Love- Spare Time Equipment Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Love- Spare Time Equipment - Case Study Example n brands of small pleasure boats, outboard motor, snowmobiles, jet skis, a line of trailer and pickup-truck campers, and recently, a line of lawn mowers, tractors and trimmers. Despite being in operation for two years, the business has been reflecting break-even in financial performance. Recently, there was an offer by a producer of mountain bikes to include this among the products he offers. In this regard, the case requires an evaluation of Mark Zimmerman’s overall strategy, including the appropriate decision for the mountain bike offer. The strengths in Zimmerman’s strategy lie in focusing on the theme of personal service, manifesting a friendly, service-oriented atmosphere and stance. Further, since the business carries exclusive brands that are not offered by other competitors within a five-mile radius; except for the recently added lawn mower equipment, he exhibits competitive advantage for his core products over those of his competitors. On the contrary, the weaknesses lie in the need to evaluate the needs of the customers within his area. Apparently, his competitors had been offering price strategies that could be indicative of the customers’ sensitivity to prices. Further, he should select the products that would generate profits rather than giving them more work (like the lawn mower equipment). His use of selective advertisements needs to be evaluated to ensure that all products offered would be appropriately promoted to enhance customers’ awareness, recall and purchase. The bike offer is a good opportunity since the incentives are enticing (initial inventory, accessories and repair parts need not be paid within 90 days). However, since the product is virtually the same as those offered by other competitors within the area, the strategy to be applied should differentiate him from others and determine the needs of the customers within the area for mountain bikes. One therefore recommends not to include the bike in his