Case 1: Wynn Resorts
Q1: What are Wynn Resorts’ distinctive resources and competencies?
As stated in the case study, “The greatest operational strength Wynn Resorts has is the founder himself”, Steve Wynn is the company’s biggest advantage. It is abundantly clear that people in the industry respect his decision making as can be seen when he left the Mirage, many senior executives joined him in his new venture. Without Steve Wynn to point the company towards his ultimate vision, the success of Wynn Resorts would be substantially less significant. What Mr. Wynn possesses that cannot be imitated by any other company is his expansive experience and comprehensive knowledge of the hospitality industry. Moreover, his network of connections to both people in positions of influence and financially affluent customers contributes greatly to his ultimate goal. His judgment allows Wynn Resorts to differentiate itself from other competitors in a very competitive industry.
Additionally, the other senior executives bring their own expertise to the company that cannot be imitated by competitors. By taking advantage of their experience in their respective fields the company is able to maintain its position as a world class leader in the gaming resort industry. And since these executive have worked together previously, their ability to work together as a cohesive unit is another aspect of Wynn Resorts that cannot be replicated.
At present, Wynn Resorts is one of a handful of companies that have the permission to build gaming resorts in Macau. This is a rare resource that provides Wynn Resorts with a significant advantage in East Asia. The ability to find suitable land and to acquire licenses to build on this land is critical for expansion in the gaming resorts industry since many countries have strict restrictions regarding gambling. Until regulations in Macau and nearby