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Laura Stirling Joffrion
                        Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising: Professional Portfolio




Friday, January 4, 13
January 4, 2013
                        Letter of Introduction
    Hello,

    I graduated with honors from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising with my second degree in Merchandising.  Currently, I am working as a digital content
    contractor for JackThreads, the E-Commerce men's wear affiliate of Thrillist Media Group. Within this position, I am responsible for:

                 -Assisting the merchandising department with sourcing and trend forecasting research

                 -Supporting the buying team with product copy creation and imagery uploads to the CMS

                 -Production of online catalogs of products and social media monitoring

                 -Vetting expired online events and closely monitor current events to ensure they are optimized correctly for homepage placement

    I thrive in creative teams and fast-paced environments where I learn by doing and building. In my most recent full-time role I worked as the E-Commerce Assistant
    Merchant for an independent accessories label while receiving my degree. During this time, I:

                 -Developed and maintained copy and data templates for all products through Magento Enterprise

                 -Sourced, merchandised, and manages $175,000 in third party merchandise

                 -Developed excel tools to track inventory levels and guide buying strategy

                 -Allocated and oversaw distribution for over 1,500 sku’s across three stores and the online channel

                 -Sourced new vendors, negotiated purchase prices, and determined in-store price strategy to maximize gross margin and sell through

    I am now seeking full-time entry-mid level buying positions to gain more experience in my merchandising career. I thrive in creative teams and fast-paced environments
    where I learn by doing and building. My goal is to find a company where I can make an impact and grow my career. My strengths are dedication, loyalty, and the drive to
    succeed. I am a leader who achieves goals by building long-term, trusting relationships with my co-workers. 

    I would certainly like to hear more about the company you are representing and the position. Please find my resume pasted below for your reference. I am very
    interested in hearing more about the open position and hope to schedule some time to chat.

    Best,

    Laura Stirling Joffrion


Friday, January 4, 13
Laura Stirling Joffrion
                                                    An independent, detail-oriented worker specializing in digital merchandising and marketing
                                                    strategies with the drive to win results through creating a cohesive online brand presence.

    THRILLIST, DIGITAL MERCHANDISING CONTRACTOR	

                              	

    	

    Managed the online channel through daily website maintenance, developing merchandising strategies, tracking product sales, and analytics reporting
    • Sourced, merchandised, and inventory management of $175,000 in third party merchandise
    • Developed excel tools to track inventory levels and guide buying strategy
    • Allocated and oversaw distribution for over 1,500 sku’s across three stores and the online channel
    • Sourced new vendors, negotiated purchase prices, and determined in-store price strategy to maximize gross margin and sell through
    • Developed and maintained copy and data templates for all products on the online platform with timely updates of inventory and images
    • Prepared weekly and monthly financial and merchandising analysis reports to make appropriate pricing recommendations
    • Preformed weekly analysis of sales performances and inventory levels and managed replenishment based on sales and forecasting

    HLASKA, E-COMMERCE ASSISTANT MERCHANT
    Managed the online channel through daily website maintenance, developing merchandising strategies, tracking product sales, and analytics reporting
    • Sourced, merchandised, and inventory management of $175,000 in third party merchandise
    • Developed excel tools to track inventory levels and guide buying strategy
    • Allocated and oversaw distribution for over 1,500 sku’s across three stores and the online channel
    • Sourced new vendors, negotiated purchase prices, and determined in-store price strategy to maximize gross margin and sell through
    • Developed and maintained copy and data templates for all products on the online platform with timely updates of inventory and images
    • Prepared weekly and monthly financial and merchandising analysis reports to make appropriate pricing recommendations
    • Preformed weekly analysis of sales performances and inventory levels and managed replenishment based on sales and forecasting

     FREELANCE, DIGITAL MARKETING SPECIALIST
     Crafted messaging plan strategy, managed product review campaigns, and provided new media and eCommerce strategy and council for an array of businesses in
     Silicon Valley
     • Developed and delivered online/digital marketing strategy in a dynamic, fast-paced environment
     • Web analytics knowledge and experience in pulling reporting, measuring campaign performance and analyzing metrics to support overall social & mobile strategy
     • Fostered strong relationships with media outlets, influential blogs and trade publications, securing client placement in outlets such as The New York Times,
       Forbes, PC Magazine, Mashable, and TIME

                  SKILLS                                                 SOFTWARE                                   EDUCATION

                  •   eCommunications                                    •   JDA Allocation Software                Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising --
                  •   Merchandising Strategies	

                        •   Microsoft Office                        Associate of Science Degree, 2012
                  •   Store Management                                   •   iWork Suite                            • GPA: 3.8, Honor Roll
                  •   Territory Planning	

                              •   Wikipedia Editorial                    • Phi Theta Kappa
                  •   Training & Development	

                          •   Magento Enterprise                     • Premiere Marketing Group
                  •   Social Media Relations	

                          •   Word Press
                  •   New Media Marketing	

                             •   Cision & Vocus                         Louisiana State University -- Bachelor of Science, 2003
Friday, January 4, 13
Merchandise Marketing
                             Strategies

 • Merchandise Strategies
 • Math/ Buying
 • Marketing and Brand Strategies
 • Business & Management
                                        View of downtown San Francisco from FIDM Campus




Friday, January 4, 13
Merchandise Strategies

         • These courses and projects provided an
                 opportunity to understand the trends that predict
                 consumer buying patterns and how a variety of
                 strategic decisions separate your organization from
                 the competition.




Friday, January 4, 13
Merchandise Strategies
                   •     The first three slides in this section deconstruct
                         Marc Jacob’s core concepts in his recent
                         collections. These slides are only a part of the
                         presentation prepared for this exercise. They show
                         the original source referenced in the collection
                         along with a comparison to other designers who
                         used similar sources.

                   •     The second set of slides focus on the concepts of
                         using color trends as a marketing tool. In this
                         presentation, I chose a color trend and then
                         presented how this color theme is being used in
                         interior decorating, beauty, and automobiles.

Friday, January 4, 13
Retro Play: 1950’s Throwback
              •         Art Deco Inspirations

              •         Inspired by the 2011 Canne Film Festival award-winning movie
                        “The Artist”




Friday, January 4, 13
Retro Play: Cloche Hat




     Marc Jacobs        Ralph Lauren   Alberta Ferretti




Friday, January 4, 13
Retro Play: Drop-waist Shape




    Marc Jacobs         Chloe   Gucci




Friday, January 4, 13
2012 Color Palettes
                •       Bellflower: a distint ornament purple, exudes
                        uniqueness and creativity.

                •       Sodalite Blue: classic maritime hue, brings
                        order and calmness to mind. This dependable color
                        works with every color in the palette.

                •       Diftwood: blend of beige and gray with a slightly
                        weathered feel grounds the palette and offers
                        depth.

                •       Sweet Lilac: this delicate pinkish lilac adds a
                        touch of romance to the palette while evoking
                        fresh scents of summer.

                •       Tangerine Tango: enticing orange, is a
                        vivacious and appealing refresher that lightens
                        things up this spring.

                •       Cabaret: sensual and intense rosy-red which
                        adds a sense of sensuality to the 2012 color
                        palette.

                •       Cockatoo: tactile blue-green that adds a
                        whimiscal touch to the palette and makes a
                        statement this spring                                 Zeigeist: Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color
                                                                            Institute, “Consumers look to spring for renewed energy, optimism and
                •       Starfish: warm summer neutral is a
                        complimentary color to the palette.
                                                                                                the promise of a brighter day”.


                •       Margarita: this yellow-green lifts spirits with a
                        refreshing glow.

Friday, January 4, 13
2012 Interior Color Trends
                •       1. Cabaret, Cockatoo, and
                        Solidate Blue - silk and linen
                        blend

                •       2. Margarita, Solar Power, and
                        Cockatoo
                                                           1.   3.   5.
                •       3. Solar Power/ Starfish blend,
                        Cockatoo, Sodalite Blue;
                        contrast to Cockatoo,
                        Bellflower, Diftwood; contrast to
                        Bellflower, Solar Power, and
                        Diftwood

                •       4. Bellflower and Sodalite Blue,
                        blend with the tiniest hues of
                        Starfish                            2.   4.   6.
                •       5. Cabaret, Tangerine Tango,
                        Sweet Lilac

                •       6. Front - Soladite Blue blends
                        with Cockatoo; Back - Margarita


Friday, January 4, 13
2012 Cosmetic Color Trends
                        •   Eyes: Peachy tones make a huge statement
                            this year with combinations of Tangerine
                            Tango, Cabaret, Sweet Lilac even blending
                            with Solar Power.




                        •   Lips: A lot of focus in lip color this season
                            allowing pops of color. Classic Cabaret mixed
                            with Tangerine Tango, and Sweet Lilac are
                            embrassed as are Experimental colors such as
                            Bellflower, Cockatoo, and Margarita.




                        •   Scents: Fragrance designers played with
                            color dimensions and contrast this season.
                            Using Sweet Lilac and Cabaret as the base
                            tones, they expanded on them with Solar
                            Power and Tangerine Tango to create a
                            powerful experience. Cockatoo and
                            Bellflower also make an appearance.



Friday, January 4, 13
2012 Auto Color Trends

                •       Toyota: Tangerine Tango

                •       Ford: Solar Power

                •       Subaru: Blended Tangerine Tango with Solar
                        Power

                •       Renault: Solar Power with Margarita

                •       Bentley: Classic White




Friday, January 4, 13
Math and Merchandise
                               Buying


         • Buying strategies is an analyzation of a retail
                 business through merchandise planning, purchasing,
                 and allocation. This technical skill set is essential in
                 the success in today’s fashion marketplace.




Friday, January 4, 13
Math and Merchandise
                               Buying
           •       The first slide in this section is a department analysis for Macy’s
                   private label, Studio M. Through this project, I successfully broke
                   down this department by class, then analyzed each class by price
                   point percent to total department, by color percent to total
                   department, and size percent to total department. This analysis
                   reflected the department framework and helped deduct changes I
                   would make in order to yield a greater margin.

           •       The second slide for this section is a six-month stock to sales plan.
                   I developed a detailed sales plan using beginning of month, units to
                   buy, and purchases for Studio M based on the mock history given.



Friday, January 4, 13
Math and Merchandise
                               Buying
                           Class 1
                           Tops 30%      Price Points   39.98    58.00    88.00



 Macy’s: Studio M
                                         % of Total      40%      50%      10%
                                         Sizes            XS        S         M         L        XL
                                         % of Total      10%      20%      30%       30%        10%
                                         Color Ways     Black    Gold     Plum      Green    Mustard



  Department
                                         % of Total      40%      15%      20%       15%        10%


                           Class 2



    Analysis               Pants 30%     Price Points
                                         % of Total
                                         Sizes
                                                        39.98
                                                         35%
                                                           0
                                                                 78.00
                                                                  45%
                                                                    2
                                                                          88.00
                                                                           20%
                                                                              4         6         8        10
                                         % of Total       5%      10%      10%       20%        20%      20%
                                         Color Ways     Black   Brown      Plaid   Tweed       Navy    Camel
                                         % of Total      30%      20%      15%       10%        15%    10.00%


                           Class 3
                           Dresses 25%   Price Points   88.00    98.00   118.00
                                         % of Total      25%      30%      45%
                                         Sizes            XS        S         M         L        XL
                                         % of Total      10%      20%      30%       30%        10%
                                         Color Ways     Black    Gold    Maroon     Camel
                                         % of Total      40%      20%      15%       25%


                           Class 4
                           Jackets 15%   Price Points   98.00   138.00   158.00
                                         % of Total      40%      30%      35%
                                         Sizes            XS        S         M         L        XL
                                         % of Total      10%      20%      30%       30%        10%
                                         Color Ways     Black   Brown      Plaid   Leather       Fur
                                         % of Total      25%      20%      15%       15%        15%



Friday, January 4, 13
Math and Merchandise
                                                  Buying
 Macy’s: Studio M Six-Month Assortment Plan
   This Year - 6
   Month Plan
   Plan            AUG            SEPT            OCT           NOV            DEC            JAN           Total
   BOM                    575.3          1229.7         857.6          820.4         1025.5         565.5           5074.0
   Sales                  159.8           614.9         372.9          341.8          512.8         217.5           2219.7
   Markdowns               68.8           100.3         121.7           89.9          129.9          68.8            579.4
   Purchases              883.0           343.0         457.3          636.8          182.6         979.3           3482.0


   EOM                   1229.7           857.6         820.4         1025.5          565.5         572.1           5070.8


                                                                                                                             This Year                                Class %:               25.00% Avg. Retail:                          $101.34
   This Year
                   Class: Tops                    Class %:            30.00% Avg. Retail:                           $61.99               Class: Dresses
   Plan            AUG            SEPT            OCT           NOV            DEC            JAN           Total            Plan        AUG           SEPT           OCT              NOV            DEC           JAN           Total

   BOM                    172.6           368.9         257.3          246.1          307.7         169.7           1522.2   BOM               143.8          307.4         214.4             205.1         256.4         141.4            1268.5

   Sales                   47.9           184.5         111.9          102.5          153.8          65.3            665.9   Sales              40.0          153.7          93.2              85.5         128.2          54.4             554.9

   Markdowns               20.6            30.1          36.5           27.0           39.0          20.6            173.8   Markdowns          17.2           25.1          30.4              22.5          32.5          17.2             144.9

   Purchases              264.9           102.9         137.2          191.0           54.8         293.8           1044.6   Purchases         220.8           85.8         114.3             159.2          45.7         244.8             870.5

   UNITS TO               4273            1660           2213           3082           884          4739            16851    UNITS TO          2178            846           1128              1571          450          2416              8590
   BUY                                                                                                                       BUY

   EOM                    368.9           257.3         246.1          307.7          169.7         171.6           1521.2   EOM               307.4          214.4         205.1             256.4         141.4         143.0            1267.7


   This Year                                      Class %:            30.00% Avg. Retail:                           $68.66   This Year                                Class %:               15.00% Avg. Retail:                          $131.34
                   Class: Pants                                                                                                          Class: Jackets
   Plan            AUG            SEPT            OCT           NOV            DEC            JAN           Total            Plan        AUG           SEPT           OCT              NOV            DEC           JAN           Total
   BOM                    172.6           368.9         257.3          246.1          307.7         169.7           1522.2   BOM                86.3          184.5         128.6             123.1         153.8          84.8             761.1
   Sales                   47.9           184.5         111.9          102.5          153.8          65.3            665.9   Sales              24.0           92.2          55.9              51.3          76.9          32.6             333.0
   Markdowns               20.6            30.1          36.5           27.0           39.0          20.6            173.8   Markdowns          10.3           15.0          18.3              13.5          19.5          10.3              86.9
   Purchases              264.9           102.9         137.2          191.0           54.8         293.8           1044.6   Purchases         132.5           51.5          68.6              95.5          27.4         146.9             522.3
   UNITS TO               3858            1499           1998           2782           798          4279            15214    UNITS TO          1008            392               522            727          209          1118              3977
   BUY                                                                                                                       BUY
   EOM                    368.9           257.3         246.1          307.7          169.7         171.6           1521.2   EOM               184.5          128.6         123.1             153.8          84.8          85.8             760.6




Friday, January 4, 13
Marketing and Brand
                            Strategies

         • The target market for a given retail/ business
                 environment is researched and the appropriate
                 marketing and branding strategies are developed to
                 ensure success in a competitive marketplace.




Friday, January 4, 13
Marketing and Brand
                            Strategies
         •       The first couple of slides presented in this last section of my
                 portfolio feature a selection from my complete marketing
                 analysis of Mini Cooper. The presentation in whole features an
                 analytical depiction of the business as well as recommendations
                 on how Mini Cooper could improve their brand image, product
                 sales performance, and marketing and communications
                 programs.

         •       The second part of this section include a few selected slides
                 from an investigative report I conducted of Goorin Bros, a hat
                 company based in San Francisco. This project took a deep look
                 into the company’s overall retail environment and made high-
                 level recommendations on how it could more effectively
                 position itself at market.
Friday, January 4, 13
Marketing and Brand
                                                                Strategies
   BRAND MANAGEMENT STRATEGY: AUGUST 8, 2011




                                                          MINI. REVIEW.
                                                                                                                                                                                               MINI. OBJECTIVES.                     microcars on the market. The first




                                                                                                                                                   BRAND MANAGEMENT STRATEGY: AUGUST 8, 2011
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     Classic Mini made its debut on
                                                                                                                                                                                               Not very many can express brand August 26, 1959. The Classic Mini             TEST YOUR
                                                                                                                                                                                               objective like a board member.        was the first mass-produced              HANDLING
                                                                                                                                                                                               Dr. Burkhard Göschel, Member of
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     automobile with a transversally         SKILLS.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     placed engine. It fit four adults,
                                                                                                                                                                                               the Board of Management of BMW w a s g a s - f r u g a l , h a d g r e a t
                                                                                                                                                                                               AG, “The MINI COOPER is               handling, and was priced under
                                                                                                                                                                                               continuing the heritage of its        800. The placement of the engine
                                                                                                                                                                                               successful predecessor on an          created a commodious passenger
                                                          “The MINI COOPER is continuing the heritage of                                                                                       entirely different, brand-new         area and allowed the
                                                                                                                                                                                               technical foundation. The new         proportionately large wheelbase.
                                                          its successful predecessor on an entirely                                                                                            generation blends the emotion and
                                                          different, brand-new technical foundation.”                                                                                          heritage of the brand with modern
                                                                                                                                                                                               quality, safety, and reliability. You Thus, the Classic Mini became the
                                                                                                                                                                                               might well say that we have           first sedan to truly handle like a
                                                          Dr. Burkhard Göschel,
                                                                                                                                                                                               developed the MINI COOPER the         sports car.
                                                          Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG
                                                                                                                                                                                               way we believe it would have          	        	                	
                                                           MINI. DEFINED.                             MINI. GENEALOGY.                                                                         evolved had its predecessor           	          Over the years, the
                                                                                                                                                                                               remained in the process of            brand has found a special place in
                                                           The MINI brand has been called                  The Mini brand originally belonged to                                               ongoing, continuous development hearts throughout the world. From
                                                           many things including fun, affordable,          British Motor Corporation, which in                                                 every 10 years.”                      Queen Elizabeth to suburbanite
                                                           fuel-efficient, sporty, technologically          1966 became part of British Motor                                                                                           Joe Smith. As we have loved it,
                                                           advanced.                                       Holdings. British Motor Holdings                                                    Dr. Göschel continues, “This new        the organization has grown and
                                                                                                           merged with Leyland Motors in 1968                                                  car carries the MINI brand into the     morphed. Now, they use Classic
                                                            With a wide bulldog stance, rigid to form British Leyland. In the 1980s                                                            21st century: It is a brand             Mini when referring specifically to
                                                           body structure, multi-link rear British Leyland was broken-up and in                                                                developed to a higher standard          the older, classic version of the
                                                           suspension and ABS brakes with                                                                                                      than ever before, borne out by          car, and MINI when referring to the
                                                           C o r n e r i n g B r a k e C o n t r o l a n d 1988 Rover Group, including Mini,                                                   intelligently built and reliable cars   new models or MINI as the brand.
                                                           Electronic Brakeforce Distribution was acquired by British Aerospace. In                                                            tailored to the individual, personal    (4)
                                                           MINI is built to deliver a world-class 1994 Rover Group was acquired by                                                             taste of the purchaser.” (3)
                                                           performance in signature MINI style BMW. In 2000 Rover Group was
                                                           at an affordable cost.                          broken-up by BMW, with BMW
                                                           MSRP: $20,100 (1)                               retaining the Mini brand. (2)                                                       MINI. ELEMENTS.



                                                                                                                                                                                                  BE MINI.

                                                                                                                                                                                               MINI. HISTORY.

                                                                                                                                                                                               The MINI has a long story behind
                                                                                                                                                                                               its very distinctive brand. In 1956,
                                                                                                                                                                                               during intense fuel shortages there
                                                                                                                                                                                               was a pressing need to design a          MINI. WEBSITES:
                                                                                                                                                                                               fuel-efficient car. Lord Nuffield of
                                                                                                                                                                                               British Motor Corporation (BMC)          http://mini.com
                                                                                                                                                                                               charged his chief designer, Sir          http://www.miniusa.com/
                                                                                                                                                                                               Alec Issigonis to create an “orderly
                                                                                                                                                                                               saloon,” that could still compete
                                               MOTORING                                                                                                                                        with the onslaught of fuel-efficient

                                               4.0                                                                                                                                                  Logo (Above). Motto (Below).



Friday, January 4, 13
Marketing and Brand
                            Strategies
             Mini Cooper: Consumer Brand Mental Map




Friday, January 4, 13
Marketing and Brand
                            Strategies
        Goorin Brothers: Case Study




Friday, January 4, 13
Marketing and Brand
                            Strategies
       Goorin Brothers: Case Study




Friday, January 4, 13
Business & Management
         • The business administration courses at FIDM are
                 designed to prepare students for the
                 responsibilities, skills and challenges required of
                 today’s leaders.
         • Emphasis is placed on how to be proactive to
                 changes in the marketplace, develop and implement
                 strategies to accomplish goals and exceed
                 expectations in a team environment.


Friday, January 4, 13
Business & Management
                        •   The first couple slides in this section focus on a case
                            study of the GAP, Inc. This study helped to identify
                            significant holes in who the GAP associates as their
                            target customer versus who shops in the store. Through
                            this study I also identified several strategies the company
                            could utilize to gain a greater portion of the consumer
                            wallet share.

                        •   The second set of slides are another case study around
                            Starbucks. Through this project, I analyzed the consumer
                            experience in Starbucks, Pete’s, and Philz. Then, coming
                            up with several strategies to help Starbucks go back to
                            its roots of the ‘coffee shop’.


Friday, January 4, 13
Business & Management                                                             Gap, Inc.: Case Study
      	

   Gap, Inc. has been a resilient player in the retail space since the Woodstock era. This iconic brand was built in 1969, and has built a strong place for themselves in casual apparel for men, women, and children
      over the past few decades. Not everyone knows that all of the apparel built for this brand and its sister chains are all private-labeling merchandise made exclusively for the company. From the apparel to the store
      design, Gap controls all aspects of its trademark. However, it hasn't been all roses for this American-made giant. Gap, Inc. has a history of steep and rocky lows.

      	

    After five consecutive years of declining sales, Gap was struggling to stay afloat. In 2007, they decided to make a huge change in leadership and appointed Glenn Murphy of Shoppers Drug Mart to Chief
      Executive Officer of the company. Since then, Gap has drastically cut back its store count in the United States and has instead built out the brand in Europe (180 stores) and Asia (145 stores). Gap sales fell to
      $14.2 billion in 2009 after a flourishing profits of $14.5 billion in 2008. That said, the profitability has improved with the net income up to 14% in 2009. Still, profits continue to decline. Thus far in 2011, Gap has
      reported a 9.26% in net income profit. Also, with competitors like J.Crew and American Eagle creating more diverse lines of clothing with steeper margins and growing consumer support, Gap must continue to
      solidify its core customer and come up with new and innovative ways to strengthen this customer relationship bond.

      	

   Gap's target customer is a member of the young digerati. They are usually less than 50 years of age and have small families. They appreciate good style so they would expect their shopping experience with
      Gap to offer them cutting edge styles. They are also quite tech-savvy with a deep appreciation for culture, music, and living an active lifestyle. Gap has their target customer spot on, however, they are lacking a
      stimulating shopping experience. This family wants to be treated with special care. Therefore, Gap would greatly benefit from developing a strong customer relationship management program and training
      associates on customer service.

      	

  Because of the years of experience customers have with this brand, the program would need to a very personalized experience for the customer to buy into it. A large portion of this program should be
      around the shopping experience such as cultivating the sale through the fitting room. Making these customers feel special and dedicated means giving individual care at this point in the shopping experience. Gap
      would also want to implement a client follow-back program. Having sales people follow up with customers they serviced the week prior who spent $500 or more in the store. This would help develop a strong
      bond with the brand and would also help the sales people feel more connected to their individual customers.

      	

  In addition, customer service training programs should be an on-going program throughout all the Gap stores. This customer appreciates good service that is consistent and genuine. Therefore, a
      personalized customer service approach would be best. Having customer service response training would empower the sales associates to approach the customers in their own individual ways while
      communicating the corporate expectation.

      	

   Another way to appeal to this demographic is through their sense of community and social awareness. Therefore, creating a sustainable shopping bag similar to the Bloomingdales small, medium, and large
      bags would be a small way to show this demographic that the Gap has them in mind. Even creating a marketing campaign around this bag would raise awareness and solidify the Gap as a socially conscious brand.

      	

   The merchandise strategy of the Gap should also be addressed to increase the brand loyalty. There is a stronger influence in the product mix for women's pants than tops. Seeing as women typically
      purchase twice as many tops as they do bottoms this is a problem from the start. In addition, across the board, seasonal merchandise is quite low already. We already half way through the first fall season and
      only 10% of the mix is sweaters. I also went to J.Crew and American Eagle stores to compare their inventory.

      As you can see, both companies greatly expand their tops vs bottoms. They also have a huge amount of sweaters and outerwear in comparison to the Gap. Being in the stores, there is a stark difference in
      presentation as well. Inside J.Crew and American Eagle, items are outfitted together. They are also placed out in limited size runs, which safeguards the customers from being overwhelmed by a ton of product. I
      recommend that the Gap start merchandising in limited size runs – maximum two runs of each size in the racks – and have the sales staff restocking more often through out the day. This will help make things
      look more exclusive to the customer while creating an air of urgency on the sales floor. In turn, giving the sales staff more opportunity to engage with the customers shopping in the store.
      To wrap things up, creating this customer relationship program while offering customer service training will help deepen the consumer experience. Creating the Gap sustainable shopping bag will help solidify the
      Gap as an environmentally friendly organization. On the merchandise front, creating a better balance between the tops and bottoms throughout all lines is essential. It is also important to plan better with
      seasonal merchandise. Another idea would be to go back to the basics of denim by possibly offering a custom fit denim line. The Gap was once a power house in the denim industry and has sense fallen off. With
      denim really powering back, it would be great to see the Gap reinvigorate this section of its business.

      	

    All in all, the Gap has a lot of potential. However, they do need better management on the store level. The corporate side of the Gap seems to have been rocky and, therefore, it is so important to have
      solid store management executing the right moves on a daily basis to keep the customer interaction consistent. My hope is to one day walk into the Gap and feel a sense of pride that this phoenix has once again
      risen from the ashes.


Friday, January 4, 13
Business & Management




Friday, January 4, 13
Business & Management
                                                                                   Case Study: Starbucks

      Over the last ten years Starbucks has become a household name. The company has had steady growth of over 25% in this time, with its total revenue for 2010 hitting over ten
      million dollars. Today, the company has over 17,000 stores across the world with 137,00 employees who are all closely trained to give the customer a unified experience every
      time they walk through the door. The Starbucks experience has changed the way consumers interact with coffee. From the size of your beverage to the manner in which
      customers order, Starbucks has created its own unique atmosphere within its walls. On the surface, this growth and success may seem positive. However, it has also left
      customers feeling a loss of a unique, engaging, intimacy they once felt with their local coffee shop. This lack of community and individuality is a serious break from the value once
      held by the company, which offers room for growth and opportunity. In addition, the target customer has broadened in this timeframe as well. What started out as a small
      Seattle-based company focusing its sales on coffee lovers, has morphed into a mass-marketed giant that has lost its local flavor. While this business model is profitable, it does not
      match the company ideals of individuality and community. Instead, many view these stores as being cookie-cutter and corporate.

      	

   In 2008, Howard Schultz, the president and CEO of Starbucks, attempted to fix these issues by closing 7,000 stores. In an interview with NPR Schultz said, "The
      unprecedented decision to literally close stores ― which cost us millions of dollars ― was done to ensure the fact that I demonstrated how serious and committed I was to
      making sure we go back to the core” (NPR.org). Starbucks remains the exclusive owner and operator of all stores to retain a special bond with its consumers. However, the core
      values remains the same and, therefore, many ask – was this enough to make the difference?

      	

   A deeper dedication to building stronger relationships with the communities in which Starbucks is located would help make an impact on the way consumers view their
      interaction with the brand. This bond could be formed by implementing three different focuses within local communities.

      	

  First, by creating distribution relationships with local bakeries, and selling their products Starbucks would be seen as a company focused on enriching the communities in
      which it is invested. I spoke with a sales representative at the Starbucks on Market Street at Civic Center who told me that currently all food sold in San Francisco Starbucks
      come from Parsons City, NV. If they stopped selling food shipped in and shifted focus to sell food made locally, this would have a huge impact on the way the communities view
      the brand. This would undoubtedly have a massive effect on their margin as well. Without shipping costs, even if the product is a bit more pricey, Starbucks would come out
      ahead.

      	

   Another way in which Starbucks could enrich their community relationships is by strengthening local artist relationships. Most patrons of coffee shops appreciate art and
      featuring local art would signify a close awareness of the local art community. The local flavor would also create a special environment in each store to help them create a more
      distinguishable experience for patrons. For example, every week day there is an artist market in Union Square. Many of these artists focus their work around the Gold Gate
      Bridge and views from the Presidio. Having these works in Starbucks would specialize the atmosphere.

      	

  Lastly, Starbucks could deepen the customer experience by creating a more engaging atmosphere by implementing social awareness campaigns and seminars within
      designated locations in key areas. For example, holding informative seminars on the communities where their coffee is roasted, the methods they use to roast, and people they
      employ oversees would empower the customer and make it easier for them to feel invested in their purchase.

      	

   In conclusion, Starbucks has built a strong company with a vested interest in their consumer experience. However, enriching the consumer experience by creating a more
      local experience could only help their initiatives to strengthen the existing consumer bond they hold. These suggestions would only enrich the experience within individual stores
      without taking away from the products they hold so dear.


Friday, January 4, 13
Business & Management




Friday, January 4, 13
Laura Stirling Joffrion
                             c: (619) 772-0321
                             t: @laurastirling
                             laura.joffrion@gmail.com
                             http://www.linkedin.com/in/laurastirling




Friday, January 4, 13

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Laura Stirling Joffrion

  • 1. Laura Stirling Joffrion Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising: Professional Portfolio Friday, January 4, 13
  • 2. January 4, 2013 Letter of Introduction Hello, I graduated with honors from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising with my second degree in Merchandising.  Currently, I am working as a digital content contractor for JackThreads, the E-Commerce men's wear affiliate of Thrillist Media Group. Within this position, I am responsible for: -Assisting the merchandising department with sourcing and trend forecasting research -Supporting the buying team with product copy creation and imagery uploads to the CMS -Production of online catalogs of products and social media monitoring -Vetting expired online events and closely monitor current events to ensure they are optimized correctly for homepage placement I thrive in creative teams and fast-paced environments where I learn by doing and building. In my most recent full-time role I worked as the E-Commerce Assistant Merchant for an independent accessories label while receiving my degree. During this time, I: -Developed and maintained copy and data templates for all products through Magento Enterprise -Sourced, merchandised, and manages $175,000 in third party merchandise -Developed excel tools to track inventory levels and guide buying strategy -Allocated and oversaw distribution for over 1,500 sku’s across three stores and the online channel -Sourced new vendors, negotiated purchase prices, and determined in-store price strategy to maximize gross margin and sell through I am now seeking full-time entry-mid level buying positions to gain more experience in my merchandising career. I thrive in creative teams and fast-paced environments where I learn by doing and building. My goal is to find a company where I can make an impact and grow my career. My strengths are dedication, loyalty, and the drive to succeed. I am a leader who achieves goals by building long-term, trusting relationships with my co-workers.  I would certainly like to hear more about the company you are representing and the position. Please find my resume pasted below for your reference. I am very interested in hearing more about the open position and hope to schedule some time to chat. Best, Laura Stirling Joffrion Friday, January 4, 13
  • 3. Laura Stirling Joffrion An independent, detail-oriented worker specializing in digital merchandising and marketing strategies with the drive to win results through creating a cohesive online brand presence. THRILLIST, DIGITAL MERCHANDISING CONTRACTOR Managed the online channel through daily website maintenance, developing merchandising strategies, tracking product sales, and analytics reporting • Sourced, merchandised, and inventory management of $175,000 in third party merchandise • Developed excel tools to track inventory levels and guide buying strategy • Allocated and oversaw distribution for over 1,500 sku’s across three stores and the online channel • Sourced new vendors, negotiated purchase prices, and determined in-store price strategy to maximize gross margin and sell through • Developed and maintained copy and data templates for all products on the online platform with timely updates of inventory and images • Prepared weekly and monthly financial and merchandising analysis reports to make appropriate pricing recommendations • Preformed weekly analysis of sales performances and inventory levels and managed replenishment based on sales and forecasting HLASKA, E-COMMERCE ASSISTANT MERCHANT Managed the online channel through daily website maintenance, developing merchandising strategies, tracking product sales, and analytics reporting • Sourced, merchandised, and inventory management of $175,000 in third party merchandise • Developed excel tools to track inventory levels and guide buying strategy • Allocated and oversaw distribution for over 1,500 sku’s across three stores and the online channel • Sourced new vendors, negotiated purchase prices, and determined in-store price strategy to maximize gross margin and sell through • Developed and maintained copy and data templates for all products on the online platform with timely updates of inventory and images • Prepared weekly and monthly financial and merchandising analysis reports to make appropriate pricing recommendations • Preformed weekly analysis of sales performances and inventory levels and managed replenishment based on sales and forecasting FREELANCE, DIGITAL MARKETING SPECIALIST Crafted messaging plan strategy, managed product review campaigns, and provided new media and eCommerce strategy and council for an array of businesses in Silicon Valley • Developed and delivered online/digital marketing strategy in a dynamic, fast-paced environment • Web analytics knowledge and experience in pulling reporting, measuring campaign performance and analyzing metrics to support overall social & mobile strategy • Fostered strong relationships with media outlets, influential blogs and trade publications, securing client placement in outlets such as The New York Times, Forbes, PC Magazine, Mashable, and TIME SKILLS SOFTWARE EDUCATION • eCommunications • JDA Allocation Software Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising -- • Merchandising Strategies • Microsoft Office Associate of Science Degree, 2012 • Store Management • iWork Suite • GPA: 3.8, Honor Roll • Territory Planning • Wikipedia Editorial • Phi Theta Kappa • Training & Development • Magento Enterprise • Premiere Marketing Group • Social Media Relations • Word Press • New Media Marketing • Cision & Vocus Louisiana State University -- Bachelor of Science, 2003 Friday, January 4, 13
  • 4. Merchandise Marketing Strategies • Merchandise Strategies • Math/ Buying • Marketing and Brand Strategies • Business & Management View of downtown San Francisco from FIDM Campus Friday, January 4, 13
  • 5. Merchandise Strategies • These courses and projects provided an opportunity to understand the trends that predict consumer buying patterns and how a variety of strategic decisions separate your organization from the competition. Friday, January 4, 13
  • 6. Merchandise Strategies • The first three slides in this section deconstruct Marc Jacob’s core concepts in his recent collections. These slides are only a part of the presentation prepared for this exercise. They show the original source referenced in the collection along with a comparison to other designers who used similar sources. • The second set of slides focus on the concepts of using color trends as a marketing tool. In this presentation, I chose a color trend and then presented how this color theme is being used in interior decorating, beauty, and automobiles. Friday, January 4, 13
  • 7. Retro Play: 1950’s Throwback • Art Deco Inspirations • Inspired by the 2011 Canne Film Festival award-winning movie “The Artist” Friday, January 4, 13
  • 8. Retro Play: Cloche Hat Marc Jacobs Ralph Lauren Alberta Ferretti Friday, January 4, 13
  • 9. Retro Play: Drop-waist Shape Marc Jacobs Chloe Gucci Friday, January 4, 13
  • 10. 2012 Color Palettes • Bellflower: a distint ornament purple, exudes uniqueness and creativity. • Sodalite Blue: classic maritime hue, brings order and calmness to mind. This dependable color works with every color in the palette. • Diftwood: blend of beige and gray with a slightly weathered feel grounds the palette and offers depth. • Sweet Lilac: this delicate pinkish lilac adds a touch of romance to the palette while evoking fresh scents of summer. • Tangerine Tango: enticing orange, is a vivacious and appealing refresher that lightens things up this spring. • Cabaret: sensual and intense rosy-red which adds a sense of sensuality to the 2012 color palette. • Cockatoo: tactile blue-green that adds a whimiscal touch to the palette and makes a statement this spring Zeigeist: Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute, “Consumers look to spring for renewed energy, optimism and • Starfish: warm summer neutral is a complimentary color to the palette. the promise of a brighter day”. • Margarita: this yellow-green lifts spirits with a refreshing glow. Friday, January 4, 13
  • 11. 2012 Interior Color Trends • 1. Cabaret, Cockatoo, and Solidate Blue - silk and linen blend • 2. Margarita, Solar Power, and Cockatoo 1. 3. 5. • 3. Solar Power/ Starfish blend, Cockatoo, Sodalite Blue; contrast to Cockatoo, Bellflower, Diftwood; contrast to Bellflower, Solar Power, and Diftwood • 4. Bellflower and Sodalite Blue, blend with the tiniest hues of Starfish 2. 4. 6. • 5. Cabaret, Tangerine Tango, Sweet Lilac • 6. Front - Soladite Blue blends with Cockatoo; Back - Margarita Friday, January 4, 13
  • 12. 2012 Cosmetic Color Trends • Eyes: Peachy tones make a huge statement this year with combinations of Tangerine Tango, Cabaret, Sweet Lilac even blending with Solar Power. • Lips: A lot of focus in lip color this season allowing pops of color. Classic Cabaret mixed with Tangerine Tango, and Sweet Lilac are embrassed as are Experimental colors such as Bellflower, Cockatoo, and Margarita. • Scents: Fragrance designers played with color dimensions and contrast this season. Using Sweet Lilac and Cabaret as the base tones, they expanded on them with Solar Power and Tangerine Tango to create a powerful experience. Cockatoo and Bellflower also make an appearance. Friday, January 4, 13
  • 13. 2012 Auto Color Trends • Toyota: Tangerine Tango • Ford: Solar Power • Subaru: Blended Tangerine Tango with Solar Power • Renault: Solar Power with Margarita • Bentley: Classic White Friday, January 4, 13
  • 14. Math and Merchandise Buying • Buying strategies is an analyzation of a retail business through merchandise planning, purchasing, and allocation. This technical skill set is essential in the success in today’s fashion marketplace. Friday, January 4, 13
  • 15. Math and Merchandise Buying • The first slide in this section is a department analysis for Macy’s private label, Studio M. Through this project, I successfully broke down this department by class, then analyzed each class by price point percent to total department, by color percent to total department, and size percent to total department. This analysis reflected the department framework and helped deduct changes I would make in order to yield a greater margin. • The second slide for this section is a six-month stock to sales plan. I developed a detailed sales plan using beginning of month, units to buy, and purchases for Studio M based on the mock history given. Friday, January 4, 13
  • 16. Math and Merchandise Buying Class 1 Tops 30% Price Points 39.98 58.00 88.00 Macy’s: Studio M % of Total 40% 50% 10% Sizes XS S M L XL % of Total 10% 20% 30% 30% 10% Color Ways Black Gold Plum Green Mustard Department % of Total 40% 15% 20% 15% 10% Class 2 Analysis Pants 30% Price Points % of Total Sizes 39.98 35% 0 78.00 45% 2 88.00 20% 4 6 8 10 % of Total 5% 10% 10% 20% 20% 20% Color Ways Black Brown Plaid Tweed Navy Camel % of Total 30% 20% 15% 10% 15% 10.00% Class 3 Dresses 25% Price Points 88.00 98.00 118.00 % of Total 25% 30% 45% Sizes XS S M L XL % of Total 10% 20% 30% 30% 10% Color Ways Black Gold Maroon Camel % of Total 40% 20% 15% 25% Class 4 Jackets 15% Price Points 98.00 138.00 158.00 % of Total 40% 30% 35% Sizes XS S M L XL % of Total 10% 20% 30% 30% 10% Color Ways Black Brown Plaid Leather Fur % of Total 25% 20% 15% 15% 15% Friday, January 4, 13
  • 17. Math and Merchandise Buying Macy’s: Studio M Six-Month Assortment Plan This Year - 6 Month Plan Plan AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC JAN Total BOM 575.3 1229.7 857.6 820.4 1025.5 565.5 5074.0 Sales 159.8 614.9 372.9 341.8 512.8 217.5 2219.7 Markdowns 68.8 100.3 121.7 89.9 129.9 68.8 579.4 Purchases 883.0 343.0 457.3 636.8 182.6 979.3 3482.0 EOM 1229.7 857.6 820.4 1025.5 565.5 572.1 5070.8 This Year Class %: 25.00% Avg. Retail: $101.34 This Year Class: Tops Class %: 30.00% Avg. Retail: $61.99 Class: Dresses Plan AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC JAN Total Plan AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC JAN Total BOM 172.6 368.9 257.3 246.1 307.7 169.7 1522.2 BOM 143.8 307.4 214.4 205.1 256.4 141.4 1268.5 Sales 47.9 184.5 111.9 102.5 153.8 65.3 665.9 Sales 40.0 153.7 93.2 85.5 128.2 54.4 554.9 Markdowns 20.6 30.1 36.5 27.0 39.0 20.6 173.8 Markdowns 17.2 25.1 30.4 22.5 32.5 17.2 144.9 Purchases 264.9 102.9 137.2 191.0 54.8 293.8 1044.6 Purchases 220.8 85.8 114.3 159.2 45.7 244.8 870.5 UNITS TO 4273 1660 2213 3082 884 4739 16851 UNITS TO 2178 846 1128 1571 450 2416 8590 BUY BUY EOM 368.9 257.3 246.1 307.7 169.7 171.6 1521.2 EOM 307.4 214.4 205.1 256.4 141.4 143.0 1267.7 This Year Class %: 30.00% Avg. Retail: $68.66 This Year Class %: 15.00% Avg. Retail: $131.34 Class: Pants Class: Jackets Plan AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC JAN Total Plan AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC JAN Total BOM 172.6 368.9 257.3 246.1 307.7 169.7 1522.2 BOM 86.3 184.5 128.6 123.1 153.8 84.8 761.1 Sales 47.9 184.5 111.9 102.5 153.8 65.3 665.9 Sales 24.0 92.2 55.9 51.3 76.9 32.6 333.0 Markdowns 20.6 30.1 36.5 27.0 39.0 20.6 173.8 Markdowns 10.3 15.0 18.3 13.5 19.5 10.3 86.9 Purchases 264.9 102.9 137.2 191.0 54.8 293.8 1044.6 Purchases 132.5 51.5 68.6 95.5 27.4 146.9 522.3 UNITS TO 3858 1499 1998 2782 798 4279 15214 UNITS TO 1008 392 522 727 209 1118 3977 BUY BUY EOM 368.9 257.3 246.1 307.7 169.7 171.6 1521.2 EOM 184.5 128.6 123.1 153.8 84.8 85.8 760.6 Friday, January 4, 13
  • 18. Marketing and Brand Strategies • The target market for a given retail/ business environment is researched and the appropriate marketing and branding strategies are developed to ensure success in a competitive marketplace. Friday, January 4, 13
  • 19. Marketing and Brand Strategies • The first couple of slides presented in this last section of my portfolio feature a selection from my complete marketing analysis of Mini Cooper. The presentation in whole features an analytical depiction of the business as well as recommendations on how Mini Cooper could improve their brand image, product sales performance, and marketing and communications programs. • The second part of this section include a few selected slides from an investigative report I conducted of Goorin Bros, a hat company based in San Francisco. This project took a deep look into the company’s overall retail environment and made high- level recommendations on how it could more effectively position itself at market. Friday, January 4, 13
  • 20. Marketing and Brand Strategies BRAND MANAGEMENT STRATEGY: AUGUST 8, 2011 MINI. REVIEW. MINI. OBJECTIVES. microcars on the market. The first BRAND MANAGEMENT STRATEGY: AUGUST 8, 2011 Classic Mini made its debut on Not very many can express brand August 26, 1959. The Classic Mini TEST YOUR objective like a board member. was the first mass-produced HANDLING Dr. Burkhard Göschel, Member of automobile with a transversally SKILLS. placed engine. It fit four adults, the Board of Management of BMW w a s g a s - f r u g a l , h a d g r e a t AG, “The MINI COOPER is handling, and was priced under continuing the heritage of its 800. The placement of the engine successful predecessor on an created a commodious passenger “The MINI COOPER is continuing the heritage of entirely different, brand-new area and allowed the technical foundation. The new proportionately large wheelbase. its successful predecessor on an entirely generation blends the emotion and different, brand-new technical foundation.” heritage of the brand with modern quality, safety, and reliability. You Thus, the Classic Mini became the might well say that we have first sedan to truly handle like a Dr. Burkhard Göschel, developed the MINI COOPER the sports car. Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG way we believe it would have MINI. DEFINED. MINI. GENEALOGY. evolved had its predecessor Over the years, the remained in the process of brand has found a special place in The MINI brand has been called The Mini brand originally belonged to ongoing, continuous development hearts throughout the world. From many things including fun, affordable, British Motor Corporation, which in every 10 years.” Queen Elizabeth to suburbanite fuel-efficient, sporty, technologically 1966 became part of British Motor Joe Smith. As we have loved it, advanced. Holdings. British Motor Holdings Dr. Göschel continues, “This new the organization has grown and merged with Leyland Motors in 1968 car carries the MINI brand into the morphed. Now, they use Classic With a wide bulldog stance, rigid to form British Leyland. In the 1980s 21st century: It is a brand Mini when referring specifically to body structure, multi-link rear British Leyland was broken-up and in developed to a higher standard the older, classic version of the suspension and ABS brakes with than ever before, borne out by car, and MINI when referring to the C o r n e r i n g B r a k e C o n t r o l a n d 1988 Rover Group, including Mini, intelligently built and reliable cars new models or MINI as the brand. Electronic Brakeforce Distribution was acquired by British Aerospace. In tailored to the individual, personal (4) MINI is built to deliver a world-class 1994 Rover Group was acquired by taste of the purchaser.” (3) performance in signature MINI style BMW. In 2000 Rover Group was at an affordable cost. broken-up by BMW, with BMW MSRP: $20,100 (1) retaining the Mini brand. (2) MINI. ELEMENTS. BE MINI. MINI. HISTORY. The MINI has a long story behind its very distinctive brand. In 1956, during intense fuel shortages there was a pressing need to design a MINI. WEBSITES: fuel-efficient car. Lord Nuffield of British Motor Corporation (BMC) http://mini.com charged his chief designer, Sir http://www.miniusa.com/ Alec Issigonis to create an “orderly saloon,” that could still compete MOTORING with the onslaught of fuel-efficient 4.0 Logo (Above). Motto (Below). Friday, January 4, 13
  • 21. Marketing and Brand Strategies Mini Cooper: Consumer Brand Mental Map Friday, January 4, 13
  • 22. Marketing and Brand Strategies Goorin Brothers: Case Study Friday, January 4, 13
  • 23. Marketing and Brand Strategies Goorin Brothers: Case Study Friday, January 4, 13
  • 24. Business & Management • The business administration courses at FIDM are designed to prepare students for the responsibilities, skills and challenges required of today’s leaders. • Emphasis is placed on how to be proactive to changes in the marketplace, develop and implement strategies to accomplish goals and exceed expectations in a team environment. Friday, January 4, 13
  • 25. Business & Management • The first couple slides in this section focus on a case study of the GAP, Inc. This study helped to identify significant holes in who the GAP associates as their target customer versus who shops in the store. Through this study I also identified several strategies the company could utilize to gain a greater portion of the consumer wallet share. • The second set of slides are another case study around Starbucks. Through this project, I analyzed the consumer experience in Starbucks, Pete’s, and Philz. Then, coming up with several strategies to help Starbucks go back to its roots of the ‘coffee shop’. Friday, January 4, 13
  • 26. Business & Management Gap, Inc.: Case Study Gap, Inc. has been a resilient player in the retail space since the Woodstock era. This iconic brand was built in 1969, and has built a strong place for themselves in casual apparel for men, women, and children over the past few decades. Not everyone knows that all of the apparel built for this brand and its sister chains are all private-labeling merchandise made exclusively for the company. From the apparel to the store design, Gap controls all aspects of its trademark. However, it hasn't been all roses for this American-made giant. Gap, Inc. has a history of steep and rocky lows. After five consecutive years of declining sales, Gap was struggling to stay afloat. In 2007, they decided to make a huge change in leadership and appointed Glenn Murphy of Shoppers Drug Mart to Chief Executive Officer of the company. Since then, Gap has drastically cut back its store count in the United States and has instead built out the brand in Europe (180 stores) and Asia (145 stores). Gap sales fell to $14.2 billion in 2009 after a flourishing profits of $14.5 billion in 2008. That said, the profitability has improved with the net income up to 14% in 2009. Still, profits continue to decline. Thus far in 2011, Gap has reported a 9.26% in net income profit. Also, with competitors like J.Crew and American Eagle creating more diverse lines of clothing with steeper margins and growing consumer support, Gap must continue to solidify its core customer and come up with new and innovative ways to strengthen this customer relationship bond. Gap's target customer is a member of the young digerati. They are usually less than 50 years of age and have small families. They appreciate good style so they would expect their shopping experience with Gap to offer them cutting edge styles. They are also quite tech-savvy with a deep appreciation for culture, music, and living an active lifestyle. Gap has their target customer spot on, however, they are lacking a stimulating shopping experience. This family wants to be treated with special care. Therefore, Gap would greatly benefit from developing a strong customer relationship management program and training associates on customer service. Because of the years of experience customers have with this brand, the program would need to a very personalized experience for the customer to buy into it. A large portion of this program should be around the shopping experience such as cultivating the sale through the fitting room. Making these customers feel special and dedicated means giving individual care at this point in the shopping experience. Gap would also want to implement a client follow-back program. Having sales people follow up with customers they serviced the week prior who spent $500 or more in the store. This would help develop a strong bond with the brand and would also help the sales people feel more connected to their individual customers. In addition, customer service training programs should be an on-going program throughout all the Gap stores. This customer appreciates good service that is consistent and genuine. Therefore, a personalized customer service approach would be best. Having customer service response training would empower the sales associates to approach the customers in their own individual ways while communicating the corporate expectation. Another way to appeal to this demographic is through their sense of community and social awareness. Therefore, creating a sustainable shopping bag similar to the Bloomingdales small, medium, and large bags would be a small way to show this demographic that the Gap has them in mind. Even creating a marketing campaign around this bag would raise awareness and solidify the Gap as a socially conscious brand. The merchandise strategy of the Gap should also be addressed to increase the brand loyalty. There is a stronger influence in the product mix for women's pants than tops. Seeing as women typically purchase twice as many tops as they do bottoms this is a problem from the start. In addition, across the board, seasonal merchandise is quite low already. We already half way through the first fall season and only 10% of the mix is sweaters. I also went to J.Crew and American Eagle stores to compare their inventory. As you can see, both companies greatly expand their tops vs bottoms. They also have a huge amount of sweaters and outerwear in comparison to the Gap. Being in the stores, there is a stark difference in presentation as well. Inside J.Crew and American Eagle, items are outfitted together. They are also placed out in limited size runs, which safeguards the customers from being overwhelmed by a ton of product. I recommend that the Gap start merchandising in limited size runs – maximum two runs of each size in the racks – and have the sales staff restocking more often through out the day. This will help make things look more exclusive to the customer while creating an air of urgency on the sales floor. In turn, giving the sales staff more opportunity to engage with the customers shopping in the store. To wrap things up, creating this customer relationship program while offering customer service training will help deepen the consumer experience. Creating the Gap sustainable shopping bag will help solidify the Gap as an environmentally friendly organization. On the merchandise front, creating a better balance between the tops and bottoms throughout all lines is essential. It is also important to plan better with seasonal merchandise. Another idea would be to go back to the basics of denim by possibly offering a custom fit denim line. The Gap was once a power house in the denim industry and has sense fallen off. With denim really powering back, it would be great to see the Gap reinvigorate this section of its business. All in all, the Gap has a lot of potential. However, they do need better management on the store level. The corporate side of the Gap seems to have been rocky and, therefore, it is so important to have solid store management executing the right moves on a daily basis to keep the customer interaction consistent. My hope is to one day walk into the Gap and feel a sense of pride that this phoenix has once again risen from the ashes. Friday, January 4, 13
  • 28. Business & Management Case Study: Starbucks Over the last ten years Starbucks has become a household name. The company has had steady growth of over 25% in this time, with its total revenue for 2010 hitting over ten million dollars. Today, the company has over 17,000 stores across the world with 137,00 employees who are all closely trained to give the customer a unified experience every time they walk through the door. The Starbucks experience has changed the way consumers interact with coffee. From the size of your beverage to the manner in which customers order, Starbucks has created its own unique atmosphere within its walls. On the surface, this growth and success may seem positive. However, it has also left customers feeling a loss of a unique, engaging, intimacy they once felt with their local coffee shop. This lack of community and individuality is a serious break from the value once held by the company, which offers room for growth and opportunity. In addition, the target customer has broadened in this timeframe as well. What started out as a small Seattle-based company focusing its sales on coffee lovers, has morphed into a mass-marketed giant that has lost its local flavor. While this business model is profitable, it does not match the company ideals of individuality and community. Instead, many view these stores as being cookie-cutter and corporate. In 2008, Howard Schultz, the president and CEO of Starbucks, attempted to fix these issues by closing 7,000 stores. In an interview with NPR Schultz said, "The unprecedented decision to literally close stores ― which cost us millions of dollars ― was done to ensure the fact that I demonstrated how serious and committed I was to making sure we go back to the core” (NPR.org). Starbucks remains the exclusive owner and operator of all stores to retain a special bond with its consumers. However, the core values remains the same and, therefore, many ask – was this enough to make the difference? A deeper dedication to building stronger relationships with the communities in which Starbucks is located would help make an impact on the way consumers view their interaction with the brand. This bond could be formed by implementing three different focuses within local communities. First, by creating distribution relationships with local bakeries, and selling their products Starbucks would be seen as a company focused on enriching the communities in which it is invested. I spoke with a sales representative at the Starbucks on Market Street at Civic Center who told me that currently all food sold in San Francisco Starbucks come from Parsons City, NV. If they stopped selling food shipped in and shifted focus to sell food made locally, this would have a huge impact on the way the communities view the brand. This would undoubtedly have a massive effect on their margin as well. Without shipping costs, even if the product is a bit more pricey, Starbucks would come out ahead. Another way in which Starbucks could enrich their community relationships is by strengthening local artist relationships. Most patrons of coffee shops appreciate art and featuring local art would signify a close awareness of the local art community. The local flavor would also create a special environment in each store to help them create a more distinguishable experience for patrons. For example, every week day there is an artist market in Union Square. Many of these artists focus their work around the Gold Gate Bridge and views from the Presidio. Having these works in Starbucks would specialize the atmosphere. Lastly, Starbucks could deepen the customer experience by creating a more engaging atmosphere by implementing social awareness campaigns and seminars within designated locations in key areas. For example, holding informative seminars on the communities where their coffee is roasted, the methods they use to roast, and people they employ oversees would empower the customer and make it easier for them to feel invested in their purchase. In conclusion, Starbucks has built a strong company with a vested interest in their consumer experience. However, enriching the consumer experience by creating a more local experience could only help their initiatives to strengthen the existing consumer bond they hold. These suggestions would only enrich the experience within individual stores without taking away from the products they hold so dear. Friday, January 4, 13
  • 30. Laura Stirling Joffrion c: (619) 772-0321 t: @laurastirling laura.joffrion@gmail.com http://www.linkedin.com/in/laurastirling Friday, January 4, 13