Company Strengths and Resource Capabilities:
Globalism: Federal Express operates on a global scale. They operate in 211 countries. They provide services that appeal to most of the world. They have such a large market in which to operate, and thus realize tremendous revenues. They can also achieve global economies of scale.
Innovation: Federal Express took airplanes and trucks and used them differently than any other company before them. This is innovation. They have first-mover advantage in name recognition because of this innovation. This has helped them to remain the industry leader since 1973.
Technology and Communication: Federal Express uses and continues to search for new technology. They allow spending of $1billion a year, 10% of total revenues, for information technology. That commitment keeps customers from switching to other providers. Federal Express also has excellent communication with their customers. They use tracking devices on all shipments, and customers can find out where their shipment is through many different avenues including a user-friendly Web site. Federal Express customers are assured that FedEx will always be on top of technology.
Strategic Vision: Federal Express’ will always have competent top managers in charge of strategic direction. Frederick Smith built an industry leader, and kept it in that position since 1973.
First-Mover Advantage: Federal Express has had first-mover advantage in several areas. (1) Being a global express transportation company. (2) Advanced technology and communication throughout the company’s operations. (3) Incorporating smaller companies with similar operations under its belt to synergize and control more of the market.
Industry Leader: Federal Express has been the industry leader since 1973.
Strong Brand Image: In 1990, Federal Express became the first company awarded the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award in the service category. In 1994, Federal Express became the first