Details supporting my findings and recommendations are detailed in the main report. A summary of the main points are as follows:-FindingsClarks brand is recognised as one of quality with a strong market share of children's footwear and the "the more mature" customer.
The company has a strong distribution network which could be used as a platform to launch new products at minimal incremental cost.
There is a significant threat from new competitors such as the major supermarkets as well as high fashion retailers extending their product range to footwear.
Footwear is growing in importance as a "fashion" item and evidence supports an increase in "impulse" buying particularly by women.
Consumers in the age range 30 to 49 years olds spend the most on footwear, on average £322 per annum.
There is increased political threat on "cheap" imports e.g. tariffs on imported goods from China and Vietnam. The EU commission is also monitoring anti - competitive behavior closely. This could escalate in the future.
Social trends are impacting Clarks' market. There is a move towards "cheaper" more fashionable boots and shoes made of synthetic materials which can easily be disposed of after a relatively short period of time.
The UK
References: BC WEB SITEwww.bbc.co.ukCLARKS WEB SITEwww.clarks.co.ukKEY NOTEMARKET REVIEW 2006 CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR INDUSTRYMINTEL MARKET REPORThttp://academic.mintel.com/sinatra/oxygen_academic/search_results/show&/display/id=220168THE TIMESONLINEhttp://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/economics/article732688.eceVERDICT MARKETING WEB SITEwww.verdict.co.uk/marketing