competetive landscape for e-commerce

1 Copyright © ZENeSYS

Submission by : Group 4Anshul Yadav

Arun KumarGarima Chauhan

Nitheesh ISNikhil SharmaRidhima Jain

AIMING FOR BOSTON


Build Robust Supply Chain

Diversify Product Portfolio

Build Strong Brand Loyalty

Improve Footfall Create Lock-In

G1 G2 G3 G4 G5

Quick and Hassle Free Delivery

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High Quality, Reliable Support

Service

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Reliable, Interactive Interface

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Best Price Discovery

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Product RangeP5

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Discounts, Offers, Bundled

Services

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Detailed Product Information

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OPPORTUNITIES


RATIONALE FOR SELECTION OF CELLS FOR OPPORTUNITIES

Presence of too many lows and mediums or just one high has been taken as the selection criteria. This has resulted in the selection of the following cells- 1) P6G22) P1G33) P2G34) P5G45) P5G5


Cell Reference

Strategy Recommendations Best Practices

P6G2 Providing bundled product options using its diversified portfolio

• Identify products which are purchased together by Indian consumers through a test run or from other existing databases by using Apriori algorithm techniques

• Through the above mentioned, create bundles suited to the Indian market• Utilise the Indian attraction towards the many festivals that we have by designing promotion

and discount schemes around it• Since sending gifts through such festivities are frequent, create appropriate bundles of

products + gift wrapping + personalised messages and greeting cards + separate billing (sent to the person who purchases the gift so that cost is not mentioned in the gift). Streamline the gift selection process, making it easy and interesting for the consumer to do the above

• Give suggestions for product bundles, when the customer is buying a product. Give attractive offers on that product bundling so that the customer will be tempted to buy the product

• Flash, discounted sales of select products in limited numbers to spike interest

• Companies use product bundling + complementary services to actually create new products in their portfolio

• Product bundling based on related products and complementary services includes discounts, free shipping, every day deals(with flashy promotions) and brand promotion codes/coupons

P1G3 Creating customer loyalty by providing quick and hassle free delivery

• Certain basic features like Track my Order and free home delivery should be present on the website from the very start itself. There should no charges on the Cash on Delivery facility in areas where the return possibilities are not ranked particularly high taking into account the past customer behavior. Customers should be continuously updated via SMS or Email as to where the order has reached

• Release date deliveries which aims to deliver a product on the same day as they are released will create amazing brand loyalty

• There should be an option to return the goods to the selected retailers directly. This can be done by carrying out effective collaborations with the retailers. This will help to create customer loyalty as customers love a hassle free return policy

• Amazon has developed a program called- Prime Air-a future delivery system designed to get packages in the hands of customer in less than 30 mins through unmanned aerial vehicles

• Programs such as Prime Now(Amazon) and Powership(EBay) aim to reduce the time in which the goods will be delivered to the customers


Cell Reference


P1G3 Creating customer loyalty by providing quick and hassle free delivery

• Programs which can at the very least reduce the transit time of perishable and fast moving consumers goods need to be launched. This can be done by partnering with leading logistic providers in the short run and creating last mile solutions in the longer run. Moreover, they should either be free for the customer, or should have minimal charges which customers wouldn’t mind paying, so as to buy the needed products from the given entrant in the E-Commerce Sector.

• A specialized computer software can be developed such that once an order is placed, the name and number of the person who will be delivering the good should be informed to the customer immediately via SMS and the order’s exact status and location can be tracked through GPS.

• Dedicated pick up spots in collaboration with retailers should be set up so that customers can pick up stuff from wherever they want. These pick up spots should be set up in all major localities and across all cities and towns.

• Creating highly specialized supply chains such that the consumer is able to choose the date on which the good will be delivered will also help in creating delivery schemes that further the cause of creating brand loyalty.

• Last mile should be the ultimate goal so as to create the customer loyalty. Since, this aim will require huge fixed costs, the new entrant should first establish its market and then aim to create last mile solutions. This will help them to replicate the physical world shopping experience : pick a product, pay, take possession of the product in a secure shopping bag- all within the span of minutes.

• After last mile solutions are successfully developed , the E-Commerce website should aim to deliver products to the customer within a particular number of day(depending on the location of the customer), and if the good is thereafter not delivered in that particular period of time, the good should be delivered free of cost.

• Amazon has entered into an air cargo alliance with Patel Integrated Logistics as a part of ensuring next day delivery.

• Walmart has created dedicated pick up spots at all its retail stores.

• Amazon has launched release date deliveries which is a run away success.

• Amazon has tiptoed into last mile delivery service in selected areas of the United States.


Cell Reference


P2G3 Building strong brand loyalty by providing high quality and reliable support service

• The company should have a friendly return policy. Customer should be able to replace the product if he/she has changed his/her mind to purchase another product.

• Transaction from mobile apps which are easy-to-use and secure should be implemented

• The company should do surprise house visits to customers who purchase frequently and record their feedback & future requirements and provide them special discounts.

• (3D view)- The customer should be able to see the products from different angles

• A toll free service center should be present so that customer can get all information at any time

• The customer should receive best offer information on Facebook account or whatsapp.

• Customers can use automated kiosk machines located in Walmart stores to order online while paying at the stores which avoids the fear of data breach as most of them use credit cards

• Walmart gives customers an e-Gift card for the difference if a competitor’s offering is lower than the price they paid at Walmart

P4G5 Improve footfall by providing large range of products but focusing on core competencies

• The startup has to come up with good range of differentiated products which we don’t see on Amazon, Flikart etc. or a range of same products with best prices.

• Diversification is a long term strategy which should have less priority for startups initially

• Startups should have high operational efficiency from beginning and focused on reducing cost as much as possible.

• Etsy is getting handmade and other vintage items from thousands of independent designers and people who wants to sell. There are now over 7,000,000 items currently available for sale

• Shopclues came up with same products available on Amazon, Flipkart but on wholesale price and hugely increased its customer base


Cell Reference


P4G5 Improve footfall by providing large range of products but focusing on core competencies

Company has to establish good relationship with all the vendors and customers within short span of time so that the biggies could not get the opportunities to enter that segment of products.

A company can associate their products sales to social cause like some percentage of their sales go to women education and upliftment like in India.

• Unlike Amazon,Target and Groupon is looking to bolster a small no. of categories. Target also has many exclusive deals with various designers

• AmazonSmile, which allows Amazon shoppers to direct 0.5 percent of their purchase totals at the e-commerce giant toward a charitable organization of their choice.

P5G5 Creating Lock-In by providing a wide product Range

The target should be to provide the widest variety of product range in any given category.

Lock-In through product range can be created by exclusively launching product on the website.

Tie ups with artisans, craftsmen, traditional antiques such that the connoisseurs are locked in. The website can act as a market place for high value products such as paintings.

Food delivery can be done for smaller restaurants to nearby locale in all major metropolitan cities.

Provide aggregate and sell services like plumbing, repair work etc by maintaining a database of people who provide such services.

• EBay offers as many as 27,000 product categories with huge variety in each category.

• Flipkart launched Axiom phones in the Indian Market

• Target has a huge product variety in the limited categories it has on the website.

• Etsy sells specialized products on its website.


BEST PRACTICES


Cell Reference

Strategy Best Practices

P1G1 Provide quick and hassle free delivery by building a robust supply chain

• In 2014, Amazon developed helicopter drones to deliver within 60minutes enhancing the consumer experience• Much of Amazon's recent growth has been fuelled by its Amazon Prime program and Amazon Supply operations. Amazon

Prime, which offers "free" two-day delivery to its more than 27 million subscribers for US• In the coming years it is planning to establish its own delivery network Customer pick up(of items ordered) service at selected

centers• Walmart also provides click-and-collect facility to customers• ETSY is disrupting the global supply chain via customized delivery to all the customers from any country: Delivery to all

countries which is given on their site asking which country to ship , delivery according to the requirement of the customer (i.e fast shipping, express shipping, overnight shipping,quick shipping)

• Ebay India has started the Powership program in which they’ve partnered with various logistic providers like BlueDart, FedEx, DTDC and Aramex. This will ease sellers experience as they only need to sign up for the program, package the item in eBay packing material and hand over the package. The consumers are being benefited because trustable logistic suppliers improves the buying experience and ensures hassle free delivery because of various transportation and payment options.

• With close to 40 distribution centre across US, Target has ensured that it delivers products to its customers with efficient and strategic network across the country with minimum cost. Also with Walmart, Target is moving ahead with a new joint supply chain initiative


Cell Reference

Strategy Best Practices

P3G4 Improving Footfall through reliable , interactive interface

• Walmart To Go” offers various services like same-day delivery, grocery delivery, and now in-store grocery pickup. Walmart has offered a “site-to-store” service which lets customers shop online and then pick up at their local store.

• Mobile first strategy adopted by Amazon has engaged 14 million mobile customers with a conversion rate of 13.5%• Interactive interface with free tools such as Pricing calculator for the people who wants to sell their products on website,

people who are not businessmen & does not know how much to cost it. Etsy calculator is a free tool that illustrates what someone should charge for their crafts based on time, materials and other factors. The calculator also helps as a nice incentive to get crafters to take the next step in managing their inventory, calculating expenses, and turning their hobby into a lucrative home business and eventually leading them to visit website more and more.

• Ebay was the first E-Commerce company that built gamification in its core DNA which makes the site more interactive. Faceted Navigation has become the de-facto standard way to support integration of browsing and search on information rich websites

P5G2 Diversify Product Portfolio by providing wide Product Range.

•Walmart, Amazon,Ebay have been showing regular revenue stream because of increasing and diversifying their product offerings. E.g. Amazon offers an impressive 250 million products under 35 different departments and has increased product portfolio by 20 million units in 2014 through various acquisitions such as Zappos, Quidsi, BuyVIP, Living social and Lovefilm . •Etsy follows a market based model and has a large number of buyers and active sellers registering every day . It is also giving more option to retailers by launching 'Etsy Wholesaler' application .•Extent ion of the range and quality of products is targeted by Target via its exclusive deals with various designers and its 'Go International line‘ hires designers to bring out products which are available for few months.•Groupon offers wide products & activities in different categories i.e. local , goods and travel strategically based on geography of operation i.e. preference of the people and shopkeeper’s offerings catering to the local market. Acquisition of Blink & slide tour- A step to increase product range and also capturing the volatility of the regular business needs.


DATA SHEETS: Findings on Amazon.comby Vendor Goal and Consumer Preferences


FOR GOAL 1 (Build robust supply chain) – Amazon.com

P Findings Reference Score


1. In 2014, Amazon developed helicopter drones to deliver within 60minutes enhancing the consumer experience

2. SCM World have rated Amazon has most admired for SCM excellence

3. Amazon are invested extensively in creating warehouses around the world, so as to be able to ship 10 million proucts

4. Debuted Easy Ship in India in April 20145. Amazon joins hands with Patel Logistics to fast-track

delivery(next day) covering tier 2 cities also6. In the coming years it is planning to establish its own delivery

network Customer pick up(of items ordered) service at selected centers

7. Much of Amazon's recent growth has been fuelled by its Amazon Prime program and Amazon Supply operations. Amazon Prime, which offers "free" two-day delivery to its more than 27 million subscribers for US

• http://www.greenbiz.com/blog/2013/08/07/amazon-turn-page-supply-chain-sustainability

• http://phx.corporate-ir.net/External.File?item=UGFyZW50SUQ9MjI4Njc1fENoaWxkSUQ9LTF8VHlwZT0z&t=1 - (Annual Report 2013)

• http://www.scmr.com/article/amazon_beats_apple_in_battle_for_supply_chain_leadership

• http://www.supplychainbrain.com/content/logisticstransportation/expresssmall-shipments/single-article-page/article/amazons-supply-chain-gives-it-an-edge/

• http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2014-09-29/news/54437149_1_logistics-companies-patel-logistics-amazon

• http://www.businessinsider.in/How-Amazon-India-Is-Changing-The-Rules-Of-The-E-tailing-Game/articleshow/39169571.cms

• http://www.supplychainquarterly.com/topics/Logistics/20141027-is-amazon-a-3pl/

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FOR GOAL 1 (Build robust supply chain) – Amazon.com


Best price discovery

1. Amazon's improved warehouse efficiency via Kiva robots translates to both financial and customer benefits.

2. Amazon demands extensive content regarding products from suppliers to ensure best information & prices are available for Customer

• http://connected.retailnetgroup.com/index.php/2012/03/27/how-amazons-logistics-keep-it-ahead/#sthash.JQmDCOGK.dpuf

• http://www.practicalecommerce.com/articles/2928-Selling-on-Amazon-Pros-and-Cons

• http://www.brickmeetsclick.com/the-many-dimensions-of-an-amazon-relationship

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FOR GOAL 2 (Diversify the product portfolio) – Amazon.com


Reliable, interactive and convenient interface

1. The website clearly emphasizes on product search and online purchasing through highlighted search bars, carts, related items display sections

2. Large investments on data analytics helped Amazon customize user's experience to recommend similar purchases

3. Well placed navigation elements to ease shopping experience4. Features like "Customers who bought [product name] also

bought ..." are incredibly addictive5. Amazon India Introduces '1-click' shopping, which preloads a

customer’s credit card details and lets him or her buy a product with a single click.

6. Sellers can update/manage/track the inventory information from the mobile interface

• www.amazon.com • http://www.webdesignerdepot.com/2009/10/an-

analysis-of-the-amazon-shopping-experience/• http://www.quora.com/What-makes-Amazon-coms-

user-interface-user-experience-great• http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/articleshow/

46295791.cms?imageid=37419423#slide4&utm_source=contentofinterest&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=cppst http://techcircle.vccircle.com/2015/03/04/amazon-launches-app-for-sellers-on-india-marketplace-to-manage-inventory-track-sales-more/http://www.alexa.com/siteinfo/amazon.in

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Product Range 1. Amazon offers an impressive 250 million products under 35 different departments – ranging from books, cosmetics, durable electronics, apparels, ornaments to even groceries being made available

2. Amazon has increased product portfolio by 20 million units in 2014 through various acquisitions such as Zappos, Quidsi, BuyVIP, Living social and Lovefilm

3. Introduction of a grocery service in Germany and the UK

• www.amazon.com • http://export-x.com/2014/08/14/many-products-

amazon-sell-2/ • http://blog.euromonitor.com/2011/04/amazoncom-

the-second-fastest-growing-retailer-in-the-world-in-2010.html

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FOR GOAL 2 (Diversify the product portfolio) – Amazon.com


Discounts, Offers and Bundled schemes

1. The Kindle MatchBook scheme allowed customer to avail Kindle e-book versions of print books purchased from Amazon

2. Fire phones are offered with one year free ‘Prime’ services and media streaming

3. Amazon now offers deep discounts on books and electronics (sales of DVD players, computers and other electronics. It has coupled those discounts with free shipping on orders over a certain amount, addressing one of the largest perceived barriers to buying online

4. Features like "Customers who bought [product name] also bought ..." help in selling complementary products offered in diversified portfolio

5. Sellers on amazon.com gives special offers on next purchase and thus increasing number of repeat customers

• http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=176060&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1851331&highlight=

• http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2014-09-08/amazon-offers-fire-smartphone-for-99-cents-with-at-t-contract

• http://old.seattletimes.com/html/businesstechnology/2001848824_btamazon020.html

• http://www.entrepreneurial-insights.com/amazon-strategies-selling-products-online/

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FOR GOAL 3 (Build strong brand loyalty) – Amazon.com



1. More than 20 million customers have registered for Amazon prime (2 days shipping option)

2. Study by Brand Keys has rated Amazon as No.1 on account of its ability to offer lower shipping costs to retain customers

3. Amazon India has partnered with Patel logistics for quick delivery and planning to increase its workforce and also emphasizing on easy shipping

4. Launched Release Day Delivery for its customers5. Amazon.com uses drone for delivery of package to customer

as early as 30 min6. Amazon launched Prime Now, a one-hour delivery service for

a variety of items including batteries, shampoo and even books The service will be available every day from 6 a.m. until midnight and will launch in "select areas of Manhattan”

• http://www.businessinsider.in/Amazon-Says-It-Has-20-Million-Prime-Members/articleshow/28490564.cms

• http://www.businessinsider.com/brand-loyalty-customers-2011-9?IR=T#1-amazon-20

• http://www.businessinsider.in/Im-addicted-to-Amazons-new-1-hour-delivery-service/articleshow/46434473.cms

• http://www.business-standard.com/article/management/last-mile-advantage-114011900721_1.html

• http://www.digit.in/internet/amazon-india-announces-release-day-delivery-23994.html http://www.nextgov.com/emerging-tech/2015/02/faa-drone-regulations-deal-blow-amazon/105516/

• http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2014-09-29/news/54437149_1_logistics-companies-patel-logistics-amazon

• http://www.cnbc.com/id/102280266• http://www.amazon.in/gp/help/customer/

display.html/ref=hp_left_cn?ie=UTF8&nodeId=200534000

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High Quality and reliable support services

1. Amazon has been rated #1 in the National Retail Federation Customers’ Choice Awards

2. Amazon announced a new support service available on Kindle HD products called Mayday. It is a single-click support solution that lets users work with a remote tech support representative to solve problems with their tablets

3. Toll free "Live" customer service person4. Personalized emails tailored to customer's interests

• http://blog.clientheartbeat.com/ecommerce-customer-experience/

• http://motherboard.vice.com/read/how-far-can-amazon-push-its-customers-loyalty

• http://techcrunch.com/2013/09/24/amazon-introduces-mayday-a-unique-and-amazingly-useful-live-tech-support-system-for-kindle/

• http://www.fastcompany.com/3008289/most-innovative-companies-2013/amazons-customer-service-secret-automatic-refunds

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1. 24x7 online transaction availability enables in linking physical shopping experience with the virtual world

2. Amazons option of viewing neutral as well as negative reviews have been beneficial for the customers

3. Amazon ranked no. 1 in being user friendly and bug free by a survey conducted by 600 software professionals from 20 countries sponsored by ' U test'

4. Amazon obtained the patent for it’s ‘One Click Buy’ feature5. Response time of sellers have increased by 30 % with the

introduction of mobile app. Sellers can now quickly update inventory and entertain customer queries

• http://www.forbes.com/sites/prospernow/2012/08/28/amazon-1-in-customer-service-but-will-this-lead-to-sustainable-loyalty/

• http://phx.corporate-ir.net/External.File?item=UGFyZW50SUQ9MjI4Njc1fENoaWxkSUQ9LTF8VHlwZT0z&t=1

• http://www.uie.com/articles/magicbehindamazon• http://www.pcmag.com/

article2/0,2817,2410095,00.asp• http://www.alexa.com/siteinfo/amazon.in#?

sites=flipkart.com • http://www.indiainfoline.com/article/news-top-

story/amazon-launches-amazon-seller-app-in-india-115030400151_1.html

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Detailed product information (Comparisons, reviews and specifications)

1. Extensive availability of product information to help customer make an informed decision: Amazon sets a strict guidelines for putting product details and product images on their websites

2. PriceCheck app that allows customer to check for best prices showed integrity and transparency

• http://www.forbes.com/sites/jonathansalembaskin/2013/05/09/amazon-earns-customer-loyalty-with-integrity-not-rewards/

• http://www.forbes.com/sites/prospernow/2012/08/14/the-showroom-showdown-best-buy-vs-amazon/2/

• http://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html/ref=help_search_1-2?ie=UTF8&nodeId=200414280&qid=1426172711&sr=1-2

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FOR GOAL 4 (Improve footfall) – Amazon.com



1. Mobile first strategy adopted by Amazon has engaged 14 million mobile customers with a conversion rate of 13.5%

2. Features such as ‘One click’ payment options, simple colourful interface provoke greater call to actions

3. Barcode scanner option that allows customers to compare offline product prices and make an informed decisions

4. Data mining approach used by Amazon to build a relation with customer has helped Amazon in increasing the footfall. Provide recommendations for existing customers

• http://www.statista.com/topics/846/amazon/ • http://www.statista.com/statistics/237810/number-

of-active-amazon-customer-accounts-worldwide/ • https://econsultancy.com/blog/10852-12-reasons-

behind-amazon-s-massive-mobile-success/ • http://www.fastcodesign.com/1669551/how-

companies-like-amazon-use-big-data-to-make-you-love-them

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Product Range 1. With over 250 million products on Amazon's website, the user base has been expanding over 14% annually

2. The introduction of AmazonFresh that delivers groceries aids is bringing in a new segment of customers

3. The acquisitions of Zappos, Quidsi, BuyVIP, LivingSocial and Lovefilm have extended the company's reach into new product areas which helps in attracting new set of customers

4. Expanding span of customer concentration via introduction of a grocery service in Germany and UK

5. Anytime, anywhere shopping: Amazon India tied up with Indian railways to sell various products to IRCTC customer

• http://export-x.com/2014/08/14/many-products-amazon-sell-2/

• http://www.geekwire.com/2014/amazon-adds-30-million-customers-past-year/

• http://www.thesimpledollar.com/amazon-grocery-when-is-it-more-cost-effective-than-the-local-supermarket/

• http://blog.euromonitor.com/2011/04/amazoncom-the-second-fastest-growing-retailer-in-the-world-in-2010.html

• http://www.medianama.com/2015/03/223-irctc-amazon-online-shopping/

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FOR GOAL 5 (Create lock-in or stickiness) – Amazon.com


Product Range 1. Wide range of products coupled with 1 day delivery and free returns, creates a lot of potential to create lock in

2. ‘Hot New Releases’ segment dedicated to keep customers engaged

3. Adding grocery items to the product lines would definitely help in creating lock in

4. Amazon has expanded its portfolio of products to more niche and value-added segments, e.g. Amazon India launched its own gift cards, powered by Bangalore-based gift card technology start-up QwikCilver

• http://www.parature.com/amazon-customer-experience/

• http://www.bloomberg.com/bw/stories/2009-02-18/how-amazon-aims-to-keep-you-clicking

• http://netindian.in/news/2014/11/24/00031568/jungleecom-launches-online-grocery-foods-store

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1. Introduction of Amazon’s 'make an offer': a one to one bid between the customer and seller on rare items.

2. Various offers available mainly Gold box-Deals and Bargains of the day, Clearance sales, Warehouse deals, Outlet sales

3. Amazon Prime loyalty program is focused on reducing the cart abandonment rate via non monetary benefits to potential customers. This deal/program can be taken up for a free trial of one month, and after that @$99 per year. Once a customer gets accustomed, there is high probability that he will take this deal every year

• http://cw33.com/2014/12/09/you-can-now-make-an-offer-at-amazon/

• http://frugalliving.about.com/od/bargainshopping/tp/Save_Money_on_Amazon.htm

• http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DBYBNEE/ref=nav_prime_try_btn

• http://blog.getvero.com/6-lessons-you-can-learn-from-amazons-killer-email-marketing/

• http://minewhat.com/blog/3-tips-from-amazon-prime-to-run-a-killer-customer-loyalty-program/

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DATA SHEETS: Findings on Walmart.comby Vendor Goal and Consumer Preferences


FOR GOAL 1 (Build robust supply chain) – Walmart.com



1. Walmart has logistics system which include: contingency production, "pull" points of sale (POS) data, information technology training for suppliers, and owns core competencies which helps in quick and hassle free delivery

2. Walmart also uses its own trucking fleet and drivers, who are required to have three years and 250,000 miles of driving experience

3. Cross Docking is employed as Inventory tactic4. Walmart also provides click-and-collect facility to customers

• http://www.freepatentsonline.com/article/International-Journal-Business-Strategy/208534987.html

• http://www.tradegecko.com/blog/incredibly-successful-supply-chain-management-walmart

• http://www.usanfranonline.com/resources/supply-chain-management/walmart-keys-to-successful-supply-chain-management/#.VP81tlWqqko

• http://corporate.walmart.com/our-story/our-business/logistics

• http://jimmyalyea.blogspot.in/2012/02/analyzing-wal-marts-distribution-and.html

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1. Walmart’s supply chain includes three elements: distribution practices, operating its own fleet of trucks and technology. Benefits from its supply chain efficiency result in time savings, more cost-effective inventory management and improved product forecasting.

2. The hub and spoke network enables Walmart to centralize its distribution network and to be more efficient in controlling the flow of products across the businesses, while realizing significant cost savings

• http://www.usanfranonline.com/resources/supply-chain-management/walmart-keys-to-successful-supply-chain-management/#.VP1wI_nF9o0

• http://www.academia.edu/9437177/How_Walmart_Enhances_Supply_Chain_Management_With_CPFR_Initiatives

• http://www.ukessays.com/essays/management/the-supply-chain-management-of-walmart-management-essay.php

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FOR GOAL 1 (Build robust supply chain) – Walmart.com



3. Wal-Mart’s primary role of receiving inventory has been planned right from the point of production in which the company is not involved in

4. Does strategic pricing through programs such as Savings Catcher, Save Even More, Ad Match, and price rollbacks

• http://www.usanfranonline.com/resources/supply-chain-management/walmart-keys-to-successful-supply-chain-management/#.VP81tlWqqko

• http://marketrealist.com/2015/02/competitive-forces-walmart-dominates-grocery-industry/

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FOR GOAL 2 (Diversify the product portfolio) – Walmart.com



1. Walmart has an interactive interface: It attracts its users with up-to-date content to welcome coming events or holiday seasons

2. Walmart categorizes the products into groups and introduces them with colourful images. In addition, Walmart names each group with catchy titles such as “Get your home holiday-ready”

• https://merryloprofile.files.wordpress.com/2012/12/website-analysis-1.pdf

• http://www.radford.edu/~jelliott1/coms326/reviews/walmart.html

• http://www.bluefountainmedia.com/blog/walmartcom-consistent-and-full-of-choices-but-overwhelming/

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Product Range 1. Walmart’s strength is diversified product and brand portfolio: Wal-Mart offers various products which include apparel, health and beauty aids, electronics, toys, lawn and garden items, jewellery, automotive products, home furnishings, hardware, sporting goods, pet supplies, house-ware, grocery, home improvement and others

• http://www.walmart.com • http://www.walmart.com/cp/All-Departments/

121828• http://www.academia.edu/4706708/

WALMART_RETAIL_ANALYSIS • http://callisto.ggsrv.com/imgsrv/FastFetch/

UBER1/309223_GDRT35083FSA

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1. Walmart uses product bundle pricing to sell video game consoles such as Xbox 360 console, which saves customer roughly $35 if items are purchased independently

2. Offers black Friday deals: offering cash discounts as well as bundling gift cards on all the Apple products

3. PS4 bundle offers for the younger generation

• http://uwmktg301.blogspot.in/2010/03/product-bundle-pricing.html

• http://www.product-reviews.net/2014/12/01/ps4-cyber-monday-bundle-at-gamestop-vs-walmart

• http://www.iphonehacks.com/2014/11/wal-mart-black-friday-2014-deals.html

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FOR GOAL 3 (Build strong brand loyalty) – Walmart.com



1. Walmart is “building a pair of dedicated warehouses to handle Internet orders and speed up shipments

2. Track shipped orders with the "Track My Orders" link available on website

3. Walmart is trying to play catch-up to Amazon’s popular delivery initiatives like same day delivery, which is already a hit among consumers

4. HomeFree and SiteToStore offerings: In HomeFree, people who spend more than $45 or purchase in bulk is given zero shipping charges. SiteToStore involves online orders being sent to nearest walmart store which works favourably for Walmart as they have nearly 4177 stores in US. The resulting exposure also brings about brand loyalty

• http://www.strategy-business.com/article/13866?pg=all

• http://www.academia.edu/4975677/A_Comparative_Study_of_Strategies_Adopted_by_Wal-Mart_and_Carrefour_in_China_A_Resource-Based_Perspective_Acknowledgements

• http://www.forbes.com/sites/barbarathau/2014/01/30/walmart-expands-to-go-test-as-competition-heats-up-for-online-grocery-sales

• http://techcrunch.com/2014/01/28/walmart-to-go-denver-grocery-test

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1. Customers can use automated kiosk machines located in Walmart stores to order online while paying at the stores which avoids the fear of data breach as most of them use credit cards

2. Walmart’s app Savings Catcher looks at other retailers’ ads and gives customers an e-Gift card for the difference if a competitor’s offering is lower than the price they paid at Walmart

• http://www.walmart.com/cservice/cu_comments_online.gsp?cu_heading=8

• http://tightwadtravelers.com/liquidate-visa-gift-cards/

• http://help.walmart.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/706

• http://marketrealist.com/2015/02/walmarts-recent-initiatives-mexico-walmex

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FOR GOAL 3 (Build strong brand loyalty) – Walmart.com



1. Customers can access Store mode option on their phone while moving in store which uses geo-fencing to detect when a user is headed for a real-world store, then switches to a special interface that offers things like in-store coupons and e-receipts

2. The Sam’s Club mobile app allows Members to review and shop online and view in-club inventory, build customized shopping lists, and renew their memberships, all from a smartphone or iPad

3. Walmart’s new iPhone app allows U.S. customers to create smart shopping lists, scan coupons and access product information in real time. In addition, Walmart launched a feature-rich iPad app, as well as Shopycat, a gift finder on Facebook

4. Walmart has introduced Savings catcher scheme which is based on personalized promotion and price intelligence strategy for building brand loyalty

• http://searchspring.com/blog/retail-site-search-evaluation.html,http://blog.es3.com/new-strategies-to-build-brand-loyalty/

• http://venturebeat.com/2014/07/08/20-percent-of-walmart-stores-are-now-online-fulfillment-centers/

• http://c46b2bcc0db5865f5a76-91c2ff8eba65983a1c33d367b8503d02.r78.cf2.rackcdn.com/93/a7/ff21a9764702bb5bc8271faacfeb/2012-annual-report-for-walmart-stores-inc_130221023846998881.pdf

• http://blog.es3.com/new-strategies-to-build-brand-loyalty/

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1. Walmart offers savings catcher service: The service analyzes the price paid for each item at Walmart, and compares it to the listed prices at local competitor stores. If the item can be found for a lower price at a competing store in the area, Walmart will refund the difference to the shopper via automatically loading refunds onto electronic or physical Walmart gift cards to be used online or in stores

• http://blog.es3.com/new-strategies-to-build-brand-loyalty/

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FOR GOAL 4 (Improve footfall) – Walmart.com



1. Stores are designed as a convenient one-stop family shopping center, featuring a full line of groceries to merchandise areas like apparel and accessories, sporting goods, electronics etc. Saves customers time by designing layout which is easy to navigate (more often purchase products are group together).

2. “Walmart To Go” offers various services like same-day delivery, grocery delivery, and now in-store grocery pickup. Walmart has offered a “site-to-store” service which lets customers shop online and then pick up at their local store.

3. Walmart app: Offers number of shopping convenience with extensive feature list like Scan & Go feature.

4. Walmart Black Friday Event: Aggressive discounting and deals on electronic good to attract customers as it essentially target price sensitive consumers

• http://www.apppicker.com/reviews/11207/Walmart-app-review-enhancing-the-shopping-experience,

• http://news.walmart.com/news-archive/2010/11/02/walmart-brings-one-stop-shopping-to-many

• http://www.forbes.com/sites/barbarathau/2014/01/30/walmart-expands-to-go-test-as-competition-heats-up-for-online-grocery-sales/

• http://techcrunch.com/2014/01/28/walmart-to-go-denver-grocery-test/

• http://news.walmart.com/news-archive/2012/11/23/walmart-us-reports-best-ever-black-friday-events

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Product Range 1. Wal-Mart provides wide range of products online like Groceries, food items (bakery, delicatessen, frozen food section, and meat, dairy and fresh produce sections), apparel and accessories, sporting goods, electronics, home, fine jewelry, and health and beauty, targeting low-income and conservative individuals by offering medium-quality goods at lower prices

• http://www.retail-week.com/topics/international/walmart-launches-online-product-range/5047156.article

• http://www.academia.edu/4706708/WALMART_RETAIL_ANALYSIS

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FOR GOAL 5 (Create lock-in or stickiness) – Walmart.com


Product Range 1. Walmart provides Family-Friendly products 2. Spark Studio integrates popular Walmart.com pins from

Pinterest to create a discovery shopping experience on Walmart.com

3. Walmart is having low price strategy along with variety of products ranging from unbranded to highly branded products

• http://mike-pereira.com/subpage/docs/walmartcs.htm

• http://www.walmart.com/cp/All-Departments/121828

• http://www.walmartlabs.com/our-work/

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1. Walmart offers E-Receipts, e-Coupons, and automated shopping lists features to name a few

2. If a third-party tracking firm finds comparable items advertised online or in print by a local rival at a lower price, shoppers get refunds automatically loaded onto electronic or physical Walmart gift cards to be used online or in stores

3. Black Friday offers: Aggressive discounting and deals on electronic good to attract customers as it essentially target price sensitive consumers

4. Cyber Monday deals provides convenient ways to save and shop: Offers online savings of up to 60 Percent, free shipping on buying orders of $35 or more

5. Introduced discount stores and ‘Everyday Low Pricing’ strategy to increase stickiness

• http://adage.com/article/dataworks/walmart-rivals-discounts-fuel-loyalty-program/293596/

• http://www.dmnews.com/walmart-to-roll-loyalty-program-nationwide/article/354682/

• http://c46b2bcc0db5865f5a76-91c2ff8eba65983a1c33d367b8503d02.r78.cf2.rackcdn.com/93/a7/ff21a9764702bb5bc8271faacfeb/2012-annual-report-for-walmart-stores-inc_130221023846998881.pdf

• http://www.gamingtarget.com/article.php?artid=14824

• http://news.walmart.com/news-archive/2013/11/22/walmart-unveils-cyber-monday-savings-up-to-60-percent-lowers-free-shipping-minimum

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DATA SHEETS: Findings on Etsy.comby Vendor Goal and Consumer Preferences


FOR GOAL 1 (Build robust supply chain) – Etsy.com



1. ETSY is disrupting the global supply chain via customized delivery to all the customers from any country: Delivery to all countries which is given on their site asking which country to ship , delivery according to the requirement of the customer (i.e fast shipping, express shipping, overnight shipping,quick shipping)

2. Etsy is getting handmade and other vintage items from thousands of independent designers and people who wants to sell

3. Etsy introduced a Facebook-style social networking system called People Search to help buyers and sellers connect with each other

• http://edition.cnn.com/2013/06/05/business/etsy-leweb-craft-disrupting/

• https://www.etsy.com/in-en/market/fast_shipping• https://www.etsy.com/in-en/market/fast_delivery• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Etsy

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1. Etsy is catering to all types of customers by offering various kinds of pricing from low to high including Bundled pricing, Tiered pricing, Free shipping based on qty. ordered

2. Sellers decide the cost at which they want to sell and Etsy charges 3.5% and some additional charges. Sellers can chose payment options to offer to their buyers including credit/debit cards and PayPal among others & this easy way of pricing the products attracts the sellers to sell their products on Etsy platform

3. Small suppliers are selling vintage products through Etsy via virtual store as they do not want to spend on brick mortar store, marketing of products. Etsy charge very small amount thereby reduces the price of products which benefits and lures customers

• http://www.entrepreneurial-insights.com/etsy-strategies-selling-handmade-products-online/

• https://blog.etsy.com/en/2012/pricing-strategies-beyond-the-basics/

• https://daedraevans.wordpress.com/2012/04/24/etsy-a-case-study/

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FOR GOAL 1 (Build robust supply chain) – Etsy.com



3. Etsy sponsors events, such as New York’s Renegade crafts fair to facilitates suppliers to promote their products to customers by word of mouth marketing. They give discount to those sellers who are registered users of etsy

4. Etsy uses shipworks which is a multicarrier shipping software that integrates online sales and marketplace systems. Instead of moving inventory between warehouses, sellers can use shipworks to access bookable rates directly from nearly 30 truckload carriers.Getting direct, competitive rates when shipping large goods means online merchants using shipworks can stay competitive in the market

• http://www.freshbusinessthinking.com/articles_print.php?CID=0&AID=13401

• http://www.inboundlogistics.com/digital/issues/il_digital_july2014.pdf

• www.slideshare.net/Rahul9105/market-logistics-scm

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FOR GOAL 2 (Diversify the product portfolio) – Etsy.com



1. The website clearly emphasizes on product search and online purchasing. Its website is basically a web-based application, using a three-tiered application, Advanced search structure, enabling customers to search easily on the website.

2. For sellers , they give guidelines about how to do Shop improvement and search engine optimization via: 1.) Keywords , 2.) Favourites, 3.)Views , 4.) Treasury lists, 5.)Listed , renewed date, 5.) Category , 6.) Tags etc.

• http://bloghandmade.blogspot.in/2009/03/brief-history-of-etsy-search.html

• https://www.etsy.com/in-en/help/article/247• http://www.workyourart.com/guide/etsy-seo/• http://www.artinamericamagazine.com/news-

features/magazine/the-museum-interface/• http://wemakewebsites.com/blog/shopify-vs-etsy-a-

comparison-for-merchants

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Product Range 1. Apart from selling specialized vintage/homemade products, Etsy is open to new products with new product line. There are a number of buyers and sellers registering everyday. It has a market based model with different kind of products ranging from greeting cards to jewellery, art, and clothing to house wares

2. According to the site, there are now over 7,000,000 items currently available for sale. These days it seems that every artist and crafter with a bedazzling gun, has opened a shop on Etsy. In fact, as of the middle of October 2010, there were over 249,000 active sellers

3. According to their own statistics in September 2010, Etsy sold 1,466,039 items for $26.6 million. Etsy is giving more option to retailers by launching 'Etsy Wholesaler' application

• http://dupress.com/articles/a-movement-in-the-making/

• http://skinnyartist.com/is-etsy-dying/etsy.com • http://venturebeat.com/2014/08/05/etsy-launches-

etsy-wholesale-a-platform-for-sellers-to-buy-bulk-supplies/

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FOR GOAL 2 (Diversify the product portfolio) – Etsy.com



1. Discounts are available in the form of coupons but absence of bundled schemes

• http://www.retailmenot.com/view/etsy.com L


FOR GOAL 3 (Build strong brand loyalty) – Etsy.com



1. Etsy is giving fast and hassle free delivery because of which it is a trustful site for the consumers even without much advertisement. Delivery is done according to the requirement of the customer which helps to gain customer satisfaction.

2. Delivery services offers such as quick delivery, fast , overnight , express delivery acts as differentiating factor for an online company to deliver accordingly the customer choice.

• https://www.etsy.com/in-en/market/fast_shipping• https://www.etsy.com/in-en/market/fast_delivery

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1. There are help service website pages for etsy support to customers. Provides support service on twitter as well as facebook but service is not that prompt as some Etsy sellers expressed unhappiness with how Etsy was handling complaints about stores

2. Customer service is not that quick but is hassle free

• https://www.etsy.com/in-en/help/article/5243 • https://www.etsy.com/help/article///3909• https://www.etsy.com/in-en/help/article/3919• https://www.etsy.com/help/contact?ref=486 • https://www.etsy.com/help/article/486• https://www.etsy.com/in-en/help/article/4872• https://www.etsy.com/teams/7722/discussions/

discuss/13294565/• https://twitter.com/etsyhelp • http://gethuman.com/contact/Etsy-com/• http://www.consumeraffairs.com/online/etsy.html

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FOR GOAL 3 (Build strong brand loyalty) – Etsy.com



1. The product information is available after clicking on the product telling the content, material from which it is made, measurements, shipping details but the comparison is not there since most of the items are unique and old and there is no similar items in the market for those product available online. But the unique thing is that they offer you to ask question related to that product which you are willing to buy and give you the reviews of the people also

2. Etsy introduced a facebook-style social networking system called People Search so that buyers can get even very small details which they think is not present on Etsy site. This helps them in building brand loyalty

3. Etsy’s strict guidelines, which focus on authorship, responsibility, and transparency helps in ensuring that sellers provide correct details to keep brand loyalty

• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Etsy• http://smallbusiness.foxbusiness.com/marketing-

sales/2013/12/30/what-etsy-can-teach-us-about-ecommerce/

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1. There are around 50 apps to support etsy shopping with beautiful user interfaces: Uses a grid-like layout (reminiscent of Pinterest) to showcase products beautifully. The website is user friendly , reliable and interface is customizable.

2. The whole site doesn’t need to shut down when a minor problem occurs, the site also favours fast load times

3. Etsy allows for product bookmarking

• http://smallbusiness.foxbusiness.com/marketing-sales/2013/12/30/what-etsy-can-teach-us-about-ecommerce/

• http://smallbiztrends.com/2014/09/how-to-grow-your-etsy-business.html

• xsdesigns.se/optimize-etsy-shop-beginners-guide-etsy-seo/

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FOR GOAL 4 (Improve footfall) – Etsy.com



1. As of 2014, more than 19.81 million buyers had purchased goods through the Etsy ecosystem, up from 14.03 million in the previous year.

2. Interactive interface with free tools such as Pricing calculator for the people who wants to sell their products on website, people who are not businessmen & does not know how much to cost it. Etsy calculator is a free tool that illustrates what someone should charge for their crafts based on time, materials and other factors. The calculator also helps as a nice incentive to get crafters to take the next step in managing their inventory, calculating expenses, and turning their hobby into a lucrative home business and eventually leading them to visit website more and more.

3. The Etsy API provides a simple interface to customers to buy and sell products. 'Etsy Wholesale' app is designed by etsy to enhance its sales. Created in-store and windows display which increased its sales. Developed more than 50 apps to support shopping at etsy.

• http://www.statista.com/statistics/409393/etsy-visitor-traffic-channel-share/

• http://www.statista.com/statistics/409375/etsy-active-buyers/

• https://blog.kissmetrics.com/beyond-the-blog-part-2/

• http://www.androidpolice.com/2012/12/04/new-app-official-etsy-app-arrives-on-android-to-make-shopping-for-artsy-trinkets-even-easier/

• http://marketresearch.about.com/od/Do-It-Yourself-Market-Research/fl/Why-Etsy-Mobile-Apps-Will-Increase-Online-Sales.htm http://www.craftmakerpro.com/marketing-tips/3-best-email-marketing-apps-etsy/

• http://www.statista.com/statistics/409393/etsy-visitor-traffic-channel-share/

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FOR GOAL 4 (Improve footfall) – Etsy.com


Product Range 1. Insights from distribution of Etsy's annual gross merchandise sales volume from 2011 to 2014, sorted by purchase type suggested that in 2014, 78 percent of GMS were generated through repeat purchases and 22 percent through first-time purchases. This increase in GMS(gross merchandise sales volume) was mainly attributable to increase in the product with price range leading the people to visit website.

• http://www.statista.com/statistics/409429/etsy-gms-purchase-repeat/

• http://jewelrymakingjournal.com/making-3000-sales-or-more-on-etsy/

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FOR GOAL 5 (Create lock-in or stickiness) – Etsy.com


Product Range 1. Etsy’s main value is to create a vibrant community for small businesses and artisans to sell “authentic and highly personalized” products, and for buyers to search for products that are unique and meaningful. In essence, it provides values to both the buyers and sellers

2. Having a nice interface and putting up a number of unique products offering from all types of accessories , jewellery, handmade, toys etc. make customers to search and stick to the site.

3. Etsy sellers range from hobbyists to professional artists who use the site to make a living & some of the artists are scaling up their production making it as their full time profession creating a strong supply chain and product offerings

• hthttp://www.academia.edu/9130905/ETSY_Report• https://www.etsy.com/in-en/search?q=supply

%20chain&ref=market• etsy.com

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1. Discounts are available in the form of coupons but absence of bundled schemes. Promoting three types of discount coupons : Percent discount, free shipping, fixed dollar amount coupon

2. They give discounts to sellers who are registered on Etsy to attend crafts fair organized by Etsy specially for customers and sellers to connect

• http://www.goodsearch.com/etsy/coupons• http://www.salehoo.com/blog/all-about-etsy-an-e-

commerce-site-analysis• https://www.etsy.com/in-en/help/article/349 • https://daedraevans.wordpress.com/2012/04/24/

etsy-a-case-study/

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DATA SHEETS: Findings on ebay.comby Vendor Goal and Consumer Preferences


FOR GOAL 1 (Build robust supply chain) – ebay.com



1. To provide their customers with an unmatched experience, Ebay works to provide services that involves elements such as integrating with different carriers and building highly distributed functions to provide common shipping functions like label generation and rate calculation.

2. Ebay India has started the Powership program in which they’ve partnered with various logistic providers like BlueDart, FedEx, DTDC and Aramex. This will ease sellers experience as they only need to sign up for the program, package the item in eBay packing material and hand over the package. The consumers are being benefited because trustable logistic suppliers improves the buying experience and ensures hassle free delivery because of various transportation and payment options.

• http://blog.ebay.com/get-to-know-ebay-shipping-and-logistics/

• http://www.datareign.com/ebay-india-launches-powership-shipping-made-easy-for-sellers.html

• http://deals.ebay.in/powership/• http://pages.ebay.in/aboutebay/

psp_cod_terms_conditions.html

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1. With eBay enterprise and magento platform, the company offers order management, fulfilment, customer care and marketing solutions. Its plan is to enable brands and retailers of all sizes to deliver Omni channel experiences that are quick and customer friendly and to ‘deliver products with speed and quality in a way that would be difficult for customers to do themselves

• http://www.inboundlogistics.com/cms/article/3pl-e-volution-continues/

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FOR GOAL 2 (Diversify the product portfolio) – ebay.com



1. ebay Store Design enhances buyers shopping experience. Custom ebay store design reinforces brands and improves navigation of ebay shop and the online shop design is consistent to increase user interaction

2. Users buy and sell items using the eBay online interface, interacting directly with eBay, but with eBay API, a user can communicate directly with eBay database in XML format

3. Purchasing options and safe & secure payment service availability attracts customers to the site again and again

• http://techeverytime.com/2011/09/online-shopping-sites-reviewed-and-compared-ebay-flipkart-fashionandyou-and-others/

• http://pages.ebay.in/aboutebay/About_eBay.html• http://www.digitalnow.co.uk/ecommerce/• http://readwrite.com/2014/08/01/interactive-

ecommerce-apps-ebay-google• http://www.cio.com/article/2836077/e-commerce/pros-

and-cons-of-selling-on-amazon-ebay-and-etsy.html• https://go.developer.ebay.com/what-ebay-api

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Product Range 1. The company's website showcases a wide range of products in electronics, lifestyle, collectibles and media categories.

2. Ebay has one of the highest category spans in the world. They offer a variety of 27,000 categories.

3. They have the highest number of sellers on their platoform and this makes them one of the most diversified e-comm website globally.


• http://gadgets.ndtv.com/internet/news/ebay-india-begins-nine-hour-delivery-service-in-india-starting-with-mumbai-471834

• https://www.google.co.in/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=6&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CDUQFjAF&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.putraselaparang.weebly.com%2Fuploads%2F2%2F0%2F1%2F8%2F2018142%2Febay.doc&ei=DpUBVa_6Fsy-uASKgoHYAg&usg=AFQjCNFEsPdotVEltgfSd0JVGiCZPxN_4g&sig2=EZkQZXrxoCPpYe_2LUHHag-

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FOR GOAL 2 (Diversify the product portfolio) – ebay.com



1. Ebay's methods and systems for merchandising products in bundles in an online marketplace brings bundling to a whole new level. It is Ebays selling strategy to offer combined shipping discounts to drive additional purchases. They offer discount on multiple related items so that more sales are encouraged

2. Most eBay items are well below their whole sale price levels and their wholesale buying involves purchasing quantities that are far below what eBay can practically sell

3. Ebay encourages starting low bids so that buyers are actually encouraged to bid on the listed items

• http://www.ecommercebytes.com/C/abblog/blog.pl?/pl/2012/10/1351457801.html

• http://pages.ebay.com/sellerinformation/build-your-business-online/grow-your-sales/top-10-growth.html

• http://www.tinaja.com/glib/ebaysell.pdf• http://www.entrepreneurial-insights.com/ebay-

strategies-selling-products-online-ecommerce/

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FOR GOAL 3 (Build strong brand loyalty) – ebay.com



1. Different shipping programs like powership to build the customer loyalty. PowerShip is eBay India’s intermediated Shipping program which is intended to reduce the item transit times to buyers resulting in a delightful shopping experience on eBay. Provision of dedicated customer Service for PowerShip enabled customers

2. eBay continues to focus on its brand image, continuing to offer innovative features, and supplying quick and hassle-free delivery service with proprietary technology

• http://deals.ebay.in/powership/• http://businesstoday.intoday.in/story/logistical-

challenges-hit-growth-of-online-retailers-in-india/1/207073.html

• http://www.123helpme.com/ebay-inc-case-analysis-view.asp?id=164732

• http://www.ebayenterprise.com/clientsummit/session-descriptions/

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1. ebay’s Customer service has expanded into all channels and has evolved into a proactive engagement to create better brand experiences, deeper loyalty and drive more revenue

2. If there's a problem with a purchase, the eBay Money Back Guarantee ensures that buyers receive the item they ordered or get their money back

3. Buyers can opt in to the eBay hassle-free process regardless of whether they're using eBay, third party, or proprietary listing tool. eBay hassle-free returns gives buyers an efficient way to return an item for a refund or a replacement.

4. Invests in talented customer care agents and high volume facilities, uses integrated technologies and brand trained CSRs in their customer care centers. Ebay combines proprietary and leading third-party technologies to provide a robust and scalable customer service platform

• http://www.ebayenterprise.com/clientsummit/session-descriptions/


• http://pages.ebay.com/help/policies/money-back-guarantee.html

• http://pages.ebay.com/help/sell/return-process.html • http://pages.ebay.com/sellerinformation/news/

fallupdate2014/after-sale-experience-details.html

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1. Ebay’s mobile interface through iOS has a first mover advantage in terms of search features that makes it easier for consumers to quickly find what they are looking for. Moreover EBay’s iPad app includes a new feature called Night Mode, which switches the app to feature a subdued black theme that makes it easier for consumers to see content while in a dark environment.

2. Offering of software-plus-services shopping solution. The eBay Sidebar for Internet Explorer resides on the client and accesses services exposed by the eBay Web services. eBay Visual Search & eBay Search Accelerator enables a customer to instantly access eBay pricing and availability of a given product by selecting the product name.

3. With the eBay API, users communicate directly with the eBay database in XML format. The API provides a custom interface, functionality and specialized operations not otherwise afforded by the eBay interface.

• http://www.mobilecommercedaily.com/retailers-get-first-mover-advantage-with-ios-7-app-updates

• www.trimarcom.com/ref/Microsoft%20Case%20Studies/eBay.pdf

• https://go.developer.ebay.com/what-ebay-api

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1. The search experience in ebay is suitable for standardized products where all available product models (SKU’s) are displayed along with additional product details and expert reviews.

2. ebay's user interface specifies item’s condition accurately, such as New, Used or Refurbished. Stating the condition of seller’s items helps set buyer expectations and is required in most categories.

3. Buyers can also sort their searches using Item Specifics which is a powerful tool to help ensure seller’s items are seen by the potential buyers who are interested in those items.

• http://pages.ebay.in/help/pbe.html• http://www.pricedekho.com/store/ebay-reviews• http://sellercentre.ebay.in/Best%20Practices• http://pages.ebay.com/help/sell/product-details.html

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FOR GOAL 4 (Improve footfall) – ebay.com



1. As customer cannot touch the product, ebay provide a comprehensive listing of all products and information such as shipping, etc., through assured browser. Presentation of product is through website. So ebay concentrate more on design of HTML templates

2. Retailers benefit through the increased store footfall and additional sales opportunities that click-and-collect delivery options offers

3. Ebay was the first E-Commerce company that built gamification in its core DNA which makes the site more interactive. Faceted Navigation has become the de-facto standard way to support integration of browsing and search on information rich websites

• http://www.ebay.co.uk/gds/7-Ways-to-improve-you-eBay-Sales-and-Marketing-/10000000000114682/g.html

• http://ebayenterprise-blog.com/category/omnichannel-operations/

• http://www.yukaichou.com/gamification-examples/ebay-amazon-gamification/#.VQGl12SUc4Q

• http://searchuserinterfaces.com/book/sui_ch8_navigation_and_search.html

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Product Range 1. Availability of wide range of products at different rates from different vendors: Ebay lists down the products in the order of discounts and offers under the specified category mentioned by customer. Complementary products will also be displayed which attracts the customer

2. Offers up to 27,000 product categories with huge variety in each category

• http://pages.ebay.in/aboutebay/About_eBay.html• https://www.google.co.in/url?

sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=6&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CDUQFjAF&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.putraselaparang.weebly.com%2Fuploads%2F2%2F0%2F1%2F8%2F2018142%2Febay.doc&ei=DpUBVa_6Fsy-uASKgoHYAg&usg=AFQjCNFEsPdotVEltgfSd0JVGiCZPxN_4g&sig2=EZkQZXrxoCPpYe_2LUHHag-

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FOR GOAL 5 (Create lock-in or stickiness) – ebay.com


Product Range 1. eBay produces e-commerce brand loyalty among its online consumers by offering them a wide range of products which in turn results in lock-in. It has selection of the brand's high-end labels, vintage and couture, runway fashions and designer samples, "lightly used" merchandise, and last-season bargains

• http://www.minyanville.com/sectors/consumer/articles/amazon-amzn-ebay-walmart-retail-retail/4/5/2012/id/40257

• https://hbr.org/2000/07/e-loyalty-your-secret-weapon-on-the-web

• http://www.intelligentreach.com/online-marketplaces-and-the-opportunity-they-present-retailers/

• http://pages.ebay.in/community/aboutebay/news/pressreleases/corporate/simplest-way-to-buy-online.html

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1. Ebay offers bucks reward program, payback points, seasonal discounts and bundled schemes frequently to increase the stickiness. The payback loyalty program is offered by ebay India with collaboration with Payback. With this program, customers can redeem payback points to purchase items on the ebay website and get discounts on subsequent transactions

2. eBay’s Markdown Manager functionality allows items to be promoted with a discount on sale price for a limited period of time. This entices buyers to make purchases repeatedly from the website and hence increases the sales velocity

• http://deals.ebay.in/payback/• http://pages.ebay.com/rewards/faq.html• http://ssc.channeladvisor.com/howto/implementing-

markdown-manager-ebay-listings

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DATA SHEETS: Findings on Target.comby Vendor Goal and Consumer Preferences


FOR GOAL 1 (Build robust supply chain) – Target.com



1. Target distributes its merchandise through a network of distribution centres, as well as third parties and direct shipping from vendors. Target indigenously operates 26 Distribution Centres in 21 states and is going for further expansion. Further, it provides general merchandise through its Website, Target.com; and branded proprietary Target Debit Card

2. With close to 40 distribution centre across US, Target has ensured that it delivers products to its customers with efficient and strategic network across the country with minimum cost. Also with Walmart, Target is moving ahead with a new joint supply chain initiative

• http://pressroom.target.com/backgrounders/target-distribution-centers

• http://www.mwpvl.com/html/target.html • https://chemicalwatch.com/22739/walmart-and-target-

move-forward-joint-supply-chain-initiative https://sites.google.com/a/email.vccs.edu/target-corporation-international-business-portfolio/assignments/global-statistics http://news.alibaba.com/article/detail/trade-knowledge/100407064-1-an-inside-look-how-target.html

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1. In 2001, Target revamped its distribution systems by hiring outside consultants NTE to replace manual operations with electronic inventory and distribution systems. By doing so, the reduction in costs for supply-chain management has been substantial, allowing Target Corp to continue offering its product differentiation at affordable prices

2. Target is improving its vendor relations so that it may get the goods at a cheaper rate, Target is also going for tie ups so that better flow of material in supply chain can take place and provide products at best price to the customer. For instance in 2013, Target collaborated with Phillip Lim and Peter pilotto to get the better collection of apparels at cheaper rate so that they can forward the profit margin towards customer and make them products available at cheaper rate

• https://corporate.target.com/corporate-responsibility/responsible-sourcing/sustainability

• http://news.alibaba.com/article/detail/trade-knowledge/100407064-1-an-inside-look-how-target.html

• http://www.supplychainbrain.com/content/logisticstransportation/reverse-logistics/single-article-page/article/target-stores-relies-on-genco-to-manage-its-returns-program/

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FOR GOAL 2 (Diversify the product portfolio) – Target.com



1. The company site has convenient and interactive interface that helps to easily discover variety of products. Target.com is one of the first major retail websites to implement web accessibility, is now equally usable by blind and sighted users.

2. Various interactive features include - Home page has all the product listed according to the category wise, Special discount offers are on websites home page and the big deal is flashed on the centre of the page. Plus My cart option is available on the website to view the purchases made.

3. Easy to locate desired products with sufficient product information. Secure transaction helps in building trust between the customer and the company

• http://www.target.com/• http://www.target.com/#?lnk=icon_t_spc_1_0 • https://corporate.target.com/about/shopping-

experience

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Product Range 1. Extensive range of products available starting from clothing, shoes, home, furniture, electronics, movies, books, grocery , beauty and others. Unlike Amazon, which provides bottomless range of products, Target is looking to bolster a small no. of categories. Target also has many exclusive deals with various designers and it has also created its 'Go International line' which hires designers to bring out products which are available for few months

• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Target_Corporation#Product_lines_and_partnerships

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FOR GOAL 2 (Diversify the product portfolio) – Target.com


Product Range 2. Target offers limited amount of grocery mostly that are non perishable.

3. They also carry seasonal merchandise such as patio furniture during the summer and Christmas and Hanukkah decorations during November and December

• http://www.target.com/#?lnk=icon_t_spc_1_0 http://www.wsj.com/articles/target-narrows-the-bullseye-with-emphasis-on-signature-products-1410293111 http://www.123helpme.com/target-corporation--view.asp?id=167605

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1. Target.com offers various rewards and benefits such as 5% off today and everyday, black friday deals, free shipping, 30 extra days return, take charge of education and target pharmacy rewards. Additional benefits that they offer are debit cards and credit cards features and red card online management.

• http://www.target.com/c/all-the-deals/-/N-5tdty • http://www.allthingstarget.com/category/online-

deals/ • http://www.dailyfinance.com/2014/11/10/target-

early-access-black-friday-deals/ • http://www.techtimes.com/articles/

21108/20141128/black-friday-2014-ipad-air-2-deals-tablet-sold-out-online-in-best-buy-and-target-limited-availability-in-stores.htm

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http://www.123helpme.com/target-corporation--view.asp?id=167605

http://www.123helpme.com/target-corporation--view.asp?id=167605


FOR GOAL 3 (Build strong brand loyalty) – Target.com



1. The company has different shipping options like Standard Shipping, Premium Shipping and Express Shipping. It also has two seasonal shipping offers.

2. Red card users of target get much valued shopping benefits in form of free home delivery and 30 days extra to return their product.

3. Target offers free home delivery and return on purchase of above $25. Also offers store pick up facility also where you can order online and pickup from store. These offers are focused on increasing the brand image among its loyal customers and also helps to bring in new customers

• http://www.target.com/redcard/main#?lnk=gnav_redcard

• http://www.target.com/• http://www.forbes.com/sites/robertpassikoff/

2015/02/26/is-targets-free-shipping-game-a-real-game-changer/

• http://www.brandchannel.com/home/post/2013/04/16/Brand-Loyalty-Slip-041613.aspx

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1. With it's easy to track your product service and it's intelligent use of social media, Target is able to attract more customers to its online as well as big box stores

2. Target looks into after sales, it accepts the return of the product if it is a red card user or makes a purchase of over $25

3. According to customerserviceboard.com they are ranked 321 out of the 788 companies and rated as Disappointing

• http://help.target.com/help/#?lnk=fnav_t_spc_1_20 • http://www.imediaconnection.com/content/

35459.asp#multiview• http://www.target.com/redcard/main#?

lnk=gnav_redcard• http://www.target.com/• http://www.customerservicescoreboard.com/Target• http://blogs.marketwatch.com/behindthestorefront/

2014/04/02/target-data-breach-has-lingering-effect-on-customer-service-reputation-scores/

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FOR GOAL 3 (Build strong brand loyalty) – Target.com



1. In early 2013, Target was ranked fourth in Forrester’s Customer Experience Index for total Target experience, including stores and online, one of just 13 companies of 154 to receive an Excellent rating

2. Redesigned their ecommerce website in 2011, some of the advancements include personalization, fresh design, layout and easy navigation

3. Offers tablet app also for easy user interface

• http://pressroom.target.com/news/target-launches-redesigned-e-commerce-aug2011?ncid=25121

• http://www.startribune.com/business/27570799.html?page=1&c=y

• http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/online-stores-vs-retailers-target-gets-the-best-of-both-worlds---research-report-on-target-corporation-188193091.html

• https://www-secure.target.com/EverestLoginView

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1. Target's website provides the essential information necessary to all online shoppers. Detailed information regarding the product, views of the product used by the consumer and the rating of the product, are readily available.

2. In order to expand its operations as well as its target market coverage, Target Corp. linked with other IT powerful institutions like Amazon.com (The Write News, 2002) and American Online (AOL) (Mark, 2000).

• http://www.target.com/#?lnk=icon_t_spc_1_0 • http://www.target.com/p/vizio-55-class-1080p-

120hz-led-smart-tv-black-e550i-b2/-/A-14505360#prodSlot=medium_1_1#?selectedTab=item-guestreviews-link

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FOR GOAL 4 (Improve footfall) – Target.com



1. Redesigned version of Target's webpage has better site search and navigation, consumers will notice a faster checkout process on the new site and will be able to upload photos and videos to product reviews

2. Target has high number of efficient registers that allow for speedy checkout. No solicitation policy to provide distraction-free shopping. Mobile app notifies on the latest news, updates, deals, sales, coupons, and more

3. During high traffic shopping hours or festival periods, Target is providing their guests with last minute deals and free shipping and also enables to place online orders for store pick up as late as 5pm and have items ready that day

• http://www.retailsolutionsonline.com/doc/target-shoppers-convenience-great-deals-gifts-during-final-week-holiday-season-0001

• http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/223125• https://www.internetretailer.com/2011/08/23/target-

redesigns-its-e-commerce-site• http://www.digitalsignagetoday.com/articles/

interactive-digital-signage-at-target-helps-shop-for-videogames/

• http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/business/2014/06/05/target-digital-strategy-app-registry-business/9954623/

• http://www.target.com/c/accessibility-ways-to-shop/-/N-4ynq1#?lnk=fnav_t_spc_1_21

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Product Range 1. Target currently is the second largest general merchandise retailer in America

2. Extensive range of products available but still it lags behind Amazon, Walmart, Macy's etc

• http://www.statista.com/statistics/293268/mass-merchant-us-e-retailers-market-share/

• http://pressroom.target.com/corporate

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FOR GOAL 5 (Create lock-in or stickiness) – Target.com


Product Range 1. Key online shopping categories include gift ideas, home décor, toys and apparel, but guests can find a wide variety of trend-right everyday items but there are many key areas that target has not entered in with e-commerce like light weight spare parts and electrical spare parts. They can get into these variety of products.

2. There is no direct evidence that Target has been able to create lock-in effect through its product range. But the company has maintained a wide variety of diversified products which will help the cause.

• http://pressroom.target.com/news/up-and-up-release

• http://pressroom.target.com/news/fastfacts

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1. REDcard Rewards scheme is a hit among buyers, which allows them to save an extra 5 percent off nearly all purchases, provides free shipping at Target.com. This has added millions of new REDcard credit and debit accounts in the past year and strengthened the bond with guests, driving greater shopping frequency and increased sales.

2. In the competitive era of ecommerce 2015 Target has reduced its minimum order size for free shipping to half what it initially offered to create lock in. The minimum of 25$ for free shipping is set by target which is much less as compared to Amazon which has minimum order size for free shipping of goods worth 50$

3. Intitiated 'The golden egg hunt' offer in Australia to attract the customers

• http://fortune.com/2015/02/23/target-amazon-ecommerce/

• http://www.target.com/redcard/main#?lnk=gnav_redcard

• http://www.target.com/• http://www.forbes.com/sites/robertpassikoff/

2015/02/26/is-targets-free-shipping-game-a-real-game-changer/

• http://www.target.com.au/easter

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DATA SHEETS: Findings on Groupon.comby Vendor Goal and Consumer Preferences


FOR GOAL 1 (Build robust supply chain) – Groupon.com



1. Using mobile app ‘Scheduler’ and online booking tools, Groupon is arranging appointments between merchants and buyers of deals and coupons

2. Return Path, the world’s leading email certification and reputation monitoring company, announced that Groupon realized a 40% increase in delivery speed and increased email response rates with Return Path’s Certification resulting in immediate ROI.

3. Groupon is building warehouses for its own goods and delivering the goods in house: Groupon opened its first own logistics centre in Cincinnati, Ohio as a move from not only offering daily deals but also being a distributor in its own right.

• http://venturebeat.com/2013/08/27/groupons-latest-shot-at-relevancy-involves-buying-warehouses-for-groupon-goods/

• http://articles.latimes.com/2012/mar/20/business/la-fi-mo-groupon-20120319

• http://articles.latimes.com/2013/dec/11/news/la-sh-amazon-drones-groupon-catapults-20131211#axzz2nOhoPc7g

• http://web.a.ebscohost.com/ehost/detail/detail?sid=402b6a15-1205-4fe8-8d84-6a65000807fc%40sessionmgr4005&vid=0&hid=4201&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=bwh&AN=bizwire.c34945079

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1. Groupon is ramping up its efforts to encourage subscribers to search for deals and explore its marketplace (‘pull’ strategy) instead of relying on emails (‘push’ strategy). Moreover the company plans to bring shipping in house which will improve the company’s margins

2. Groupon India have been offering quite exciting deals and offers for online shopping, travel and restaurants deals in India. They also offer various promotional discount coupons and vouchers to their users which adds on to joy of their customers, as they get additional discounts on already discounted deals and offers.

• http://www.hbs.edu/faculty/Publication%20Files/11-063_42425cdb-81ee-4d66-9420-4ebdb809358f.pdf

• http://www.forbes.com/sites/greatspeculations/2014/09/30/will-groupons-stock-go-further-up-in-near-term/

• http://www.forbes.com/sites/trishgorman/2011/11/17/four-rules-to-avoid-being-burned-by-groupon/

• http://www.couponzguru.com/sosasta-groupon-coupons/

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FOR GOAL 2 (Diversify the product portfolio) – Groupon.com



1. Groupon unveiled a redesigned website in an attempt to transform itself from a company relying on daily-email marketing and into a marketplace of local and travel deals .The redesign includes several changes related to the site’s search functionality, including a more prominent search bar atop each page, and search results that are pulled from Groupon’s various categories — local deals, product portfolio and vacations

2. The company do have an interactive interface that helps easily discover variety of products and can be concluded from the fact in the study that the website provides the complete relevant information about all the products on the website to track the overall sale and liking of the product

• http://allthingsd.com/20131101/with-search-heavy-redesign-groupon-starts-acting-like-a-deals-marketplace/

• http://mashable.com/2013/11/01/groupon-redesign/• http://arxiv.org/PS_cache/arxiv/pdf/1109/1109.1530

v1.pdf

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Product Range 1. To diversify its product base, Groupon launched Groupon Goods in 2011 as a forum to sell discounted products. Groupon Goods had a diverse product mix. The offering was a quick success as Groupon sold $2 million worth of goods in its first week

2. Groupon does undertake lot of research and carefully examines the preference of the people catering to the local market. Based on the geography of its operations, Groupon cleverly decides on the deals with specific product for those shoppers in that local area

• http://web.a.ebscohost.com/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?vid=12&sid=621d9079-606b-4f56-b57a-efcf3d664249%40sessionmgr4001&hid=4201

• http://grouponclone.contus.com/blog/the-difference-between-groupon-and-other-sites/

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http://arxiv.org/PS_cache/arxiv/pdf/1109/1109.1530v1.pdf

http://arxiv.org/PS_cache/arxiv/pdf/1109/1109.1530v1.pdf


FOR GOAL 2 (Diversify the product portfolio) – Groupon.com


Product Range 2. Groupon offers a variety of products from travel to health which are divided into three categories i.e. local (partners with local and national merchants to offer deals on food and drinks, events and activities, beauty and spa, etc.), goods (where it includes different product lines), and travel (where it offers travel-based offers such as hotels, airline and package deals).

Groupon offers products & activities in different categories time to time based on geography

• http://www.groupon.co.in• http://www.trefis.com/stock/grpn/articles/276050/

heres-why-groupons-margins-are-so-low/2015-02-05

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1. The company provide 22% bundled deals in its diversified portfolio to attract the maximum possible number of customers in the market.

2. Started offering national brand promotion codes and coupons that do not require an upfront purchase

3. The business model is based on group discounts. It offers daily deals, featured deals, limited time offers etc. coupled with Groupon points on each purchase of goods, deal or services but on limited product range and also depends on sufficient no of buyers to be effective

• http://arxiv.org/PS_cache/arxiv/pdf/1109/1109.1530v1.pdf

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FOR GOAL 3 (Build strong brand loyalty) – Groupon.com



1. Collection of detailed information to offers more deals targeted to users based on their locations: Groupon is now maintaining a detailed database that not only allows to put offers in sync with the location but this indirectly helps them to offer products with respect to location in a better way. So will help delivery

• http://articles.latimes.com/2011/jul/12/business/la-fi-groupon-20110712

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1. It seems that the customers are not sattisfied with the qulaity of services and the products provided by the merchants who need to handle a surge of Groupon customers in a short period of time. Moreover company does not provide the reliable support service as per customers point of view

• http://blogs.anderson.ucla.edu/global-supply-chain/2012/10/how-groupon-can-avert-death-2.html

• http://www.consumeraffairs.com/online/groupon.html

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1. Reliable performance of its website and mobile applications and the underlying network infrastructure has been instrumental in acquiring, retaining and serving the subscribers and customers. As the subscriber base and the amount of information shared on its website and applications continue to grow, Groupon is looking to increase the amount of network capacity and computing power

2. The website is simple and user friendly: The customer is not bogged down by too many activities which increases engagement and loyalty. He is provided with just a few actions like receiving deals through mails, connecting via Facebook, viewing the latest deals, joining the friend referral scheme etc.

• http://news.rice.edu/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2012-07-05-DailyDeals.pdf

• http://www.vsplash.com/internet-marketing/lessons-learnt-from-groupon/

• http://www.google.co.in/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=4&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CC4QFjAD&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.marketingedge.org%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2FSummitProceedings%2F13-logan-bright-DMEF-abstract-082912.doc&ei=q3YCVea6MIWjugTv-4H4CQ&usg=AFQjCNGsECg53VFAT3wF9WrXECzkVJ8dUw&bvm=bv.88198703,d.c2E

• http://investor.groupon.com/secfiling.cfm?filingid=1445305-12-922&cik=

• http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1490281/000144530512000922/groupon10-k.htm

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1. Groupon’s provides lots of information about the products on its auction page and also highlights each featured auction to show its specific advantages. Further, it provides links of the featured companies (if any) and maps their exact locations. By providing a special link called “Join the Discussion”, Groupon encourages the subscribers to share their opinions and comments about the products.


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2. It has adopted an online booking tool for businesses helping both consumers and business suppliers manage appointments and scheduling.

3. Company is cretaing the strong Brand value by providind the detailed product descriptions ranging from the characterstics,specification and comparision of the product

• http://articles.latimes.com/2012/mar/20/business/la-fi-mo-groupon-20120319

• http://shopping.groupon.co.in/

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FOR GOAL 4 (Improve footfall) – Groupon.com



1. Groupon has redesigned its website and mobile app in 2013 to project itself not only as a daily-email marketing company but into a marketplace of local and travel deals that shoppers visit just as regularly as other e-commerce marketplaces.

2. First quarter of 2014 witnessed 80 million downloads of its mobile app.

3. Groupon has introduced widget-based e-mail system called Mindstorm, that makes what customers see in their e-mails more relevant and personalized. It has also introduced ‘Deal Builder’ tool where small businesses can develop their own deals with final approval from Groupon.

4. On its website and app there is a ‘Local deals’ explorer tool and customised homepage option. This has made the website and app more interactive and reliable but Groupon still requires an email to sign up

5. Groupon uses its homepage as an information platform and distribution channel. Instead of just informing people about the deal of the day, the homepage gives visitors the chance to see and purchase deals from all participating cities, just by selecting the respective city.

6. Employs mobility as a platform for its key products. Groupon has several partnerships with a vast number of online shops, news services or auction houses. These partnerships enable them to display and promote their deals, i.e. embedding Groupon’s widget into the partner´s homepage. People can then click on the icon and become directly transferred to the official Groupon website where they can purchase the deal.

• http://techcrunch.com/2013/11/01/groupon-mobile-web-redesign/

• http://www.statista.com/statistics/322286/groupon-mobile-app-downloads/

• http://techcrunch.com/2014/11/17/groupon-acquires-swarm-mobile/

• http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive&sid=aN4N3sz_BsCc

• http://allthingsd.com/20131101/with-search-heavy-redesign-groupon-starts-acting-like-a-deals-marketplace/

• http://recode.net/2014/02/10/now-you-can-launch-a-groupon-deal-without-ever-talking-to-a-human/

• http://recode.net/2014/02/20/why-groupons-gmail-problem-may-be-a-good-thing/

• http://recode.net/2014/02/20/groupon-crushes-q4-estimates-but-mixed-forecast-drags-down-stock/

• http://seekingalpha.com/article/2293355-4-solid-reasons-why-groupon-is-set-for-a-turnaround?page=2

• http://www.theseus.fi/bitstream/handle/10024/56671/dang_linh.pdf?sequence=2

• http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/news/11042884/Groupon-morphs-into-online-marketplace-to-compete-with-eBay.html

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FOR GOAL 4 (Improve footfall) – Groupon.com


Product Range 1. Segmenting the market geographically, lifestyle wise, age, gender etc. and using appropriate product mix and product lines through mails and now mobile platform to increase the footfall

2. Company is making the constant efforts in offering the wide variety of products which is leading to the increase in footfall: There are a number of products offered such as Groupon Locals, Groupon Getaways, Groupon Goods, Groupon Gifts, and Groupon Grassroot.

3. Groupon offer deals in different branches such as Health and Wellness, Food and Beverage, Leisure, Events, Retail and others Deal Channels. Local Deals is the basic service that Groupon offer to its customers. Although having started with offering local deals limited to specified cities, Groupon have expanded their business by “National Deals”. This initiative was taken to meet the needs of consumers from one city who were also interested in deals of other cities

• http://marketingland.com/best-practice-pros-groupon-manages-email-programs-108798

• http://www.theseus.fi/bitstream/handle/10024/56671/dang_linh.pdf?sequence=2

• http://www.groupon.co.in/deals/shopping/Oriflame-Beauty-Products/194421

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FOR GOAL 5 (Create lock-in or stickiness) – Groupon.com


Product Range 1. Groupon’s ability to coordinate effectively covering a wide range of geographically localized goods and services across a wide spectrum of industries has resulted in creating a niche for Groupon and clearly sets it apart from the ever increasing competitors.

2. Groupon gives discounts on referrals and designs product mix and product lines based on market segmentation


• http://www.hbs.edu/faculty/Publication%20Files/11-063_42425cdb-81ee-4d66-9420-4ebdb809358f.pdf


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1. Groupon offers VIP membership which includes: a) Early access to deals: can see (and buy) deals 12 hours before others. b) Access to a “Deal Vault”: VIP members will be able to buy certain deals even after they’re sold out, and after the normal purchase-by date has expired. c) Easy refunds: VIP members can trade in unused daily deals for Groupon Bucks (credits for other deals) at any time, even after the deal’s use-by date has expired.

2. Groupon has launched ‘Groupon rewards – a loyalty program for merchants that enables them enables them to offer customers special Rewards for repeat business

3. Uses table-finding technology from Savored.com, gives patrons a bargain on their bill without requiring them to print out vouchers or pay for their food in advance. This enables Groupon to achieve footfall in low seasons and non peak hours too. They plan to extend this reserved booking in beauty travel and entertainment industry too.

• http://business.time.com/2012/02/20/groupon-is-selling-vip-memberships-for-29-99/

• http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20120510005377/en/Groupon-Rewards-Launches-Nationwide-Driving-Repeat-Business#.VQIcYuG_zwk

• http://articles.latimes.com/2013/aug/20/business/la-fi-groupon-ad-program-20130820

• http://articles.latimes.com/2013/jul/01/business/la-fi-mo-opentable-groupon-reserve-20130701

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Thank you

competetive landscape for e-commerce

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