...focus. Harley Davidson uses a focused differentiation strategy, because they operate primarily within the high-priced, heavyweight motorcycles segment. This strategy is best described as producing a differentiated product and charge sufficiently higher prices to more than off-set the added costs of differentiation. The key issue within this strategy is capturing value for the customer. Some key drivers for Harley are: Premium brand image, extensive product customization and unique styling. The distinctive motorcycle design and their unique image and style assists Harley Davidson's marketing activities within the value chain. They introduce new colors every year, motorcycles are highly customizable and they enhance the brand experience for customers with the Harley Owners Group. This creates loyalty which explains why half of the sales are made by repeating customers and therefore this is considered one of Harley's greatest assets. Dealer relations were a also continuing strategic priority for Harley. It's retail environments Group created a set of performance standards and guidelines for dealer which helped improve their distribution and outbound logistics within the value chain. Harley's dealer development program also increased support for dealers while imposing higher standards of pre- and after-sales service, and requiring better dealer facilities. This contributes to the service activities within the value chain and their premium brand image. Around 1969 Harley encountered...
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...Introduction “Harley-Davidson: At Last” case study discusses Harley-Davidson‘s marketing mistakes and successes when the company was faced with the invasion of Honda and other Japanese manufacturers in the 1960s. Harley-Davidson did not consider Honda’s lightweight motorcycles as a threat since they believed that people buy mostly heavyweight motorcycles not for transportation, but rather as sport vehicles for leisure time use. Unfortunately for Harley-Davidson, Honda was able to penetrate the American market successfully by offering lower prices and reliable motorcycles. The latter attracted a new segment of customers with different needs and demands. Consequently, Harley-Davidson witnessed a fall in the market share from 70% in the 60s to 5% in the 80s. Another reason for this drastic decline of market share was the bad quality of the newly produced motorcycles, as well as the brand image that was linked to the pot smoking, tattoo covered, and beer drinking motorcycle gangs. This paper will discuss the marketing strategy Harley-Davidson company has implemented to regain its market share and what the company is doing today to deliver high levels of customer value. Furthermore, the paper will shed some light on how value is managed through the marketing mix, as well as how the company has positioned itself in the market relative to competitors. Company Overview There is one U.S. based motorcycle manufacturer that stands out as a world leader in the motorcycle industry...
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...Background: The case revolved around the non-traditional marketing research strategies followed by Harley Davidson to understand the customers’ needs and anticipate their desires. It provided us a detailed insight to the chronology of the rallies that are organized over the years. The case also gave us detailed information about the Posse rally and the activities involved in the rally. The objective for the rally and customers’ perspective regarding the rally has also been discussed in detail. It also talked about the distribution network, the facilities available at the dealer’s outlets and the customer service. It also briefed us about the participation of customers with diverse demographics, travelling habits. Observations: Customers 1. Contrary to the general perception that members of HOG would be from the higher income groups, it was observed that the customers were having different income levels, age/gender groups and professions. 2. The reasons for members participation in the ride was analyzed based on the questionnaire provided to each of the six targeted participants who represent the cross section of riders. 3. The general ambience before the ride and during the ride has been observed very closely at the various rider stops. The customers believe that the Posse ride is something significant in their life and it is conceived to be an achievement that can be portrayed in their neighborhood. 4. An analysis of the survey conducted on the participants, pre ride...
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...9-600-006 REV: JANUARY 22, 2003 ROBERT D. AUSTIN DEBORAH SOLE MARK J. COTTELEER Harley Davidson Motor Company: Enterprise Software Selection We were in McDonald’s having our initial SiL’K planning meeting when a gunfight erupted in the parking lot. Bullets started flying through the restaurant. Someone said, ‘Everyone down, lock the doors’. We all hid under the table. I’m lying on the floor looking at Dave and Pat—I’m thinking, Holy Smokes, this is unreal. It was just incredible—a real bonding experience! —Garry Berryman, Vice President, Materials Management David Cotteleer, Information Systems (IS) Manager of the Supplier Information Link (SiL’K) project, smiled as he recalled the terror and subsequent camaraderie that had grown out of that unusual beginning. It had set the tone for the partnership that developed between Berryman, Pat Davidson, Manager of Purchasing, Planning and Control, and himself, as they worked collaboratively to develop the specifications for an integrated procurement system to support the new Supply Management Strategy (SMS). Now he and the SiL’K project team were gathered in their “war room” on the top floor of the Harley-Davidson Corporate Headquarters to face another critical moment in the project’s history. After three hectic months of meeting potential software suppliers, reviewing documentation, and evaluating software packages, the SiL’K team had to make a decision. Who should they choose as their supplier and partner...
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...Case Study on Harley Davidson in 2004 The Strategic Situation of the Harley Davidson Harley Davidson is a 105 year-old company that was originally established by neighbors Arthur Davidson and William Harley; it is obvious that the name of the company was derived from the name of the two founders. Harley Davidson is into the industry of motorcycle. The growth of the said industry started from different developed countries such as the United States, France, Germany, Spain, France as well as the Great Britain. It was further developed after the World War II. Harley Davidson is one of those companies that have a long history as well as have been through several ups and downs throughout their operation. During the past operation of the company there have been many factors that have affected their image, performance, position in the market and the global industry, relationship to their customer, and their overall sales. Figure 1 PEST Analysis of Motorcycle Industry’s Past Development Figure 1 shows the four main factors that have affected the past condition of the motorcycle industry. There are four main political factors that have affected the performance of the overall industry. First is the agreement that will be implemented in order to reduce gas. It requires all the producers as well as manufacturer of different motorcycle companies to reduce pollutants by 60% and it was implemented in February 24, 2003. Another important law that...
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...Case 3- Harley-Davidson Motor Company: Enterprise Software Selection 1. For justification of an IT project expense, expected benefits can be divided into three parts as tangible, intangible, and productivity benefits. The first chart represents quantitative alignment corresponding to tangible and productivity benefits. The second one shows qualitative criteria highlighting the benefits to the company. What these charts are lacking is an explicit match to the “as-is” needs of the company as referenced in Exhibit 5 on page 17. It is clear that significant improvements are going to have to be made for purchasing and materials professionals to transition from bolded activities constituting 70% of their time, up from only 10%. Although the self-evaluation is built to fit against the functional specification, it does not call-out the proposed time savings in order to match the envisaged benefits of SiL’K. The first chart seems to lack properly exhibited costs related to “People” and “Process”. In exhibit 9 on page 20 the Strategic Roadmap for this change management initiative is recorded as at least 50% driven by people and 25-50% driven by the process and technology. If the functional specification given to providers was only built to strategically assess only 50% of the project, the qualitative criteria must balance this focus. The second chart lacks soft benefits which are among the most important factors for choosing a provider. Additionally, the second chart usually...
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...STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT Case Analysis CASE: Harley Davidson, Inc- 2008 By Julian Kee Synopsis Harley-Davidson is one the leading motorcycle manufacturers in the world. It’s hard to imagine the global brand’s simple beginning. In 1901, Harley-Davidson motor company started in a backyard shed by friends William Harley and Arthur R. Davidson who wanted to create their own motorcycles. In 1907, the company had grown to become incorporated. Harley-Davidson was acquired by AMF in 1969, however repurchased in 1981 by the Vaughn Beals. The company then underwent changes to production an inventory management. Since 1996, Harley-Davidson has focused only on producing motorcycles and accessories. The company is run by a 38-year employee name James C. Ziemer, who has experience in many different positions. He is supported by a board of directors with diverse professional backgrounds. Together, they oversee the US and global operations which includes countries like Canada, Latin America, and Europe. Harley-Davidson has two different business segments which include motorcycles and financial services. The current economic conditions have affected all industry including motorcycles. While Harley-Davidson has proven to do well during the recession, they have also faced some challenges. As the economic conditions change, Harley- Davidson has implemented new marketing strategies and e-commerce to gain a competitive advantage. Resources Strong reputation and...
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...have? The objectives of HDI include increasing sales, increasing market share in Europe, and achieving a sustainable competitive advantage. So, HDI is seeking to penetrate the market as well as engaging in market development, which in this case means attracting a new demographic segment of younger and European customers it has not yet attracted before due to several reasons such as the price and the appeal of the Harley Davidson brand as being a motorcycle “an old guy would drive”. As stated in the case study, HDI does not and will not have cost leadership in the industry it competes in. The huge gap between Honda which produces over 5 million bikes annually and HDI, which produces slightly over 200.000, allows Honda to benefit from economies of scale and therefore offer their products at lower prices than HDI. The relatively small size of HDI limits its ability to invest in technology and new products, which means that HDI neither has the most advanced technology, nor superior performance. However, as the company recognizes, it is not selling motorcycles, it is selling the “Harley Experience”. This lifestyle and spirit, which no competitor has been able to copy or even beat so far, is the competitive advantage and USP of HDI. Harley Davidson motorcycles are not primarily a transportation vehicle, but a statement of style. The HDI image and the brand loyalty among its consumer base are the company’s strongest assets. As the demand in Europe is increasing, HDI should consider...
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...Case Study: Harley-Davidson -Analyse Harley-Davidson resources and capabilities, and identify its key strengths and weaknesses - Analyse the international competitive environment in which Harley-Davidson is operating to identify its main threats and opportunities. Recommend a forward strategy for Harley-Davidson, which addresses these issues. International Management Individual Assignment Table of Contents 1. Introduction 3 2. Harley Davidson Overview 4 2.1. Harley-Davidson Current Strategy 4 2.2. Resources And Capabilities 5 3. Industry Analysis 6 3.1. Porter’s Five Forces Model 6 3.2. International Competitive Environment 7 4. SWOT Analysis 9 5. Forward strategy recommendation for Harley-Davidson 10 6. Conclusions 12 6. References 13 1. Introduction This report is based on Harley-Davidson, Inc., case study. The aim of this report is to analyse industry and international competitive environment where Harley-Davidson is operating in. One must apply and fully analyse theoretical concepts and frameworks in order to fully comprehend how Harley-Davidson is differentiate itself in the international competitive environment and what strategies is using to achieve higher market share. The empirical material is being analysed by exploring the general information of Harley-Davidson company itself, following by the industry and competitive environment analysis, review of SWOT theoretical framework. Finalising with the recommendations of forward...
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...1 a) How did Harley dominate the US industry historically Historically, Harley-Davidson managed to dominate the US market by correctly identifying its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats and understanding the environmental factors that influenced the industry that it operates in (Figure 1 and Figure 2). By utilising its strengths to maximise the opportunities presented to the company, Harley-Davidson was able to implement a succession of affective strategies, allowing it to capture 60% of the motorcycle market and subsequently became the market leader in the late 1950s. In the early years, the company attracted customers and established brand credibility by utilising the ‘victorious’ and ‘sporting’ brand image of one of its founders, Walter Davidson. The company understood its customers need for a product that can be fixed at home and therefore, was able to fulfil this need with its pioneered V-twin engine innovation. In addition, Harley-Davidson invested in R&D, focusing on improving the quality and reliability of its machines, building on its strengths and therefore was able to charge a premium for its motorbikes. This, in turn assists Harley-Davidson to acquire its prestigious, luxury brand image and achieved a cult following. In doing so, Harley Davidson was able to increase its market share, despite a sagging economic environment of the 1920s. When sales declined in the 1950s, the company relied on its innovations as a point of differentiation and built...
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...------------------------------------------------- Harley-Davidson Question 1: What are Harley-Davidson’s current sources of competitive advantage? The challenge for a marketing strategy is to achieve sustainable competitive advantage. A competitive advantage is an advantage over competitors gained by offering consumers greater value, either by means of lower prices or by providing greater benefits and services that justify higher prices. At present, Harley-Davidson has a number of sources of competitive advantage. 1. Brand image: Since its inception, Harley-Davidson established an image of “raw power”, which became its major selling point. Throughout its history, Harley motorcycles were associated with people who were willing to break the traditional mold or willing to live on the edge. Its brand image reflected rugged individuality and the frontier spirit of the United States. This strong sense of nationalism connected to Harley motorcycles resulted in brand recognition and loyalty that continues to this day. Harley’s “tough” brand image is a competitive advantage in terms of attracting customers who favor or relate to this image. However, in some cases, its brand image is a competitive disadvantage because it does not appeal to certain target segments such as female riders. 2. Product customization: The most distinctive feature of Harley was the V-twin engine. The V-twin engine’s simple design allowed owners to tinker with their engines. At present, Harley offers a complete line...
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... * Brand identification of Harley Davidson has been strongly established for years. New entrant will have to overcome customer loyalty of Harley. 2. Bargaining power of suppliers: (Moderate/High) * Harley’s suppliers are not fragmented so they have a high bargaining power. * Switching cost of changing suppliers is high because of the nature of Harley’s products- -could require investing heavily to be a supplier. 3. Bargaining power of buyers: (low) * Since product is differentiated, customer tends not to be price sensitive. * Product is differentiated or targeted for niche market therefore the buyer will not find the alternative product. 4. Threat of Substitutes: (High) * Customers’ taste is shifted into Japanese motorbikes. Ex. Suzuki * Frequent product introductions and continuous improvements in price. 5. Rivalry: (high) * Lack of products differentiation or narrow product line. * Rivals like Honda are diverse in strategies, origins and personalities. SWOT Analysis 1. Strengths: Domestic and International market share, financial status (The company’s revenues had grown at a compounded annual rate of 16.6 per- cent since 1994 to reach $4.6 billion in 2003—marking the 18th consecutive year of record revenues and earnings), and product quality, strong brand quality, strong distribution network. 2. Weaknesses: Difficulty gaining market share in some European countries, Harley Davidson motorcycles are more expensive...
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...Harley-Davidson/Ducati Case Study November 20, 2013 Question 1 Ducati: Ducati is an Italian motorcycle manufacturing company that is renowned for its high performance and stylish motorcycles. Ducati is committed to racing competitions, state of the art design, style, and most importantly, an immense passion for bikes. Ducati has created a strong bond with its customers, beginning on the racetracks and spreading worldwide. Ducati builds high performance bikes for bike enthusiasts, known as “Ducatisti”. Ducastisti are individuals who value performance as the main attribute in a motorcycle. Since Ducati delivers this, it creates brand loyalty. Since the early 90s, Ducati has created a distinctive community image with local and national Ducati enthusiast clubs by placing Ducati as a symbol of refined skills and craftsmanship that every motorcycle evokes and represents. In the World Superbike Championship, Ducati has won 15 out of the last 18 Riders’ titles and 16 Manufacturers’ titles. In conclusion, Ducati customers are confident that they are purchasing high performance motorcycles. Harley Haley Davidson is exhibited as an American icon. Consumers view and associate Harley Davidson with riders, wear leather, have tattoos and with police officers, military dispatch riders and motorcycle gangs. Harley’s image is also viewed as something that is catered for and used by Caucasian American males in their 40-50 (Nolan pg.2-3).Harley Davidson’s riders feel a lifestyle connection...
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...Brand Management Case study: Harley-Davidson Contents Question 1 3 Question 2 5 1. Brand elements 5 2. Criteria 6 Question 3 8 1. Custom Vehicle Operations program (CVO) 8 2. Harley Owners Group (HOG) 8 3. Bar café 8 4. Exchange of motorcycle 9 5. Companies can learn from H-D 9 Question 4 10 1. Definitions 10 2. Equally successful 10 3. Non-equally successful 10 4. Co-branding or not? 11 Question 1 ------------------------------------------------- Make a detailed SWOT Analysis of the Harley-Davidson Company, paying particular attention to the marketing mix (Product, Price, Promotion, Distribution, Personnel) STRENGTHS | WEAKNESSES | * Net income of 2003 was $760mn, its more than 30% as compared to the previous year 2002 ; * The standard and performance segments of Harley Davidson make up 70% of the European heavy weight motorcycle market ; * Harley-Davidson operates in two segments: Harley-Davidson motorcycles & related products and HDFS (Harley-Davidson Financial Services) ; * Harley-Davidson is the only major American heavyweight motorcycle manufacturer ; * Strong brand name ; * The HOG (Harley Owners Group), which have a 750,000 members worldwide is the industry’s largest company sponsored motorcycle enthusiast organization ; * Buell Riders Adventure Group (BRAG) was also formed recent ; * Customization of the bikes, this is Harley-Davidson’s major revenue maker; * Harley-Davidson have a good marketing...
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...Case Introduction Harley-Davidson, Inc. was established and entered the motorcycle industry in 1903. The company has primarily focused its resources on the heavyweight motorcycle segment of the industry and is differentiated from its competitors because its focus is only on the motorcycle industry as opposed to other transportation markets such as: cars, boats, ATVs or snowmobiles. The company has experienced both the “good and bad times.” The company was founded by several young men in 1903, was bought out by AMF, experienced a leveraged buyout and ultimately became incorporated with its IPO in 1986. In addition to a constantly changing ownership structure, Harley-Davidson has also experienced significant issues with quality control, inconsistent management and a reputation for being associated with tattoos and pornography. By 1998, the company resolved its quality and image concerns, gained financial stability but continued to face supply concerns and threats of competition by new entrants and possible product substitutes. The challenge facing current Harley-Davidson management is how to combine the company’s approach in marketing the Harley image with consistent financial stability and increasing market share to outperform the competition. Industry Overview Harley-Davidson competes against other American and several internationally based companies within the motorcycle industry. Harley-Davidson...
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