personal clothes than it was in the past. Costs of manufacture are dropping down as manufacturing is progressively being moved to inexpensive places around the world. WEAKNESSES Severe rivalry lead MS to heavy discounting that is grind down profit margins. The UK cloth trade has lesser output than leading European competitors is progressively being vulnerable by low cost foreign competition. Substantial brands have high profiles and their goods are relaxed to copy by counterfeiters with slight changes by competitors. Large chains dominate the retail sector and the only way to gain share in this mature market is to success to win customers from competitors. Speedy fashion variations can render items obsolete very quickly. Outmoded mail order collections are losing ground, as it is difficult to keep well-informed of fashion. Internet selling is unlikely to be significantly successful, as customers like to try on clothes and see the superiority of fabric and workmanship. Sales are periodic, with the greatest spending taking place in the run-up to Christmas, when more expensive coats and party wear are anticipated. Clothes are also common gift choices. The state of the reduced can have an important impact on sales at the top end of the market, as well as on desire buying. OPPORTUNITIES Men still spend less on dresses than women and this segment of the market remains underexploited. There is quiet sufficiently of probable for further merging in the market. The asset of brands such as Dorothy Perkins and the expertise of British retailers suggest there is probable for further growth abroad, mostly in the new EU member states. The ending of the MFA should lead to more discounts in the cost of products which could increase retail sales overall and/or cause consumers to trade up to items once elsewhere their means. Number of working women remains to growth, they will not only want more clothes for work but are also more probable to have the financial freedom to create clothes purchases. The industry remains to encourage a teenager marketplace for fashion-conscious 8 to 12 year-olds. THREATS Clothing chains from overseas, mainly those from Europe, such as Zara, have positively occupied UK high streets. Conventionally popular retailers, like Marks and Spencer, will have to adapt or face the harm of more market share to aggressive groups such as Arcadia. Both manufacturing and retailing are labour concentrated and are affected by legislature concerning minimum wages and working hours. The increasing participation of grocery multiples in clothing retailing is adding low-price volume to the market. A recession in the economy could cause men, in specific, to cut back on overall expenditure in this sector. In the current market environment a quantity of choices are open to MS now. These include: Founding a strategic union with another organisation This would involve an unwritten agreement with other clothes retailers not to encroach on each others market share. This would allow MS to regain strength in its original core business and so ensure it is in a better position to possibly expand into new markets in the future. Dis-investments In order to focus all its efforts on the recovery of the UK business, MS could divest or close non-core businesses and assets, which would allow it to focus only on core business until its market position is regained. Purchasing of smaller competitors To minor the level of competition and create trading easier MS could buy up minor retailers. This would give MS more control over the market and growth their market share deprived of making many changes. For MS to attain organic development and recover the market share they once had they neediness to initially toughen their core profit centres by selling more of their current merchandise to their current clients. After this MS can initiate to reconstruct its reputation for quality service and distinguish their products so customers observe them to be of higher value then the competition. By control the price constant this should help take back segments of the market missing to competitors. Once this is attained MS can remain to look at choices for product innovation. By introducing absolutely new and original products they can further strengthen their market segments. After this has been completed MS should begin to market their current merchandise to attract customers from fresh market segments through careful advancement planned by careful market research. Once they have recognized a position in other market segments they can begin to distinguish their merchandise within that mark et segment and additional strengthen their position. Finally, MS can initiate to once again increase by looking at new product options in completely new markets such as financial services. Therefore I would recommend MS primarily disinvest loss-making sub-sidiaries to allow the organisation to focus on upgrading its core business strength. This can be assisted by founding a strategic alliance with other organisations not to violate on each others market for the time being. Smaller competitors should not be attained at this stage until MS is in a sturdier financial position. Strategic Direction for the future: Internal Development: MSs will have to invest in training led to enhanced performance of supervisors and junior management. In-addition, MS will have to give people widespread roles through inspiration in order to help organization grow more smoothly. Inside the UK market MS will have to decide to revolutionize the store with modern look. The upgrading on design and layout for the store will have been introduced in an attempt to gain customer demands on convenience and to increase more shopping attractive. done Acquisitions: MS have to buy more stores as part of the growth programme; this will allow the company to double the number of locations. The store bought will then be altered into MS corporate style, with specific departments of the MS business (Welwyn Garden City). Joint Development: The relationship with suppliers allows MS to sharing knowledge and information throughout the supply chain i.e. MS worked with its suppliers e.g. Dupont to pioneer the use of the material Lycra for the mass market (case study). Future Resources of MS: Tangible:  ª Wide variety of high quality products with value for money, own-brand products  ª Hard working staff and good management team  ª Loyal customers Intangible:  ª High product value  ª Good image, so it will converted into high reputation  ª Buyer and staff loyalty  ª They will must have some Strong relationships with suppliers  ª Highly expertise expertise knowledge Human:  ª Supply-chain management; expertise in outsourcing  ª Outstanding services in purchasing and merchandising  ª Small hierarchy that will allow outstanding communications between head office purposes and stores. E.g. managers ask about employees opinions frequently to encourage argument and the expression of new ideas Successful strategic management requires winning, retaining and balancing resources. Performance depends directly on simple, mostly tangible, resources, but the growth of tangible resources is dependent on intangible factors. However, for MS, the loyalty of customers and the reputation is decreasing, the morale is shrinking and the cost is increasing (Kim Warren, 2002). The value chain analysis could be used to identify the organisational capabilities. Value Chain Analysis: SUPPORT ACTIVITIES Firm Infrastructure:  ª Subcontracting with suppliers as well as outsourcing domestically and internationally  ª Development of financial services such as availability of credit cards Technology Development:  ª MSs technologists working together with suppliers to gain knowledge about product development (e.g. with Dupont-Lycra)  ª EPOS system to help MS improve productivity so that it can respond faster to market changes  ª Customer ordering system (mailing system)  ª Having its own website for online selling, which allow customers to see products and service online Human Resource Management:  ª Good appraisal system for employees such as store Management training program and so on (Morgenstein Strongin, 1992)  ª Specialist advisers in key departments  ª Staff service initiatives Procurement  ª Minimising the environmental impact of their operations and merchandise  ª A well established supply base, with a high product specification standards PRIMARY ACTIVITIES Inbound Logistics:  ª Long-Term and non-contractual relationship based on mutual trust and understanding  ª Integrated business process with suppliers in terms of product specification, material management, quality control and so on  ª Sharing knowledge and information throughout the supply chain Operations:  ª Exclusive quality control in the operation process  ª Dealing direct with manufacturers instead of through intermediaries, understanding and controlling products from raw materials to finished goods  ª Subcontracting production with very tight conditions to suppliers  ª The costs of stockholding were carried by the supplier  ª Working across within franchises Outbound Logistics:  ª Franchise agreement overseas such as Greece, Indonesia, Thailand and so on  ª Good Store location Marketing and Sales:  ª Comfortable shopping environment  ª High quality products with good value for money  ª Wide ranges of products and services Services:  ª Offering the highest standard of customer care (Johnson Schole, 1997; Case Study) The value chain analysis helps MS identify the way to cooperate across different functions in the chain and then add more value to products and sustain competitive advantages. Having had the value chain analysis, the core competences of MS are as following:  ª Sourcing methods  ª Ability to deliver high value, reliable, consistent quality products  ª The trust from investors and customers  ª High quality of management 4.0 Evaluation MS Strategy: In order to evaluate MS strategy, the SFA analysis will be give below: Strategy Suitability Feasibility Acceptability Differentiation * * * Do Nothing Withdrawal * * * Market Penetration * * Market Development * * * Product Development * * Diversification * Internal Development * * * Acquisition * * Joint Development * * * Differentiation The company had serious consideration regarding the future direction of the company and its brand (St. Michaels). Because of its success in image, branding and quality, it is viewed acceptable to continue down the same road. Do Nothing The Do Nothing strategy has not been successful as it leaves MS behind in the market place, due to this MS has lost its continuous development in terms of quality, branding, customer values and so on. They have proven too slow to take action against those changes in a very competitive market place. Withdrawal According to the company inability to operate successfully in countries such as Canada, US, Fast East and some European countries as well as the Asian crisis in 1997, the choice left for the company would be to close the unprofitable outlets while remain operating in the other countries that still profitable. Market Penetration MS starts to introduce a number of new product lines in 1998 such as cosmetics, financial services, furniture and etc. however by the time they were introduced its competitors had already followed MS some successful strategy. Consequently, MS has lost its competitive advantage. Market Development Regarding to the acquisition of 19 outlets from the Littlewoods group this was suitable because it allowed the company to achieve its reposition in the market place. Product Development MS re-evaluated and improved a number of product lines mainly in the food and lady clothing, but also entered into the furnishing business. The food lines improved MSs profitability; however, the clothing and soft furnishing have not yet been able to compete with high street competitors. Diversification MS had taken their standard strategy formula and tried to stall it in their overseas operations, but they did not take the culture differences and other risks, i.e. economic, commercial and political. Internal Development The modernization of outlets, the retraining of employee and upgrading their central purchasing system helped MS to be more competitive in the marketplace. Acquisition MS acquired the 19 stores from Littelwoods for the purpose of adding them to the up-grading programme with the purpose of adding to the companys property assets. The company also acquired the food chain King Supermarkets in the United State, this operation operates under its own name. Joint Development MS required new ideas to add excitement to its product lines and therefore enhance the shopping experience of their customers. The failure of MSs suppliers to develop possible new products has been viewed as a failure in their relationship which had to be addressed without delay. The problem was due to the past attention had been given to quality and efficient delivery of the product, Marks Spencer standards have always be strict, the MS and not enough effort on focusing on their customers and what customer wanted from the relationship. When the customers feel satisfied then will be prepared to commit themselves to future purchases from the same supplier, this can be viewed that the relationship gives MS a real competitive advantages as well as economic 5.0 MSs situation: Text Box: Industry Saleshttp://www.coursework.info/document/3/4/4/44381/44381_files/image013.gif According to the life cycle, MS is sitting in the mature stage and the fortunes have been in decline. As the increasing competition such as from Next and Gap, the customer tastes changing and the short of experience of going overseas, MSs profit declined sharply from  £1,102m in 1997 to  £546m in 1999 and the share price declined from  £6.65 to  £4.61 (The Chartered Institute of Marketing, 2001). http://www.coursework.info/document/3/4/4/44381/44381_files/image014.gifGap Analysis: MS was very successful in product range and quality in the past; therefore, they overlooked the changes in the environment such as increasing competition, changes in customer tastes and so on. As a result, they remain do-nothing strategy without investing in product innovation, environmental monitoring or marketing, which led to the decreasing in profits in 1998. In order to fill the gap, MS should start to look at and change product and marketing strategies. Furthermore, different options should be looked at by MS such as brand identity (different brands for different segments), segmentation (more attention on key segments), diversification (for the financial service, they should choose the effective target audience and identify their needs and wants properly). (MS Corp. Press Office, 2001) http://www.coursework.info/document/3/4/4/44381/44381_files/image015.gif In the past, MSs strategy based on broad differentiation (image of good quality and wide range of products at affordable price). At the moment, its strategy was unclear because they were trying to do everything to maintain its competitive advantage. They are using unrelated strategies such as cutting costs (cost leadership) as well as trying to use differentiation focus by entering different niche markets (financial services and so on) as well as differentiating its brand through the range of products on offer. Consequently, leads to the company positioning in stuck in the middle. All in all, MS failed the sustainable competitive advantage hurdle. With fickle customers, changing fashions and intense competition, a sustainable competitive advantage is difficult to maintain in this particular sector. Although MS has plenty of attractive retail space and George Davies brought a magician, however, MS need to have some dramatic change in order to survive and revive. 6.0 Recommendation and conclusion: MS faces the toughest test of its ability to survive in the war of the High Street. It must not only defend its market share, but must also find ways of gaining back customers perception in terms of quality, brand loyalty and so on. MS required new ideas to add excitement to its product lines and therefore enhance the shopping experience of their customers (Dennis Adcock, 2000). MS is changing itself such as outsourcing and recruit more new and young employees. New strategies are in Place: an upmarket clothing line has been introduced, returning to selling only own-brand products, stores have been revamped, top management appointments made, the utilization of Microsoft BizTalk serve and Window 2000 serve and opening out-of-town stores to shift surplus stock. The difficulty for MS is achieving the right balance between the corporate values that gave it its strong market position, and the innovation that is required to stay competitive. It is a tough time for MS and also the right time for a new broom, MS should get lessons from past and look at more about what is happening in the market place and change itself from the old way of doing things to a brand-new image in order to sustain its competitive advantage and regain its leading position. Reference: Books:  · Case Study from Declan  · Daft and Marcic, 2001  · Dennis Adcock, 2000, Marketing Strategies for competitive advantage; John WileySons Inc.  · Hartley and Palmer, 1999  · Jennings and Wattam, 1994, Decision Making An Integrated Approach, 2nd edition, Financial Times, Pitman  · Jobber, 2001, Principles and Practice of Marketing, 3nd Edition, McGraw-Hill Publishing Company  · Johnson, Scholes, 1993, Exploring Corporate Strategy Text and Cases, 3rd edition, Prentice Hall International (UK) Ltd.  · Johnson Schole, 1997, Exploring Corporate Strategy, 4th Edition, Prentice Hall  · Kim Warren, 2002, Strategic Performance connecting to the fundamentals of business dynamics, London Business School  · Morgenstein Strongin, 1992, Modern Retailing Management Principles Practice, 3rd Edition, Prentice Hall  · Naylor, 1999  · Thompson, 2001, Strategic Management, 4th Edition, British Library Internet:  · http://www.clm1.org/education/2001/ms.pdf, 24/04/02  · http://marksandspencer.com, 18/03/02  · http://www.statsed.co.uk/bes/bes_spring1999/28_2/sec2.htm, 19/04/02 Other Sources:  · Chartered Institute of Marketing, 2001  · Marks Spencer Press Release, June, 1996  · MS 1998 annual report  · MS Corp. Press Office, 2001  · Maureen Whitehead, 1992, Management Decision, Vol. 32 No. 3, 1994, pp. 38-41  · Pawlyna, Andrea, British retailer on the roll, Asian Business, April, 1996  · Welwyn Garden City, Deputy Head, Stanborough School Appendix 1: http://www.c

Hilton Hhonors Worldwide Rewards

Hilton HHonors Worldwide: Loyalty Wars: (Due Week 9, Oct. 29-Nov. 2) ? Compare the Hilton HHonors reward programme with other reward programmes you know about or have researched. Be sure to discuss the differences, how they value guests and their offerings. ? Does the value of the Hilton program justify its’ cost. Explain in terms of the value of a customer. ? What is Starwood trying to do and how should Jeff Diskin respond? The Hilton HHonors Worldwide reward programme can be compared with several other loyalty or recognition programs offered by leading hotel chains of the world.Similar programs are being offered by many airlines, department stores, car rentals, video and book retailing, credit cards, movie theaters and several other international entities in the service industry. The first one that can be considered in this regard is the Priority Club Rewards offered by IHG (Intercontinental Hotels Group). The IHG group comprises of Intercontinental Hotel and Resorts, Crowne Plaza Hotel and Resorts, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Hotel Indigo Staybridge Suites and Candlewood Suites. (Ref: https://secure. priorityclub. com/hotels/). The program is offered across 4,500 properties operated worldwide by the group.The program is open to everyone free of cost. It allows the members to earn points not only by staying in any of the member hotels but also by earning Priority Club points when purchasing goods and services with any of their partners or earn miles with their partner airlines. The partners are specially customized in accordance with prevalent tastes and popularity in different parts of the world and include leading brand names in airline industry, fashion retailers, vacation and tour operators, mobile and telecom services, car rentals, home and furnishings, electronics, computers, etc.The choice of partners is vast as compared to Hiltons’ rewards program. In many territories local co-branded credit cards are also offered which entitle mem bers to earn points on each and every spent. For the stay at the hotels, members can earn 2000 points for every stay outside the hotels outside North America, Mexico and Carribean in Intercontinental Hotel and Resorts while for all other geographical locations and all other hotel chains included in the group, the members earn 10 Priority Club points for each US $ 1 spent.The program has distinct features comprising of points that never expire and no blackout dates for Rewards Night, thus allowing the members to stay anytime. Unlike the Hiltons reward program, members can also use a combination of points and cash for their stay. Furthermore, members can redeem their points for flights with no blackout dates on over 400 airlines across the world ranging from North America, Europe, Middle-East, Central to Southern and Far-east Asia. However, unlike the Hiltons reward program, double-dipping is not allowed.But as an added incentive to members, free lounge access at several airports is a lso offered to the members thus enhancing members travel convenience. Similar to the Hilton reward program, the points in IHG Priority program can also be redeemed for several other items besides free nights at the participating hotels. Yet again, the choice offered by IHG is vast as compared to Hilton. The points can be redeemed for hotel stay, airlines travel, tour packages, adventure sports and merchandise from leading retails and entertainment providers.In addition, gift cards from several brands are available. A very appealing feature is an option of donating points for charitable ventures in keeping with IHG philosophy that ‘rewarding others may be the best reward of all’. (Ref: http://www. priorityclub. com/rewards/us/en/redeem/catalog/charitable-donations). The IHG program lays special emphasis upon member satisfaction and recognition. Hence , the members have several value-added services offered for free. A separate toll-free reservations line is offered. They are offered priority check in and check out services.Their individual preferences are stored in the system (Personalized room-preferences profile) offered at every stay without asking e. g. smoking or non-smoking rooms, bed-type, etc. Requests for late check-outs are given preference and in certain locations, extra benefits like airport pick-up services, free internet, free newspapers, etc. are offered. Extra level of service is also offered to members for room upgrades, complaint resolution, customer service feed-back services, etc. Just like the Hiltons’ reward program, the IHG Priority program also has different plan levels based upon ‘qualifying points’ and ‘qualified nights’.Accordingly, 3 tiers termed as ‘Club’, ‘Gold Elite’ and ‘Platinum Elite’ are offered. (Ref: http://www. priorityclub. com/hotels/us/en/global/support/about_priorityclublevelsef:) Bonus earnings for Gold Elite are 10% and those for Plati num Elite 50% over the base points earned. Moreover, the Elite members are offered extra benefits and advantages like complimentary upgrades and guaranteed room availability. In this respect, it appears to be more attractive to customers than Hiltons’ reward Silver and Gold VIP status.Over and above the stated benefits, multiple promotions are offered at different times promising extra points, free room upgrades, etc. to attract more and more customers. Another popular loyalty program is Fairmont President's Club that allows access to a host of exclusive benefits and privileges. Besides the standards being offered by the loyalty programs of almost all big hotel groups, Fairmont goes a step ahead by offering members services like concierge reservation, complimentary use of health clubs, golf-clubs and even use of BMWs at select locations. Ref: https://www. fairmont. com/fpc/benefits/). Another impressive and acclaimed loyalty program, not by a hotel group but an airline, is th e one offered by Etihad Airways. Though relatively new in the competitive airline industry, the Etihad Guest program has introduced several new initiatives for the frequent travelers generating big business for the airline and proving to be a significant factor in the phenomenal success of Etihad. Very aptly, it has been awarded 2012 Freddie Awards.Etihad Guest was recognized for the Best Redemption Ability, Best Elite Program and Best Loyalty Credit Card among all airlines in the Middle East, Asia and Oceania. (Ref:http://www. etihadairways. com/sites/Etihad/global/en/aboutetihad/mediacenter/newslisting/newsdetails). The program was also runner up in the four remaining categories: Best Promotion for Earning, Best Promotion for Redemption, Best Customer Service and Program of the Year.Hence, it can be concluded that the member retention and brand loyalty competition is fierce and offering innovative and extensive services to customers is imperative to lure more and more individual a nd corporate clients. It seems quite obvious that the value of Hilton reward program does justify its cost. As per the belief of Hilton Hotels that regard frequent guest programs as the lodging industry’s most important marketing tool, serving to direct promotional and customer service efforts at the heavy user. (Ref: Case Study by John Deighton and Stowe Shoemaker).Loyalty programs have been at the core of how hotels attract and retain their best customers for over a decade. However, they can only be as cost-effective as multiple competitors in the market let them be. This study reveals that the previous year had been successful for Hilton. Revenues had been in the region of $158 per night per guest, and occupancy had exceeded break-even. Also Hilton HHonors rewards program was not established as a profit center but was required to break even each year and to measure its effectiveness through a complex set of program metrics.The program is run by a small team of 30 employees . A research by Hilton revealed that guests identified by their HHonors or airline membership numbers occupied 22. 5 percent of all the rooms occupied in the Hilton Hotels and Hilton International network in a year. More importantly for Hilton , activation, retention, and member spend per visit all have improved. Augmenting the financial gains is the valuable database the HHonors rewards program provides to Hilton. These are the most critical and demanding customers who provide vital feedback and valuable suggestions.The program staff can establish individual contact with these members through mail or in person and not only obtain valuable feedback but earn lifelong loyalty. Plenty of focus groups and quantative research can be carried out further enhancing means to develop brand loyalty through personal profiling and personal recognition techniques. The phrase attributed to Diskin interestingly sums it up i-e ‘ People care about organizations that care about them. (Ref: same case study).In addition, the program also offers opportunities to target other customer segments. Furthermore, the program is also being used as a tool that can help the travel manager with compliance to their overall travel policy by offering special incentives to stay at Hilton rather than at a competitor due to personal choice of the travelers. The Hilton program proves to be even more effective by developing additional services for returning customers at check-ins and by appointing guest relations managers to offer special personalized services to loyalty members.All these factors contribute to make this program valuable in expanding and retaining clients and thus justify the associated costs. Starwood is introducing a new aggressive frequent-guest program that it hopes will help attract more business travelers to its Westin Hotels Resorts, Sheraton Hotels Resorts, The Luxury Collection, Four Points, Caesar’s, and Starwood’s new W brand hotels, representing more th an 550 participating properties worldwide. The program is expected to raise the stakes in the loyalty-program fierce competition amongst big hotel chains especially since Starwood plans to run it by a

Domestic Violence Is A Coercive Behavior That Involves

Domestic Violence is a coercive behavior that involves a physical, psychological or sexual attack perpetrated by individuals against their partner or former partner. Examples include physical abuse, for instance, slapping, beating, and strangulation among others. Sexual assault includes threats, forceful sexual acts, and use of physical force. Psychological abuse may involve excessive jealousy, intimidation, harassment or stalking among others. In the United States, 20 people are physically abused every minute, 20,800 cases are reported daily in hotlines and majority of the victims are females aged between 18-24 years (National Coalition against Domestic Violence, 2015). Issues pertaining to violence at home are regarded as a societal†¦show more content†¦Floyd Mayweather, a high paying boxer has been accused of domestic abuse on many occasions, but the news is always stifled because of his fame. He disagreed with his wife on child support in 2001 and swung a car door at her that hit her on the head and went ahead to punch her three times (Holter, 2015). It is unfortunate that World Boxing Federation does not have clear regulations that restrict players from committing violence at home. There is a misconception that athletes and footballers are prone to domestic violence. According to the National Coalition against Violent Athletes, there have been 19% incidents of sexual abuse, and 35% accounts of domestic violence by athletes declared in college campuses at any given time (Woods, 2015). According to statistics, the NFL had the highest arrests of the perpetrators of abuse with 2014 recording 2,466 arrests, the NBA at 2, 157, Baseball at 553 and lastly Hockey at 175 (Tracy, 2014). The difference between domestic violence at home and in sports is that in the former, the abuse may be endured in silence since there is no empowerment to speak up against it. They might also have been intimidated and threatened that in case they report they might be harmed or even killed. In sports, it often involves professionals, and the spouse intends to shame them for their heinous crime. There are mechanisms put in place to report such cases which make it easier for them. However, there are also partners who areShow MoreRelatedDomestic Violence At Affordable Price Please Use Custom Research Paper1276 Words   |  6 PagesDomestic Violence Research Paper This sample domestic violence research paper is published for educational and informational purposes only. Free research papers, are not written by our writers, they are contributed by users, so we are not responsible for the content of this free sample paper. If you want to buy a high quality research paper on domestic violence at affordable price please use custom research paper writing services. This sample research paper on domestic violence features: 7200+Read MoreWhat Is Intimate Partner Violence?1351 Words   |  6 PagesIntimate Partner Violence? If one has not lived through it, the meaning is unknown. When we hear the term, we tend to picture a woman covered in bruises. In reality, the damage is much worse. There is many long term effects that run deeper than the physical injuries (Giardino, 2010). Victims experience shame, isolation, detrimental physical and mental health consequences and financial stressor. This also causes dramatic effects on the families of the victims. This violence also affects theRead MoreDomestic Violence Related Crime Throughout West Virginia1208 Words   |  5 PagesDomestic violence is a universal problem that can affect an individual of any age, gender, race, education level, social class, or culture. This type of violence is considered to be one of the most widespread public health crises in the United States (Black et al., 2011) . The purpose of this essay is to create a plan for a program that addresses domestic violence-related crime in West Virginia. To begin, significant information in relation to domestic violence will be provided. This will be followedRead MoreChildren And Domestic Violence Negatively Affects Children s Health And Development Essay1476 Words   |  6 Pagesexposure to domestic violence negatively affects children’s health and development. Millions of children are exposed to domestic violence on a daily. 3.3-10 million children are exposed to domestic violence annually (Wilson Pg.9). Many children’s futures are affected by the things they witness. Majority of what they witness alters they’re outlook on many situations that occur. There’s no secret that domestic violence has been around for decades. The first serious known case of domestic violence that actuallyRead MoreDomestic Violence and Children1640 Words   |  7 PagesDefinitions Domestic Violence Defined Citation: ARS: 13-3601 Domestic violence includes: • Any act that is a dangerous crime against children • Endangerment • Threatening or intimidating act • Assault • Custodial interference • Unlawful imprisonment or kidnaping • Criminal trespass • Harassment or stalking • Child or vulnerable adult abuse Persons Included in Definition: • A spouse or former spouse • Persons residing or having resided in the same household • Persons having a childRead MoreEmotional Abuse Therapy Assignment Outline1616 Words   |  7 Pageswe should focus on helping them to develop self-compassion for their guilt and an understanding of the behaviors that they are doing, that is allowing the abuser such control over their lives. By combining cognitive behavioral therapy, somatic therapy and group therapy, studies have shown that clients not take control of their current situation but are much more capable of spotting abusive behavior in their future relationships both personally and professionally (Tracy, 2016). Keywords: emotionalRead MoreCommunity Intervention Against Domestic Abuse899 Words   |  4 PagesAgainst Domestic Abuse Shalva organization is an ongoing community invention organization in Chicago. It is working to effect social change for domestic abused women in Jewish communities. Domestic abuse (also known as spousal abuse) is when a partner in an intimate relationship manipulate the other partner by a systematic pattern of coercive behavior. There are multiple forms of domestic abuse such as verbal, emotional, financial, sexual, physical, and psychological. To combat domestic violence againstRead MoreCan Witnessing or Experiencing Domestic Violence Be Linked to Bullying in Adolescents?1632 Words   |  7 PagesBeing in a domestic violence ordeal of my own and have been bullied almost all of my life, I have come to ask myself why anyone can abuse someone that they say they love or how bullies can hurt people like they do. Whether physically, emotionally, or mentally this happens all the time now-a-days in our society. Numerous news reports about couples getting into fights or even killing a sign ificant other or spouse and how children have committed suicide because they can’t take the hurt of a bully anyRead MoreTerrorism from Above vs.Terrorism from Below1236 Words   |  5 Pagesdeniability when accused of sponsoring terrorism. Because of these parameters a distinction must be made between state patronage and assistance. State patronage for terrorism refers to either participation and/or encouragement of terrorism and terrorist behavior. It basically means that the state, through agencies and personnel, takes part in terrorism. The state enacts policies that start terrorist acts as well as other covert activities, which include arming, training, and providing sanctuary for terroristsRead MorePrimary, Secondary, and Tertiary Nursing Care for Domestic Violence1427 Words   |  6 PagesRunning head: Nursing Interventions to Combating Domestic Violence Domestic Violence: Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary Nursing Interventions Jason Holt, RN Grand Canyon University NRS429V Diana Anderson, RN, MSNEd, CMSRN August 27, 2010 Domestic Violence: Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary Nursing Interventions Approximately 2 million American women are assaulted each year at the hands of their intimate partner and an estimated 1,200 are murdered as a result of intimate partner abuse (Black

Instilled Heritage Essay - 1361 Words

Instilled Heritage Alice Walker usually puts herself into characters that she writes about in her stories. However, you don’t understand this unless you know about her. Staring with this let us find out about who she is and where she came from. When recounting the life of Alice Walker, you find out that she was born to sharecroppers in Eatonton, Georgia in 1944 and was the baby of eight children. She lost one of her eyes when her brother shot her with a BB gun by accident. She was valedictorian of her class in high school and with that and receiving a scholarship; she went to Spelman, a college for black women, in Atlanta. She then transferred to Sarah Lawrence College in New York and during her time there went Africa as an exchange†¦show more content†¦While Dee is gone Maggie and Mother are doing whatever needs to be done around the house, to survive. Dee would write every now and again, and told her Mother, no matter where she, the Mother, lived, she would always come and see her, bu t she wouldn’t bring any friends. Upon Dee’s visit, she arrives with a man that greets everyone, Asalamalakim, upon exiting the vehicle. Mother confuses this with his name and is very unsuccessful in trying to pronounce it. She is told to call him Hakim-a-Barber. Her daughter Dee also tells her mother that she has changed her name and it is now, Wangero Leewanika Kemanjo. This name, Wangero, has a personal meaning to Alice Walker in the fact that while on her trip as an exchange student in Africa, the name Wangero is the name that was given to her while she was there. Moving to the trivial meaning of the short story, we later find Dee along with her mother, sister and Hakim, at the dinner table, having, none the less, pork. Hakim had stated that he did not eat pork and collards, yet Dee is more than happy to help herself to everything that is available. While sitting at dinner, she sees the churn that is in the corner and states that she wants to take the top home and make it a center piece as well as she wants the dasher as well, the wooden rod used to make butter. She can do something fancy with it as well. She continues after dinner going through the house searching through some old belongings,Show MoreRelatedUnderstanding Identity Asolitarist Approach1630 Words   |  7 Pagespeople within their community, and a collective or group identity which has been constructed around â€Å"high art† , considered to constitute a national heritage.’ Benedict Anderson describes modern nationalism as an imagined community, where although eac h person may not know one another in a nation-state, they share a common identity that is instilled through visual representations. For example, monuments, flags and even currency can forge a national identity through association with a physical objectRead MoreBad Indians Counters The View That Native Indians Are And Have Been Gone994 Words   |  4 Pagescompletely (Dunbar-Ortiz 14). Miranda counter that we â€Å"pick up the pieces and use them in new ways.† The only option is to take the remnants and create a new culture that embraces this â€Å"brokenness.† Although colonization has damaged native cultural heritage, it cannot erase the native identity. Toward the end of the story, Miranda tries to redefine the ideal of the Indian identity both on a social and personal level by objectifying herself. â€Å"I am not whole. And yet, I am whole† (Miranda 136). MirandaRead MoreAuthor Analysis of Judith Ortiz Cofer729 Words   |  3 PagesMainland America from Puerto Rico with her family, moving into an apartment complex with other people of Latin descent. Although, she spent most of her years in the Continental U.S. her writings are reflective of the strong latin heritage that her mother undoubtedly instilled in her from a young age. This is clear in her short story â€Å"Nada† where the narrator makes references to the hispanic community that live at an apartment complex in New Jersey. Cofer’s style of writing and experiences in her lifeRead MoreEssay641 Words   |  3 PagesEssay #3 – Everyday Use â€Å"The Character of Dee in Everyday Use† While reading the story Everyday Use by Alice Walker, I found that I had a surprising amount of anger towards the character named Dee, or as she prefers Wangero. The anger that was instilled in me was caused by numerous comments and actions that occurred throughout reading the short story. I feel she was selfish, uneducated and unappreciative of her past and that the way she carried herself was ridiculous. Right from the beginning ofRead MorePersonal Statement : Personal Identity Research831 Words   |  4 Pagesidentity. He instilled a pride and an understanding of my Irish roots. Specifically, he brought me over to Belfast to learn and experience the culture. At the time, the hostility between the Protestants and Catholics was clear. People were living under the threats of terrorism, bombing, propaganda graffiti, and under a police state. In addition, I saw families torn apart because a mother was one religion and the father another. Yet, I developed a love for the country, its people, and heritage. In theRead MoreThe Assessment Of A Patient s Cultural Heritage Assessment970 Words   |  4 PagesCultural Heritage Assessment The assessment of a patient’s cultural heritage, beliefs, and practices regarding health is a key element in evaluating and determining the appropriate interventions, resources, and support needed to promote health in a culturally competent manner. In an aim to assess and understand a second generation, sixty-two year old male’s traditional health and illness beliefs and practices a formal interview was conducted and a complete heritage assessment was gathered. ForRead MoreMiguel Helfts Matrimony With A Proper Stranger : Cultural Analysis915 Words   |  4 Pages morals, and greetings. Because of its extensive range, it is easy to see how much culture impacts a person’s life. One’s culture vastly affects how he or she views the world due to ingrained traditions, stereotypes, and values within his or her heritage. First of all, every culture has different customs implemented on its community. This is especially evident in â€Å"Matrimony with a Proper Stranger†, which details the circumstances of arranged marriage and its application in Indian life. Upon comparingRead MoreI Classify Myself As A White, Irish Italian- American Woman778 Words   |  4 Pagesand my paternal grandparents are from Sicily, Italy. I imagine being first generation Irish and second generation Italian helps me relate to my ethnicity. My maternal grandfather impacted my development of my ethnic and cultural identity. He instilled me with pride and appreciation for my Irish roots. Specifically, he brought me over to Belfast to learn and experience the culture. The hostility between the Protestants and Catholics was clear. People were living under the threats of terrorismRead More Search for Self in Amy Tans The Joy Luck Club Essay1058 Words   |  5 Pageswith a divided self. One buried half of the self represents the mother, the mothers Chinese heritage, and the cold obedience she tries to instill in her daughter caused by her tragic past. The other half of the self represents the daughter, the daughters American heritage, and the endless indignation she uses against her mother in ignorance of her mothers tragic past and her own ties to Chinese heritage.    The mother, Suyuan Woo, speaks broken English, shows no emotion, and wants her daughterRead MoreA White Irish Italian American Woman922 Words   |  4 Pageswas born in Belfast, Northern Ireland and my paternal grandparents are from Sicily, Italy. I imagine being first generation Irish and second generation Italian makes me identify more with my ethnicity. In the first place, my maternal grandfather instilled a pride and understanding of my Irish roots. Specifically, he brought me over to Belfast to learn and experience the culture. At the time, the hostility between the Protestants and Catholics was evident. Additionally, I saw people living under the