Starbucks is the leader of the coffee and coffee-based beverages industry across the world, having transformed the simple act of drinking coffee into a valuable and memorable experience. The business model implemented by the firm is based on the creation of various coffee and coffee-based beverages, of a multitude of flavors and sold in pleasant stores across the globe. The Starbucks stores integrate relaxing and modern ambiance, free wireless internet, pleasant music and they are the fashionable place for young adults to meet and share enjoyable experiences.
Starbuck's mission is represented by the desire to "inspire and nurture the human spirit -- one person, one cup and one neighborhood at a time" (Website of Starbucks, 2012). Its vision is that of being a place where people meet and experience pleasant moment, beyond the consumption of coffee, and that this vision be transported throughout the entire world. The goals and principles by which the company directs its daily operations refer to the following:
High quality coffee, reflecting ethical sourcing of the beans, roasting and the improvement of the communities growing them
The treatment of the partners (staff members) with respect and dignity
The desire to commit with the customers beyond the delivery of high quality beverages
The creation of stores which promote enjoyment
The commitment to operate in a manner that is responsible and beneficial towards the neighborhood and the environment
The commitment to create value for the Starbucks shareholders (Website of Starbucks,...
The primary strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats characterizing Starbucks are revealed in the table below:
Internal strengths
Internal weaknesses
- Long lasting presence within the market place
- Strong branding strategy, coupled with capitalization on the brand
- Positive reputation and image among the customer base
- Sustainable financial results
- Employee support and loyalty, the firm being one of the best employers in the world (CNN Money, 2012)
- Strong internal commitments to protecting the well-being of environments and communities
- Large size which often means that the firm is inflexible and can be difficult to manage
- High retail prices
- Low levels of diversification as the company sells coffee and coffee-based beverages
- High concentration of stores in the U.S., with decreased global presence
External opportunities
External threats
- Opportunities for global expansion
- The ability to integrate technologic developments in company operations
- The possibility of creating and selling new types of products
- The internationalized economic recession
- Intense competition
- Accusations of poor treatment of the farmers in coffee bean growing…
