Marks & Spencer Strategic Analysis (Word DOCX)

This report presents the step by step strategic analysis and the strategic position of Marks & Spencer, one of the leading retailers of UK and industry leader in women wear and lingerie segments. The report starts by presenting a brief background about the company and its current business position. Further, an external environment analysis is conducted using PESTLE analysis in order to understand the macroeconomic and environmental factors impacting the organization. After this step a brief financial review is conducted to assess the financial position of the company in terms of revenue growth and basic ratios. A competitive strategy review using Porter's Generic Strategy Framework and the Resource based is conducted further. Moreover, in order to understand the strategic direction, the strategy of Marks & Spencer has been evaluated using Ansoff's Matrix. After understanding the strategic direction, an overview of the methods of development used by Marks & Spencer is provided and the future expected challenges are discussed as well. The paper concludes by presenting the final strategic position of Marks & Spencer using the SPACE analysis and providing recommendations for future growth.

Key Findings
•  External Environment – Political, Social, Technological factors are favorable, while Environmental factors are neutral and Economic and Legal factors are slightly unfavorable
•  Marks and Spencer competitive strategy – They employed differentiation focus strategy in the UK market, but now moving towards a differentiation strategy for the broader market
•  Marks and Spencer Product market strategy – Currently the company is moving from a "Market Penetration" Strategy to a "Market Development" Strategy
•  SPACE analysis – The strategic position of Marks & Spencer is found to be moderately aggressive

The document includes a detailed operating profit trend analysis for Marks & Spencer, highlighting both UK and international performance. It also outlines the strategic direction focusing on multi-channel retailing and international expansion.