11/13/2012 
MCIIS COMPETITIVE INTELLIGENCE OVERVIEW 
Ian Brooks | Chris Dale | Cullen Mangino | Ryan Schank 
| Brandon Thomson |
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 1 
1 | P a g e 
Table of Contents 
Executive Summary ......................................................................................................................... 2 
Key Findings & Strategic Implications ............................................................................................. 4 
Key Intelligence Topics .................................................................................................................... 6 
Company Overview ......................................................................................................................... 8 
Environmental Analysis - STEEP .................................................................................................... 12 
Competitive Review ...................................................................................................................... 22 
Financial Analysis .......................................................................................................................... 50 
Patent Analysis .............................................................................................................................. 68 
Strategies ...................................................................................................................................... 79
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 2 
2 | P a g e 
Executive Summary 
Utilizing a variety of analytical tools and strategies, this competitive profile project 
intends to determine the current trends, competitive position and likely future strategies of 
Hibbett Sporting Goods. The company is a small market sports retail store that operates in the 
southeast and Midwest region of the United States. A Key Intelligence Topics (KIT) section 
outlines the tasking presented to the Mercyhurst University Competitive Intelligence Team for 
Hibbett Sporting Goods, and background information regarding the current assignment. 
Throughout the profile, we conducted analysis of internal, competitive, and overall 
environmental factors that have an effect on Hibbett Sporting Goods ability to compete in the 
market in the future. A Company Overview expressed findings related to Hibbett Sporting 
Goods strengths, weaknesses and strategies that the company already possesses. STEEP 
analysis (Social, Technological, Economic, Ecological, Political / Legal) revealed information 
about macro-level influences in the economic environment on Hibbett Sporting Goods. 
We then put together a Competitive Analysis Profile of competitors Dicks Sporting 
Goods and Big 5 Sporting Goods using Patent Analysis and Financial Analysis to compare to 
Hibbett’s own financial performance and ownership of patents in the retail industry. We then 
conducted SWOT analysis, Porter’s 9 Forces analysis and a Growth Vector Matrix to further 
provide strategies for Hibbett Sporting Goods based on the strengths and weaknesses and 
room for growth in the industry to better compete in the changing retail market. 
Key findings found as a result of the project showed that Hibbett Sporting Goods has 
been successful in their current market in the past. But in order to remain competitive in the 
changing economic environment, Hibbett Sporting Goods needs to make changes to their 
current strategies and take advantage of the new strategies available in the Key Findings and 
Implications section provided. New strategies such as becoming more present in the online 
community because of the rising trends of social media usage of all generations, is a major
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 3 
change that Hibbett needs to become aware of in order to maintain and attract its target 
consumer base. Also Hibbett, who currently does not own any patents in the retail industry, is 
at a loss to competitor Dicks Sporting Goods because of the ownership and diversity of 
products and services the patents allow for. With the analysis of Hibbett Sporting Goods and 
the companies competitors, the Mercyhurst University Competitive Intelligence team have 
provided multiple strategies that are likely to increase the success and profitability of the 
company in the future. 
3 | P a g e
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 4 
The numbered findings are for reference only and findings are not in any particular order 
4 | P a g e 
Key Findings & Strategic Implications 
The following list is broken into three categories based on priority: 
A= High Impact to Company and Strategy Development 
B= Medium Impact to Company, Potential Effect on Strategy 
C= Low Impact, Informative 
Key Finding 
Sources 
Implications for Hibbett Sporting Goods 
PRIORITY: A HIGHEST IMPACT 
1. Presence in the smaller consumer 
market, better for sales 
performance. 
Business 
Intelligence Profile 
Continue to exist in this market to become the 
strongest retailer in the market before upgrading 
to the larger market. 
2. Social Media trends are 
becoming very important to the 
retail industry. 
STEEP Analysis 
SWOT Analysis 
Hibbett needs to be present in the online 
community to adapt with growing trends of 
consumers. 
3. Ongoing recession in the United 
States can affect consumers 
willing to purchase new 
products. 
STEEP Analysis Understand the financial difficulties consumers 
have today and create sales or promotions to 
still be able to attract the consumer. 
4. Technology such as new patents 
in the market give companies 
competitive advantages or the 
other retailers in the industry. 
Patent Analysis 
STEEP Analysis 
Although there are a very limited number of 
patents for a “re-seller” store like Hibbett, it is 
important to own the most patents possible to be 
able to diversify the company from other 
competitors. 
PRIORITY B: MEDIUM IMPACT 
5. Hibbett’s financial ratios 
compete right on with the retail 
industry averages. 
Financial Analysis Continue to manage assets as they have been 
with more attention on inventory management 
to increase the inventory turnover speed. 
6. Online sales have become a 
leading trend in the overall 
economic market 
STEEP Analysis 
SWOT Analysis 
Hibbett needs to become more functional in the 
online community by creating a sales website 
that actually process and take consumers orders. 
7. There is a strong number of 
substitutes for Hibbett in the 
location such as Dicks Sporting 
Goods and Wal-Mart. 
Competitor 
Analysis 
Hibbett Sporting Goods needs to diversify itself 
from competitors by offering special services 
and deals such as bundling products or a rental 
program for products.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 5 
5 | P a g e 
8. Regionalization is a key strategy 
for Hibbett Sporting Goods 
consumer market. 
Business 
Intelligence Profile 
Competitive 
Intelligence Profile 
Hibbett already does a good job of being present 
in the community through giveaways and high 
school sponsorships and should continue to do 
so in more depth. Rallies and Charitable 
donations and drive in the community would be 
good for public presence. 
PRIORITY C: LOW IMPACT 
9. Emergence of healthier diets and 
“get-fit” trends. 
STEEP Analysis Create promotions to relate with changing 
trends such as marketing actual workouts with 
the products that are being sold. 
10. Recent Presidential election may 
affect laws and even consumer 
spending. 
STEEP Analysis Understand the political standings of current 
leaders and how the overall economy plans to 
change with the new election. 
11. Only a very few number of 
patents in the “re-seller” retail 
industry. 
Patent Analysis Obtain the patents that will make Hibbett stand 
out from the competitors and diversify its 
service.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 6 
6 | P a g e 
Key Intelligence Topics 
Tasking 
The decision maker at Hibbett Sporting goods has assigned the Competitive Intelligence team (CI 
Team) from Mercyhurst University to collect information, analyze information, and strategically provide 
a conclusion for the decision maker to go with. The decision maker has recently experienced a 
successful growth pattern and has charged the competitive intelligence team with the task of 
maintaining this pattern. Also the decision maker has made the point very clear that they would like to 
avoid all surprises that may occur and find any business aspect that they are possibly not paying enough 
attention to. The CI Team will be reviewing the competitions trends, the affect the external 
environment has on the company, and market activity for the future using open source information. 
Requirements 
In order to provide the necessary information to the decision maker the CI Team will be 
collecting the following data: 
 Competitor trends and strategies 
 Successful product ideas/lines that the company may be over looking 
 Market activity to develop an understanding for the future 
Using this information, the CI Team will be answering the following questions: 
1. Who is the most dangerous competition? 
2. How are the competitors marketing their products? 
3. What product lines are competitors offering that our company is not? 
4. How will changes in external environment affect our company today? 
5. Who is the most prosperous target market? 
6. What strategy could we use to give us advantages? 
7. How do we compare financially to other companies in our market? 
Methodology 
In order to answer these questions, the CI Team will be using the following tools and models to 
analyze and collect the information: 
 Collection of data using open source information 
 Competitor profiling to identify the competition and its trends
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 7 
 Understand the competitors trends and strategies to utilize in our advantage 
 External Environment analysis to understand how changes will affect our company 
 SWOT Analysis to understand the different aspects of tour company 
 Financial Analysis to better understand where money is being allocated and how we compare to 
7 | P a g e 
other companies 
 Nine Forces 
Challenges 
Possible challenges that the CI Team could run into may include the following: 
 Time limit could be too short for thorough analysis 
 Inexperience may lead to redoing sections, wasting time and energy 
 Information may be difficult to find and/or understand 
Resources 
Throughout this assignment many different resources will be used and taken advantage of such 
as the following: 
A. Use of Internet as a source of open source information 
B. Use of analytical software and models 
C. Looking over analytical reports on competitors and our own company 
Open Source 
While completing this assignment the CI Team will have access to the following sources of public 
information: 
1. Internet 
2. Lexis Nexis 
3. Library 
4. SEC, Annual Reports 
Administration 
The Final product will be prepared by the end of the term and will include a written document 
along with analytical models and findings, as well as a power point presentation.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 8 
8 | P a g e 
Company Overview 
Executive Summary 
Hibbett Sporting goods is a small retail distributor located in the South West and 
Midwest that specializes in athletic goods and athletic apparel. Hibbett has found itself to be 
successful by targeting the smaller retail markets because of its own size expansion 
opportunities it provides. Also, Hibbett has learned to become successful because they 
understand and offer the specific products that relate to their target demographic. Finally, 
Hibbett’s overall management team is a highly experienced and seasoned team that has been 
working for the company for a number of years. Although the company has many strengths, 
there are also weaknesses that should be addressed. First off, one weakness the company 
possesses is that it is only located in the South and Southwest. Also, the company is very reliant 
on the success of collegiate and professional teams for the sales of apparel and merchandise. 
Should there be a lockout or a down year for a team, sales could suffer dramatically. Along 
with this idea, the company is also very dependent on the vendors keeping up with trends and 
creating products that are desirable to consumers. Finally, large competitors such as Dick’s 
Sporting Goods are beginning to move into the smaller market competition, creating problems 
for Hibbett who mostly targets to these demographics. Hibbett’s target market is small 
neighborhood communities.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 9 
9 | P a g e 
Strengths of Hibbett Sporting Goods 
 Company targets smaller retail markets because of the significant strategic 
advantages, cost savings, less competitive environment, and overall expansion 
opportunities. The strategy of Hibbett Sporting Goods is quite unique, as the company 
operates in small to mid-sized markets, specifically the Southeast, Southwest, Mid- 
Atlantic, and lower Midwest regions of the United States. More specifically, the 
company “targets markets with populations of 30,000 to 100,000 people” to assure that 
Hibbett is not competing with other sporting goods retailers in larger markets.1 
Targeting these low to mid-sized markets also allows “the company to expand with 
relatively low operating costs and minimal competition.”2 Through this form of strategic 
market targeting, Hibbett shows both financial and operational expansion in 2012. 
 The Company offers a selection of specialized products that cater to the demographics 
and interests of each individual community. Though larger stores such as Dick’s 
Sporting Goods and Big 5 Sporting Goods Corporation operate slightly larger sized 
stores, Hibbett focuses much of its efforts on the preferred sporting good retail items 
and/or products. By utilizing these competitive advantages, Hibbett is able to compete 
with the larger retail chains by providing better customer service even though they lack 
the greater number of available products.3 They are able to “provide information and 
certain products to customers that they may not get at other stores selling sporting 
goods."4 
 Hibbett’s Management team has significant experience in the industry and has been 
together for quite a long time. The current corporate structure of Hibbett Sporting 
Goods shows noticeable retail industry experience. Under the collective efforts of these 
individuals, Hibbett has shown an expressed increase in its gross profit margin and 
overall store operations efficiency output. For example, during the 2011 fiscal year, “the 
company opened 45 stores, closed 14, and expanded 14.”5 These figures demonstrate 
that Hibbett’s corporate executives are effectively understanding each stores 
productively, and correctly addressing any possible concerns or issues. 
Weaknesses of Hibbett Sporting Goods 
 Stores are located in the southeast and southwest region. Being a regional retailer 
means that the company as a whole will be affected by any regional downturn such as 
the economy, gas or fuel price increases, climate patterns. These factors will have an
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 10 
immediate impact on the company’s overall wellbeing because it will result in the loss of 
consumer activity in the area.6 
 Performance by college or professional athletic teams and lockouts. Teams that do not 
perform well will cause a lack of sales for the company and would lead to a surplus of 
inventory. Should there be a lockout such as the NHL is in the company can expect to 
lose sales on items for this market. 7 
 Complete reliance on the vendors. Hibbett is a reseller of products and relies heavily 
on the relationship that they have with the vendors such as Nike, Adidas, Reebok, etc. 
Also Hibbett is reliant on the vendors to continue to create and distribute products that 
the consumers will still find appealing and desirable. 
 Big name competition expanding into market. Sporting retailer giant, Dicks Sporting 
Goods is expanding into the smaller market that Hibbett has made itself comfortable in. 
This is major threat to the company because Dicks is a nationwide retailer that is seen as 
the “more desirable” store. 8 
10 | P a g e
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 11 
11 | P a g e 
Value Chain Analysis 
Figure 1- Value Chain Analysis Hibbett Sporting Goods 
 Primary Activities 
o Service: Is the place in which the best performance footwear, clothing, and 
equipment can be purchased. Hibbett is continually improving and providing the 
best for any athlete or sport to improve their game9. 
o Sales and Marketing: Hibbett provides an online site to make purchases as well 
as advertise in magazines. The major sales are in the southeast of the United 
States.10 
 Secondary Activities 
o Infrastructure: Hibbett is located in the Southeast to Midwest United States with 
over 800 stores in 26 states11. Hibbett has smaller stores providing a more direct 
access to the sporting equipment. The smaller stores provide a much more 
personal touch and allow the customers to ask questions that the employees 
know the answers to. 
o Procurement: Hibbett sells top name brands such as Nike, Sperry, Adidas, Life is 
Good, Puma, Mission, Mizuno, Saucony, Fossil, Chaco, Under Armour, K-Swiss, 
and Sketchers etc.12. Hibbett provides all the top fan gear, and equipment that 
all these name brands have to offer.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 12 
E-Commerce Cycle of Online Service 
Source: http://tinyurl.com/co7g9f2 
12 | P a g e 
Environmental Analysis - STEEP 
Executive Summary 
A macro environmental analysis of the ongoing issues, actions, and factors affecting 
Hibbett Sports, Inc. through the STEEP methodology identifies potential benefits and 
impediments affecting the company’s current performance. Ongoing social trends indicate the 
importance of mobile devices, increase in social media, and acceptance of social commerce as 
social impacts. Technological trends include further advancement in mobile integration, 
development of Near Field Communication as a purchasing option, and customization of 
products. Economic trends forecast business innovation during these hard times, new market 
horizons, and reduction of store sizes to address economic strains. Ecological trends indicate an 
expansion of “green developments,” increase in organic food consumption, and growth in 
recycling programs. Political and Legal trends forecast the importance of the 2012 Presidential 
Election cannot be understated, the governments inefficiency to promote accurate economic 
reform policies is damaging, and the limited resources of the government is troublesome. 
Trends distinguished through STEEP analysis illustrate a macro environment that is quite limited 
and unsuitable for a small market sized company such as Hibbett Sporting Goods. With a small 
consumer basis, regionalized development, and marginal financial success, Hibbett is highly 
unlikely to be influenced and gain any significant competitive advantages. 
Social 
 Mobile devices are becoming an important social icon 
and are likely to illustrate rapid growth and 
development over the next few years. 
o There are over 3 billion people with a mobile 
device today and that number continues to climb 
drastically.13 For most, the implications or uses of 
mobile devices are virtually limitless, these 
devices are capable of performing mobile 
banking, recording video, accessing email, and
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 13 
accessing the internet. According to a recent study, about one third of all people 
accessing the internet in 2012 were doing it through a mobile device.14 
o One of the prime target demographics of mobile devices is adolescents, more 
specifically, individuals in the age range of 12-18 years of age. According to a 
recent survey conducted by Nielsen, “teens feel that cell phones have become a 
vital part of their identities, and ultimately gauge one another’s popularity status 
based solely on the phone that he or she uses.”15 In this specific age 
demographic, teens value the type of phone they have almost as much as the 
clothes they wear, according to the survey. 
 This will likely result in consumers purchasing mobile devices based 
mostly on the presumed social status symbol it will provide for them 
 If consumers seek out mobile devices in this format, the industry will 
13 | P a g e 
likely increase immensely in the next few years. 
 Overall social media usage among all generations has increased dramatically, and is 
likely to continue its overall growth. 
o In essence, social media can be used as a very cost-effective marketing strategy 
to reach a wide number of customers worldwide. More and more companies are 
beginning to market through social media to target a greater number of 
potential customers, and prevent possible suppression or lapsed recollection by 
the entire marketplace. According to 2010 social media figures, “generation Y, 
outnumbered baby boomers, and 96% of these individuals were already on 
social networks.”16 Social media is definitively a growing trend, and shows 
consistent prosperous results in years to come. 
o Throughout the early years of the twenty-first century, the concept of a shared 
sense of community has been largely based on social media outlets for sources 
of connection and togetherness. Social media sites such as Facebook, MySpace, 
LinkedIn, Twitter, and others are reconfiguring the manner in which people 
relate with one another.17 This form of networking is considerably important to 
retailers such as Hibbett Sporting Goods, as it provides consumer evaluations, 
product reviews, and overall insight into what the company should continue or 
discontinue doing. 
 This will likely result in consumers using these social networking sites to 
evaluate business retailers such as Hibbett Sporting Goods 
 Companies are likely to begin using various marketing techniques and 
strategies to target their consumers on these social networking forums as 
well.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 14 
 Social Commerce and “E-Commerce” is becoming a major attraction for online 
Mobile Coupon Usage 
http://www.tatango.com 
14 | P a g e 
shoppers and is likely to have a dramatic influence in the retailing industry. 
o Basic E-Commerce sites are beginning to incorporate functional methodologies 
to make purchases and communicate with others. Many companies, especially in 
the retail industry, are using the recommendations from these individuals that 
purchase their products to address any potential issues or problems with their 
products.18 For example, Hibbett Sporting Goods has recently developed an 
online presence and exhibits strong consumer relationships in this sense to 
address concerns that consumers have expressed. 
o The ability to effectively attract online shoppers in the retail industry is almost 
becoming a necessity for businesses to remain viable within the industry. 
Traditional retail operations is no longer based solely on attracting consumers 
directly to the store location, but rather with “the advent of the Internet, and 
other innovative ways of doing business on a retail level these techniques have 
become commonplace in among major retail outfits.”19 
 This will likely result in an influx of overall online retail spending and 
shopping over the course of the next few years 
 The need for stores in the retail industry to expand and grow with more 
and more store locations will likely become an unnecessary action by 
businesses in the next several years 
Implications: With the growing trend of technology, more importantly mobile devices, the need 
for Hibbett Sporting Goods to develop successful marketing techniques and strategies to target 
this specific consumer demographic is a necessary function the company must exhibit in the 
coming years. In addition, with the rapid growth of online shopping in the retail industry 
Hibbett must be capable of offering successful product mixes, discounts and advertisements, 
and competitive prices to remain a viable competitor within the retail market. 
Technology 
 Mobile integration of coupons likely to have profound impact in 
the retail industry in the upcoming years. 
o This form of technological innovation allows customers to 
have access to coupons to their favorite stores on the
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 15 
move. This will entail that the consumer will always have access to sales and 
deals throughout the day as long as they have their phones with them.20 
o The benefits of this technology also help to market and promote retailing stores 
as well as their sales and deals that are ongoing. This process can be performed 
through various phone applications, as well as through social media sites. 
o Using mobile marketing is also a cost effective strategy compared to the 
NFC payment method is rapidly 
developing. Source: 
http://tinyurl.com/8e5we75 
Nikeid Customization Site 
http://blog.ponoko.com/2008/04/25/mass-customization- 
the-the-big-end-of-town/ 
15 | P a g e 
traditional direct mailing process. 
 It is likely that Near Field Communication (NFC) is 
becoming a purchasing option that many 
companies utilize. 
o In recent years, companies such as Google 
and other various application developers are 
taking full advantage of Near Field 
Communication (NFC). In essence, these 
companies have been using this technology 
to integrate an individual’s debit and credit 
cards onto their phone.21 A phone will be 
used the same way that a debit or credit 
card is used, which is much more convenient. 
o This will ultimately allow consumers to easily purchase items. In addition, it also 
provides retailers with the opportunity to successfully offer special sales for 
those individuals that use their phones in this manner. 
 This potentially has the likelihood of limiting the need for financial credit 
and debit cards based on convenience and overall accessibility 
 This would also potentially limit the overall capacity of banking 
institutions in a large manner. 
 Increase ability for customization of products is likely to 
influence consumer purchasing trends and actions. 
o In today’s competitive environment, companies are 
allowing consumers the capability of completely 
customizing their products. For many sold products, 
consumers can select various shades of color, 
expressed graphics, and other selective additive 
capabilities. 
o This new way to customize products gives
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 16 
consumers a great way to express themselves. A clear illustration of this concept 
is demonstrated with Nike as they allow their customers to customize bags, 
shirts, shoes, and various apparel in both their stores and online. 
Implications: 
Through the rapid development of newer technological capabilities, resources, and functions 
Hibbett Sporting Goods has the potential to incorporate many of these newly developed 
aspects in their business. However, being that Hibbett Sporting Goods is a small-market sized 
company in the industry it is highly unlikely that the company will incorporate any of the above-mentioned 
Illustration of dramatic rise in online shopping, 
particularly with mobile devices. 
Source: http://tinyurl.com/9f7o8vn 
16 | P a g e 
technological advancements that currently exist in the business world. 
Economic 
 Despite the economic hard times, 
retail businesses are likely to find new 
ways to attract customers and help 
them save overall. 
o In recent years, the creation of 
mobile and web platforms to 
allow customers to download 
coupons and discounts provide 
notification of company news 
and actions, and view 
promotional events that the 
company may be offering is an 
essential quality needed during 
these economic hardships.22 
More and more companies are 
emphasizing these points to enable profitable gains and successful competitive 
actions within the industry. 
o With the number of internet users and a growing easier access to online hosts, 
the number of online shoppers is a growing trend worldwide and many of the 
major retailers will likely continue to target these individuals to profit from their 
business. 
o Differentiation is vital, and retailers look to differentiate themselves past the 
basic of just focusing on prices. Retailers will focus more on services to the
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 17 
customer, such as merchandise quality, consumer support, and marketing 
strategies and tactics. This shows retailers adaptability and that they realize 
consumers are in tough times as well, and the business must be able to 
specifically target them to draw their future business.23 
 Capability of broadening horizons and searching for new markets to appeal to new 
17 | P a g e 
customers is highly likely to generate growth and development. 
o With a growing number of consumers tightly spending the little bit of money 
they have during this recession, many companies and organizations are 
generating their focus to other markets. In recent years, the retail industry has 
been challenged in America, the EU, and other developing nations based mostly 
on the ongoing fallout from the recent financial crisis.24 
o Certain parts of the international market have benefited quite successfully over 
the course of the recent recession in America and other areas of the world. The 
most exciting stories of retail industry growth are emerging in countries such as 
China, India, and Brazil.25 For many of the world’s leading retail industries and 
chains, the companies are rushing to open new stores and locate themselves 
near new malls that have developed at an astounding rate.26 
 This will likely result in a continued increased presence of retail chains 
and industries internationally 
 This will likely diminish the overall capacity of retailers in the United 
States, Canada, and the EU as these emerging markets promote greater 
successful opportunities 
 Reducing the overall size and capacity of stores likely to improve the capabilities and 
functions of the business as a whole. 
o A rapidly growing concept or idea expressed by many large businesses is the 
notion of “going smaller.”27 With the drastic changes in how consumers buy 
items/products and the overwhelming cost of real estate, many stores have 
opted to scale back their operations and only focus on their major store facilities, 
or the ones that prompt for the most financial growth and development. 
o The smaller store format also enables these businesses to fit into smaller 
locations therefore allowing them to go into many urban settings, which 
ultimately makes it accessible to a greater number of potential consumers. 
o The smaller store format also allows for an increased ability for interaction 
between the consumer and employee, which ultimately will likely boost 
customer service and satisfaction within the company.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 18 
 This will likely decrease the number of real estate purchases by many 
18 | P a g e 
retail organizations and groups 
 This will likely diminish the need for more employees within these retail 
businesses, resulting in an increase in unemployment 
 Retailers are likely to enter into more urbanized settings allowing for 
major growth and development 
Implications: 
As smaller sized retailers such as Hibbett Sporting Goods are battling tough economic times, the 
company must exhibit clear and concise decisions that enable them to remain financially 
successful. The company must forecast the likely outcomes of potential store locations, new 
product lines, distribution methods, and other business functions to diminish unwarranted 
spending or financial blunders. In essence, the company must focus heavily on areas in which it 
can cut its overall financial margins (i.e. reducing overall size of stores and searching for newer 
markets) to remain competitive with other retailers such as Dick’s Sporting Goods, Big Five 
Sporting Goods, and other notable sporting goods retailers. 
Ecological 
 Turning from sustainability as a cost and risk reduction measure to an opportunity 
likely to promote future business growth. 
o The retailers leading the industry’s sustainability charge recognize that the 
benefits extend well beyond achieving business efficiencies. Sustainability 
programs are increasingly seen as a source of innovation, a way of differentiating 
a company that appeals to employees and consumers, and a platform for new 
product and market development.28 
o Going Green initiatives allow companies to differentiate themselves from other 
companies or brands. Also, this allows them to market themselves as “Green” 
and sell products at a higher price margin. 
o In a recent poll by Time Magazine, 50 percent of Americans valued 
environmental protection over economic growth. This shows that Americans are 
willing to purchase environmentally friendly 
products despite their potentially higher costs 
involved.29 
 An increased sale in organic foods is likely to translate 
in an increase in healthier lifestyle choices such as
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 19 
Organic food consumption is a 
growing trend in America. Source: 
http://tinyurl.com/95kmsje 
19 | P a g e 
exercising and dieting. 
o The desire for a healthier lifestyle is a consistently growing trend in America, as 
individuals seek to live longer and more health 
conscience. According to a recent Time 
Magazine poll, 60 percent of Americans have 
at some point purchased organic foods over the last year.30 More and more 
individuals are attempting to forego fast food and other unhealthy eating 
options and seek alternative food options such as organic food. 
o According to the comparison between 2011 and 2012, there was a 20 percent 
rise in the sale of organic foods.31 Most of these items included organic cereal, 
rice and grains, condiments and dressings, as well as various other prepared 
foods. 
o With this growing trend of individuals seeking a healthier lifestyle, this also may 
result in these same individuals becoming more active and exercising to lead this 
type of lifestyle as well. 
 This will likely result in more individuals joining gyms, buying sports 
related products, and potentially could influence the sporting goods 
retailers’ bottom line 
 This is unlikely to occur in the next year alone, but rather over the course 
of the next few years with the potential push from both the government 
and these selective retailing stores in their marketing strategies 
 Companies that are conscience about their recycling programs are likely to see 
additional public approval. 
o Over the course of the past few years, companies have recognized that it is 
prudent that consumers recycle their used products. Many of these companies 
are looking into the recycling of these products as a potential source for 
generating newer products.32 
o Companies choosing to use recycled materials are also able to use this as PR 
marketing campaign, by claiming that they are sustainable. This will drive up 
consumer interest as well as offering a chance for the company to earn 
additional financial growth. 
o Though the ability for companies to recycle tends to be slightly more expensive 
than not recycling, many companies feel as though the perceptual gains by 
consumers are worth the additional financial stress. 
 This will likely result in many companies and organizations emphasizing 
recycling programs and advocating environmental awareness
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 20 
Implications: 
Because of the ecological ramifications associated with a company that does not advocate 
environmental awareness, it is likely Hibbett Sporting Goods will incorporate certain recycling 
procedures to generate public approval. In addition, the transition from many individuals eating 
healthier organic foods is highly likely to influence potential overall sales within Hibbett 
because these individuals will likely associate eating well with eventually exercising as they wish 
to be well-rounded healthy individuals. Due to the new healthy lifestyle, consumers will look to 
purchase exercising goods from Hibbett. 
2012 Presidential candidates at their 
20 | P a g e 
first debate. Source: 
http://tinyurl.com/cpfvj87 
Political & Legal 
 The 2012 Presidential Election is highly 
likely to influence the manner in which 
many retailers operate and function in the 
economy. 
o In every presidential election, 
especially the 2012 election, the issue 
of the economic status of the country 
is a pivotal issue that is discussed. 
According to recent Gallup polls, both 
President Barak Obama and Republican candidate Mitt Romney show 
considerable desire to fix the struggling economy and potentially increase 
consumer spending in the retail sector.33 
o President Obama states that he will address the National Retail Federation’s 
(NRF) continued pressure of increasing jobs, encourage consumer spending, and 
attempt to promote possible growth and development. According to NRF, 
“America’s retailers want to continue growing our economy, but to do that we 
need Washington to embrace common-sense economic policy.”34 
o Republican candidate, Mitt Romney, also believes in major economic reform 
policies, which may be incorporated if he wins the 2012 Presidential Election. 
 Ongoing federal policies highly likely to challenge and discourage potential business 
opportunities in America. 
o Many policies and procedures coming out of Washington are making small 
businesses fearful for their futures, according to several politicians.35 For the 
most part, these businesses are fearful over potential increases in taxes, limited
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 21 
consumer spending, and an overall contraction of business growth that is 
currently occurring in the United States. 
o The ability for businesses to operate to their greatest capacities is limited as 
many governmental regulations and policies virtually limit overall growth and 
development in a decisive way. 
o With the Democrats in control of the Executive Branch and the Republicans with 
the majority of control in the Legislative Branch, any potential economic growth 
is limited based on differing viewpoints. 
 It is likely that these ongoing governmental policies imposed on 
21 | P a g e 
businesses will continue to sustain limited or no growth 
 As many governmental policies take time, if there is a potential transition 
in the Executive Branch to the Republican Party, it is likely to take a long 
time for new policies to be invoked. 
 With limited resources, the ability to effectively serve the United States economy is 
likely to be a difficult and enduring process for the government. 
o Based on a recent survey conducted with 6,000 businesses across America, many 
businesses wish for the government to address the current tax issue that exists 
with many businesses.36 The underlying issue for these businesses is that they 
desire a sense of uniformity that exists between state and local taxes. 
o Much of the government’s current resources are limited, and the ability to 
potentially address these issues is going to take considerable time and allocation 
of resources by the government. 
 It is unlikely the government will be able to address the major concerns 
of both large and small sized businesses in the next two years 
Implications: 
As Hibbett Sporting Goods is considered a small-sized market business, the ability for the 
company to gain economic prosperity in the industry is difficult. With no recognized political 
ties or affiliations demonstrated with the company’s managerial team, it is unlikely that the 
2012 Presidential Election will play any significant impact in the company’s operations. 
However, the issue of tax breaks is a major concern for Hibbett, as many of their stores are 
located in some of the highest tax bracket locations for businesses.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 22 
22 | P a g e 
Competitive Review 
Executive Summary 
Dick’s Sporting Goods is genuinely satisfied with its current situation in the market; however, 
the company still seeks to expand and promote both corporate and financial growth over the 
next few years. The company is addressing both of these issues by expanding to new store 
locations (primarily on the West Coast) and focusing more on its inventory management and 
product mix. Dick’s Sporting Goods primary strengths include its broad assortment of brand 
name merchandise at multiple price points and high quality customer service provided. Certain 
weaknesses or challenges of the company include its inability to offer specialized product 
niches that smaller stores are capable of offering, and its perception of being the leader in the 
sports retailing business, which may result in the company becoming complacent. Also having 
to deal with the issues of sports seasonality can lead to slumps in sales when the bigger popular 
sports are not in season.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 23 
23 | P a g e 
Porter’s 4 Forces Model (Dick’s Sporting Goods) 
Future Goals 
• Accelerate the pace of opening new 
store markets and locations 
• Develop new store functions such as 
"Ship from store" and in-store pickup 
• Accelerate financial growth 
Current Strategy 
• Heighten consumer interest in products 
• Great expertise/service to gain support 
• Offer broad assortment of products at various 
price points 
• Offer the highest quality customer service 
Competitor Response 
Genuinely satisfied, but looking to continue overall growth 
Likely to develop new store functions, accelerate growth 
Vulnerabilities: Seasonal nature of business, potential 
complacency 
Assumptions 
• Believes itself to be the innovative leader 
within the sports retail industry 
• Expects both financial growth and overall 
company expansion growth during 2012 
• Sees newly aquired aquisitions as very 
profitable and beneficial to company 
• Expects to be a more dominant presence on 
the West Coast in the upcoming years 
Capabilities 
• Strength: Large store locations with a 
wide variety of product 
• Strength: User friendly online website 
• Strength: Expanding stores nationwide 
• Weakness: Smaller stores may offer 
better selection on certain niches 
• Weakness: Seasonal nature of business 
Figure 2 - Porter's 4 Forces Model Dick's Sporting Goods
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 24 
24 | P a g e 
Discussion 
Analysis 
Dicks sporting Goods has been very successful in their particular market of the 
retail industry. The company is still looking to expand their overall growth by creating new 
stores at a faster pace and even develop new store functions such as a product rental 
programs for consumers. These strengths of the company lead to Dicks being a power house 
competitor and overall retailer in the industry. However Dicks Sporting Goods can run into 
problems because of the seasonality of the “sports retail” market leading to a slump in sales 
in off seasons for major sports. 
Future Goals 
Dick’s Sporting Goods future goals are to continue to increase the number of store 
locations nationwide until they are able to double the current number of stores they have. 
In addition, the company hopes to accelerate financial growth by focusing much more on 
its product mix and inventory management.37 Finally, Dick’s is looking at modifying 
certain in store functions such as shipping from stores and in store pickup to satisfy recent 
consumer demands. 
Assumptions 
Dick’s views itself as the leader within the sporting goods retailing industry, and only 
expects the company to continue its ongoing success. By offering a broad assortment of 
products at various prices, high quality customer service, and newly developed in store 
functions the company foresees continued leadership within the industry and overall 
growth.38 Finally, the company sees its recent acquisitions of Golf Galaxy, LLC, Chick’s 
Sporting Goods, and Galyan’s Trading Company as a means of future financial growth.39 
Strategies 
Dick’s strategies include offering a broad assortment of products at various prices, 
providing premiere customer service, and heightening consumer interest in products 
through several different means.40 The ultimate focus in each of the specified strategies is 
to “gain a competitive advantage through effective business measures.” Altogether, the use 
of each of these strategies has effectively made Dick’s Sporting Goods the leader within 
the industry.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 25 
Capabilities 
The strengths that make up Dick’s Sporting Goods are primarily based upon their vast 
number of store locations and large quantity/quality of product lines.41 In essence, Dick’s 
maintains and operates almost three hundred more stores and thousands of more products 
then the nearest competitor. However, this same competitive advantage also can be seen 
negatively, as smaller stores may be more capable of offering certain product niches that 
Dick’s simply cannot specialize in. Furthermore, the company has also acknowledged the 
aspect of certain times of the year being more profitable than other times, such as the fourth 
quarter or winter season of the fiscal year.42 
25 | P a g e 
Strengths of Dick’s Sporting Goods 
Broad assortment of brand name 
merchandise at multiple price points. 
Dick’s Sporting Goods carries a wide 
variety, more than any other sports retailer, 
of well-known athletic brands within its 
stores.43 These brands include Nike, Adidas, 
The North Face, Columbia, Callaway Golf 
Merchandise, Under Armour, as well as 
private brand names on an exclusive basis. The wide range of product selections for each 
athletic category allows for the company to address the needs of the consumer, from the 
beginner to the ultimate sport enthusiast.44 The ultimate desire for the company is to develop 
the reputation of having variation of every desired item by its customer basis. 
Exceptional online business support, which shows signs of continued growth and 
development for its customer basis. One of Dick’s Sporting Goods more recognizable strengths 
within the company is its online business website. As many other notable online retailers 
(Amazon, EBay, etc.), have exhibited recent intentions of offering sporting good items/products 
online as well, Dick’s online presence also continues to illustrate signs of financial growth.45 In 
addition, with the continued technological developments occurring annually the need to assist 
customers online has shown to be a necessary aspect for all large retailers.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 26 
Private company labels/products helping boost overall margins. In order to remain a leader 
within the sporting goods retailing industry and aid in boosting margins, Dick’s Sporting Goods 
carries its own private-label brands alongside its name brand products.46 These private label 
products (including Ativa) “sell at margins approximately 5-6 percentage points higher than 
typical branded goods.”47 The incorporation of these private-label products immensely aid the 
gross profit margins of the company, and effectively generate a greater corporate presence 
within. 
26 | P a g e 
Weaknesses of Dick’s Sporting Goods 
Smaller stores may offer better niches or specialized products/services that Dick’s cannot 
match. Being that Dick’s Sporting Goods is the largest sporting goods retailer in the industry, 
the ability for the company to effectively serve all of its customer’s desires is unlikely. In smaller 
retailing stores (such as Hibbett Sporting Goods, Big Five Sporting Goods, etc.), these 
companies are capable of offering certain niches that attract certain consumers, and ultimately 
enable them to receive repeat business.48 To combat this weakness, Dick’s attempts to offer a 
broad assortment of product and provide high quality service. 
Instances of complacency may inhibit successful actions within the competitive environment. 
At the moment, Dick’s Sporting Goods is the most dominant presence within the retail sporting 
goods environment. Their financial portfolio shows continued growth and development, they 
are expanding their corporate presence throughout the United States, and maintain high 
satisfaction ratings from consumers.49 However, with all their current success the possibility for 
the company to become complacent is a growing concern from within their senior management 
team. These individuals fear that the company’s recent success within the industry will 
ultimately distort their views for future business actions and activities. 
Smaller selection of generic products/services that are more affordable for the customer. One 
of the main principles demonstrated by Dick’s Sporting Goods is offering high quality, high-cost 
products that are mostly used by serious sports enthusiasts. The inability to offer lesser-valued 
products that other smaller sporting goods retailers (Big Five Sporting Goods, Hibbett Sporting 
Goods, etc.) are capable of offering limits the company’s overall success. In addition, during this 
struggling economy many individuals are unable to purchase such high priced items, and 
ultimately decide to select the lesser valued product instead.50
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 27 
27 | P a g e 
Background 
In 1948, teenage boy named Dick Stack had been employed at a small Army and Navy store in 
Binghamton, New York. Dick was an enthusiastic outdoorsman and thought about offering a 
business plan to his employer. This plan was to sell fishing gear in the shop. After being turned 
down by his employer he returned home and told his grandma of his recent failure. His 
grandma then gave him $300 of her own money and told him to follow his dreams. He took 
that $300 and opened his own bait and tackle shop. By the late 1950s, to respond to his loyal 
customers he expanded his product lines to include many of the things that are found in 
present day stores. Now, Dick’s Sporting Goods now has over 450 stores, offer the highest 
quality products in sports, outdoors, and apparel. Dick’s also owns and operates Golf Galaxy, 
which is a retailer for golf specialty items.51 
Timeline 
1948 
•Dick Stack starts his own bait-and-tackle shop in Binghamton 
1958 
•The small shop becomes a full-fledged sporting goods store, known as Dick's Clothing and Sporting Goods 
1984 
•After Dick Stack retires, his son Edward becomes CEO and president; plans expansion of sporting goods 
superstore concept. 
1992 
•Dick's begins expansion outside Binghamton area. 
1994 
•Dick's relocates to Pittsburgh; the company operates 22 stores in four states. 
1996 
•Over 50 stores are in operation, generating an estimated $10 million in sales per store. 
1999 
•Chain Store Age Executive names Edward Stack Retail Entrepreneur of the Year; company name is changed 
to Dick's Sporting Goods. 
2001 
•Sales exceed $1 billion with more than 130 stores. 
2002 
•Dick's Sporting Goods becomes a public company.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 28 
28 | P a g e 
Dick’s Sporting Goods Management Team 
Officer 2011 Compensation Experience 
Edward W. Stack 
Age: 57 
Executive Chairman and CEO 
Total 
Compensation:$11,114,002 
Salary: $961,538 
Executive Chairman and CEO since 1984 
President since 2006 
Been with Dicks since 1977 and held a 
variety of positions including store manager 
and merchandise manager 
Executive Director since 1984 
Serves on the Board of Directors of the 
National Federation 
Joseph H. Schmidt 
Age: 52 
President and Chief Operating 
Officer 
Total Compensation: 
$3,818,570 
Salary: $728,269 
Chief Operating Officer and President since 
2009 
Executive V.P. since 2008 
Was previously the Senior V.P. of Store 
Operations since 2005 and served as V.P. of 
Store Operations since2001 
Served multiple positions from 1981-1990 
Timothy E. Kullman 
Age: 56 
Chief Financial Officer, Executive 
V.P. of Finance & Administration 
and Trasurer 
Total Compensation: 
$2,061,244 
Salary: $ 563,327 
Executive V.P., Finance & Administration and 
Chief Finance Officer since 2008 
Served as V.P. and Chief Financial Officer of 
PetSmart from 2002-2007 
During his 5 years he oversaw great financial 
growth 
Executive V.P. and Chief Financial Officer for 
Hagameyer North America Holdings Inc from 
2001-2002 
Served as Senior V.P., Chief Financial Officer 
and Treasurer for Delchamps Inc. 1994-1997 
John G. Duken 
Age:51 
Executive V.P. of Global 
Merchandising 
Shares Owned: 102,633 
Market Value: $5,270,000 
Executive V.P. of Global Merchandising since 
February 2012. 
Holds BS in finance from the University of 
Southern California 
Lauren R. Hobart 
Age: 43 
Chief Marketing Officer and Senior 
V.P. 
Total Compensation: 
$2,656,351 
Salary: 416,827 
Senior V.P. and Chief Marketing since joining 
Dicks in February 2011 
Worked at PepsiCo as Chief Marketing 
Officer, and several years in strategic 
planning 
Before PepsiCo she worked for JP Morgan 
Chase and Wells Fargo
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 29 
29 | P a g e 
Analysis 
Dick’s Sporting Goods as a Board of Executives that range in various fields throughout 
the retail industry. The board consists of well-educated and experienced men and women all of 
which are middle aged with several years of experience whether with Dick’s or other well-known 
retailers. These executives combine their knowledge to be one of the strongest retailers 
of sporting goods and apparel. They all have been working together for some time with the 
exception of John Duken who just joined Dick’s in February 2012. 
Products and Services 
Executive Summary 
Dick’s Sporting Goods stores across the nation feature a variety of “stores-within-a-store.” 
These six stores are: Golf Pro Shop, The Lodge, Fitness, Team Sports, Footwear, and 
Athletic Apparel. Also, Golf Galaxy™, a subsidiary of Dicks Sporting Goods, features an even 
broader product line of golf equipment. The concept of having stores within-a-store allow 
Dick’s Sporting Goods to be a major retailer with the expertise of a private boutique. Dick’s 
Sporting Goods doesn’t only pride themselves on their top brands and exclusive products, but 
also their competitive pricing and an established eCommerce site that offers interactive 
capabilities with their brick-and-mortar locations. In 2011, Dick’s Sporting Goods relied on the 
sales of their “hardlines”, this includes sporting goods, fitness equipment, outdoor gear, and 
golf equipment (figure 3). It is highly likely that in the next 24 months Dick’s Sporting Goods will 
continued to push the sales of their hardlines. 
Figure 3 - Dick's Sporting Goods Merchandising
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 30 
30 | P a g e 
Golf Pro Shop 
The Golf Pro Shop at Dick’s Sporting Goods 
features equipment, apparel, footwear, and 
accessories from the top national brands. These 
brands include: Taylor Made, Callaway Golf, Titleist 
Golf, Adams Golf, Footjoy, and Nike. Dick’s Sporting 
Goods also offers specialty services including custom fitting, club 
repair, and re-gripping. On-hand working in their Golf Pro Shops Dick’s Sporting Goods boasts 
more than 450 PGA and LPGA pros on hand to help out their customers and offer their own 
advice.52 
The Lodge 
The Lodge at Dick’s Sporting Goods is targeted 
towards the outdoors enthusiast with products for hunting, 
camping, and fishing. The assortment of products includes 
both “tried-and-true” products as well as products harnessing 
the latest technology. Featured brands names in The Lodge 
include: Coleman, Remington, Shimano, and Old Town. The 
Lodge also offers many in store services including: rifle-scope 
mounting, bore sighting, fishing line spooling and arrow cutting. Hands-on displays located 
within The Lodge allow customers to get a first-hand look at what their purchasing and test the 
product before they buy.53 
Fitness 
The Fitness area in a Dick’s Sporting Goods 
store offers big box products, like exercise machines 
and weight sets, as well as fitness accessories like 
footwear, apparel, and supplements. Brand names 
include: LIVESTRONG, Precor, Nautilus, SKLZ, and 
Everlast. Included in the fitness section is Dick’s 
Sporting Goods very own bicycle shop that sells, 
repairs, and tunes bicycles. Bike shop brands include 
Diamondback, Yakima, Pearl Izumi, Giro, and Bell. 54
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 31 
31 | P a g e 
Team Sports 
The Team Sports section of Dick’s Sporting Goods offers products for the following 
sports: Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Ice Hockey, Field Hockey, Basketball, Football, Lacrosse, 
Volleyball, and Wrestling. The brand names that are carried in this section are the industry 
leading brands, including: Nike, adidas, Under Armour, Mizuno, Wilson, Easton, Rawling, STX, 
and Warrior. Sales associates in this section of the store are avid players and coaches that have 
experience using the products. Dick’s Sporting Goods is also the recognized retailer of Little 
League Baseball. Dick’s Sporting Goods offers team discounts as well as donations.55 
Footwear 
Dick’s Sporting Goods offers a “shared-service ” 
concept in their Footwear sections. This means that 
customers can help themselves to the products on display, 
with employees walking around to service them if needed. 
The footwear section is dedicated to footwear for any 
sport, as well as shoe accessories, performance socks, and 
insoles. Leading footwear manufacturers include: Nike, 
Adidas, Asics, Brooks, Mizuno, Saucony, and Reebok. The 
footwear section is also host to outdoor footwear from brands: Timberland, KEEN, Reef, and 
their own Field & Stream line.5657 
Athletic Apparel 
Dick’s Athletic Apparel store carries an extensive 
collection of sports apparel for men, women, and children. 
Dick’s focuses on high-technology fabrics that are specific 
for athlete’s needs. The merchandise in the section features 
leading manufacturer’s brands: Nike, Under Armour, 
Reebok, and Adidas. Also included in the athletic apparel 
section is an outerwear section which features jackets and 
pants for hunting, camping, skiing, and snowboarding. 
Brand names include Columbia and The North Face.58
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 32 
32 | P a g e 
Golf Galaxy 
Golf Galaxy is a subsidiary of Dick’s Sporting Goods dedicated to the sport of golf. 59 Golf 
Galaxy provides a world class selection of golf equipment, more expansive than that of the Golf 
Pro Shop in Dick’s Sporting Goods. Golf Galaxy features equipment, apparel, footwear, 
accessories, and custom services. The golf industry’s premiere manufacturers are featured in 
the store, brand names include: Taylor Made, PING, Titleist, Callaway Golf, Adams Golf, 
Cleveland, Nike Golf, and Footjoy. Golf Galaxy is also home to their own private brands: Walter 
Hagen, Nickent, Slazenger, and Puma. Golf Galaxy also offers a host of services, they include: 
club repair, club fitting, golf course simulators, putting greens, and indoor driving bays. The 
staff at Golf Galaxy is comprised of PGA and LPGA professionals.60 
Marketing Activities and Trends 
Executive Summary 
It is highly likely that in the next 24 months Dick’s Sporting Goods will continue to use 
more lifestyle advertising in supplement to their usual event advertising. With the addition of 
Anomaly as their marketing agency, Dick’s Sporting Goods is likely to spend more money on 
marketing as well as change the way people see the company. Dick’s Sporting Goods is making 
the change to be more than just somewhere people go to shop, but as a brand. 
Discussion 
In the past, Dick’s Sporting Goods has relied on in-house marketing teams and various 
production companies to get the word out about their stores. Usually this meant newspaper 
clippings and annual events.61 Though successful, Dick’s Sporting Goods has recently decided to 
increase their presents in the sports retail 
industry and shift from being somewhere people 
shop, to a brand name. 62 This is the first time 
Dick’s Sporting Goods will be launching an 
overarching brand campaign that will impact the 
entire year, instead of just a particular season. 
Figure 4 - Dick's Sporting Goods New Marketing 
Campaign
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 33 
The new ad campaigns being run by Dick’s Sporting Goods 
feature in-sports footage, as well as all the hard work that leads up to 
it. They focus on the lifestyle of the athlete and all the dedication 
that they put into the sport, and try to incorporate that into the 
Dick’s brand name. As seen in figure 4, the ads are much more 
dramatic and personal, whereas in figure 5 the ads are used to 
promote sales events in the store. 
The recent choice to invest in the Anomaly Agency as their 
marketing agency is allowing Dick’s Sporting Goods to advertise and 
market their stores on a much larger level. This recent decision 
Figure 5 - Dick's Sporting 
Goods Old Marketing 
Campaign 
follows the appointment of Lauren Hobart, a veteran marketing guru for PepsiCo for 14 years, 
and now the head of marketing for Dick’s Sporting Goods.63 
Dick’s Sporting Goods will continue to advertise in newspapers, direct mail, and 
seasonal on local television and radio. But in addition, this new marketing strategy will allow 
Dick’s Sporting Goods to market on a national level. 
In addition marketing and advertising, Dick’s Sporting Goods also features a “ScoreCard 
Rewards Card”, in which their customers can earn points and eventually earn gift certificates. 
ScoreCard members are also receive exclusive offers as well as deals relative to their sports 
preferences and past history of purchases.64 
33 | P a g e 
Operation-Capacities 
Executive Summary 
Dick’s Sporting Goods has a large amount of stores nationwide as well as four large 
distribution centers. With more than 1,200 vendors, Dick’s Sporting Goods is able to purchase 
goods and distribute them to each of their stores in an extremely efficient manner thanks to 
new advanced technological systems. In addition to their current stores, Dick’s Sporting Goods 
is planning on doubling their size in the future to over 900 stores nationwide. It is highly likely 
that Dick’s Sporting Goods will continue to invest money in new stores and distribution centers 
in the next 24 months.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 34 
Figure 6 - Dick's Sporting Goods Locations Figure 7 - Dick's Sporting Goods Store 
Figure 8 - Dick's Sporting Goods Store Information 
34 | P a g e 
Discussion 
Dick’s Sporting Goods features 480 
stores in 40 states, as well as 81 Golf Galaxy 
stores. As seen in figure 6, this number is 
increasing rapidly every year. In 2011 alone 
Dick’s Sporting Goods opened 36 stores, 
that’s an 8.1 percent growth rate (figure 7). 
Growth 
Dick’s Sporting Goods plans on growing at an 
even higher rate in 2012.65 Dick’s Sporting 
Goods is ultimately planning on opening over 400 more stores, almost doubling their size.66 In 
addition to opening new stores, Dick’s Sporting Goods is also remodeling their older stores. In 
2011 alone, Dick’s Sporting Goods remodeled 14 of their stores, and in 2010, 12 of their stores 
(figure 8).67 
Dick’s Sporting Goods has four distribution centers nationwide. A 725,000 square foot 
distribution center in Plainfield, Indiana, a 657,000 square foot distribution center in Atlanta, 
Georgia, a 601,000 square foot distribution center in Smithton, Pennsylvania, and lastly, a 
624,000 square foot distribution center in Goodyear, Arizona.68 Products are purchased from 
approximately 1,200 vendors and then sent to these distribution centers. From there, the 
products are allocated and it is determined how much of which product will go to each store.69
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 35 
In order to maximize margins Dick’s Sporting Goods has placed a large emphasis on 
inventory management. Recent advanced technological tools are now allowing Dick’s Sporting 
Goods to develop systems that optimize prices, merchandise sizing, and package optimization. 
This will allow Dick’s Sporting Goods to more closely correlate inventory allocations decisions to 
the specific needs of each store.70 
35 | P a g e 
Dick’s Sporting Goods Strategies 
• Corporate emphasis of maintaining an upscale focus 
A great deal of Dick’s Sporting Goods corporate success is directly linked to the company’s 
ability to illustrate an emphasis on higher-performance products designed for serious athletes 
or enthusiasts. Although, the company also offers products at various ability and price levels as 
well to assist certain consumer demands. With the company’s focus on higher quality and 
higher-priced products, Dick’s maintains a competitive advantage over its other sporting goods 
and general merchandise retailers. Through this method of premium pricing, Dick’s is able to 
gain favorable perceptions among buyers, which inevitably causes greater corporate success. 
• Increase brand presence through various marketing concepts and schemes 
The notion of establishing a strong brand presence throughout the United States is a pivotal 
component of Dick’s Sporting Goods overall competitive business strategy. A clear example of 
this expressed concept was during 2011, when Dick’s attempted to gain a stronger brand 
presence in Ohio. During this marketing campaign, Dick’s distributed thousands of discount 
offers (at approximately 22 events), received mention by over 50 media outlets, and gave over 
$10,000 in various promotions and sweepstakes. Altogether, the company was able to 
significantly increase its brand presence in Ohio, and has continued to effectively implement 
such strategies in other locations as well. 
• New growth initiatives to expand the company’s overall outlook 
Over the course of the last several years, Dick’s Sporting Goods has exhibited rapid expansion 
and technological developments to better serve its cliental. For the fiscal 2012 year, “Dick’s 
operated 500 stores in 44 states,” and recent forecasts show that the long-term prospects of 
the company are to continue its rapid expansion. Overall, the company aims at opening an 
additional 400 stores, which would target a total store count of 900. In terms of technological 
developments, the company aims at offering top-notch customer experiences by introducing a 
new mobile application for IPhones and Android Smartphones. The application provides the
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 36 
customer with the nearest store location, ongoing sales events and discounts, as well as the 
ease of buying goods directly from the mobile application. Both of these measures indicate 
that the immediate future of Dick’s Sporting Goods is quite promising, and will ultimately 
enhance its customer service. 
• Newly acquired acquisitions demonstrate future growth and development in 
certain prosperous sporting retail markets 
In recent years, the acquisitions of the intellectual property rights to the Top-Flight brand from 
Callaway Golf Company, Chick’s Sporting Goods, and Golf Galaxy, LLC have shown positive 
growth in terms of financial statements and reports. In addition, these various business 
acquisitions have also opened Dick’s Sporting Goods up to newer and more promising 
marketplaces, which many sources believe will yield future profits as well. Altogether, it is with 
these specific mergers and acquisitions that Dick’s Sporting Goods hopes to gain a substantial 
control over the sporting goods retail industry. 
36 | P a g e 
Financial Summary: Dick’s Sporting Goods 
Dicks Sporting Goods had been able to increase their revenues from $4.5B to $5.2B in 
the past four years due to their market strategy and competitive capability. Also Dicks Sporting 
goods have been able to increase its overall Net Profit steadily every year.71 
Figure 9 - Dick's Sporting Goods Stock Prices
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 37 
37 | P a g e 
Acquisitions 
 2004 Dicks Sporting Goods acquires Galyans Trading Company along with stocks and 
locations72 
 In 2007 Dicks Sporting Goods acquired Los Angeles based “Chicks Sporting Goods” 
 2011 Upper Management talk about acquiring an E-Commerce Company, but did not name 
targets 
Net Income Overview 
2011 
$263,906 
2010 
$182,077 
2009 
$135,359 
2008 
$(39,865) 
2007 
$150,566 
Dicks Sporting Goods has had a strong net income the past five years, creating a larger return 
on investment for the shareholders of the company. 
Dick’s Sporting Goods Current/Recent Key Events 
 Dick’s Sporting Goods reports home-run first quarter in 2012 
The recent financial figures of Dick’s Sporting Goods reported that the overall earnings 
of the company topped both Wall Street’s view and the fiscal year forecast of the 
company.73 The company stated, “it earned $57.2 million, or 45 cents a share in 2012, 
compared with a year-earlier it earned $37.5 million, or 30 cents a share in 2011.”74 This 
strong first quarter in 2012 also illustrates future financial growth as well. 
 Newly developed DICK’s Sporting Goods Mobile Application 
To further enhance the mobile and in-store experience for customers, Dick’s announced 
the development of their Sporting Goods Mobile Application on 20 September 2012.75 
Users will now have access to store locations, the benefits of the Score Card Reward 
Program, and make purchases from the store over their mobile devices. This recent 
development has prompted for a new relation between consumers and the company as 
a whole.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 38 
38 | P a g e 
 Building distribution site for western half of the United States 
Dick’s began construction of a distribution center, during 2011, in Goodyear, AZ that will 
be completed by January 2013. The site will serve as the regional outpost for all 
necessary shipping and receiving, distribution, and storage products. Most importantly, 
this site grants Dick’s Sporting Goods greater access to the western half of the United 
States, as the company did not have a strong anchoring in this part of the country.76 
Timeline Analysis of Dick’s Sporting Goods Recent Events 
Acquisitions & Expansion 
1997 
• Dick's Sporting Goods begins operating and opening stores in Florida and 
California 
2004 
• Dick's aquires 48 locations from Galyan's Trading Company, which was another 
sporting goods store 
2007 
• Dick's aquires Golf Galaxy, LLC and its 65 golf superstores 
• Dick's aquires Chick's Sporting Goods, a California based company 
2010 
• Company plans expansion into California, Oregon, and Washington with a total 
of six new store locations 
2011 
• First Dick's Sporting Goods opens in Oklahoma 
2012 
• Dick's plans to build its first store in New Mexico during the summer
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 39 
Executive Summary 
Big Five Sporting Goods is moderately satisfied with its current situation in the market, but the 
company is seeking to improve its recent financial decline and instability that has occurred over 
the past three years. It is addressing these issues by expanding the number of retail stores the 
company has through a controlled growth strategy, meaning that they will very slowly expand 
into areas picked strategically to give the highest chance of success for the company, which is 
primarily occurring on the West Coast of the United States. The primary strengths of Big Five 
Sporting Goods are its capability of developing a niche within communities of stores and its 
effective marketing techniques that target their consumer demographics. Certain weaknesses 
or challenges of the company include its relatively small store capacities and overall size of the 
corporation as a whole, as well as its absence of online support to its consumer basis for socially 
connecting through Facebook and/or Twitter or even a shopping network. Altogether, the 
company is still a small market competitor within the industry environment, and requires more 
growth and development before it is taken more seriously as a “strong” competitor. 
39 | P a g e
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 40 
40 | P a g e 
Porter’s 4 Forces Model (Big 5 Sporting Goods) 
Future Goals 
• Improve financial decline and instability 
that occured over the past three years 
• Expand retail stores using a strategy 
consisting of controlled growth 
• Attempt to maximize investor relations 
Current Strategy 
• Expanding stores on the West Coast 
• Refined merchandising strategy to increase 
net sales 
• Offer broad assortment of products, so 
customer may be able to compare shop 
• Manage inventory levels accordingly 
Competitor Response 
Moderately satisfied, but looking to continue overall growth 
Likely to expand slightly using controlled growth strategy 
Vulnerabilities: Lack of online support to address customers 
Assumptions 
• Believes itself to be a very personable 
sports retailer 
• Expects marginal growth over the coming 
years, but understanding of economy 
• Sees recent expansion as potential for 
future growth and development 
• Assumes itself as providing substantially 
better customer service than competitors 
Capabilities 
• Strength: Capability of developing a niche 
within communities of stores 
• Strength: Effective marketing techniques 
to target their consumer demographics 
• Strength: Expanding store size/locations 
• Weakness: Lack of online support, limited 
customer basis 
Discussion 
Figure 10 - Porter's 4 Forces Model Big 5 Sporting Goods 
Analysis 
Big 5 Sporting Goods has done well in the retail industry and the company plans to expand 
their stores and products using a controlled growth strategy, meaning that they will expand 
slowly in areas that they feel they will have the best opportunity for success. However Big 5 
will run into issues with consumers because of its lack of online support and shopping access 
in the changing market.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 41 
Future Goals 
Big Five Sporting Goods future goals are to expand their retail store coverage by 
effectively implementing a controlled growth strategy.77 In addition, the company hopes to 
develop market relations with certain organizations, groups, and other businesses to 
improve the company’s status within the sports retail industry. Finally, the company is 
attempting to recover from its financial instability and decline that occurred over the past 
few years.78 
Assumptions 
The company views itself as one of the more legitimate and personable sports retailers in 
the United States. During the last several years, Big Five Sporting Goods had significant 
financial negativities, however they view their recent developments and expansions as a 
sign of potential growth and development. Ultimately, the company understands the current 
economic situation and that it may take some time before the financial figures of the 
company will show a positive growth.79 
Strategies 
Big Five Sporting Goods strategies include refining its merchandising strategy to increase 
net sales, manage inventory levels accordingly, and offer a broad assortment of products to 
allow consumers to compare shop.80 Recently, the company has sought expansion in the 
North West, South West, and West Coast of North America. These recent developments 
have enabled the company to accomplish certain aspects regarding several of their 
emphasized corporate strategies. 
Capabilities 
The strengths that make up Big Five Sporting Goods are primarily based upon the 
capability of the company to develop a niche, ability to effectively target their consumer 
demographics, and recent ability to expand in store sizes/locations.81 The company is 
perceived as a community-oriented sports retailer, that effectively adjusts its business 
model to meet the ongoing demands of both the market and consumers as a whole. 
However, Big Five Sporting Goods emphasis on being a small-market sporting goods 
retailer somewhat limits the businesses activities and actions within the competitive 
environment.82 
41 | P a g e
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 42 
42 | P a g e 
Strengths of Big Five Sporting Goods 
Capability of developing a niche within communities of store locations. The numerous Big Five 
Sporting Good locations and accessible store format encourages frequent customer visits to 
each respective store location.83 Each instance that a customer enters a Big Five Sporting Goods 
store location they receive excellent customer service, as the stores are much smaller than 
bigger sporting retailers (such as Dick’s) and the Big Five staff is capable of addressing each 
specific customer that enters their stores. Altogether, this makes the customers shopping 
experience more enjoyable and they are likely to encourage others to come to Big Five and will 
repeat business themselves. 
Effective marketing techniques 
that target the company’s 
specific demographics. Big Five 
Sporting Goods marketing and 
advertising techniques are highly 
effective with their consumer 
basis. The company primarily 
uses print advertisements that 
have an average weekly distribution of over 18 million newspapers.84 Some of the full-line 
retailers are unable to match the inserts or mailers received by Big Five customers, which 
makes the company more recognized within given communities. Altogether, the consistency 
and reach of the company’s print advertising programs drives sales and creates high customer 
awareness of the name “Big Five Sporting Goods.”85 
Strong vender relationships that provide a wide assortment of various products. Over the past 
five decades, Big Five Sporting Goods has developed very strong 
relationships with various venders throughout the United States. 
Currently, the company purchases merchandise from roughly 800 
vendors including apparel, footwear, outdoor equipment, and 
other products.86 Only one other company maintains gr eater 
relationships with other vendors and that is Dick’s Sporting Goods. 
The company truly benefits from the long-term relationships that 
senior management has worked diligently in building.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 43 
43 | P a g e 
Weaknesses of Big Five Sporting Goods 
Limited number of overall stores and customer basis. When evaluating Big Five Sporting 
Goods, it is important to emphasize that the company is strictly located on the West Coast in 
lower populated communities. It only operates in this manner, because it wishes to avoid major 
competitors such as Dick’s Sporting Goods and Wal-Mart. Because the company is quite limited 
in this capacity, the number of stores and its customer basis is considerably smaller than other 
major sporting goods retailers that exist within the marketplace.87 
Lack of an online presence demonstrates a small market presence within the competitive 
environment. One of the major weaknesses demonstrated by Big Five Sporting Goods is its 
incapability of fulfilling online orders to serve its customers. While most of the company’s 
business is from repeat customers that do not wish to acquire their items online, the absence of 
an online presence for the company is a major component of them remaining in a small market 
setting.88 The growing trend of online retailing is a necessary factor for all businesses, and those 
that do not wish to incorporate this idea will be the companies that struggle and possibly cease 
to exist. 
Recent financial struggles have inevitably caused the company debt that must be addressed. 
Over the course of the last three years, Big Five Sporting Goods has seen an influx in its overall 
debt due to the economic recession, a struggling product mix and inventory management 
system, as well as recent managerial failures exhibited by senior officials89 While the company 
is addressing each of these issues, the ability to fix these problems will take a great deal of time. 
However, recent financial reports indicate that the company is showing a modest financial 
growth over the last few months.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 44 
44 | P a g e 
Background 
Big 5 Sporting Goods was founded in 1955. It was founded by Maurie and Harry Liff and 
the present chairman Robert W. Miller. The first five stores had been in spread out through 
Southern California and the stores had been named “Big 5 Stores”. The founders had not been 
concerned with whether the name was strong or not. In its early years, Big 5 was known to sell 
military surplus items such as tents and air mattresses. The company was known for 
manufacturing itself and sold assorted household items and even tools. With the help of print 
advertisements, their only form of advertisement, they grew greatly and sold large numbers of 
products. But when sports emerged as a major trend in 1963, Big 5 management saw it fit to 
specialize in it. That same year, Big 5 Stores soon became Big 5 Sporting Goods.90 
Timeline 
1955 
•United Merchandising is formed using the trade name "Big 5 Stores." 
1963 
•Operating name is changed to "Big 5 Sporting Goods" as the chain specializes in sporting goods. 
1971 
•Thrifty Corp. acquires the chain. 
1986 
•Thrifty is acquired by Pacific Enterprises. 
1992 
•Big 5 is acquired in management-led buyout financed by Leonard Green & Partners. 
1997 
•The company is recapitalized, with majority ownership passing to employees. 
2002 
•Big 5 goes public.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 45 
45 | P a g e 
Big 5 Sporting Goods Management Team 
Officer 
2011 
Compensation 
Experience 
Steven G. Miller 
Age: 60 
CEO, President, and Chairman 
of the Board 
Total 
Compensation: 
$811,828 
Salary: $485,000 
Bonus: $140,000 
CEO since 2000 
President and Chairman since 1992 
Executive V.P. 1992-2000 
Administration 1988-1992 
Barry D. Emerson 
Age: 54 
Chief Financial Officer, Principal 
Accounting Officer , Senior V.P. 
and Treasurer 
Total 
Compensation: 
$491,103 
Salary: $333,000 
Bonus: $ 92,500 
Chief Financial Officer, Senior V.P. and 
Treasurer since 2005 
V.P., Treasurer, and Chief Financial 
Officer of U.S. Auto Parts since July 5, 
2005 
V.P., Treasurer, and Chief Financial 
Officer of Elite Information Group Inc. 
from 1999-2004 
Boyd O. Clark 
Age: 54 
Senior Vice President of Buying 
Total 
Compensation: 
$408,136 
Salary: $231,808 
Bonus: $76,000 
Senior V.P. of Buying since 2011 
35 years of Retail Experience 
Served in the Buying Department since 
1992 
Prior to Big 5, he was a buyer and 
Divisional Merchandise Manager at 
another regional retailer 
Richard A. Johnson 
Age: 66 
Executive Vice President 
Total 
Compensation: 
$416,351 
Salary: $250,000 
Bonus: $100,000 
Executive V.P. since 2007 
Senior V.P. of Store Operations 1992- 
2007 
Been with Big 5 for 36 years 
V.P. of Store Operations from 1982- 
1992 
Shane O. Starr 
Age: 54 
Senior Vice President of 
Operations 
Total 
Compensation: 
$60,481 
Senior V.P. of Operations since 2007 
Been with Big 5 for 28 years 
Served as V.P. of Operations since 1999
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 46 
46 | P a g e 
Analysis 
The Big 5 Sporting Goods management consists of five executive officers who along with the 
board make all of the executive decisions regarding the company and its future. Most of the men on 
serving as high management are middle aged and have served with the company for a long time. All of 
which have significant experience in the retail industry. 
Products 
Sporting Goods 
Big 5 Sporting goods stores offer a wide variety of recreational sporting goods to the 
customer. Big 5 Sporting Goods offers a wide variety of goods from soft goods to hard goods. 
Their product mix includes athletic sportswear and fan gear, as well as equipment for outdoor 
activities and team sports. These products range from known brands like Nike and Under 
Armour to smaller private labels that Big 5 Sporting Goods itself owns. 
Brands 
Big 5 offers a wide variety of top brands in the sporting goods industry. They include : 
Adidas, Crocs,Head, K-Swiss, Razor, Spalding, Asics, Crosman, Heelys, Lifetime, Reebok, Speedo, 
Bearpaw Easton Hillerich & Bradsby Mizuno, Remington, Timex, Browning, Everlast, Icon 
(Proform), New Balance, Rollerblade, TitleistBushnell, Fila, Impex, Nike, Russell Athletic, Under 
Armour, Coleman, Footjoy, JanSport, Prince, Saucony, Wilson, Converse, Franklin, K2, Rawlings, 
Shimano, Zebco91 
Private Labels 
There use of selling private labels represents 3% of our net sales. It allows Big 5 to offer 
the customer with a wider range of goods and at a variety of prices. These products are sold 
under Big 5’s trademarks they own or if they are licensed to them by third parties. The use of 
private labels lets Big 5 be able to target smaller markets with products with good value at a 
cheaper price. 92
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 47 
47 | P a g e 
Marketing Activities and Trends 
Executive Summary 
Big 5 marketing activities look to focus on reaching their target market. Their market is 
smaller neighborhoods. Big 5 Sporting Goods uses marketing strategies such as weekly ads in 
newspapers, emails, and social media to connect with their customers. Big 5 Sporting Goods is 
able to connect with their customers directly. 
Discussion 
Big 5 sporting goods targets a smaller niche, they focus in 
on the smaller neighborhoods. Big 5 Sporting Goods uses weekly 
print advertisements to help reach a greater number of 
households. This strategy has been in use since 1955. The print 
advertisements are primarily a four page color print that shows 
off promotions in their sporting goods. The ads are distributed 
through over 18 million newspaper inserts.93 
Big 5 Sporting Goods uses an in-house advertising staff to 
produce their paper ads. In doing so, they have the flexibility to 
choose their own designs for their advertisement. Also with 
having an in house advertisement they are capable to react 
quickly to merchandise trends and work with management to 
maximize the effectiveness of the paper ads. 94 
Big 5 also use social media to connect with their 
customers. They have an E-team that focuses on social media sites such as Facebook and 
Twitter. With twitter Big 5 Sporting Goods will sometimes use the media site to promote 
various deals. They also contact their customers through email subscriptions. 95
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 48 
48 | P a g e 
Operations and Capacity 
Executive Summary 
Big 5 Sporting Goods Corporate offices are located in California. In a result of this Big 5 
Sporting Goods stores are located in the western part of the country. Not only are their stores 
in the west, they also own distribution centers as well. Big 5 Sporting Goods has been recently 
growing with adding new stores each year. 
Discussion 
Currently Big 5 Sporting Goods has 406 stores in the western part of the US. In the past 
five years Big 5 has opened up 73 new stores. They mainly are located in California in which 
38% of their stores are located. Their stores are on average 11,000 square feet. This helps Big 5 
to target smaller neighborhoods. Big 5 Sporting Goods has continued to expand since 2007 and 
have continued to do since. 96 
Big 5 Sporting Goods does not 
manufacture the goods they sell. They 
have to maintain a good relationship 
with the vendors. They purchase from 
over 800 vendors, and have had good 
relationships with vendors for 57 years. 
They also have a fully integrated 
management information system. This 
helps Big 5 sporting goods to get a 
report of sales, support merchandise 
management, inventory receiving and 
distribution, as well as business 
Figure 11 - Big 5 Sporting Goods Locations 
intelligence retail analytics tools. 97 
Their distribution center is located in Riverside, California. The facility is 953,000 square 
feet. From this warehouse Big 5 uses leased tractors to distribute to all of their stores at least 
once a week. Oregon is also home to a small distribution hub. This 12,000 square foot facility 
enables trailers of products to ship to the Pacific Northwest. This helped to shorten the trip and 
make the distribution more efficient. 98
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 49 
49 | P a g e 
Financial Summary: Big 5 Sporting Goods 
Over the past five years Big Five Sporting Goods has seen Net Revenue shrink from $20.6 
million to $11.7 million due to their target market and overall competitive ability in the 
market.99 
Figure 12 - Big 5 Sporting Goods Stock Prices 
Net Income Overview 
2011 
$11,673 
2010 
$20,562 
2009 
$21,811 
2008 
$13,904 
2007 
$28,091 
Big Five Sporting Goods is declining in both share price and net income, resulting in a smaller 
return on investment for the shareholders of the company; decreasing the competitive ability 
for the company. 
Current Events/Key Aspects: Big 5 Sporting Goods 
 May 16, 2012 Adidas (the world’s second largest sports 
retailer) sued Gig Five Sporting Goods for selling “Knock off” that 
were made to look like the company of Adidas.100 
 April 2011, Big Five Sporting Goods is sued for “False 
Advertisement”, said to have been advertising tennis, 
racquet ball equipment for a certain price and changing 
stores or register. The Company settled this lawsuit after paying $4M.101
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 50 
50 | P a g e 
Financial Analysis 
Financial Analysis of Hibbett Sporting Goods 2009-2011 
Hibbett Financial Ratio's 2009 Change 2010 Change 2011 
Asset Turnover 2.4 -0.26 2.14 -0.02 2.12 
Avg. Inventory Investment 40 3 43 -3 40 
Accounts Recievable 5% -2% 3% 0 3% 
Debt to Equity 10% 1% 11% -2% 9% 
Debt to Assets 6% 1% 7% -1% 6% 
Current Ratio 2.36:1 0.41 2.76:1 0.1 2.86:1 
Acid-Test Ratio .33:1 0.32 .65:1 0.21 .86:1 
Return on Assets 13% -1% 12% 3% 15% 
Return on Equity 22% -3% 19% 4% 23% 
Profit Margin 5% 0 5% 2% 7% 
Earnings Per Share $0.96 $0.06 $1.02 $0.09 $1.11 
P/E $18.93 -$1.76 $17.17 $3.53 $20.70 
Executive Summary 
Hibbett Sporting Goods appears to be in a stable financial condition. The financial ratios 
indicate that the company has made changes recently to better manage internal issues such as 
debt management and return on assets and shares. However the company still continues to 
struggle with the liquidity of assets. The ratios are very low compared to the satisfactory 1:1 
ratios of the market. Better inventory and asset management is needed for the company to 
become more favorable for profits. Compared to the industry Hibbett has a favorable Profit 
Margin with almost a +5% over the industry average. Hibbett also has a better Return on Assets 
with nearly 9% over the industry average.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 51 
Asset Turnover Ratio 
Accounts Recievable 
51 | P a g e 
Activity and Efficiency 
Asset Turnover Ratio 
This formula determines how well the business is utilizing its assets to generate new sales 
revenue. It is better to have a higher ratio between the numbers. This means that the company 
has less money tied up in assets. 
Hibbett Sporting Goods ratio in 2011 was 
2.12, which is much worse than in 2009 at 2.4 and 
still not as good as 2010 at 2.14. These ratios 
show that over the past three years the company 
has become less efficient in asset turnover. This 
means that Hibbett hasn’t been able to generate 
new sales revenue has quickly in the past three 
years. Although the drop in the ratio is minimal it 
is because of some money tied up in assets. 
Average Inventory Investment Period 
2.4 
2.2 
2 
This number indicates the number of days it 
takes to convert a dollar of cash outflow to a dollar of 
sales. It is better to have a smaller number with this 
formula. A longer inventory investment period 
requires a higher investment in inventory, which 
translates to less available cash. 
In 2011 Hibbett had a ratio of 40 which is 
an improvement from 2010 which was 43 and is 
the same as 2009. Overall Hibbett remains 
45 
40 
35 
Average Inventory 
Turnover (In Days) 
2009 2010 2011 
Average 
Inventory 
Turnover (In 
Days) 
pretty constant with its inventory investment 
periods. 
Accounts Receivable 
This number indicates sales for which 
payment has not yet been collected by a company. A 
lower ratio is desired in this formula because it shows 
that companies are being paid for their work and 
money is no longer tied up in accounts receivable. 
6.00% 
4.00% 
2.00% 
0.00% 
2009 2010 2011 
Accounts 
Recievable 
1.8 
2009 2010 2011 
Asset 
Turnover 
Ratio
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 52 
In 2011 Hibbett had a ratio of 3%, remaining consistent with 2010 and maintaining 
much improvement from 2009’s 5%. Overall Hibbett does well with its accounts receivables. 
This means that Hibbett is paid more quickly and has more money coming in quicker from 
companies. As a retail store they don’t offer credit therefore the number is lower. 
Debt to Equity 
Debt to Assets 
52 | P a g e 
Implications 
These ratios conclude that Hibbett Sporting Goods is having issues with their asset 
turnover time and have less revenue coming in and has more money tied up in assets, but 
however has made good improvements to managing its inventory and accounts receivable and 
make sure that money is paid to them more quickly resulting in a quicker turn around. 
Leverage and Solvency 
Debt to Equity 
This ratio measures funds provided by creditors versus the funds provided by owners. A lower 
ratio is preferred in this area. A rising Debt to Equity indicates increases in debt. 
Hibbett has made huge improvements in the last three years, ending 2011 with a ratio 
of 9% whereas it was 11% in 2010 and 10% in 2009. 
Debt to Assets 
This ratio measures the 
percentage of assets financed by 
creditors compared to those 
financed by the owners. A lower 
ratio is preferred (no more than 
fifty percent). 
Hibbett has remained 
pretty consistent in managing 
its debt to assets, pulling in a 
ratio of 6% in 2011, beating 
2010’s 7%, while matching 
2009’s 6%. 
Implications 
12% 
10% 
8% 
6% 
4% 
2% 
0% 
2009 
Leverage 
2010 
2011 
Hibbett Sporting Goods has been very successful in managing its debt to assets and 
equity in the past three years and looks as if it should remain this way. Hibbett has seen a
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 53 
decrease in assets financed by the owners has well as a decrease in debt. This shows that the 
management of money is improving. 
Current Ratio 
Acid Test 
53 | P a g e 
Liquidity 
Current Ratio 
The current ratio is the 
liquidity ratio, which measures the 
ability to pay off short-term 
obligations. For current ratio it is 
better to have a higher ratio. An 
industry standard is to seek a 1.5:1 
ratio. If the current assets of a 
company are more than twice the 
current liabilities, then that company 
is generally considered to have good 
short-term financial strength. 
Minimum acceptable ratio is 1:1, but 
this can be seen as having potential risks. 
3 
2 
1 
0 
2009 
Liquidity 
2010 
2011 
Hibbett recorded a remarkable 2.86:1 ratio in 2011 and has not fall below 2:1 in the past 
three years. Demonstrating a major strength for the company and any of its partners and/or 
vendors. 
Acid-Test Ratio 
The Acid-Test ratio is considered to be the best measurement for liquidity of a company. This 
ratio focuses primarily on highly liquid assets. The formula takes into account the company’s ability to 
meet its obligations. A higher ratio is preferred with this formula. A 1:1 ratio is considered to be 
satisfactory. 
In 2011 Hibbett showed a .86:1 ratio for liquidity, falling under the satisfactory 1:1. 
However this is a great improvement compared to 2010’s .65:1 and 2009’s terrible ratio of 
.33:1. 
Implications 
Hibbett’s ratio for current assets is incredible compared to the ideal ratio in the market 
showing the company has enough current assets to meet the payments. However Hibbett’s 
Acid-Test ratio falls well below the ideal ratio for the industry; suggesting that the company 
does not liquidate its assets quickly enough as the top competitors in the industry.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 54 
Return on Assets 
Return on Equity 
Profit Margin 
54 | P a g e 
Profitability 
Return on Assets 
This formula measures how well a business is using its assets to produce more income. A higher 
ratio is preferred. “ROA gives an idea as to how efficient management is at using its assets to generate 
earnings”. 
In 2011 Hibbett 
Sporting Goods had a ratio of 
15%, showing growth since 
2010 with a low 12% and 
2009 with a 13% ratio. 
Hibbett has been able to 
remain constant in their 
return on assets with an 
increase in the past year. 
Return on Equity 
This ratio is used to 
25.00% 
20.00% 
15.00% 
10.00% 
5.00% 
0.00% 
2009 
Profitability 
2010 
determine what return the 
company is providing to its shareholders. A higher ratio is preferred. 
2011 
Hibbett had a ratio of 23% in 2011 the highest in the past three years, comparing to 22% 
in 2009 and 19% in 2010. Hibbett has made a big jump from 2010 to 2011 and looks as if it will 
continue to remain in this area. 
Profit Margin 
This ratio is used to determine how much overall profit the company is making during a given 
timeframe. A higher ratio is preferred. If the ratio declines, this could be due to cost increases. 
Hibbett had been sitting consistently with a 5% ratio for 2009 and 2010, but was able to 
make a positive jump to 7% in 2011. This positive increase suggests a change in the way the 
company is being managed in order to bring in more profit.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 55 
Shareholders Return 
2011 
55 | P a g e 
Implications 
Hibbett Sporting Goods has been able to make positive increases in the past three years 
to have 2011 be the best year for the company. Hibbett appears to be stable as a company in 
the profitability section of financials and have room to continue to improve. The increases in 
income as made the company very profitable as well as keep the prices from climbing too high. 
The Company looks to continue its prosperity in the future. 
Capital Market/ Shareholders Returns 
Earnings Per Share 
This ratio indicates the portion of a 
company's profit allocated to each outstanding 
share of stock. Excellent indicator of a company's 
profitability. Higher Ratios are preferred . 
Hibbett had a low return of $0.96 ratio 
in 2009 and has been able to change this ratio 
to a favorable $1.11 in 2011. Suggesting that 
the company has had success and is able to 
continue to be profitable in the near future 
and expect this ratio to climb. 
P/E Ratio 
$25 
$20 
$15 
$10 
$5 
$0 
This ratio indicates the market price of $1 of earnings. 
2009 
2010 
Hibbett recorded its highest P/E ratio of $20.11 in 2011 showing the market price of the 
dollar to be the highest it’s been in the past three years. 
Implications 
Hibbett Sporting goods showed to be very beneficial to the shareholders from 2009- 
2011 because they were able to bring their ratios higher than in the start; Resulting in a higher 
payback for shareholder, keeping them satisfied. This indicates that the company is very 
profitable and is a good sign for shareholders. It appears that the company will continue this 
profitability into the future. 
EPS 
P/E
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 56 
Dick's Sporting Goods Financial Ratios 2009 Change 2010 Change 2011 
Asset Turnover 2.1 -0.3 1.9 -0.1 1.8 
Average Inventory Period 104 -4 100 -6 94 
Accounts Receivable 1.40% -0.60% 0.80% -0.08% 0.72% 
Debt to Equity 50.94% -17.11% 33.83% -5.57% 28.26% 
Debt to Assets 23% -7% 16% -1% 15% 
Current Ratios 1.7:1 -0.2 1.5:1 0.3 1.8:1 
Quick Ratio .22:1 0.12 .34:1 0.34 .68:1 
Return on Assets -2% 8% 6% 1% 7% 
Return on Equity -4.50% 16.50% 12% 1% 13% 
Profit Margin Ratio -0.90% 3.90% 3% 0% 3.00% 
Earnings Per Share -$0.36 $1.51 $1.15 $0.35 $1.50 
P/E Ratio 0.31 0.89 1.20 0.37 1.57 
56 | P a g e 
Financial Analysis for Dick’s Sporting Goods 
Executive Summary 
Dick’s Sporting Goods is a strong financial company. The company has been increasing each 
year in all aspects. Dick’s asset turnover has been decreasing each year and their average 
inventory period has seen a relatively drastic decrease has well. They have been reducing their 
debt since 2009. Their debt has been decreasing most likely due to expansion and offering 
more apparel and customizations to consumers. Liquidity has been slowly growing since 2009 
and is strong. Dick’s has been very profitable since 2009 and continues to grow with increasing 
earnings per share.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 57 
Average Inventory 
Turnover (In Days) 
Average 
Inventory 
Turnover (In 
Days) 
57 | P a g e 
Activity and Efficiency 
Inventory Investment Period 
This number indicates the number of days it takes to convert a dollar of cash outflow to a dollar of sales. 
It is better to have a smaller number with this formula. A longer inventory investment period requires a 
higher investment in inventory, which translates to less available cash. 
Dick’s has seen a decrease in its average 
inventory investment period by 10 days 
between the years of 2009 which was 104 
and 100 in 2010. This indicates that company 
is making the conversion of inventory to cash 
much faster. 
Asset Turnover Ratio 
105 
100 
95 
90 
85 
This formula determines how well the business is 
utilizing its assets to generate new sales revenue. 
It is better to have a higher ratio between the 
numbers. This means that the company has less money tied up in assets. 
2009 2010 2011 
Dick’s ratio has decreased from 2.1 in 2009 to 1.8 in 2011. They have had more money tied up 
in assets. Dick’s hasn’t been has efficient since 2009 
Accounts Receivable Ratio 
This number indicates sales for which 
payment has not yet been collected by a 
company. A lower ratio is desired in this 
formula because it shows that companies 
are being paid for their work and money is 
no longer tied up in accounts receivable. 
Dick’s s seen a decrease in accounts 
receivable from 1.40% in 2009 to 0.72% 
in 2011. They have been improving on 
1.50% 
1.00% 
0.50% 
0.00% 
Accounts Recievable 
2009 2010 2011 
Accounts 
Recievable 
the time in which money is paid. Overall, this is a fairly large decrease in percentage resulting in 
quicker payments and less money tied up in receivables (Figure 3).
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 58 
Implications: Dick’s activity and efficiency ratios show that the company is doing well and 
managing the status quo. Its accounts receivable indicate that they are being paid more quickly 
for their work allowing for a quicker turn around and more available cash. Dick’s financial 
situation is stable and will continue to grow. The reduction in investment period has been a 
great improvement for Dick’s and it looks to continue to fall. 
Debt to Equity 
Debt to Assets 
58 | P a g e 
Leverage and Solvency 
Debt to Assets 
This ratio measures the percentage of assets financed by creditors compared to those financed by the 
owners. A lower ratio is preferred (no more than fifty percent). 
Dick’s debt to assets has decrease from 23% in 2009 to 15% in 2011, which is a 8% decrease. 
This indicates that there are less 
assets being financed by creditors. 
Debt to Equity 
This ratio measures funds provided by 
creditors versus the funds provided by 
owners. A lower ratio is preferred in this 
area. A rising Debt to Equity indicates 
increases in debt. 
60% 
40% 
20% 
0% 
2009 
Leverage 
2010 
Dick’s debt to equity ratio has 
2011 
decreased substantially from 50.94% 
in 2009 to 28.26% in 2011, which is 
22.68% reduction. This indicates a large reduction in funds that are provided by creditors. 
Implications: Dick’s has seen a decrease in drastic debt since 2009. The decrease in debt is their 
ability to receive payments and its debt looks to continually fall.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 59 
Current Ratio 
Acid Test 
59 | P a g e 
Liquidity 
Current Ratio 
The current ratio is the liquidity ratio, which measures the ability to pay off short-term obligations. For 
current ratio it is better to have a higher ratio. An industry standard is to seek a 1.5:1 ratio. If the current 
assets of a company are more than twice the current liabilities, then that company is generally 
considered to have good short-term financial strength. Minimum acceptable ratio is 1:1, but this can be 
seen as having potential risks. 
Dick’s current ratio saw a decrease from 1.7:1 in 2009 to 1.5:1 in 2010. However it rose again to 
1.8:1 in 2011, the highest it’s been in 
three years 
Quick (Acid-Test) Ratio 
The quick ratio is considered to be the 
best measurement for liquidity of a 
company. This ratio focuses primarily on 
highly liquid assets. The formula takes 
into account the company’s ability to 
meet its obligations. A higher ratio is 
preferred with this formula. A 1:1 ratio is 
considered to be satisfactory. 
2 
1.5 
1 
0.5 
0 
2009 
Liquidity 
2010 
2011 
Dick’s quick ratio has seen a drastic increase from .22:1 in 2009 to .68:1 in 2011. There has been 
a quicker turn around for assets and they are much more reliable since 2009 . 
Implications: Both the current ratio and acid test have relatively high numbers which means 
they pay off whatever current debt they have quicker with the faster turnaround in inventory. 
The quick ratio for the industry is .62%102.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 60 
Return on Assets 
Return on Equity 
Profit Margin 
60 | P a g e 
Profitability 
Return on Assets 
This formula measures how well a business is using its assets to produce more income. A higher ratio is 
preferred. “ROA gives an idea as to how efficient management is at using its assets to generate 
earnings.” 
Dick’s saw a negative 
return on assets of -4.50% 
in 2009 and then an 8% 
jump to 6% in 2010. It then 
rose to 7% in 2011. After 
2009, it appears that the 
management at Dick’s is 
using assets well to 
generate earnings. In the 
years up to 2009 there 
were large investments in 
expansion and marketing 
the company. 
Return on Equity 
15.00% 
10.00% 
5.00% 
0.00% 
-5.00% 
-10.00% 
2009 
Profitability 
2010 
2011 
This ratio is used to determine what return the company is providing to its shareholders. A higher ratio is 
preferred. 
Much like the return on assets, the return on equity was negative in 2009 and rose over 16% to 
reach 12% in 2010. It climbed again in 2011 to 13%. The amount returned to shareholders had 
been increasing each year. 
Profit Margin Ratio 
This ratio is used to determine how much overall profit the company is making during a given timeframe. 
A higher ratio is preferred. If the ratio declines, this could be due to cost increases. 
Similarly to the return on assets and return on equity, Dick’s had seen a negative return in 2009, 
an increase to 3% in 2010 and then a .70% increase to 3.70% in 2011. Dick’s management has 
appeared to have turned the company around after its negative return in 2009 and increased 
its profitability.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 61 
Implications: Dick’s has seen an increase in profitability since 2009 and continues to profit off 
of decreasing cost of goods which is a result from new vendors as well as and their ability to 
increase profits each year. With their return on assets and return on equity rising, the company 
will continue to do well. 
Shareholder's Return 
EPS 
P/E 
61 | P a g e 
Capital Market and Shareholder’s Return 
Earnings Per Share 
This ratio indicates the portion of a company's 
profit allocated to each outstanding share of 
stock. Excellent indicator of a company's 
profitability. Higher Ratios are preferred. 
In 2009, Dick’s saw a negative earnings per 
share at $-.36, then a drastic increase to 
$1.15 in 2010 and continued to rise to 
$1.50 in 2011. The earnings per share will 
continue to rise as the company continues 
to do well. 
P/E Ratio 
$2.00 
$1.50 
$1.00 
$0.50 
$0.00 
($0.50) 
This ratio indicates the market price of $1 of earnings. 
2009 
2010 
2011 
Dick’s had a negative P/E ratio of $-.31 in 2009 and it increased to $1.20 in 2010. It continued to 
rise to $1.57 in 2011. These numbers show that Dick’s are increasing their earnings and they are 
projected to increase . 
Implications 
Due to the increasing earnings per share it is probable that people will sell or hold their stock 
since the stock continues to rise. The P/E ratio rose from 2009 to 2011 and looks to rise more 
in the future. This has risen due to a 2.9% rise in Dick's Sporting’s store sales, 4.4% increase in 
Golf Galaxy store sales and a 34.6% growth in e-commerce business.103
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 62 
62 | P a g e 
Financial Ratio Analysis for Big 5 Sporting Goods 
Big 5 Sporting Goods Financial Ratios 2009 Change 2010 Change 2011 
Asset Turnover 2.45 -0.16 2.29 0 2.29 
Average Inventory Period 139.06 13.7 152.76 3.07 155.83 
Accounts Receivable 1.50% 0.18% 1.67% -0.22% 1.45% 
Debt to Equity 43.40% -10.31% 33.09% 9.45% 42.54% 
Debt to Assets 15.63% -2.92% 12.71% 4.19% 16.91% 
Current Ratio 1.82 -0.01 1.81 0.3 2.11 
Quick Ratio 0.13 0 0.13 0 0.13 
Return on Assets 5.96% -0.72% 5.24% -2.28% 2.96% 
Return on Equity 16.54% -2.90% 13.64% -6.19% 7.45% 
Profit Margin Ratio 2.44% -0.14% 2.29% -1.00% 1.29% 
Earnings Per Share 1.01 -0.07 0.94 -0.41 0.53 
P/E Ratio 7.91 0.07 7.98 0.41 8.39 
Executive Summary 
Big 5 Sporting Goods has shown a lack of ability to increase their profit over the last three 
years. There has been a decrease in asset turnover however the average inventory period has 
increase substantially over the past three years. Accounts receivable has been hovering around 
the same it has been and the debt equity has seen drastic decreases and increases. Debt to 
Assets has seen the same as their equity with the current ratio increasing minimally from 2010 
to 2011. The Quick Ratio has seen no change with the Return on Assets, Return on Equity, Profit 
Margin and Earnings Per Share all having decreased.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 63 
Average Inventory 
Turnover (In Days) 
Average Inventory 
Turnover (In Days) 
63 | P a g e 
1.70% 
1.60% 
1.50% 
1.40% 
1.30% 
Activity and Efficiency 
Accounts Receivable 
2011 2010 2009 
105 
100 
Accounts 
Receivable 
Inventory Investment Period 
This number indicates the number of days it 
takes to convert a dollar of cash outflow to a 
dollar of sales. It is better to have a smaller 
number with this formula. A longer inventory 
investment period requires a higher 
investment in inventory, which translates to 
less available cash. 
95 
90 
85 
Big 5 Sporting Goods has increased its 
average inventory investment period by 
17 days, from 139 days in 2009, to 156 
days in 2011. Big 5 Sporting Goods is taking longer to turn inventory into cash . 
Asset Turnover Ratio 
2009 2010 2011 
This formula determines how well the business is utilizing its assets to generate new sales revenue. It is 
better to have a higher ratio between the numbers. This means that the company has less money tied up 
in assets. 
Big 5 Sporting Goods’ asset turnover ratio of 2.29 in 2011 is the exact same as in 2010, and .16 
better than in 2009. Overall, Big 5 sporting goods has been less efficient at utilizing its assets to 
generate new sales . 
Accounts Receivable Ratio 
This number indicates sales for which payment 
has not yet been collected by a company. A 
lower ratio is desired in this formula because it 
shows that companies are being paid for their 
work and money is no longer tied up in 
accounts receivable. 
Big 5 Sporting Goods’ accounts receivable 
ratio jumped from 1.50% in 2009 to 1.67% 
in 2010. From 2010 to 2011 accounts 
receivables made its way back down to 1.45%. Overall, these changes are minimal and should 
not affect the company .
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 64 
64 | P a g e 
50% 
40% 
30% 
20% 
10% 
0% 
Leverage and Solvency 
2011 2010 2009 
Debt to Equity 
Debt to Assets 
Implications 
Big 5 Sporting Goods activity and efficiency ratios indicate that the company is doing a poor job 
of turning their inventory into sales. Inability to sell their inventory could result in too much 
money being caught-up in inventory, and limiting their cash on hand. If Big 5 Sporting Goods 
can’t become more efficient in their inventory investment and asset turnover, they could face 
financial problems as well lost opportunities for growth. 
Leverage and Solvency 
Debt to Assets 
This ratio measures the percentage of assets financed by creditors compared to those financed by the 
owners. A lower ratio is preferred (no more than fifty percent). 
Big 5 Sporting Goods’ debt to asset 
ratio has decreased from 15.63% in 
2009 to 12.71% in 2010. From 2010 
to 2011 that percent rose by 4.20% . 
Debt to Equity 
This ratio measures funds provided by 
creditors versus the funds provided by 
owners. A lower ratio is preferred in this 
area. A rising Debt to Equity indicates 
increases in debt. 
Big 5 Sporting Goods’ debt to equity ratio decreased from 43.40% in 2009 to 33.09% in 2010. 
Debt to equity rose by 9.45% from 2010 to 2011. 
Implications 
Big 5 Sporting Goods’ debt to equity and debt to assets ratios showed slight decreased in 2010 
but are right back to where they started in 2011. Their debt to assets are below 50 percent, 
indicating that they aren’t in any serious trouble. Debt to equity is higher than debt to assets 
showing that increases in debt are evident. Furthermore, both debt to equity and debt to 
assets are below that of both Dick’s Sporting Goods and Hibbett.104
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 65 
65 | P a g e 
2.50 
2.00 
1.50 
1.00 
0.50 
0.00 
Liquidity 
2011 2010 
2009 
Current Ratio 
Acid-test Ratio 
Liquidity 
Current Ratio 
The current ratio is the liquidity ratio, 
which measures the ability to pay off 
short-term obligations. For current ratio 
it is better to have a higher ratio. An 
industry standard is to seek a 1.5:1 
ratio. If the current assets of a company 
are more than twice the current 
liabilities, then that company is 
generally considered to have good 
short-term financial strength. Minimum 
acceptable ratio is 1:1, but this can be 
seen as having potential risks. 
Big 5 Sporting Goods’ current ratio was consistent at 1.8:1 from 2009 to 2010, but then 
increased to 2.1:1 in 2011. Big 5 was able to pay off short term obligations much faster with the 
incoming money they made 
Acid-Test (Quick) Ratio 
The acid-test ratio is considered to be the best measurement for liquidity of a company. This ratio - 
focuses primarily on highly liquid assets. The formula takes into account the company’s ability to meet its 
obligations. A higher ratio is preferred with this formula. A 1:1 ratio is considered to be satisfactory. 
Big 5 Sporting Goods’ acid-test ratio has remained constant at 0.13 from 2009-2011 (Figure 5). 
This number is very low because much of their assets are tied up in inventory and therefore 
their inventory turnaround is very high. 
Implications 
Big 5 Sporting Goods’ current ratio of 2.1:1 is above satisfactory, but only places in the median, 
below Hibbett Sporting Goods and above Dick’s Sporting Goods.105 The quick ratio industry 
average is 0.62:1.106 Big 5 Sporting Goods’ quick ratio of 0.13 places them well below the 
industry average indicating their difficulty to pay off short term debt. Big 5 Sporting Goods 
shows that it has the ability to pay off short-term investments but is struggling to convert their 
highly liquid assets to liquid cash.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 66 
66 | P a g e 
20% 
15% 
10% 
5% 
0% 
Profitability 
2011 2010 2009 
Return on Assets 
Return on Equity 
Profit Margin 
Ratio 
Profitability 
Return on Assets 
This formula measures how well a business is using its assets to produce more income. A higher ratio is 
preferred. “ROA gives an idea as to how efficient management is at using its assets to generate 
earnings.” 
Big 5 Sporting Goods’ return on assets decreased from 5.96% in 2009 to 5.24% in 2010, then 
large jump to 2.96% in 2011. Big 5 Sporting Goods has shown a decreasing ability in using their 
assets to produce income. 
Return on Equity 
This ratio is used to determine what return the 
company is providing to its shareholders. A 
higher ratio is preferred. 
Big 5 Sporting Goods faced a 2.9% 
decreased in return on equity from 2009 
to 2010. From 2010 to 2011 that number 
decreased again 6.19%. This decrease in 
return on equity shows that Big 5 Sporting 
Goods is decreasing the return they’re 
providing to their shareholders. 
Profit Margin Ratio 
This ratio is used to determine how much overall profit the company is making during a given timeframe. 
A higher ratio is preferred. If the ratio declines, this could be due to cost increases. 
The profit margin ratio for Big 5 Sporting Goods has steadily decreased from 2.44% in 2009, to 
2.29% in 2010, and then to 1.29% in 2011. This decrease in profit margin ratio signals that Big 5 
Sporting Goods’ is making less profit year after year since 2009. 
Implications 
Since 2009 Big 5 Sporting Goods has shown a decrease in profitability. This is likely due to an 
increase in Cost of Goods Sold (COGS), an increase in operating expenses, as well as an overall 
increase in debt. Big 5 Sporting Goods is still profitable but if they don’t reduce their debt as 
well as operating expenses, further decreases could occur.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 67 
789...00 P 
67 | P a g e 
1.50 
1.00 
0.50 
0.00 
Earnings per share 
2011 2010 2009 
Earnings per 
share 
8.50 
8.00 
7.50 
P/E Ratio 
2011 2010 2009 
P/E Ratio 
Capital Market and Shareholder’s Return 
Earnings Per Share 
This ratio indicates the portion of a company's 
profit allocated to each outstanding share of 
stock. Excellent indicator of a company's 
profitability. Higher Ratios are preferred. 
Big 5 Sporting Goods’ earnings per share 
numbers have decreased from $1.01 in 
2009 to $0.94 in 2010. Further decrease 
to $0.53 was shown in 2011. This 
numbers are consistent with the decrease in profitability that Big 5 Sporting Goods has shown. 
P/E Ratio 
This ratio indicates the market price of $1 of 
earnings. 
Big 5 Sporting Goods’ P/E ratio has 
increased from $7.91 in 2009 to $7.98 in 
2010, and then to $8.39 in 2011. These 
numbers show that the projected earnings 
for Big 5 Sporting Goods is increasing . 
Implications 
Due to the decrease in earnings per share, and only a slight increase in the P/E ratio, it is 
unlikely that shareholder’s will sell Big 5 Sporting Goods stock. Due to the slight increase in P/E 
ratio, there is a possibility that stock may be purchased.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 68 
Golf Driver Head With Exchangeable Rear Sections Source: 
http://tinyurl.com/d2huzl8 
68 | P a g e 
Patent Analysis 
Executive Summary 
Hibbett Sporting Goods is a moderate sized leader in the sports retailing industry; however, 
within their product portfolio, the company does not have any technological patents to support 
their status in the industry. In comparison, other leaders in the industry such as Dick’s Sporting 
Goods have several patents that relate to their product(s) offered; however, these expressed 
patents are strictly limited to their products and are not new technological patents in the 
industry as a whole. When observing the industry, the newly developed technological patents 
that have been created over the past few years have had a profound impact on the retailing 
market as a whole. If Hibbett Sporting Goods wants to remain highly competitive in the market, 
it would be considerably beneficial for the company to initiate patent research and 
development within their company and attempt to purchase the rights to patents. If Hibbett 
remains stagnant during this time, it is likely the other retailers in the industry will gain a 
significant competitive advantage by utilizing technology patents such as automated retail 
machines, online sports rental methods, or on shelf tracking systems to track product supplies. 
However, if Hibbett possibly purchases or leases some of these described patents, the company 
will likely gain a significant competitive advantage in the retail industry. 
Dick’s Sporting Goods Patents 
 Golf Driver Head With Exchangeable Rear Sections107 
o US Patent Number: 7959522 
o Issuance Date: June 14, 2011 
o Original Assignee: Dick’s Sporting 
Goods, Inc. 
o Inventors: Richard Ray North, III, 
Ben S. Lavallee 
o Number of References: 5 
o Patent Use: The patent is a 
complete golf driver kit. It allows for 
exchangeable connectable parts to hit a golf ball different distances.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 69 
o Abstract: A golf driver kit includes a front portion and a plurality of rear portions 
exchangeably connectable to the front portion and being of different respective 
shapes for imparting different flight characteristics to a struck golf ball. The front 
portion includes a front face plate and a hosel for receiving a shaft, plus a 
rearwardly projecting base on which the rear portion is seated. The rear portion 
is removably attached to the front portion by screws. 
Implications 
The Golf Driver Head With Exchangeable Rear Sections was filed on August 12, 2008. The 
object of this patent is to provide a complete golf driver kit with interchangeable parts that 
enable different flight characteristics to a struck golf ball. With the recent acquisition by Dick’s 
Sporting Goods of Callaway Golf, the expansion of Dick’s golf products/services is likely to 
illustrate considerable financial growth over the next few years. If Hibbett Sporting Goods 
wants to remain a viable competitor with Dick’s, the company should consider a revamped 
outlook with their golf products. A patented product such as this object demonstrates 
considerable innovation and ingenuity, and Hibbett must show this sort of strategy with their 
product lines as well to remain competitive. 
Soccer Training System Source: 
http://tinyurl.com/ba7493y 
69 | P a g e 
 Soccer Training System108 
o US Patent Number: 6846253 
o Issuance Date: January 25, 2005 
o Original Assignee: Dick’s Sporting Goods, Inc. 
o Inventor: Damian A. Szwalek 
o Number of References: 8 
o Patent Use: The patent is a specific soccer training 
system with three specific modes. It allows for 
independent training development. 
o Abstract: A soccer training system that has three 
modes and includes a frame, a net, a target panel, 
and a rebound panel. The frame with the net 
secured thereto provides a soccer goal mode; the 
frame with the target panel positioned across its 
front provides a soccer target mode; and the 
frame with the rebound panel positioned across its front provides a soccer
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 70 
rebounder mode. The target panel has cutouts and/or apertures to pass a soccer 
ball. The rebound panel redirects a kicked ball back toward the kicker. The 
rebound panel can also be inclined to alter the return angle of the ball. 
Preferably, elastic corded hooks attach the target panel or the rebound panel to 
the front of the frame. 
Implications 
The Soccer Training System was filed on March 12, 2003. The object of this patent is to provide 
a soccer training system that has three modes and includes a frame, a net, a target panel, and a 
rebound panel. With the ability of Dick’s Sporting Goods to offer more than just apparel and 
footwear products in their stores, their targeted consumer demographics expands exponetially. 
If Hibbett Sporting Goods wants to remain competitive with the retail leader Dick’s, the 
company should attempt to expand its product lines, including offering more technologically 
advanced products. By offering more unique sports equipment items such as this patent, the 
company will be able to attract greater cliental to their business. 
Sports Equipment Storage Racks 
Source: http://tinyurl.com/8vvkclz 
70 | P a g e 
New Technology Patents Relative to Sports Retailing Industry 
 Sports Equipment Storage Rack109 
o US Patent Number: 6053340 
o Issuance Date: April 25, 2008 
o Original Assignee: John L. Cameron 
o Inventor: John L. Cameron 
o Number of References: 17 
o Patent Use: The patent is a sports equipment storage 
rack designed for universal actions. The equipment 
will be safe and secure within these storage areas. 
o Abstract: A rack for organizing, protecting, and storing 
various sports equipment has a backboard, a 
receptacle for holding a beverage container, at least 
one equipment hook, a bat holder hook, at least one 
flexible member such as a securing strap, an optional 
hanging hole, and a decorative area. The backboard 
supports the other components and contains points of 
attachment for the securing strap. The receptacle stores a beverage container in
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 71 
an upright position. The equipment hook allows for hanging sports or related 
equipment such as baseball gloves or baseball hats. The bat holder hook allows 
for holding a baseball bat or other equipment such as a jacket or other items of 
clothing. The flexible member such as a securing strap secures the rack to a 
fixture such as a chain link fence, wall or other support. 
Implications 
The Sports Equipment Storage Rack was filed on November 27, 2005 by John L Cameron. The 
object of this patent is to provide a sensible means for organizing, protecting, and storing 
various sports equipment. It is a universally used patent in the sports retailing industry as 
Hibbett Sporting Goods, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Big Five Sporting Goods all use some sort of 
variation of this patent. If Hibbett Sporting Goods wishes to gain a competitive advantage in the 
industry, it will continue to utilize this object within its stores and possibly look for innovative 
advancements or customizations of the object. The ability to develop newer means of storing 
sports equipment for Hibbett Sporting Goods will ensure the company’s future development 
and growth within the sports retailing industry. 
Automated Transaction Machine 
Source: http://tinyurl.com/9mtmkep 
71 | P a g e 
 Automated Transaction Machine110 
o US Patent Number: 8118222 
o Issuance Date: February 21, 2012 
o Original Assignee: Transaction Holdings Ltd. 
o Inventor: David M. Barcelou 
o Number of References: 5 
o Patent Use: The patent is an automated retail 
terminal that is similar to an ATM or Internet 
kiosk. It is used with a credit card or smart card. 
o Abstract: An automated retail terminal in 
which a plurality of goods and/or services are provided in an integrated system. 
The integrated system generally avoids duplicating hardware or functions in the 
course of delivering the goods or services offered, so for example in a 
combination ATM and Internet kiosk the same credit card or smart card reader is 
used for both the ATM and the Internet kiosk functions, the same control screen 
activates the ATM functions and the Internet functions, and etc.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 72 
Implications 
The Automated Transaction Machine was filed on November 22, 2010. The object of this 
patent is to provide an automated retail terminal source that provides an assortment of goods 
and/or services in an integrated system. It is a newly developed technology in the retail market; 
however, the potential implications of this patent are virtually limitless, as companies will be 
able to incorporate some of their smaller sized products/services in this automated transaction 
machine without the need for human interaction. If Hibbett Sporting Goods wishes to maintain 
their current position in the sporting goods retailing market, the company will likely need to 
incorporate newer technological innovations such as this patent. The ability to automatically 
serve consumers without human interaction is the future of the retailing industry, and the 
businesses that implement this concept into their company will benefit in the long run. It would 
be beneficial for Hibbett to purchase or lease this patent, which would thereby allow them to 
own the product and/or market. In addition, the company could be in a position to lease out 
the patent for royalties from other companies. 
o US Patent Number: 8239272 
o Issuance Date: August 7, 2012 
o Original Assignee: Amway Corporation 
o Inventors: David M. Bamborough, James G. Blodgett, William R. Dangl 
o Number of References: 7 
o Patent Use: The patent is a system and method for providing complete 
o Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system and method for providing 
complete electronic commerce (“E-Commerce”) transactions and solutions for a 
marketing company's products via the World Wide Web, including facilities for 
signing up new customers and recruiting, training and supporting new 
72 | P a g e 
 Electronic Commerce Transactions Within A Marketing System111 
electronic commerce for a company’s marketing products online. 
Electronic Commerce Transactions Within A Marketing System 
Source: http://tinyurl.com/9mjo4he 
Independent Business 
t an interactive online 
p In another aspect, the 
p invention relates to the 
combination of a marketing 
b with a membership buying 
opportunity using both 
e commerce and face-to-face 
transactions. The present invention is also directed to a system and method for
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 73 
combining a marketing business with a membership buying opportunity, so that 
Independent Business Owners participating in the marketing plan can introduce 
customers to a membership buying opportunity and earn bonuses or 
commissions based on the purchases by those members. 
Implications 
The Electronic Commerce Transaction Within A Marketing System was filed on June 23, 2010. 
The object of this patent is to provide complete electronic commerce (“E-Commerce”) 
transactions and solutions for a marketing company’s products via the World Wide Web. The 
rapid growth of electronic commerce over the past few years illustrates the necessity of 
interactive commerce for companies over the traditional face-to-face transaction. If Hibbett 
Sporting Goods wishes to maintain their current status in the industry, they need to strengthen 
their online commerce presence. Almost all of the purchases made by customers shopping at 
Hibbett Sporting Goods are made in person, and electronic commerce is an underutilized 
element for Hibbett. The ability to serve both electronic and interpersonal commerce is a 
necessary action that companies will need to address in the future. It would be beneficial for 
Hibbett to purchase or lease this patent, which would thereby allow them to own the product 
and/or market. In addition, the company could be in a position to lease out the patent in 
exchange for royalties from other competitors. 
Internet-Based Sports Equipment Rental Method 
Source: http://tinyurl.com/9s8k444 
73 | P a g e 
 Internet-Based Sports Equipment Rental Method112 
o US Patent Number: 6885998 
o Issuance Date: April 26, 2005 
o Original Assignee: Jeffrey A. Smith 
o Inventor: Mark J. Arduino 
o Number of References: 4 
o Patent Use: The patent is a conceptual 
idea of renting sports equipment online for 
predetermined times, dates, and locations. 
o Abstract: Disclosed is an Internet-based 
sports equipment rental system and 
method that enables individuals to rent 
sports equipment and other items, such as 
golf clubs, from a renting company's Web 
site. The system and method includes 
automated rental processing and tracking 
software that runs on the renting company's Web site to allow individuals to
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 74 
rent sports equipment conveniently over the Internet for use at predetermined 
locations at predetermined future times. 
Implications 
The Internet-Based Sports Equipment Rental Method was filed on March 25, 2000. The object 
of this patent is to provide consumers with the ability to rent sports equipment and other items 
online and ultimately allow individuals to rent them at predetermined locations and future 
times. With the ongoing economic recession occurring throughout the United States, the 
concept of renting, leasing, or maintaining temporary ownership is becoming a growing trend. 
If Hibbett Sporting Goods wishes to gain a competitive advantage in the industry, the company 
has the opportunity of offering some form of rental service to its consumers. The ability to 
implicate such a strategy in the sports retailing goods industry will grant Hibbett Sporting Goods 
the opportunity to become a large market sized company in the marketplace and give them a 
significant competitive advantage over its competitors. 
Interactive Shopping System With Mobile Apparatus 
Source: http://tinyurl.com/cbj8dsz 
74 | P a g e 
 Interactive Shopping System With Mobile Apparatus113 
o US Patent Number: 6434530 
o Issuance Date: August 13, 2004 
o Original Assignee: Retail Multimedia Corporation 
o Inventors: Martin A. Sloane, Tod Bogan 
o Number of References: 22 
o Patent Use: The patent is an 
interactive system adapted for 
online shopping venues. It is 
implemented through the use of a 
mobile device. 
o Abstract: An interactive system 
adapted for use in a shopping 
venue, comprises: an interactive 
and intelligent source of 
information, for example 
supplemental information related to articles available for selection by shoppers 
in a shopping venue, and not otherwise available to the shoppers during 
shopping; and, a plurality of interactive, mobile apparatus which shoppers can
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 75 
move throughout the shopping venue and use for transmitting queries to the 
interactive source of information and use for receiving information transmitted 
from the interactive source of information, whereby shoppers can receive 
information useful for evaluating the articles when making article selection 
decisions, and at least some of the received information can be formulated to 
influence the article selection decisions. At least some of the information 
transmitted to the shoppers can be responsive to the queries. 
Implications 
The Interactive Shopping System With Mobile Apparatus was filed on January 20, 2001. The 
object of this patent is to provide consumers with an interactive system for use in a shopping 
venue with their mobile devices. With the rapid development of technological concepts in the 
retail industry, especially with mobile devices, the need for companies to be well aware of 
these growing technologies is a required element for the company if they wish to remain 
competitive. If Hibbett Sporting Goods wishes to gain a competitive advantage in the industry, 
the company should lease this patent to enable the company the option of offer marketing 
advertisements and selling their products through consumer’s mobile devices. The social value 
expressed with mobile phones continues to grow and expand, and the ability for Hibbett 
Sporting Goods to utilize this strategy will grant them a significant competitive advantage in the 
industry. 
On-Shelf Tracking System Source: 
http://tinyurl.com/b6qbbqz 
75 | P a g e 
 On-Shelf Tracking System114 
o US Patent Number: 3249320 
o Issuance Date: September 20, 2012 
o Original Assignee: N/A 
o Inventor: Patrick Campbell 
o Number of References: 4 
o Patent Use: The patent is an on shelf 
tracking system that tracks for both 
consumer theft and inventory amounts. 
o Abstract: A system to be installed on a 
merchandising unit having one or more inventory zones, one or more units of 
product, one or more product sensors, a mounting structure, and an 
electromagnetic signal processor. The one or more product sensors, each at least 
associated operatively with one of the one or more inventory zones, converts a 
sensed quantity of the one or more units of product into a respective analog 
electromagnetic signal. The mounting structure secures the one or more product
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 76 
sensors to the merchandising unit. The electromagnetic signal processor in 
communication with the one or more product sensors can sample output from 
the one or more product sensors. 
Implications 
The On-Shelf Tracking System was filed on August 29, 2010. The object of this patent is to 
provide a product sensor that is designed to ensure the security and output of a specific 
merchandising unit. With the threat of potential theft that all retailers face, the ability to 
ensure the number of inventory of a specific product is a valuable asset for all companies. In 
addition, this patent also allows management to know the total number of sales of a particular 
product. If Hibbett Sporting Goods wishes to ensure the safety and security of their products, 
the company should purchase/lease the patent or attempt to establish some sort of on-shelf 
tracking system like this patent. This concept is the new wave of the future, and companies that 
are unable to address it will be obsolete. 
Articles of Apparel Providing Enhanced Body 
Position Feedback Source: 
http://tinyurl.com/d9dwjpu 
76 | P a g e 
 Articles Of Apparel Providing Enhanced 
Body Position Feedback115 
o US Patent Number: 2148585 
o Issuance Date: August 1, 2011 
o Original Assignee: Nike International Ltd. 
o Inventors: Todd Kenneth Craig, Steven 
Wright 
o Number of References: 7 
o Patent Use: The patent is a highly developed 
form of sporting goods apparel that 
enhances body position feedback. 
o Abstract: Articles of apparel include: (a) a garment structure having one or more 
fabric elements structured and arranged to provide a close fit to at least one 
predetermined portion of a body (e.g., area(s) of the body for which enhanced 
position sensing and/or feedback are desired, such as the lower back, the arch of 
the foot, etc.); and (b) a body position feedback system engaged with or 
integrally formed as part of the garment structure. The body position feedback 
system may apply higher tensile or constricting (compressive) forces to selected 
portions of the wearer's body, which can help stimulate or interact with nerves
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 77 
and deep tissue receptors located in various portions of the body. The increased 
forces at selected locations of the body give the wearer sensory feedback 
regarding the position or orientation of these parts of the body and can improve 
or accelerate development of 'muscle memory.' 
Implications 
The Articles of Apparel Providing Enhanced Body Position Feedback was filed on May 15, 2008. 
The object of this patent is to provide a piece of athletic apparel that is a close fit to at least one 
predetermined portion of the body (e.g. arms, legs, torso, etc.). With the current constructs of 
athletic apparel, the ability to offer a product that is capable of providing sensory feedback is a 
significant advancement in the manufacturing of the clothing. If Hibbett Sporting Goods were 
capable of providing such a product, the company would be a technological innovator in the 
industry. Many of the consumers that shop at Dick’s Sporting Goods or Big Five Sporting Goods, 
would likely switch to Hibbett for this specific product. It would be beneficial for Hibbett to 
partner with the Nike and possibly lease this patent for exclusivity. In addition, Hibbett should 
also consider establish a long term strategy to work with Nike on other possible patents as well. 
Social Networking And E-Commerce Integration Source: 
http://tinyurl.com/b98txaa 
77 | P a g e 
 Social Networking And E-Commerce Integration116 
o US Patent Number: 1682167 
o Issuance Date: June 3, 2011 
o Original Assignee: Greg M. 
Lemelson 
o Inventor: Greg M. Lemelson 
o Number of References: 5 
o Patent Use: The patent is a 
method of relating electronic 
commerce shoppers with social 
media users. 
o Abstract: The present invention 
relates to methods, systems and 
databases for sharing user 
inputted data obtained from two 
different environments. In 
particular, the present invention relates to methods of obtaining user inputted 
data (e.g., metadata or links) from a social networking environment, and 
providing the data to other users in an e-commerce environment, and vice versa. 
Data from both environments can be stored in a database accessible by either
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 78 
environment. In another embodiment, a user can access the data via a search 
performed or provided to the user in real-time. 
Implications 
The Social Networking And E-Commerce Integration patent was filed on February 13, 2007. The 
object of this patent is to allow for sharing user inputted data obtained from two different 
environments. In this case, the two environments are metadata or links from a social 
networking environment and the e-commerce environment. As both of these trends are 
showing significant growth, the ability to coordinate them under a single integrated system will 
be very beneficial to any businesses that incorporate them into their corporate strategy. If 
Hibbett Sporting Goods developed this coordinated system with these two environments, the 
company would establish a whole new cliental segment. Those that participate in electronic 
commerce and utilize social networking would be able to receive Hibbett Sporting Goods news, 
ongoing sales and advertisements, and price listings. The possibilities of this patent are virtually 
limitless, and Hibbett should take full advantage of them. In addition, Hibbett should definetly 
consider purchasing this patent because at the moment there is no original assignee associated 
with the patent. 
78 | P a g e
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 79 
79 | P a g e 
Strategies 
SWOT Analysis 
Executive Summary 
Over the past six decades that Hibbett Sporting Goods has been a retailer in the sporting 
goods industry, many strengths and weaknesses have accumulated within the organization that 
effect the means in which the company targets its customer basis. While Hibbett Sporting 
Goods is generating a great deal of financial and regional success in its base of operations in the 
Southeast, its regionalized setting, large market competitors, and complete reliance on vendors 
for its product(s) have amounted to the company only becoming a small-sized market business 
within the industry. In order for Hibbett to develop itself into a large market presence in the 
industry, the company must be willing to utilize newly developed technologies to its advantage, 
promote a growing desire to utilize online commerce as a means of purchasing, and expand the 
company to the western portion of the United States as all opportunistic notions. In addition to 
applying the company’s overall strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities, Hibbett must address 
looming threats it faces such as new competition and decrease in consumer spending.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 80 
80 | P a g e 
Hibbett Sporting 
Goods SWOT 
Analysis & 
Strategies 
Strengths: 
 Small-market strategic 
advantages 
 Specialized product 
selection catering to 
community 
 Managerial experience 
Weaknesses: 
 Complete reliance on 
vendors for products 
 Strong competition 
 Regionalized company 
setting in industry 
Opportunities: 
 Rapid growth rate of 
online commerce 
 Growth/Expansion 
 Development of new 
technological 
innovation in retail 
industry 
Strengths/Opportunities 
Strategies: 
 Embrace local 
communities to expand 
and fill voids left by 
major retailers. 
 Utilize specialized 
product selection 
through an online 
presence. 
 Through the expertise of 
the managers, acquire a 
new piece of technology 
in the retail industry. 
Weakness/Opportunities 
Strategies: 
 Utilize online 
commerce as an ability 
to become less 
regionalized and grow. 
 Enter into long-term 
agreement with 
vendors to ensure 
growth. 
 Market new 
technologies acquired 
that competitors will 
not have. 
Threats: 
 New competitors 
 Decrease in consumer 
spending 
 Competitors have a 
larger market 
presence 
Strengths/Threat Strategies: 
 Offer discounts of 
specialized products to 
increase consumer 
spending 
 Offer community 
oriented sales/events 
that larger competitors 
are unable to accomplish 
 Through the expertise of 
managers, develop new 
competitor threat 
assessments. 
Weakness/Threats Strategies: 
 Open stores 
nationwide to compete 
with competitors with 
a large market 
presence 
 Attempt to decrease 
the product costs from 
vendors to increase 
consumer spending 
 Develop viral 
advertising campaigns 
to increase national 
brand awareness
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 81 
Target market for Hibbett Sports is in small to 
mid-sized markets that major retailers such as 
Wal-Mart and Dick’s are absent towards. 
81 | P a g e 
Strengths/Opportunities 
Hibbett Sporting Goods is in a prime 
position to take advantage of many existing 
opportunities by utilizing the company’s 
strengths. Hibbett maintains many small market 
strategic advantages that their customer basis 
values and is conscience about when shopping in 
their stores. It is essential that Hibbett avoid 
taking on large market retailers such as Dick’s in 
urban areas because of their vast product lines, 
competitive prices, and overwhelming popularity. 
Instead, Hibbett should embrace the local and 
midsized communities to fill a void that Wal-Mart and Dick’s are not able to fulfill.117 There is 
also a growing popularity in offering retail options through an online presence.118 Hibbett is 
making progressive steps towards offering purchasing options on their website, and if the 
company is capable of performing these measures it is likely they will utilize their specialized 
products to sustain growth and development through online orders. The rapid development of 
new technological innovation in the retail industry is having a profound impact on the way 
consumers shop, order, and pay for things.119 At the moment, Hibbett maintains no registered 
patents within their company, and the growing opportunistic advantages of patents for certain 
companies are remarkable. Through the expertise and experience of the managerial team of 
Hibbett, the company should attempt to acquire a type of patent that gives them a competitive 
advantage in the industry over its competitors. 
Weaknesses/Opportunities 
Hibbett Sporting Goods operates its sporting goods stores in small to mid-sized markets 
throughout the Southeast, Southwest, and lower Midwest regions of the United States.120 Its 
reliance on these regions is one of the company’s main focal points in their competitive 
strategy model; however, this limits their overall influence in the industry as a whole. With the 
rapid development of online commerce occurring in the industry, Hibbett can utilize online 
commerce as a means of growth and expansion within the market. Like many other sporting 
goods retailers in the industry, Hibbett is completely reliant on their vendors (such as Nike, 
Adidas, Under Armour, etc.) to supply their products within their stores.121 With the notable 
reliance by Hibbett towards these vendors, Hibbett can ensure its status within the retail 
industry by entering into long term agreements with these vendors to remain a viable 
competitor within in the industry as a whole. Rapid technological developments in retail means 
that retailers must ensure their company’s status by identifying and implementing certain 
technological developments that would aid the company itself and offer something that a 
competitor may not have.122 In this case, if Hibbett is capable of marketing a newly acquired 
technology that the company purchased, the company could gain a significant competitive 
advantage over its major competitors in the industry such as Dick’s Sporting Goods and Big Five 
Sporting Goods.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 82 
The above map illustrates the locations of Hibbett Sporting Goods 
stores, which are primarily based in the Southeast region of the US. 
Growing development of 
social media in retail 
82 | P a g e 
Strengths/Threats 
With the recession showing some signs of abating within the United States, the overall 
impact of it is still felt in many business industries, particularly in the retail industry.123 A major 
influence for many businesses is the overall decrease in 
consumer spending. To counteract these figures for Hibbett, 
the company should offer various discounts and 
advertisements to boost consumer spending figures. Probably 
the best method to implement such discounts and 
advertisements would be through social media, and Hibbett 
recently joined Facebook over the past year. Online advertising 
is an inexpensive way to attract new customers and increase 
consumer spending. Placing advertisements on a social media 
website such as Facebook would allow Hibbett to expand their 
market much further and boost consumer spending overall. In 
the third quarter of 2009 alone, Facebook exposed users to 297 billion ads, 23 percent of all the 
advertisements on the World Wide Web.124 In addition to being most viewed, Facebook 
advertisements are one-third the price of other online advertising such as on Google 
searches.125 
The ability of Hibbett Sporting Goods to develop small-market strategic advantages and tactics 
that other major sporting goods retailers are unable to address is one of the pivotal competitive 
advantages the company has to offer. In comparison, one of Dick’s Sporting Goods essential 
practiced strategies is primarily operating in urbanized areas that enable them to attain a 
greater number of potential customers in their stores.126 Unlike Dick’s, Hibbett focuses a great 
deal of their efforts on community oriented sales and events that attract their repeat cliental 
back to their stores. In addition, this practice also shows individuals living in urbanized areas or 
those that are more familiar with Dick’s Sporting Goods the capabilities of Hibbett. Altogether,
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 83 
this focused strategy emphasizes the overall conduct of Hibbett Sporting Goods in the retail 
industry, as it is a company that operates with the primary focus of satisfying the consumer and 
the community. 
Although the market demonstrates considerable economic struggles for retailing companies, a 
major threat many corporate leaders or managers of companies face are new competitors in 
the marketplace. According to 2011 figures, the future of retail is quite promising, as there was 
a 28% increase in the number of new retailing businesses from the previous year.127 The focus 
of many companies needs to be on addressing some of these new competitors before they 
emerge as a large market presence in the industry. In regards to Hibbett, companies such as Big 
Five Sporting Goods and other sporting goods retailers that have only been in the industry for a 
short time must be addressed. It is the responsibility and strategic value for the managerial 
officials working at Hibbett Sporting Goods to develop such strategies to ensure Hibbett’s 
overall success in the industry. 
Weaknesses/Threats 
With large market sporting goods retailers expanding both their product portfolios and 
number of nationwide stores, the need for a small market sized company such as Hibbett 
Sporting Goods to develop a greater presence in the marketplace is essential for the company’s 
overall success. According to Dicks Sporting Goods annual report from 2011, the company 
opened an additional 44 stores bringing its total number of stores up to 525.128 The demand for 
a greater number of Hibbett Sporting Goods is essential in order for the company to remain 
competitive, and these locations need to be beyond the current region in which Hibbett 
normally operates. The company needs to strategically break out of its current hub in the 
Southeast and develop additional stores on the West Coast, Northwest, and Southwest of the 
United States to become a nationwide recognized business. 
The reduction of Nike’s prices 
would enable Hibbett to discount 
their product line prices as well. 
83 | P a g e 
Investing in decreasing the costs relating to vendor fees 
for Hibbett Sporting Goods products would benefit the 
company by promoting an increase in consumer 
spending. The diminished costs Hibbett would have to 
provide the vendors (such as Nike, Adidas, and Under 
Armour) would enable the company to offer many of 
their products at discounted prices. At the moment, 
consumer spending rates continually show signs of 
increasing, which ultimately forces businesses to keep 
their prices at a high level because of the potential lost 
business from these individuals.129 If Hibbett Sporting 
Goods is capable of reducing the purchasing costs of 
these vendor product lines, the company will see 
consumer satisfaction at higher levels, increase of market 
share and market growth, as well as gain a significant 
competitive advantage in the retail industry of sporting goods.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 84 
While maintaining a diligent focus on Hibbett’s primary competitors and vendors is a necessary 
action that the company must perform, Hibbett needs to focus more on broadening their 
customer base rather than being satisfied with their current customers. Currently, Hibbett’s 
advertising on all media outlets is non-existant. On YouTube, Hibbett has only several video 
uploads with a total of only a few thousand views; Dick’s has millions of total viewers on their 
page because of their overwhelming popularity and notable figures they bring in the 
commmercials.130 Within these commercials, Dick’s highlights the premier stature of the 
company, its historic roots, and the well known individuals that use Dick Sporting Goods 
products. Many of these well known individuals are athletes that dominate their sports such as 
Ray Rice, Justin Verlander, and Lebron James, and ultimately it is through their testimonials that 
the Dick’s Sporting Goods brand name presence is considered by most to be the leader within 
the industry. If Hibbett Sporting Goods wants to remain competitive, the company needs to 
address its marketing scheme. The company needs to focus less on community oriented market 
targeting and more on focusing on a national level marketing concept that will enable Hibbett 
to become a large market retailer like Dick’s and other notable businesses. 
84 | P a g e
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 85 
85 | P a g e 
Porters 9 Forces Model 
Executive Summary 
Five industry level forces and four macro-environmental forces were taken into account 
when determining the threat levels for Hibbett Sports. Hibbett Sports is likely to face high 
threats from industry rivals, the social macro-environment, and from suppliers. Hibbett Sports’ 
industry rivals offer a variety of the same products at competitive pricing, putting pressure on 
Hibbett to be the most competitive. Hibbett Sports’ industry rivals also offer online shopping 
allowing them to expand their customer base to the entire United States. Social factors, mainly 
social media, is one of the leading marketing tools for companies currently. Hibbett Sports 
must take advantage of social media and further expand their social media marketing in order 
to reduce social threats. Finally, the threat from suppliers is a direct result of extremely high 
switching costs. Hibbett Sports is forced to pay whichever price the manufacturer sets, this 
could be detrimental during periods of economic distress.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 86 
86 | P a g e 
Social 
 Smart phones allow 
customers to access 
information on the go 
 Social media is the 
leading way to reach 
customers 
 Increased use of 
eCommerce and online 
shopping 
Buyers 
 Low 
differentiation 
 Large number of 
competitors 
Suppliers 
 High concentration 
 High switching 
costs 
 Unique suppliers 
Porter’s 9 Forces Model 
Technological 
 Mobile coupons 
 Near Field 
Communication (NFC) 
 Increased ability to 
customize clothing, 
shoes, jerseys etc… 
Political Legal 
 Presidential election 
likely to influence how 
business will choose to 
operate 
 Federal policies 
discourage business 
opportunities 
 Limited government 
resources 
Economical 
 Mobile and web 
platforms offer increase 
in sales 
 Market development 
 Reduced store sizes 
improve capabilities 
New Entrants 
 Economies of scale 
 High capital required 
 Broad product line 
Industry Rivals 
 Industry composed of 
many firms of equal size 
and competitive position 
 Competitors offer online 
shopping 
Substitutes 
 Competitive market, 
similar products 
 Low switching costs 
Legend: 
= High Threat 
= Medium Threat 
= Low Threat
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 87 
industry rivals. Competitors Dick’s Sporting Goods and 
Big 5 Sporting Goods offer similar products at 
competitive prices. Customers have the ability to shop 
around and compare prices. If Hibbett Sports’ prices 
aren’t the lowest there is a chance at a loss of business. 
Furthermore, Dick’s Sporting Goods offers an expansive 
eCommerce website that allows consumers from all 
over the world to purchase products131. In addition to 
Dick’s current eCommerce website, they are looking to further develop their online shopping 
capabilities by incorporating a more user friendly website as well as an option for online 
purchase and in-store pickup132. From 2010 to 2011, Dick’s reported a 36 percent increase in 
sales just through eCommerce sales alone133. If Hibbett would build an eCommerece website 
and then continue to support and promote eCommerce channel shopping, than they will likely 
see similar growths in sales numbers. Industry rivals will always be present, but taking 
advantage of opportunities such as online shopping will enable Hibbett Sports to be highly 
competitive. 
87 | P a g e 
Industry Rivals 
 Industry composed of 
many firms of equal size 
and competitive position 
 Competitors offer online 
shopping 
Discussion 
The highest threat that Hibbett Sports faces is 
Social 
 Smart phones allow 
customers to access 
information on the go 
 Social media is the 
leading way to reach 
customers 
 Increased use of 
eCommerce and online 
shopping 
The next highest threat is the social environment. 
Companies in the sports retail industry are looking more 
into social media everyday. With 63 percent of adults 
using social media daily, it is more important than ever to 
take advantage of low cost social media marketing134. 
Furthermore, 90 percent of small business marketers are 
using social media, and of those 90 percent, 93 percent 
rate social media tools as important135. Hibbett is 
currently using social media outlets Facebook and Twitter, 
and is currently seeking to hire social media jobs136. Social 
commerce is also a huge market that Hibbett Sports has 
yet to develop into. Social commerce sales should total 
$9.2 billion by the end of 2012, and are expected to rise to $14.25 billion by the end of 2013137. 
Lastly, 50.4 percent of Americans are reported using smartphones in 2012138. Smartphone 
users are able to access websites and social media outlets easier and more often than they 
were five years ago. This ease of use is likely to result in more online purchase and increased 
social media usage.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 88 
88 | P a g e 
Suppliers 
 High concentration 
 High switching costs 
 Unique suppliers 
The third highest threat facing Hibbett Sports is 
suppliers. Hibbett Sports relies on B2B transactions from 
the companies whose products they are selling. The 
result of this is extremely high switching costs. Hibbett 
Sports chooses to sell the top brands in the industry. The 
only way to reduce switching costs would be to carry 
cheaper, lower quality brands. The cost of switching to 
lower quality brands would be a large decrease in sales. 
Because Hibbett is relient on the companies whose products they are selling, they are unable to 
determine the costs in which they purchase the products. Instead, the costs are completely 
dependent on the manufacturer. Hibbett Sports prides themselves on their long-standing 
relationships with their vendors, but even they admit that a loss in key vendor support would 
be detrimental to their business, financial condition, and results of operations139. This poses as 
a risk for Hibbett because if they are unable to purchase the top name brands they will have to 
settle for less qualified companies at the cost of reduced sales. 
Growth Vector Matrix 
Executive Summary 
Considering the Growth Vector Analysis Matrix above, Hibbett Sporting Goods have 
only a small group of options to consider going forward in order to continue to remain the 
"Vendor of Choice"140 for those in the region and motivate sales growth across all product lines 
and improve market exposure and go beyond the current thoughts of what is the addressable 
market. Hibbett Sporting Goods must apply most of its attention and its corporate energy into 
the areas of new products; for example only, non-sport casual wear and diversification into 
non-traditional markets; online. With the changes to social trends of fashion and new 
technology in textiles and manufacturing, it is paramount that Hibbett remain diligent to this 
new trend and technology and be the first to deliver this improved product to the retail market. 
This diversification plays a major roll within this competitive landscape in order that Hibbett 
Sporting Goods remain able to posture their product in the most effective manner as "Best in 
Class"141. Product bundling should be considered to exploit the variety of sport and non-sport 
offerings to the public. Hibbett already does a great job of being an active player in a small 
target market and absolutely should continue to do so to keep consumers feeling personal and 
close to the company. Hibbett Sporting Goods must continue to remain focused on customer 
care by way of requiring all Hibbett Sporting Goods representatives having any direct contact 
with the customer base, undergo a rigorous and continuous inter-personal training thereby 
extending the Hibbett Sporting Goods Mission Statement onto the customer; "We are local and 
personally committed to you"142.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 89 
 Create the ability for 
consumers to customize 
their products. 
 Allow consumers to make 
purchases with their mobile 
devices with options such as 
Near Field Communication. 
 Adopt new brand names 
that create products to 
keep up with rising popular 
trends. 
89 | P a g e 
Market/ Products 
Current Products 
 Athletic Apparel 
 Athletic Equipment 
 Footwear 
New Products 
Legend: = High Importance = Medium Importance 
Current Market 
 Small regional 
 High School > 
Market Penetration 
 Sponsorships of High 
schools and local 
community charities. 
 Small market target allows 
for a more personal feel for 
the customers to relate. 
Product Development 
 Invest in mobile technology 
software for consumers to 
receive coupons and 
discounts on mobile devices 
as well as make purchases. 
 Invest in patents for 
“Organic” or “Recycled” 
materials to be used in 
packaging or products sold. 
New Market 
 Internet/ Social Media 
 College < 
Market Development 
 Creation of a better 
functioning website to 
allow for online ordering 
from the store. 
 Stronger advertise to 
become more recognizable 
to a larger market. 
Diversification 
 Stand out in the consumers’ 
minds by offering better 
customer service such as 
extended warranties or 
insurance on products. 
 Stay present and even go 
further in the community 
through sponsorships and 
charity giveaways and 
rallies.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 90 
90 | P a g e 
Discussion 
New Market New Products: Diversification 
Hibbett needs to stand out from the competition to the consumers not only in their 
current region but to the new markets such as the online community. Hibbett should stand out 
from the competition by offering better services and warranty opportunities to attract and 
keep consumer loyalty. Also the idea of product bundling should be a major part of the 
business model because with this kind of offerings consumers will be able to get products 
together for any event or occasion as one sale unit. 
New Market Current Products: Market Development 
As time goes continues to move forward and social and shopping trends continue to 
advance into the online communities, Hibbett needs to be able to respond and keep up with 
trends. Hibbett needs to create a usable shopping website that is able to process orders online 
rather than just show what products they carry. As consumers become more inclined to shop 
via the internet Hibbett will begin to fall behind to their competitors that have the online 
shopping database. 
Current Markets Current Products: Market Penetration 
Hibbett currently is very successful by standing out in the community through 
sponsorships of high schools and events throughout the year. This strategy needs to remain a 
high priority because relating to their consumer base sets Hibbett apart from larger 
competitors such as Dick’s Sporting Goods.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 91 
1Marie, Beerens. Investors Business Daily, "Hibbett Plays To Its Strengths; Sporting Goods Retailer Targets Smaller 
Markets ." Last modified 2006. Accessed September 23, 2012. http://news.investors.com/investing/010306- 
414639-hibbett-plays-to-its-strengths-sporting-goods-retailer-targets-smaller-markets.htm 
2Benjamin, Sacks. Tulane University: Freeman School of Business, "HIBBETT SPORTS INC. Continuing Coverage: 
Consistently Sporting Good Returns." Last modified 2011. Accessed September 24, 2012. 
http://www.freeman.tulane.edu/burkenroad/pdf/HIBB.pdf. 
3Benjamin, Sacks. Tulane University: Freeman School of Business, "HIBBETT SPORTS INC. Continuing Coverage: 
Consistently Sporting Good Returns." Last modified 2011. Accessed September 24, 2012. 
http://www.freeman.tulane.edu/burkenroad/pdf/HIBB.pdf. 
4 Grainger, Devin, and Brenda Hanson. Decorah Newspaper, "Hibbett Sports opening soon." Last modified 2010. 
Accessed September 24, 2012. 
http://www.decorahnewspapers.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=13&ArticleID=29173. 
5 Benjamin, Sacks. Tulane University: Freeman School of Business, "HIBBETT SPORTS INC. Continuing Coverage: 
Consistently Sporting Good Returns." Last modified 2011. Accessed September 24, 2012. 
http://www.freeman.tulane.edu/burkenroad/pdf/HIBB.pdf. 
6 "Hibbett Sports: Investor Reports & Statements." Last modified 2012. Accessed September 24, 2012. 
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=78137&p=irol-reports. 
7 Bloomberg Businessweek, "Hibbett Sports Inc. ." Last modified 2012. Accessed September 25, 2012. 
http://investing.businessweek.com/research/stocks/news/news.asp?sourceFilter=AW& 
8 Zacks Investment Research Group, "Hibbett Gets Dicks Competition." Last modified 2008. Accessed September 
25, 2012. http://www.zacks.com/stock/news/14401/hibbett-gets-dicks-competition. 
9 Hibbett Sports: Investor Reports & Statements." Last modified 2012. Accessed September 24, 2012. 
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=78137&p=irol-reports. 
10 Hibbett Sporting Goods, www.hibbet.com 
11 Hibbett Sporting Goods Inc., "Hibbett Sports: About Us." Last modified 2012. Accessed September 25, 2012. 
http://www.hibbett.com/about-us/. / 
12 Hibbett Sports: Investor Reports & Statements." Last modified 2012. Accessed September 24, 2012. 
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=78137&p=irol-reports. 
13SOWEB, "Social Media Trends to Watch for if Your in the Retail Industry." Last modified March 9, 2011. Accessed 
October 23, 2012. http://www.sowebinc.com/seo/social-media-trends-to-watch-if-you-are-in-the-retail-industry. 
14 SOWEB, "Social Media Trends to Watch for if Your in the Retail Industry." Last modified March 9, 2011. Accessed 
October 23, 2012. http://www.sowebinc.com/seo/social-media-trends-to-watch-if-you-are-in-the-retail-industry. 
15 CBS NEWS, "Survey: Teens' Cell Phones Indispensible ." Last modified April 2, 2010. Accessed October 23, 2012. 
http://www.cbsnews.com/2100-503063_162-4449232.html. 
16 Allison, David. BCBusiness, "Five Social Trends that Will Change Your Business." Last modified June 6, 2012. 
Accessed October 23, 2012. http://www.bcbusinessonline.ca/bcb/bc-blogs/one-brand-clapping/2009/11/04/five-trends- 
91 | P a g e 
will-change-your-business. 
17 Allison, David. BCBusiness, "Five Social Trends that Will Change Your Business." Last modified June 6, 2012. 
Accessed October 23, 2012. http://www.bcbusinessonline.ca/bcb/bc-blogs/one-brand-clapping/2009/11/04/five-trends- 
will-change-your-business. 
18 Allison, David. BCBusiness, "Five Social Trends that Will Change Your Business." Last modified June 6, 2012. 
Accessed October 23, 2012. http://www.bcbusinessonline.ca/bcb/bc-blogs/one-brand-clapping/2009/11/04/five-trends- 
will-change-your-business. 
19 Belcher, Lynda. Chron, "How to Make A Retail Business Work Without A Store Front." Last modified 2012. 
Accessed October 23, 2012. http://smallbusiness.chron.com/make-retail-business-work-store-front-20426.html. 
20 Charlton, Graham. Econsultancy, "Ten Reasons for Retailers to Use Mobile Coupons." Last modified May 19, 
2012. Accessed October 25, 2012. http://econsultancy.com/us/blog/5936-ten-reasons-for-retailers-to-use-mobile-coupons.
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 92 
21 Merrill, Douglas. Urgent Communications, "How Retailers Are Using Near Field Communications." Last modified 
2012. Accessed October 25, 2012. http://urgentcomm.com/near-field-communication/reach-out-and-touch-someone- 
92 | P a g e 
related-video. 
22 SAScom Magazine, "Top Five Economic Retailing Trends." Last modified 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. 
http://www.sas.com/news/sascom/2012q1/industry_spotlight.html. 
23 SAScom Magazine, "Top Five Economic Retailing Trends." Last modified 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. 
http://www.sas.com/news/sascom/2012q1/industry_spotlight.html. 
24 Plunket Research, Ltd, "Retailing Industry Market Research." Last modified 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. 
http://www.plunkettresearch.com/retailing-stores-market-research/industry-and-business-data. 
25 Plunket Research, Ltd, "Retailing Industry Market Research." Last modified 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. 
http://www.plunkettresearch.com/retailing-stores-market-research/industry-and-business-data. 
26 Plunket Research, Ltd, "Retailing Industry Market Research." Last modified 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. 
http://www.plunkettresearch.com/retailing-stores-market-research/industry-and-business-data. 
27 Franchise Help, "Retail Industry Analysis 2012-Cost & Trends." Last modified 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. 
http://www.franchisehelp.com/industry-reports/retail-industry-report. 
28 Siegel, Adam, and Maggie Burnside. Retail Industry Leaders Association, "2012 Retail Sustainability Report." Last 
modified 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. http://www.rila.org/sustainability/sustreport/sustainability-report-landing- 
page/Documents/RetailSustainabilityReport.pdf. 
29 Franchise Help, "Retail Industry Analysis 2012-Cost & Trends." Last modified 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. 
http://www.franchisehelp.com/industry-reports/retail-industry-report. 
30 Franchise Help, "Retail Industry Analysis 2012-Cost & Trends." Last modified 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. 
http://www.franchisehelp.com/industry-reports/retail-industry-report. 
31 Franchise Help, "Retail Industry Analysis 2012-Cost & Trends." Last modified 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. 
http://www.franchisehelp.com/industry-reports/retail-industry-report. 
32 Spors, Kelly. Small Business Trends, "4 Sustainability Trends Among Retailers." Last modified January 31, 2012. 
Accessed October 25, 2012. http://smallbiztrends.com/2012/01/4-sustainability-trends-among-retailers.html. 
33 CBS News, "Poll: Economic Status of Country." Last modified October 20, 2012. Accessed October 25, 2012. 
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-250_162-57539891/poll-gender-gaps-all-but-gone-in-white-house-race/. 
34 The MudGood Job Journal, "Retail Sector Urges Obama Administration to Address Retail Sector." Last modified 
2012. Accessed October 25, 2012. http://www.mudgoodjobs.com/retail-sector-urges-obama-administration-to-address- 
retail-job-creation-in-tuesdays-state-of-the-union-address/. 
35 Nixon, Mike. Tri-Parish Times, "Federal Policies Ruin Businesses." Last modified October 23, 2012. Accessed 
October 25, 2012. http://www.tri-parishtimes.com/business/local/article_1410e3d0-1d3f-11e2-b122- 
001a4bcf887a.html. 
36 Nixon, Mike. Tri-Parish Times, "Federal Policies Ruin Businesses." Last modified October 23, 2012. Accessed 
October 25, 2012. http://www.tri-parishtimes.com/business/local/article_1410e3d0-1d3f-11e2-b122- 
001a4bcf887a.html. 
37 2011 Dicks Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC. Last Modified 2011. http://phx.corporate-ir. 
net/phoenix.zhtml?c=132215&p=irol-irhome 
38 2011 Dicks Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC. Last Modified 2011. http://phx.corporate-ir. 
net/phoenix.zhtml?c=132215&p=irol-irhome 
39 Hines, Michael. Dick's Sporting Goods Investor Relations, "Dick's Sporting Goods Announces Completion of 
Aquisitions." Last modified February 13, 2012. Accessed October 16, 2012. http://phx.corporate-ir. 
net/phoenix.zhtml?c=132215&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=962720&highlight=. 
40 Weil, Dan. Money News, "Dick's Sporting Goods: A Winning Strategy." Last modified February 29, 2012. 
Accessed October 16, 2012. http://www.moneynews.com/Companies/Dick-s-Sporting-Goods- 
DKS/2012/02/29/id/431009. 
41 2012. Accessed October 16, 2012. 
http://www.cnbc.com/id/49086246/The_Zacks_Analyst_Blog_Highlights_Dick_s_Sporting_Goods_Nike_Under_Ar 
mour_Foot_Locker_and_Wal_Mart_Stores
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 93 
42 2011 Dicks Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC. Last Modified 2011. http://phx.corporate-ir. 
net/phoenix.zhtml?c=132215&p=irol-irhome 
43 Annual Reports, "DKS 2011 Annual Report." Last modified 2011. Accessed October 17, 2012. 
https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache:iAVBSteQAgEJ:phx.corporate-ir. 
net/External.File?item=UGFyZW50SUQ9MTM1NjAyfENoaWxkSUQ9LTF8VHlwZT0z&t=1 strengths of dicks 
sporting goods annual report&hl=en&gl=us&pid=bl&srcid=ADGEEShNg5n0rX2coa677R_YNVCzcunPXCDovHw-lMre2VlVo4Vg8RAWp6WOyLIenjU0J46Nw1dV4r_ 
BC4fy1nWURKSalCXKNTQUOAcp0NdP7X8PNxu0EJhoCSdHg5Jpxy 
rdSepbCOEH&sig=AHIEtbTBJnoUYtYgz8S0qsvyj9MYIYHl6A. 
44 Zacks Equity Research Group, "Dick's Ongoing Strategies." Last modified September 18, 2012. Accessed October 
17, 2012. http://community.nasdaq.com/News/2012-09/dicks-to-expand-store-base-analyst-blog. 
93 | P a g e 
aspx?storyid=174330. 
45 2011 Dicks Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC. Last Modified 2011. http://phx.corporate-ir. 
net/phoenix.zhtml?c=132215&p=irol-irhome 
46 http://www.wikinvest.com/stock/Dick%27s_Sporting_Goods_%28DKS%29#_note-1 
47 http://www.wikinvest.com/stock/Dick%27s_Sporting_Goods_%28DKS%29#_note-1 
48 Zacks Equity Research Group, "Dick's Ongoing Strategies." Last modified September 18, 2012. Accessed October 
17, 2012. http://community.nasdaq.com/News/2012-09/dicks-to-expand-store-base-analyst-blog. 
aspx?storyid=174330. 
49 Weil, Dan. Money News, "Dick's Sporting Goods: A Winning Strategy." Last modified February 29, 2012. 
Accessed October 16, 2012. http://www.moneynews.com/Companies/Dick-s-Sporting-Goods- 
DKS/2012/02/29/id/431009. 
50 2012. Accessed October 16, 2012. 
http://www.cnbc.com/id/49086246/The_Zacks_Analyst_Blog_Highlights_Dick_s_Sporting_Goods_Nike_Under_Ar 
mour_Foot_Locker_and_Wal_Mart_Stores 
51 “History of Dicks Sporting Goods” Last modified 2011, FundingUniverse.com 
52http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/shop/index.jsp?categoryId=13086108&ab=ACLN11_Cspot_ProShop_Servic 
es 
53http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/category/index.jsp?ab=TopNav_Outdoors&categoryId=4413993 
54 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg .14 
55 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg. 15 
56 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg. 16 
57 http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/field--stream-reaches-agreement-to-sell-certain-trademarks-to-dicks- 
sporting-goods-170159776.html 
58 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg. 17 
59 http://seekingalpha.com/article/20585-dick-s-sporting-goods-to-purchase-golf-galaxy-for-225-million 
60 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg. 18 
61 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg .33 
62 http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-03-01/dick-s-sporting-goods-channels-rudy-film-in-branding-strategy. 
html 
63 http://adage.com/article/agency-news/dick-s-sporting-goods-taps-anomaly-ad-agency/232016/ 
64 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg. 33 
65 http://seekingalpha.com/article/287829-dick-s-sporting-goods-inc-ceo-discusses-q2-2011-results-earnings-call-transcript
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 94 
94 | P a g e 
66 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg. 7 
67 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg. 31 
68 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg. 33 
69 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg. 33 
70 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg. 7 
71 “Annual Report of Dicks Sporting Goods” Last modified 2011, NYSE, AnnualReports.com 
72 Hennion R. Jeffery. Dicks Sporting Goods, Last modified 2004, Dicksportinggoods.com. http://phx.corporate-ir. 
net/phoenix.zhtml?c=132215&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=598768&highlight 
73 Booton, Jennifer. Fox Business News, "Dick’s Sporting Goods Reports Home-Run Quarter As Earnings Jump 34%." 
Last modified May 15, 2012. Accessed October 8, 2012. 
http://www.foxbusiness.com/industries/2012/05/15/dicks-sporting-goods-reports-home-run-quarter-as-earnings-jump- 
34/. 
74 Booton, Jennifer. Fox Business News, "Dick’s Sporting Goods Reports Home-Run Quarter As Earnings Jump 34%." 
Last modified May 15, 2012. Accessed October 8, 2012. 
http://www.foxbusiness.com/industries/2012/05/15/dicks-sporting-goods-reports-home-run-quarter-as-earnings-jump- 
34/. 
75 New York Times, "DICK'S Sporting Goods Launches Mobile Application." Last modified September 20, 2012. 
Accessed October 8, 2012. 
http://markets.on.nytimes.com/research/stocks/news/press_release.asp?docTag=201209200900PR_NEWS_USPR 
X____NY77911&feedID=600&press_symbol=90523. 
76Yantis, John. USA Today, "Dick's Sporting Goods Building Distribution Site." Last modified January 14, 2012. 
Accessed October 8, 2012. http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/USCP/PNI/NEWS/2011-12-19-PNI1219biz-swv-dicks-groundbreakingART_ 
ST_U.htm. 
77 2011 Big 5 Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC Last Modified 2011. 
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/01/11/idUS197639+11-Jan-2012+GNW20120111 
78Englander, David. Barron's, "Big 5 Sporting Goods Changing Its Game." Last modified September 22, 2012. 
Accessed October 16, 2012. 
http://online.barrons.com/article/SB50001424053111904706204578004352048047468.html. 
792011 Big 5 Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC Last Modified 2011. 
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/01/11/idUS197639+11-Jan-2012+GNW20120111 
80 2011 Big 5 Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC Last Modified 2011. 
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/01/11/idUS197639+11-Jan-2012+GNW20120111 
81Englander, David. Barron's, "Big 5 Sporting Goods Changing Its Game." Last modified September 22, 2012. 
Accessed October 16, 2012. 
http://online.barrons.com/article/SB50001424053111904706204578004352048047468.html 
82 2011 Big 5 Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC Last Modified 2011. 
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/01/11/idUS197639+11-Jan-2012+GNW20120111 
83 PR Newswire, "Big 5 Sporting Goods Announces Strategic Policy." Last modified October 19, 2011. Accessed 
October 18, 2012. http://www.thestreet.com/story/10893501/1/big-5-sporting-goods-corporation-announces-entry- 
into-new-credit-agreement.html. 
84 2011 Big 5 Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC Last Modified 2011. 
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/01/11/idUS197639+11-Jan-2012+GNW20120111 
85 2011 Big 5 Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC Last Modified 2011. 
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/01/11/idUS197639+11-Jan-2012+GNW20120111
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 95 
86 2011 Big 5 Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC Last Modified 2011. 
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/01/11/idUS197639+11-Jan-2012+GNW20120111 
87 Englander, David. Barron's, "Big 5 Sporting Goods Changing Its Game." Last modified September 22, 2012. 
Accessed October 16, 2012. 
88 2011 Big 5 Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC Last Modified 2011. 
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/01/11/idUS197639+11-Jan-2012+GNW20120111 
89 Englander, David. Barron's, "Big 5 Sporting Goods Changing Its Game." Last modified September 22, 2012. 
Accessed October 16, 2012. 
90 “History of Big 5 Sporting Goods” Last modified 2011, FundingUniverse.com. 
http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/big-5-sporting-goods-corporation-history/ 
91 2011 Annual Report for Big 5 Sporting Goods” Last Modified 2011, NYSE, Annualreports.com 
92 2011 Annual Report for Big 5 Sporting Goods” Last Modified 2011, NYSE, Annualreports.com 
93 2011 Annual Report for Big 5 Sporting Goods” Last Modified 2011, NYSE, Annualreports.com 
94 2011 Annual Report for Big 5 Sporting Goods” Last Modified 2011, NYSE, Annualreports.com 
95 2011 Annual Report for Big 5 Sporting Goods” Last Modified 2011, NYSE, Annualreports.com 
96 2011 Annual Report for Big 5 Sporting Goods” Last Modified 2011, NYSE, Annualreports.com 
97 2011 Annual Report for Big 5 Sporting Goods” Last Modified 2011, NYSE, Annualreports.com 
98 “2011 Annual Report for Big 5 Sporting Goods” Last Modified 2011, NYSE, Annualreports.com 
99 “2011 Annual Reports for Big 5 Sporting Goods” Last Modified 2011, NYSE 
http://www.annualreports.com/Company/2828 
100 “Adidas Sues over Knock off Products” Reuters. Last modified 2012, 
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/05/16/adidas-sneaker-lawsuit-idUSL1E8GGMMM20120516 
101 “Big 5 Settles false advertising case” Last modified April 27, 2011 
http://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/settlements/15751/big5-sporting-goods-settles-false-advertising-case. 
95 | P a g e 
html#.UHNEgFYw-7t 
102 http://smallbusiness.chron.com/characteristics-financial-ratios-wholesale-retail-industry-14458.html 
103 http://www.zacks.com/stock/news/86618/earnings-preview-dicks-sporting 
104 http://ycharts.com/rankings/industries/Sporting%20Goods%20Stores/debt_equity_ratio 
105 http://ycharts.com/rankings/industries/Sporting%20Goods%20Stores/current_ratio 
106 http://smallbusiness.chron.com/characteristics-financial-ratios-wholesale-retail-industry-14458.html 
107http://www.google.com/patents/US7959522?dq=inassignee:%22Dick%27s+Sporting+Goods,+Inc.%22&hl=en&s 
a=X&ei=YEqTUPb-HuaVyQHM5IEI&ved=0CDoQ6AEwAQ 
108http://www.google.com/patents/US6846253?dq=inassignee:%22Dick%27s+Sporting+Goods,+Inc.%22&hl=en&s 
a=X&ei=DL6TULDVMcWU2QWBxIHYAw&ved=0CD0Q6AEwAg 
109 http://www.google.com/patents/US6053340?dq=sports+retailing+patents&ei=7vyPUKqeCubp0QH2vIHQDg 
110http://www.google.com/patents/US8118222?dq=sports+retailing+industry&hl=en&sa=X&ei=aAqQUKmbFM6L0 
QHrxoD4BQ&ved=0CDkQ6AEwATgK 
111http://www.google.com/patents/US8239272?dq=sports+retailing+technology&hl=en&sa=X&ei=BhCQUNC5ErH 
H0AHX-IHoBg&ved=0CD8Q6AEwAw 
112 http://www.google.com/patents/US6885998?dq=sports+equipment+rental&hl=en&sa=X&ei=Zj- 
QUJPeLMi60QHHy4G4CA&sqi=2&pjf=1&ved=0CDIQ6AEwAA 
113http://www.google.com/patents/US6434530?dq=sports+retailing&hl=en&sa=X&ei=FXWRUPHlNcqZ0QGZ7YDoB 
g&ved=0CDcQ6AEwATgK 
114 http://www.google.com/patents/US20120245969?dq=retail+product+tracking&hl=en&sa=X&ei=rH-RUNe2KqmB0QHTtICoDQ& 
ved=0CDQQ6AEwAA 
115http://www.google.com/patents/EP2148585B1?cl=en&dq=sports+apparel+technology&hl=en&sa=X&ei=xAmTU 
JaMMLH62AWogYGgAw&ved=0CDQQ6AEwADgK 
116http://www.google.com/patents/US20070168216?dq=e+commerce&hl=en&sa=X&ei=5dCTUP7QHany2QWD64 
GIAg&sqi=2&pjf=1&ved=0CEYQ6AEwBg
H i b b e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 96 
117http://news.investors.com/business-the-new-america/080112-620575-rising-industry-trends-for-hibb-ua-nke-dks. 
96 | P a g e 
htm?p=full 
118 http://www.epsit.com/ecommerce.php 
119 http://www.guardian.co.uk/media-network/media-network-blog/2012/oct/30/technology-retail-interview-series 
120http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=78137&p=irol-irhome 
121 http://www.hibbett.com/uploads/default/files/vendor_compliance_manual-hibbett_plan_version_may12.pdf 
122 http://www.retailtechnology.co.uk/market-analysis/technology-change-throws-spotlight-support 
123 http://www.google.com/webhp?hl=en&tab=ii#hl=en&tbo=d&output=search&sclient=psy-ab& 
q=recession+affects+retail+industry&oq=recession+affects+retail+industry&gs_l=hp.3..0i30j0i8i30j0i22.757.67 
40.0.6998.35.29.1.5.5.4.924.4361.20j5j0j2j1j0j1.29.0.les%3B..0.0...1c.1.l7M0GjkFZ0w&pbx=1&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_ 
pw.r_qf.&fp=bb4ade3441768232&bpcl=38093640&biw=1280&bih=930 
124 http://blog.onlinemediadirect.co.uk/facebook-is-the-favoured-platform-for-online-ads/518/ 
125 http://voices.washingtonpost.com/posttech/2010/11/facebook_ranks_first_in_displa.html?wprss=posttech 
126http://community.nasdaq.com/News/2012-10/hibbett-expected-to-outperform-analyst-blog. 
aspx?storyid=181223 
127 http://www.businessinsider.com/fastest-growing-retailers-in-america-2012-7?op=1 
128 http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=132215&p=irol-irhome 
129 http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/money/story/2012-06-01/consumer-spending-april-report/55326804/1 
130 http://simon.com/mall/longview-mall/stores/hibbett-sporting-goods 
131 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg .14 
132 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg .14 
133 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg .4 
134 Pring , C. (2012, 10 05). 99 more social media statistics for 2012 [Web log message]. Retrieved from 
http://thesocialskinny.com/99-new-social-media-stats-for-2012/ 
135 Pring , C. (2012, 10 05). 99 more social media statistics for 2012 [Web log message]. Retrieved from 
http://thesocialskinny.com/99-new-social-media-stats-for-2012/ 
136 Thesocialconcept.jobamatic.com/a/jobs/find-jobs/q-Hibbett-Sports 
137 Pring , C. (2012, 10 05). 99 more social media statistics for 2012 [Web log message]. Retrieved from 
http://thesocialskinny.com/99-new-social-media-stats-for-2012// 
138 (n.d.). Retrieved from http://techcrunch.com/2012/05/07/nielsen-smartphones-used-by-50-4-of-u-s-consumers- 
android-48-5-of-them/ 
139 Hibett Sporting Goods. (2012). 2012 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg .7 
140 Hibbett Sporting Goods Mission statement. www.hibbett.com 
141 Hibbett Sporting Goods Mission statement. www.hibbett.com 
142 Hibbett Sporting Goods Mission statement. www.hibbett.com

Hibbett Sporting Goods Competitive Overview

  • 1.
    11/13/2012 MCIIS COMPETITIVEINTELLIGENCE OVERVIEW Ian Brooks | Chris Dale | Cullen Mangino | Ryan Schank | Brandon Thomson |
  • 2.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 1 1 | P a g e Table of Contents Executive Summary ......................................................................................................................... 2 Key Findings & Strategic Implications ............................................................................................. 4 Key Intelligence Topics .................................................................................................................... 6 Company Overview ......................................................................................................................... 8 Environmental Analysis - STEEP .................................................................................................... 12 Competitive Review ...................................................................................................................... 22 Financial Analysis .......................................................................................................................... 50 Patent Analysis .............................................................................................................................. 68 Strategies ...................................................................................................................................... 79
  • 3.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 2 2 | P a g e Executive Summary Utilizing a variety of analytical tools and strategies, this competitive profile project intends to determine the current trends, competitive position and likely future strategies of Hibbett Sporting Goods. The company is a small market sports retail store that operates in the southeast and Midwest region of the United States. A Key Intelligence Topics (KIT) section outlines the tasking presented to the Mercyhurst University Competitive Intelligence Team for Hibbett Sporting Goods, and background information regarding the current assignment. Throughout the profile, we conducted analysis of internal, competitive, and overall environmental factors that have an effect on Hibbett Sporting Goods ability to compete in the market in the future. A Company Overview expressed findings related to Hibbett Sporting Goods strengths, weaknesses and strategies that the company already possesses. STEEP analysis (Social, Technological, Economic, Ecological, Political / Legal) revealed information about macro-level influences in the economic environment on Hibbett Sporting Goods. We then put together a Competitive Analysis Profile of competitors Dicks Sporting Goods and Big 5 Sporting Goods using Patent Analysis and Financial Analysis to compare to Hibbett’s own financial performance and ownership of patents in the retail industry. We then conducted SWOT analysis, Porter’s 9 Forces analysis and a Growth Vector Matrix to further provide strategies for Hibbett Sporting Goods based on the strengths and weaknesses and room for growth in the industry to better compete in the changing retail market. Key findings found as a result of the project showed that Hibbett Sporting Goods has been successful in their current market in the past. But in order to remain competitive in the changing economic environment, Hibbett Sporting Goods needs to make changes to their current strategies and take advantage of the new strategies available in the Key Findings and Implications section provided. New strategies such as becoming more present in the online community because of the rising trends of social media usage of all generations, is a major
  • 4.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 3 change that Hibbett needs to become aware of in order to maintain and attract its target consumer base. Also Hibbett, who currently does not own any patents in the retail industry, is at a loss to competitor Dicks Sporting Goods because of the ownership and diversity of products and services the patents allow for. With the analysis of Hibbett Sporting Goods and the companies competitors, the Mercyhurst University Competitive Intelligence team have provided multiple strategies that are likely to increase the success and profitability of the company in the future. 3 | P a g e
  • 5.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 4 The numbered findings are for reference only and findings are not in any particular order 4 | P a g e Key Findings & Strategic Implications The following list is broken into three categories based on priority: A= High Impact to Company and Strategy Development B= Medium Impact to Company, Potential Effect on Strategy C= Low Impact, Informative Key Finding Sources Implications for Hibbett Sporting Goods PRIORITY: A HIGHEST IMPACT 1. Presence in the smaller consumer market, better for sales performance. Business Intelligence Profile Continue to exist in this market to become the strongest retailer in the market before upgrading to the larger market. 2. Social Media trends are becoming very important to the retail industry. STEEP Analysis SWOT Analysis Hibbett needs to be present in the online community to adapt with growing trends of consumers. 3. Ongoing recession in the United States can affect consumers willing to purchase new products. STEEP Analysis Understand the financial difficulties consumers have today and create sales or promotions to still be able to attract the consumer. 4. Technology such as new patents in the market give companies competitive advantages or the other retailers in the industry. Patent Analysis STEEP Analysis Although there are a very limited number of patents for a “re-seller” store like Hibbett, it is important to own the most patents possible to be able to diversify the company from other competitors. PRIORITY B: MEDIUM IMPACT 5. Hibbett’s financial ratios compete right on with the retail industry averages. Financial Analysis Continue to manage assets as they have been with more attention on inventory management to increase the inventory turnover speed. 6. Online sales have become a leading trend in the overall economic market STEEP Analysis SWOT Analysis Hibbett needs to become more functional in the online community by creating a sales website that actually process and take consumers orders. 7. There is a strong number of substitutes for Hibbett in the location such as Dicks Sporting Goods and Wal-Mart. Competitor Analysis Hibbett Sporting Goods needs to diversify itself from competitors by offering special services and deals such as bundling products or a rental program for products.
  • 6.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 5 5 | P a g e 8. Regionalization is a key strategy for Hibbett Sporting Goods consumer market. Business Intelligence Profile Competitive Intelligence Profile Hibbett already does a good job of being present in the community through giveaways and high school sponsorships and should continue to do so in more depth. Rallies and Charitable donations and drive in the community would be good for public presence. PRIORITY C: LOW IMPACT 9. Emergence of healthier diets and “get-fit” trends. STEEP Analysis Create promotions to relate with changing trends such as marketing actual workouts with the products that are being sold. 10. Recent Presidential election may affect laws and even consumer spending. STEEP Analysis Understand the political standings of current leaders and how the overall economy plans to change with the new election. 11. Only a very few number of patents in the “re-seller” retail industry. Patent Analysis Obtain the patents that will make Hibbett stand out from the competitors and diversify its service.
  • 7.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 6 6 | P a g e Key Intelligence Topics Tasking The decision maker at Hibbett Sporting goods has assigned the Competitive Intelligence team (CI Team) from Mercyhurst University to collect information, analyze information, and strategically provide a conclusion for the decision maker to go with. The decision maker has recently experienced a successful growth pattern and has charged the competitive intelligence team with the task of maintaining this pattern. Also the decision maker has made the point very clear that they would like to avoid all surprises that may occur and find any business aspect that they are possibly not paying enough attention to. The CI Team will be reviewing the competitions trends, the affect the external environment has on the company, and market activity for the future using open source information. Requirements In order to provide the necessary information to the decision maker the CI Team will be collecting the following data:  Competitor trends and strategies  Successful product ideas/lines that the company may be over looking  Market activity to develop an understanding for the future Using this information, the CI Team will be answering the following questions: 1. Who is the most dangerous competition? 2. How are the competitors marketing their products? 3. What product lines are competitors offering that our company is not? 4. How will changes in external environment affect our company today? 5. Who is the most prosperous target market? 6. What strategy could we use to give us advantages? 7. How do we compare financially to other companies in our market? Methodology In order to answer these questions, the CI Team will be using the following tools and models to analyze and collect the information:  Collection of data using open source information  Competitor profiling to identify the competition and its trends
  • 8.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 7  Understand the competitors trends and strategies to utilize in our advantage  External Environment analysis to understand how changes will affect our company  SWOT Analysis to understand the different aspects of tour company  Financial Analysis to better understand where money is being allocated and how we compare to 7 | P a g e other companies  Nine Forces Challenges Possible challenges that the CI Team could run into may include the following:  Time limit could be too short for thorough analysis  Inexperience may lead to redoing sections, wasting time and energy  Information may be difficult to find and/or understand Resources Throughout this assignment many different resources will be used and taken advantage of such as the following: A. Use of Internet as a source of open source information B. Use of analytical software and models C. Looking over analytical reports on competitors and our own company Open Source While completing this assignment the CI Team will have access to the following sources of public information: 1. Internet 2. Lexis Nexis 3. Library 4. SEC, Annual Reports Administration The Final product will be prepared by the end of the term and will include a written document along with analytical models and findings, as well as a power point presentation.
  • 9.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 8 8 | P a g e Company Overview Executive Summary Hibbett Sporting goods is a small retail distributor located in the South West and Midwest that specializes in athletic goods and athletic apparel. Hibbett has found itself to be successful by targeting the smaller retail markets because of its own size expansion opportunities it provides. Also, Hibbett has learned to become successful because they understand and offer the specific products that relate to their target demographic. Finally, Hibbett’s overall management team is a highly experienced and seasoned team that has been working for the company for a number of years. Although the company has many strengths, there are also weaknesses that should be addressed. First off, one weakness the company possesses is that it is only located in the South and Southwest. Also, the company is very reliant on the success of collegiate and professional teams for the sales of apparel and merchandise. Should there be a lockout or a down year for a team, sales could suffer dramatically. Along with this idea, the company is also very dependent on the vendors keeping up with trends and creating products that are desirable to consumers. Finally, large competitors such as Dick’s Sporting Goods are beginning to move into the smaller market competition, creating problems for Hibbett who mostly targets to these demographics. Hibbett’s target market is small neighborhood communities.
  • 10.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 9 9 | P a g e Strengths of Hibbett Sporting Goods  Company targets smaller retail markets because of the significant strategic advantages, cost savings, less competitive environment, and overall expansion opportunities. The strategy of Hibbett Sporting Goods is quite unique, as the company operates in small to mid-sized markets, specifically the Southeast, Southwest, Mid- Atlantic, and lower Midwest regions of the United States. More specifically, the company “targets markets with populations of 30,000 to 100,000 people” to assure that Hibbett is not competing with other sporting goods retailers in larger markets.1 Targeting these low to mid-sized markets also allows “the company to expand with relatively low operating costs and minimal competition.”2 Through this form of strategic market targeting, Hibbett shows both financial and operational expansion in 2012.  The Company offers a selection of specialized products that cater to the demographics and interests of each individual community. Though larger stores such as Dick’s Sporting Goods and Big 5 Sporting Goods Corporation operate slightly larger sized stores, Hibbett focuses much of its efforts on the preferred sporting good retail items and/or products. By utilizing these competitive advantages, Hibbett is able to compete with the larger retail chains by providing better customer service even though they lack the greater number of available products.3 They are able to “provide information and certain products to customers that they may not get at other stores selling sporting goods."4  Hibbett’s Management team has significant experience in the industry and has been together for quite a long time. The current corporate structure of Hibbett Sporting Goods shows noticeable retail industry experience. Under the collective efforts of these individuals, Hibbett has shown an expressed increase in its gross profit margin and overall store operations efficiency output. For example, during the 2011 fiscal year, “the company opened 45 stores, closed 14, and expanded 14.”5 These figures demonstrate that Hibbett’s corporate executives are effectively understanding each stores productively, and correctly addressing any possible concerns or issues. Weaknesses of Hibbett Sporting Goods  Stores are located in the southeast and southwest region. Being a regional retailer means that the company as a whole will be affected by any regional downturn such as the economy, gas or fuel price increases, climate patterns. These factors will have an
  • 11.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 10 immediate impact on the company’s overall wellbeing because it will result in the loss of consumer activity in the area.6  Performance by college or professional athletic teams and lockouts. Teams that do not perform well will cause a lack of sales for the company and would lead to a surplus of inventory. Should there be a lockout such as the NHL is in the company can expect to lose sales on items for this market. 7  Complete reliance on the vendors. Hibbett is a reseller of products and relies heavily on the relationship that they have with the vendors such as Nike, Adidas, Reebok, etc. Also Hibbett is reliant on the vendors to continue to create and distribute products that the consumers will still find appealing and desirable.  Big name competition expanding into market. Sporting retailer giant, Dicks Sporting Goods is expanding into the smaller market that Hibbett has made itself comfortable in. This is major threat to the company because Dicks is a nationwide retailer that is seen as the “more desirable” store. 8 10 | P a g e
  • 12.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 11 11 | P a g e Value Chain Analysis Figure 1- Value Chain Analysis Hibbett Sporting Goods  Primary Activities o Service: Is the place in which the best performance footwear, clothing, and equipment can be purchased. Hibbett is continually improving and providing the best for any athlete or sport to improve their game9. o Sales and Marketing: Hibbett provides an online site to make purchases as well as advertise in magazines. The major sales are in the southeast of the United States.10  Secondary Activities o Infrastructure: Hibbett is located in the Southeast to Midwest United States with over 800 stores in 26 states11. Hibbett has smaller stores providing a more direct access to the sporting equipment. The smaller stores provide a much more personal touch and allow the customers to ask questions that the employees know the answers to. o Procurement: Hibbett sells top name brands such as Nike, Sperry, Adidas, Life is Good, Puma, Mission, Mizuno, Saucony, Fossil, Chaco, Under Armour, K-Swiss, and Sketchers etc.12. Hibbett provides all the top fan gear, and equipment that all these name brands have to offer.
  • 13.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 12 E-Commerce Cycle of Online Service Source: http://tinyurl.com/co7g9f2 12 | P a g e Environmental Analysis - STEEP Executive Summary A macro environmental analysis of the ongoing issues, actions, and factors affecting Hibbett Sports, Inc. through the STEEP methodology identifies potential benefits and impediments affecting the company’s current performance. Ongoing social trends indicate the importance of mobile devices, increase in social media, and acceptance of social commerce as social impacts. Technological trends include further advancement in mobile integration, development of Near Field Communication as a purchasing option, and customization of products. Economic trends forecast business innovation during these hard times, new market horizons, and reduction of store sizes to address economic strains. Ecological trends indicate an expansion of “green developments,” increase in organic food consumption, and growth in recycling programs. Political and Legal trends forecast the importance of the 2012 Presidential Election cannot be understated, the governments inefficiency to promote accurate economic reform policies is damaging, and the limited resources of the government is troublesome. Trends distinguished through STEEP analysis illustrate a macro environment that is quite limited and unsuitable for a small market sized company such as Hibbett Sporting Goods. With a small consumer basis, regionalized development, and marginal financial success, Hibbett is highly unlikely to be influenced and gain any significant competitive advantages. Social  Mobile devices are becoming an important social icon and are likely to illustrate rapid growth and development over the next few years. o There are over 3 billion people with a mobile device today and that number continues to climb drastically.13 For most, the implications or uses of mobile devices are virtually limitless, these devices are capable of performing mobile banking, recording video, accessing email, and
  • 14.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 13 accessing the internet. According to a recent study, about one third of all people accessing the internet in 2012 were doing it through a mobile device.14 o One of the prime target demographics of mobile devices is adolescents, more specifically, individuals in the age range of 12-18 years of age. According to a recent survey conducted by Nielsen, “teens feel that cell phones have become a vital part of their identities, and ultimately gauge one another’s popularity status based solely on the phone that he or she uses.”15 In this specific age demographic, teens value the type of phone they have almost as much as the clothes they wear, according to the survey.  This will likely result in consumers purchasing mobile devices based mostly on the presumed social status symbol it will provide for them  If consumers seek out mobile devices in this format, the industry will 13 | P a g e likely increase immensely in the next few years.  Overall social media usage among all generations has increased dramatically, and is likely to continue its overall growth. o In essence, social media can be used as a very cost-effective marketing strategy to reach a wide number of customers worldwide. More and more companies are beginning to market through social media to target a greater number of potential customers, and prevent possible suppression or lapsed recollection by the entire marketplace. According to 2010 social media figures, “generation Y, outnumbered baby boomers, and 96% of these individuals were already on social networks.”16 Social media is definitively a growing trend, and shows consistent prosperous results in years to come. o Throughout the early years of the twenty-first century, the concept of a shared sense of community has been largely based on social media outlets for sources of connection and togetherness. Social media sites such as Facebook, MySpace, LinkedIn, Twitter, and others are reconfiguring the manner in which people relate with one another.17 This form of networking is considerably important to retailers such as Hibbett Sporting Goods, as it provides consumer evaluations, product reviews, and overall insight into what the company should continue or discontinue doing.  This will likely result in consumers using these social networking sites to evaluate business retailers such as Hibbett Sporting Goods  Companies are likely to begin using various marketing techniques and strategies to target their consumers on these social networking forums as well.
  • 15.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 14  Social Commerce and “E-Commerce” is becoming a major attraction for online Mobile Coupon Usage http://www.tatango.com 14 | P a g e shoppers and is likely to have a dramatic influence in the retailing industry. o Basic E-Commerce sites are beginning to incorporate functional methodologies to make purchases and communicate with others. Many companies, especially in the retail industry, are using the recommendations from these individuals that purchase their products to address any potential issues or problems with their products.18 For example, Hibbett Sporting Goods has recently developed an online presence and exhibits strong consumer relationships in this sense to address concerns that consumers have expressed. o The ability to effectively attract online shoppers in the retail industry is almost becoming a necessity for businesses to remain viable within the industry. Traditional retail operations is no longer based solely on attracting consumers directly to the store location, but rather with “the advent of the Internet, and other innovative ways of doing business on a retail level these techniques have become commonplace in among major retail outfits.”19  This will likely result in an influx of overall online retail spending and shopping over the course of the next few years  The need for stores in the retail industry to expand and grow with more and more store locations will likely become an unnecessary action by businesses in the next several years Implications: With the growing trend of technology, more importantly mobile devices, the need for Hibbett Sporting Goods to develop successful marketing techniques and strategies to target this specific consumer demographic is a necessary function the company must exhibit in the coming years. In addition, with the rapid growth of online shopping in the retail industry Hibbett must be capable of offering successful product mixes, discounts and advertisements, and competitive prices to remain a viable competitor within the retail market. Technology  Mobile integration of coupons likely to have profound impact in the retail industry in the upcoming years. o This form of technological innovation allows customers to have access to coupons to their favorite stores on the
  • 16.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 15 move. This will entail that the consumer will always have access to sales and deals throughout the day as long as they have their phones with them.20 o The benefits of this technology also help to market and promote retailing stores as well as their sales and deals that are ongoing. This process can be performed through various phone applications, as well as through social media sites. o Using mobile marketing is also a cost effective strategy compared to the NFC payment method is rapidly developing. Source: http://tinyurl.com/8e5we75 Nikeid Customization Site http://blog.ponoko.com/2008/04/25/mass-customization- the-the-big-end-of-town/ 15 | P a g e traditional direct mailing process.  It is likely that Near Field Communication (NFC) is becoming a purchasing option that many companies utilize. o In recent years, companies such as Google and other various application developers are taking full advantage of Near Field Communication (NFC). In essence, these companies have been using this technology to integrate an individual’s debit and credit cards onto their phone.21 A phone will be used the same way that a debit or credit card is used, which is much more convenient. o This will ultimately allow consumers to easily purchase items. In addition, it also provides retailers with the opportunity to successfully offer special sales for those individuals that use their phones in this manner.  This potentially has the likelihood of limiting the need for financial credit and debit cards based on convenience and overall accessibility  This would also potentially limit the overall capacity of banking institutions in a large manner.  Increase ability for customization of products is likely to influence consumer purchasing trends and actions. o In today’s competitive environment, companies are allowing consumers the capability of completely customizing their products. For many sold products, consumers can select various shades of color, expressed graphics, and other selective additive capabilities. o This new way to customize products gives
  • 17.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 16 consumers a great way to express themselves. A clear illustration of this concept is demonstrated with Nike as they allow their customers to customize bags, shirts, shoes, and various apparel in both their stores and online. Implications: Through the rapid development of newer technological capabilities, resources, and functions Hibbett Sporting Goods has the potential to incorporate many of these newly developed aspects in their business. However, being that Hibbett Sporting Goods is a small-market sized company in the industry it is highly unlikely that the company will incorporate any of the above-mentioned Illustration of dramatic rise in online shopping, particularly with mobile devices. Source: http://tinyurl.com/9f7o8vn 16 | P a g e technological advancements that currently exist in the business world. Economic  Despite the economic hard times, retail businesses are likely to find new ways to attract customers and help them save overall. o In recent years, the creation of mobile and web platforms to allow customers to download coupons and discounts provide notification of company news and actions, and view promotional events that the company may be offering is an essential quality needed during these economic hardships.22 More and more companies are emphasizing these points to enable profitable gains and successful competitive actions within the industry. o With the number of internet users and a growing easier access to online hosts, the number of online shoppers is a growing trend worldwide and many of the major retailers will likely continue to target these individuals to profit from their business. o Differentiation is vital, and retailers look to differentiate themselves past the basic of just focusing on prices. Retailers will focus more on services to the
  • 18.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 17 customer, such as merchandise quality, consumer support, and marketing strategies and tactics. This shows retailers adaptability and that they realize consumers are in tough times as well, and the business must be able to specifically target them to draw their future business.23  Capability of broadening horizons and searching for new markets to appeal to new 17 | P a g e customers is highly likely to generate growth and development. o With a growing number of consumers tightly spending the little bit of money they have during this recession, many companies and organizations are generating their focus to other markets. In recent years, the retail industry has been challenged in America, the EU, and other developing nations based mostly on the ongoing fallout from the recent financial crisis.24 o Certain parts of the international market have benefited quite successfully over the course of the recent recession in America and other areas of the world. The most exciting stories of retail industry growth are emerging in countries such as China, India, and Brazil.25 For many of the world’s leading retail industries and chains, the companies are rushing to open new stores and locate themselves near new malls that have developed at an astounding rate.26  This will likely result in a continued increased presence of retail chains and industries internationally  This will likely diminish the overall capacity of retailers in the United States, Canada, and the EU as these emerging markets promote greater successful opportunities  Reducing the overall size and capacity of stores likely to improve the capabilities and functions of the business as a whole. o A rapidly growing concept or idea expressed by many large businesses is the notion of “going smaller.”27 With the drastic changes in how consumers buy items/products and the overwhelming cost of real estate, many stores have opted to scale back their operations and only focus on their major store facilities, or the ones that prompt for the most financial growth and development. o The smaller store format also enables these businesses to fit into smaller locations therefore allowing them to go into many urban settings, which ultimately makes it accessible to a greater number of potential consumers. o The smaller store format also allows for an increased ability for interaction between the consumer and employee, which ultimately will likely boost customer service and satisfaction within the company.
  • 19.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 18  This will likely decrease the number of real estate purchases by many 18 | P a g e retail organizations and groups  This will likely diminish the need for more employees within these retail businesses, resulting in an increase in unemployment  Retailers are likely to enter into more urbanized settings allowing for major growth and development Implications: As smaller sized retailers such as Hibbett Sporting Goods are battling tough economic times, the company must exhibit clear and concise decisions that enable them to remain financially successful. The company must forecast the likely outcomes of potential store locations, new product lines, distribution methods, and other business functions to diminish unwarranted spending or financial blunders. In essence, the company must focus heavily on areas in which it can cut its overall financial margins (i.e. reducing overall size of stores and searching for newer markets) to remain competitive with other retailers such as Dick’s Sporting Goods, Big Five Sporting Goods, and other notable sporting goods retailers. Ecological  Turning from sustainability as a cost and risk reduction measure to an opportunity likely to promote future business growth. o The retailers leading the industry’s sustainability charge recognize that the benefits extend well beyond achieving business efficiencies. Sustainability programs are increasingly seen as a source of innovation, a way of differentiating a company that appeals to employees and consumers, and a platform for new product and market development.28 o Going Green initiatives allow companies to differentiate themselves from other companies or brands. Also, this allows them to market themselves as “Green” and sell products at a higher price margin. o In a recent poll by Time Magazine, 50 percent of Americans valued environmental protection over economic growth. This shows that Americans are willing to purchase environmentally friendly products despite their potentially higher costs involved.29  An increased sale in organic foods is likely to translate in an increase in healthier lifestyle choices such as
  • 20.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 19 Organic food consumption is a growing trend in America. Source: http://tinyurl.com/95kmsje 19 | P a g e exercising and dieting. o The desire for a healthier lifestyle is a consistently growing trend in America, as individuals seek to live longer and more health conscience. According to a recent Time Magazine poll, 60 percent of Americans have at some point purchased organic foods over the last year.30 More and more individuals are attempting to forego fast food and other unhealthy eating options and seek alternative food options such as organic food. o According to the comparison between 2011 and 2012, there was a 20 percent rise in the sale of organic foods.31 Most of these items included organic cereal, rice and grains, condiments and dressings, as well as various other prepared foods. o With this growing trend of individuals seeking a healthier lifestyle, this also may result in these same individuals becoming more active and exercising to lead this type of lifestyle as well.  This will likely result in more individuals joining gyms, buying sports related products, and potentially could influence the sporting goods retailers’ bottom line  This is unlikely to occur in the next year alone, but rather over the course of the next few years with the potential push from both the government and these selective retailing stores in their marketing strategies  Companies that are conscience about their recycling programs are likely to see additional public approval. o Over the course of the past few years, companies have recognized that it is prudent that consumers recycle their used products. Many of these companies are looking into the recycling of these products as a potential source for generating newer products.32 o Companies choosing to use recycled materials are also able to use this as PR marketing campaign, by claiming that they are sustainable. This will drive up consumer interest as well as offering a chance for the company to earn additional financial growth. o Though the ability for companies to recycle tends to be slightly more expensive than not recycling, many companies feel as though the perceptual gains by consumers are worth the additional financial stress.  This will likely result in many companies and organizations emphasizing recycling programs and advocating environmental awareness
  • 21.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 20 Implications: Because of the ecological ramifications associated with a company that does not advocate environmental awareness, it is likely Hibbett Sporting Goods will incorporate certain recycling procedures to generate public approval. In addition, the transition from many individuals eating healthier organic foods is highly likely to influence potential overall sales within Hibbett because these individuals will likely associate eating well with eventually exercising as they wish to be well-rounded healthy individuals. Due to the new healthy lifestyle, consumers will look to purchase exercising goods from Hibbett. 2012 Presidential candidates at their 20 | P a g e first debate. Source: http://tinyurl.com/cpfvj87 Political & Legal  The 2012 Presidential Election is highly likely to influence the manner in which many retailers operate and function in the economy. o In every presidential election, especially the 2012 election, the issue of the economic status of the country is a pivotal issue that is discussed. According to recent Gallup polls, both President Barak Obama and Republican candidate Mitt Romney show considerable desire to fix the struggling economy and potentially increase consumer spending in the retail sector.33 o President Obama states that he will address the National Retail Federation’s (NRF) continued pressure of increasing jobs, encourage consumer spending, and attempt to promote possible growth and development. According to NRF, “America’s retailers want to continue growing our economy, but to do that we need Washington to embrace common-sense economic policy.”34 o Republican candidate, Mitt Romney, also believes in major economic reform policies, which may be incorporated if he wins the 2012 Presidential Election.  Ongoing federal policies highly likely to challenge and discourage potential business opportunities in America. o Many policies and procedures coming out of Washington are making small businesses fearful for their futures, according to several politicians.35 For the most part, these businesses are fearful over potential increases in taxes, limited
  • 22.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 21 consumer spending, and an overall contraction of business growth that is currently occurring in the United States. o The ability for businesses to operate to their greatest capacities is limited as many governmental regulations and policies virtually limit overall growth and development in a decisive way. o With the Democrats in control of the Executive Branch and the Republicans with the majority of control in the Legislative Branch, any potential economic growth is limited based on differing viewpoints.  It is likely that these ongoing governmental policies imposed on 21 | P a g e businesses will continue to sustain limited or no growth  As many governmental policies take time, if there is a potential transition in the Executive Branch to the Republican Party, it is likely to take a long time for new policies to be invoked.  With limited resources, the ability to effectively serve the United States economy is likely to be a difficult and enduring process for the government. o Based on a recent survey conducted with 6,000 businesses across America, many businesses wish for the government to address the current tax issue that exists with many businesses.36 The underlying issue for these businesses is that they desire a sense of uniformity that exists between state and local taxes. o Much of the government’s current resources are limited, and the ability to potentially address these issues is going to take considerable time and allocation of resources by the government.  It is unlikely the government will be able to address the major concerns of both large and small sized businesses in the next two years Implications: As Hibbett Sporting Goods is considered a small-sized market business, the ability for the company to gain economic prosperity in the industry is difficult. With no recognized political ties or affiliations demonstrated with the company’s managerial team, it is unlikely that the 2012 Presidential Election will play any significant impact in the company’s operations. However, the issue of tax breaks is a major concern for Hibbett, as many of their stores are located in some of the highest tax bracket locations for businesses.
  • 23.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 22 22 | P a g e Competitive Review Executive Summary Dick’s Sporting Goods is genuinely satisfied with its current situation in the market; however, the company still seeks to expand and promote both corporate and financial growth over the next few years. The company is addressing both of these issues by expanding to new store locations (primarily on the West Coast) and focusing more on its inventory management and product mix. Dick’s Sporting Goods primary strengths include its broad assortment of brand name merchandise at multiple price points and high quality customer service provided. Certain weaknesses or challenges of the company include its inability to offer specialized product niches that smaller stores are capable of offering, and its perception of being the leader in the sports retailing business, which may result in the company becoming complacent. Also having to deal with the issues of sports seasonality can lead to slumps in sales when the bigger popular sports are not in season.
  • 24.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 23 23 | P a g e Porter’s 4 Forces Model (Dick’s Sporting Goods) Future Goals • Accelerate the pace of opening new store markets and locations • Develop new store functions such as "Ship from store" and in-store pickup • Accelerate financial growth Current Strategy • Heighten consumer interest in products • Great expertise/service to gain support • Offer broad assortment of products at various price points • Offer the highest quality customer service Competitor Response Genuinely satisfied, but looking to continue overall growth Likely to develop new store functions, accelerate growth Vulnerabilities: Seasonal nature of business, potential complacency Assumptions • Believes itself to be the innovative leader within the sports retail industry • Expects both financial growth and overall company expansion growth during 2012 • Sees newly aquired aquisitions as very profitable and beneficial to company • Expects to be a more dominant presence on the West Coast in the upcoming years Capabilities • Strength: Large store locations with a wide variety of product • Strength: User friendly online website • Strength: Expanding stores nationwide • Weakness: Smaller stores may offer better selection on certain niches • Weakness: Seasonal nature of business Figure 2 - Porter's 4 Forces Model Dick's Sporting Goods
  • 25.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 24 24 | P a g e Discussion Analysis Dicks sporting Goods has been very successful in their particular market of the retail industry. The company is still looking to expand their overall growth by creating new stores at a faster pace and even develop new store functions such as a product rental programs for consumers. These strengths of the company lead to Dicks being a power house competitor and overall retailer in the industry. However Dicks Sporting Goods can run into problems because of the seasonality of the “sports retail” market leading to a slump in sales in off seasons for major sports. Future Goals Dick’s Sporting Goods future goals are to continue to increase the number of store locations nationwide until they are able to double the current number of stores they have. In addition, the company hopes to accelerate financial growth by focusing much more on its product mix and inventory management.37 Finally, Dick’s is looking at modifying certain in store functions such as shipping from stores and in store pickup to satisfy recent consumer demands. Assumptions Dick’s views itself as the leader within the sporting goods retailing industry, and only expects the company to continue its ongoing success. By offering a broad assortment of products at various prices, high quality customer service, and newly developed in store functions the company foresees continued leadership within the industry and overall growth.38 Finally, the company sees its recent acquisitions of Golf Galaxy, LLC, Chick’s Sporting Goods, and Galyan’s Trading Company as a means of future financial growth.39 Strategies Dick’s strategies include offering a broad assortment of products at various prices, providing premiere customer service, and heightening consumer interest in products through several different means.40 The ultimate focus in each of the specified strategies is to “gain a competitive advantage through effective business measures.” Altogether, the use of each of these strategies has effectively made Dick’s Sporting Goods the leader within the industry.
  • 26.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 25 Capabilities The strengths that make up Dick’s Sporting Goods are primarily based upon their vast number of store locations and large quantity/quality of product lines.41 In essence, Dick’s maintains and operates almost three hundred more stores and thousands of more products then the nearest competitor. However, this same competitive advantage also can be seen negatively, as smaller stores may be more capable of offering certain product niches that Dick’s simply cannot specialize in. Furthermore, the company has also acknowledged the aspect of certain times of the year being more profitable than other times, such as the fourth quarter or winter season of the fiscal year.42 25 | P a g e Strengths of Dick’s Sporting Goods Broad assortment of brand name merchandise at multiple price points. Dick’s Sporting Goods carries a wide variety, more than any other sports retailer, of well-known athletic brands within its stores.43 These brands include Nike, Adidas, The North Face, Columbia, Callaway Golf Merchandise, Under Armour, as well as private brand names on an exclusive basis. The wide range of product selections for each athletic category allows for the company to address the needs of the consumer, from the beginner to the ultimate sport enthusiast.44 The ultimate desire for the company is to develop the reputation of having variation of every desired item by its customer basis. Exceptional online business support, which shows signs of continued growth and development for its customer basis. One of Dick’s Sporting Goods more recognizable strengths within the company is its online business website. As many other notable online retailers (Amazon, EBay, etc.), have exhibited recent intentions of offering sporting good items/products online as well, Dick’s online presence also continues to illustrate signs of financial growth.45 In addition, with the continued technological developments occurring annually the need to assist customers online has shown to be a necessary aspect for all large retailers.
  • 27.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 26 Private company labels/products helping boost overall margins. In order to remain a leader within the sporting goods retailing industry and aid in boosting margins, Dick’s Sporting Goods carries its own private-label brands alongside its name brand products.46 These private label products (including Ativa) “sell at margins approximately 5-6 percentage points higher than typical branded goods.”47 The incorporation of these private-label products immensely aid the gross profit margins of the company, and effectively generate a greater corporate presence within. 26 | P a g e Weaknesses of Dick’s Sporting Goods Smaller stores may offer better niches or specialized products/services that Dick’s cannot match. Being that Dick’s Sporting Goods is the largest sporting goods retailer in the industry, the ability for the company to effectively serve all of its customer’s desires is unlikely. In smaller retailing stores (such as Hibbett Sporting Goods, Big Five Sporting Goods, etc.), these companies are capable of offering certain niches that attract certain consumers, and ultimately enable them to receive repeat business.48 To combat this weakness, Dick’s attempts to offer a broad assortment of product and provide high quality service. Instances of complacency may inhibit successful actions within the competitive environment. At the moment, Dick’s Sporting Goods is the most dominant presence within the retail sporting goods environment. Their financial portfolio shows continued growth and development, they are expanding their corporate presence throughout the United States, and maintain high satisfaction ratings from consumers.49 However, with all their current success the possibility for the company to become complacent is a growing concern from within their senior management team. These individuals fear that the company’s recent success within the industry will ultimately distort their views for future business actions and activities. Smaller selection of generic products/services that are more affordable for the customer. One of the main principles demonstrated by Dick’s Sporting Goods is offering high quality, high-cost products that are mostly used by serious sports enthusiasts. The inability to offer lesser-valued products that other smaller sporting goods retailers (Big Five Sporting Goods, Hibbett Sporting Goods, etc.) are capable of offering limits the company’s overall success. In addition, during this struggling economy many individuals are unable to purchase such high priced items, and ultimately decide to select the lesser valued product instead.50
  • 28.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 27 27 | P a g e Background In 1948, teenage boy named Dick Stack had been employed at a small Army and Navy store in Binghamton, New York. Dick was an enthusiastic outdoorsman and thought about offering a business plan to his employer. This plan was to sell fishing gear in the shop. After being turned down by his employer he returned home and told his grandma of his recent failure. His grandma then gave him $300 of her own money and told him to follow his dreams. He took that $300 and opened his own bait and tackle shop. By the late 1950s, to respond to his loyal customers he expanded his product lines to include many of the things that are found in present day stores. Now, Dick’s Sporting Goods now has over 450 stores, offer the highest quality products in sports, outdoors, and apparel. Dick’s also owns and operates Golf Galaxy, which is a retailer for golf specialty items.51 Timeline 1948 •Dick Stack starts his own bait-and-tackle shop in Binghamton 1958 •The small shop becomes a full-fledged sporting goods store, known as Dick's Clothing and Sporting Goods 1984 •After Dick Stack retires, his son Edward becomes CEO and president; plans expansion of sporting goods superstore concept. 1992 •Dick's begins expansion outside Binghamton area. 1994 •Dick's relocates to Pittsburgh; the company operates 22 stores in four states. 1996 •Over 50 stores are in operation, generating an estimated $10 million in sales per store. 1999 •Chain Store Age Executive names Edward Stack Retail Entrepreneur of the Year; company name is changed to Dick's Sporting Goods. 2001 •Sales exceed $1 billion with more than 130 stores. 2002 •Dick's Sporting Goods becomes a public company.
  • 29.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 28 28 | P a g e Dick’s Sporting Goods Management Team Officer 2011 Compensation Experience Edward W. Stack Age: 57 Executive Chairman and CEO Total Compensation:$11,114,002 Salary: $961,538 Executive Chairman and CEO since 1984 President since 2006 Been with Dicks since 1977 and held a variety of positions including store manager and merchandise manager Executive Director since 1984 Serves on the Board of Directors of the National Federation Joseph H. Schmidt Age: 52 President and Chief Operating Officer Total Compensation: $3,818,570 Salary: $728,269 Chief Operating Officer and President since 2009 Executive V.P. since 2008 Was previously the Senior V.P. of Store Operations since 2005 and served as V.P. of Store Operations since2001 Served multiple positions from 1981-1990 Timothy E. Kullman Age: 56 Chief Financial Officer, Executive V.P. of Finance & Administration and Trasurer Total Compensation: $2,061,244 Salary: $ 563,327 Executive V.P., Finance & Administration and Chief Finance Officer since 2008 Served as V.P. and Chief Financial Officer of PetSmart from 2002-2007 During his 5 years he oversaw great financial growth Executive V.P. and Chief Financial Officer for Hagameyer North America Holdings Inc from 2001-2002 Served as Senior V.P., Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer for Delchamps Inc. 1994-1997 John G. Duken Age:51 Executive V.P. of Global Merchandising Shares Owned: 102,633 Market Value: $5,270,000 Executive V.P. of Global Merchandising since February 2012. Holds BS in finance from the University of Southern California Lauren R. Hobart Age: 43 Chief Marketing Officer and Senior V.P. Total Compensation: $2,656,351 Salary: 416,827 Senior V.P. and Chief Marketing since joining Dicks in February 2011 Worked at PepsiCo as Chief Marketing Officer, and several years in strategic planning Before PepsiCo she worked for JP Morgan Chase and Wells Fargo
  • 30.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 29 29 | P a g e Analysis Dick’s Sporting Goods as a Board of Executives that range in various fields throughout the retail industry. The board consists of well-educated and experienced men and women all of which are middle aged with several years of experience whether with Dick’s or other well-known retailers. These executives combine their knowledge to be one of the strongest retailers of sporting goods and apparel. They all have been working together for some time with the exception of John Duken who just joined Dick’s in February 2012. Products and Services Executive Summary Dick’s Sporting Goods stores across the nation feature a variety of “stores-within-a-store.” These six stores are: Golf Pro Shop, The Lodge, Fitness, Team Sports, Footwear, and Athletic Apparel. Also, Golf Galaxy™, a subsidiary of Dicks Sporting Goods, features an even broader product line of golf equipment. The concept of having stores within-a-store allow Dick’s Sporting Goods to be a major retailer with the expertise of a private boutique. Dick’s Sporting Goods doesn’t only pride themselves on their top brands and exclusive products, but also their competitive pricing and an established eCommerce site that offers interactive capabilities with their brick-and-mortar locations. In 2011, Dick’s Sporting Goods relied on the sales of their “hardlines”, this includes sporting goods, fitness equipment, outdoor gear, and golf equipment (figure 3). It is highly likely that in the next 24 months Dick’s Sporting Goods will continued to push the sales of their hardlines. Figure 3 - Dick's Sporting Goods Merchandising
  • 31.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 30 30 | P a g e Golf Pro Shop The Golf Pro Shop at Dick’s Sporting Goods features equipment, apparel, footwear, and accessories from the top national brands. These brands include: Taylor Made, Callaway Golf, Titleist Golf, Adams Golf, Footjoy, and Nike. Dick’s Sporting Goods also offers specialty services including custom fitting, club repair, and re-gripping. On-hand working in their Golf Pro Shops Dick’s Sporting Goods boasts more than 450 PGA and LPGA pros on hand to help out their customers and offer their own advice.52 The Lodge The Lodge at Dick’s Sporting Goods is targeted towards the outdoors enthusiast with products for hunting, camping, and fishing. The assortment of products includes both “tried-and-true” products as well as products harnessing the latest technology. Featured brands names in The Lodge include: Coleman, Remington, Shimano, and Old Town. The Lodge also offers many in store services including: rifle-scope mounting, bore sighting, fishing line spooling and arrow cutting. Hands-on displays located within The Lodge allow customers to get a first-hand look at what their purchasing and test the product before they buy.53 Fitness The Fitness area in a Dick’s Sporting Goods store offers big box products, like exercise machines and weight sets, as well as fitness accessories like footwear, apparel, and supplements. Brand names include: LIVESTRONG, Precor, Nautilus, SKLZ, and Everlast. Included in the fitness section is Dick’s Sporting Goods very own bicycle shop that sells, repairs, and tunes bicycles. Bike shop brands include Diamondback, Yakima, Pearl Izumi, Giro, and Bell. 54
  • 32.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 31 31 | P a g e Team Sports The Team Sports section of Dick’s Sporting Goods offers products for the following sports: Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Ice Hockey, Field Hockey, Basketball, Football, Lacrosse, Volleyball, and Wrestling. The brand names that are carried in this section are the industry leading brands, including: Nike, adidas, Under Armour, Mizuno, Wilson, Easton, Rawling, STX, and Warrior. Sales associates in this section of the store are avid players and coaches that have experience using the products. Dick’s Sporting Goods is also the recognized retailer of Little League Baseball. Dick’s Sporting Goods offers team discounts as well as donations.55 Footwear Dick’s Sporting Goods offers a “shared-service ” concept in their Footwear sections. This means that customers can help themselves to the products on display, with employees walking around to service them if needed. The footwear section is dedicated to footwear for any sport, as well as shoe accessories, performance socks, and insoles. Leading footwear manufacturers include: Nike, Adidas, Asics, Brooks, Mizuno, Saucony, and Reebok. The footwear section is also host to outdoor footwear from brands: Timberland, KEEN, Reef, and their own Field & Stream line.5657 Athletic Apparel Dick’s Athletic Apparel store carries an extensive collection of sports apparel for men, women, and children. Dick’s focuses on high-technology fabrics that are specific for athlete’s needs. The merchandise in the section features leading manufacturer’s brands: Nike, Under Armour, Reebok, and Adidas. Also included in the athletic apparel section is an outerwear section which features jackets and pants for hunting, camping, skiing, and snowboarding. Brand names include Columbia and The North Face.58
  • 33.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 32 32 | P a g e Golf Galaxy Golf Galaxy is a subsidiary of Dick’s Sporting Goods dedicated to the sport of golf. 59 Golf Galaxy provides a world class selection of golf equipment, more expansive than that of the Golf Pro Shop in Dick’s Sporting Goods. Golf Galaxy features equipment, apparel, footwear, accessories, and custom services. The golf industry’s premiere manufacturers are featured in the store, brand names include: Taylor Made, PING, Titleist, Callaway Golf, Adams Golf, Cleveland, Nike Golf, and Footjoy. Golf Galaxy is also home to their own private brands: Walter Hagen, Nickent, Slazenger, and Puma. Golf Galaxy also offers a host of services, they include: club repair, club fitting, golf course simulators, putting greens, and indoor driving bays. The staff at Golf Galaxy is comprised of PGA and LPGA professionals.60 Marketing Activities and Trends Executive Summary It is highly likely that in the next 24 months Dick’s Sporting Goods will continue to use more lifestyle advertising in supplement to their usual event advertising. With the addition of Anomaly as their marketing agency, Dick’s Sporting Goods is likely to spend more money on marketing as well as change the way people see the company. Dick’s Sporting Goods is making the change to be more than just somewhere people go to shop, but as a brand. Discussion In the past, Dick’s Sporting Goods has relied on in-house marketing teams and various production companies to get the word out about their stores. Usually this meant newspaper clippings and annual events.61 Though successful, Dick’s Sporting Goods has recently decided to increase their presents in the sports retail industry and shift from being somewhere people shop, to a brand name. 62 This is the first time Dick’s Sporting Goods will be launching an overarching brand campaign that will impact the entire year, instead of just a particular season. Figure 4 - Dick's Sporting Goods New Marketing Campaign
  • 34.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 33 The new ad campaigns being run by Dick’s Sporting Goods feature in-sports footage, as well as all the hard work that leads up to it. They focus on the lifestyle of the athlete and all the dedication that they put into the sport, and try to incorporate that into the Dick’s brand name. As seen in figure 4, the ads are much more dramatic and personal, whereas in figure 5 the ads are used to promote sales events in the store. The recent choice to invest in the Anomaly Agency as their marketing agency is allowing Dick’s Sporting Goods to advertise and market their stores on a much larger level. This recent decision Figure 5 - Dick's Sporting Goods Old Marketing Campaign follows the appointment of Lauren Hobart, a veteran marketing guru for PepsiCo for 14 years, and now the head of marketing for Dick’s Sporting Goods.63 Dick’s Sporting Goods will continue to advertise in newspapers, direct mail, and seasonal on local television and radio. But in addition, this new marketing strategy will allow Dick’s Sporting Goods to market on a national level. In addition marketing and advertising, Dick’s Sporting Goods also features a “ScoreCard Rewards Card”, in which their customers can earn points and eventually earn gift certificates. ScoreCard members are also receive exclusive offers as well as deals relative to their sports preferences and past history of purchases.64 33 | P a g e Operation-Capacities Executive Summary Dick’s Sporting Goods has a large amount of stores nationwide as well as four large distribution centers. With more than 1,200 vendors, Dick’s Sporting Goods is able to purchase goods and distribute them to each of their stores in an extremely efficient manner thanks to new advanced technological systems. In addition to their current stores, Dick’s Sporting Goods is planning on doubling their size in the future to over 900 stores nationwide. It is highly likely that Dick’s Sporting Goods will continue to invest money in new stores and distribution centers in the next 24 months.
  • 35.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 34 Figure 6 - Dick's Sporting Goods Locations Figure 7 - Dick's Sporting Goods Store Figure 8 - Dick's Sporting Goods Store Information 34 | P a g e Discussion Dick’s Sporting Goods features 480 stores in 40 states, as well as 81 Golf Galaxy stores. As seen in figure 6, this number is increasing rapidly every year. In 2011 alone Dick’s Sporting Goods opened 36 stores, that’s an 8.1 percent growth rate (figure 7). Growth Dick’s Sporting Goods plans on growing at an even higher rate in 2012.65 Dick’s Sporting Goods is ultimately planning on opening over 400 more stores, almost doubling their size.66 In addition to opening new stores, Dick’s Sporting Goods is also remodeling their older stores. In 2011 alone, Dick’s Sporting Goods remodeled 14 of their stores, and in 2010, 12 of their stores (figure 8).67 Dick’s Sporting Goods has four distribution centers nationwide. A 725,000 square foot distribution center in Plainfield, Indiana, a 657,000 square foot distribution center in Atlanta, Georgia, a 601,000 square foot distribution center in Smithton, Pennsylvania, and lastly, a 624,000 square foot distribution center in Goodyear, Arizona.68 Products are purchased from approximately 1,200 vendors and then sent to these distribution centers. From there, the products are allocated and it is determined how much of which product will go to each store.69
  • 36.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 35 In order to maximize margins Dick’s Sporting Goods has placed a large emphasis on inventory management. Recent advanced technological tools are now allowing Dick’s Sporting Goods to develop systems that optimize prices, merchandise sizing, and package optimization. This will allow Dick’s Sporting Goods to more closely correlate inventory allocations decisions to the specific needs of each store.70 35 | P a g e Dick’s Sporting Goods Strategies • Corporate emphasis of maintaining an upscale focus A great deal of Dick’s Sporting Goods corporate success is directly linked to the company’s ability to illustrate an emphasis on higher-performance products designed for serious athletes or enthusiasts. Although, the company also offers products at various ability and price levels as well to assist certain consumer demands. With the company’s focus on higher quality and higher-priced products, Dick’s maintains a competitive advantage over its other sporting goods and general merchandise retailers. Through this method of premium pricing, Dick’s is able to gain favorable perceptions among buyers, which inevitably causes greater corporate success. • Increase brand presence through various marketing concepts and schemes The notion of establishing a strong brand presence throughout the United States is a pivotal component of Dick’s Sporting Goods overall competitive business strategy. A clear example of this expressed concept was during 2011, when Dick’s attempted to gain a stronger brand presence in Ohio. During this marketing campaign, Dick’s distributed thousands of discount offers (at approximately 22 events), received mention by over 50 media outlets, and gave over $10,000 in various promotions and sweepstakes. Altogether, the company was able to significantly increase its brand presence in Ohio, and has continued to effectively implement such strategies in other locations as well. • New growth initiatives to expand the company’s overall outlook Over the course of the last several years, Dick’s Sporting Goods has exhibited rapid expansion and technological developments to better serve its cliental. For the fiscal 2012 year, “Dick’s operated 500 stores in 44 states,” and recent forecasts show that the long-term prospects of the company are to continue its rapid expansion. Overall, the company aims at opening an additional 400 stores, which would target a total store count of 900. In terms of technological developments, the company aims at offering top-notch customer experiences by introducing a new mobile application for IPhones and Android Smartphones. The application provides the
  • 37.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 36 customer with the nearest store location, ongoing sales events and discounts, as well as the ease of buying goods directly from the mobile application. Both of these measures indicate that the immediate future of Dick’s Sporting Goods is quite promising, and will ultimately enhance its customer service. • Newly acquired acquisitions demonstrate future growth and development in certain prosperous sporting retail markets In recent years, the acquisitions of the intellectual property rights to the Top-Flight brand from Callaway Golf Company, Chick’s Sporting Goods, and Golf Galaxy, LLC have shown positive growth in terms of financial statements and reports. In addition, these various business acquisitions have also opened Dick’s Sporting Goods up to newer and more promising marketplaces, which many sources believe will yield future profits as well. Altogether, it is with these specific mergers and acquisitions that Dick’s Sporting Goods hopes to gain a substantial control over the sporting goods retail industry. 36 | P a g e Financial Summary: Dick’s Sporting Goods Dicks Sporting Goods had been able to increase their revenues from $4.5B to $5.2B in the past four years due to their market strategy and competitive capability. Also Dicks Sporting goods have been able to increase its overall Net Profit steadily every year.71 Figure 9 - Dick's Sporting Goods Stock Prices
  • 38.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 37 37 | P a g e Acquisitions  2004 Dicks Sporting Goods acquires Galyans Trading Company along with stocks and locations72  In 2007 Dicks Sporting Goods acquired Los Angeles based “Chicks Sporting Goods”  2011 Upper Management talk about acquiring an E-Commerce Company, but did not name targets Net Income Overview 2011 $263,906 2010 $182,077 2009 $135,359 2008 $(39,865) 2007 $150,566 Dicks Sporting Goods has had a strong net income the past five years, creating a larger return on investment for the shareholders of the company. Dick’s Sporting Goods Current/Recent Key Events  Dick’s Sporting Goods reports home-run first quarter in 2012 The recent financial figures of Dick’s Sporting Goods reported that the overall earnings of the company topped both Wall Street’s view and the fiscal year forecast of the company.73 The company stated, “it earned $57.2 million, or 45 cents a share in 2012, compared with a year-earlier it earned $37.5 million, or 30 cents a share in 2011.”74 This strong first quarter in 2012 also illustrates future financial growth as well.  Newly developed DICK’s Sporting Goods Mobile Application To further enhance the mobile and in-store experience for customers, Dick’s announced the development of their Sporting Goods Mobile Application on 20 September 2012.75 Users will now have access to store locations, the benefits of the Score Card Reward Program, and make purchases from the store over their mobile devices. This recent development has prompted for a new relation between consumers and the company as a whole.
  • 39.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 38 38 | P a g e  Building distribution site for western half of the United States Dick’s began construction of a distribution center, during 2011, in Goodyear, AZ that will be completed by January 2013. The site will serve as the regional outpost for all necessary shipping and receiving, distribution, and storage products. Most importantly, this site grants Dick’s Sporting Goods greater access to the western half of the United States, as the company did not have a strong anchoring in this part of the country.76 Timeline Analysis of Dick’s Sporting Goods Recent Events Acquisitions & Expansion 1997 • Dick's Sporting Goods begins operating and opening stores in Florida and California 2004 • Dick's aquires 48 locations from Galyan's Trading Company, which was another sporting goods store 2007 • Dick's aquires Golf Galaxy, LLC and its 65 golf superstores • Dick's aquires Chick's Sporting Goods, a California based company 2010 • Company plans expansion into California, Oregon, and Washington with a total of six new store locations 2011 • First Dick's Sporting Goods opens in Oklahoma 2012 • Dick's plans to build its first store in New Mexico during the summer
  • 40.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 39 Executive Summary Big Five Sporting Goods is moderately satisfied with its current situation in the market, but the company is seeking to improve its recent financial decline and instability that has occurred over the past three years. It is addressing these issues by expanding the number of retail stores the company has through a controlled growth strategy, meaning that they will very slowly expand into areas picked strategically to give the highest chance of success for the company, which is primarily occurring on the West Coast of the United States. The primary strengths of Big Five Sporting Goods are its capability of developing a niche within communities of stores and its effective marketing techniques that target their consumer demographics. Certain weaknesses or challenges of the company include its relatively small store capacities and overall size of the corporation as a whole, as well as its absence of online support to its consumer basis for socially connecting through Facebook and/or Twitter or even a shopping network. Altogether, the company is still a small market competitor within the industry environment, and requires more growth and development before it is taken more seriously as a “strong” competitor. 39 | P a g e
  • 41.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 40 40 | P a g e Porter’s 4 Forces Model (Big 5 Sporting Goods) Future Goals • Improve financial decline and instability that occured over the past three years • Expand retail stores using a strategy consisting of controlled growth • Attempt to maximize investor relations Current Strategy • Expanding stores on the West Coast • Refined merchandising strategy to increase net sales • Offer broad assortment of products, so customer may be able to compare shop • Manage inventory levels accordingly Competitor Response Moderately satisfied, but looking to continue overall growth Likely to expand slightly using controlled growth strategy Vulnerabilities: Lack of online support to address customers Assumptions • Believes itself to be a very personable sports retailer • Expects marginal growth over the coming years, but understanding of economy • Sees recent expansion as potential for future growth and development • Assumes itself as providing substantially better customer service than competitors Capabilities • Strength: Capability of developing a niche within communities of stores • Strength: Effective marketing techniques to target their consumer demographics • Strength: Expanding store size/locations • Weakness: Lack of online support, limited customer basis Discussion Figure 10 - Porter's 4 Forces Model Big 5 Sporting Goods Analysis Big 5 Sporting Goods has done well in the retail industry and the company plans to expand their stores and products using a controlled growth strategy, meaning that they will expand slowly in areas that they feel they will have the best opportunity for success. However Big 5 will run into issues with consumers because of its lack of online support and shopping access in the changing market.
  • 42.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 41 Future Goals Big Five Sporting Goods future goals are to expand their retail store coverage by effectively implementing a controlled growth strategy.77 In addition, the company hopes to develop market relations with certain organizations, groups, and other businesses to improve the company’s status within the sports retail industry. Finally, the company is attempting to recover from its financial instability and decline that occurred over the past few years.78 Assumptions The company views itself as one of the more legitimate and personable sports retailers in the United States. During the last several years, Big Five Sporting Goods had significant financial negativities, however they view their recent developments and expansions as a sign of potential growth and development. Ultimately, the company understands the current economic situation and that it may take some time before the financial figures of the company will show a positive growth.79 Strategies Big Five Sporting Goods strategies include refining its merchandising strategy to increase net sales, manage inventory levels accordingly, and offer a broad assortment of products to allow consumers to compare shop.80 Recently, the company has sought expansion in the North West, South West, and West Coast of North America. These recent developments have enabled the company to accomplish certain aspects regarding several of their emphasized corporate strategies. Capabilities The strengths that make up Big Five Sporting Goods are primarily based upon the capability of the company to develop a niche, ability to effectively target their consumer demographics, and recent ability to expand in store sizes/locations.81 The company is perceived as a community-oriented sports retailer, that effectively adjusts its business model to meet the ongoing demands of both the market and consumers as a whole. However, Big Five Sporting Goods emphasis on being a small-market sporting goods retailer somewhat limits the businesses activities and actions within the competitive environment.82 41 | P a g e
  • 43.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 42 42 | P a g e Strengths of Big Five Sporting Goods Capability of developing a niche within communities of store locations. The numerous Big Five Sporting Good locations and accessible store format encourages frequent customer visits to each respective store location.83 Each instance that a customer enters a Big Five Sporting Goods store location they receive excellent customer service, as the stores are much smaller than bigger sporting retailers (such as Dick’s) and the Big Five staff is capable of addressing each specific customer that enters their stores. Altogether, this makes the customers shopping experience more enjoyable and they are likely to encourage others to come to Big Five and will repeat business themselves. Effective marketing techniques that target the company’s specific demographics. Big Five Sporting Goods marketing and advertising techniques are highly effective with their consumer basis. The company primarily uses print advertisements that have an average weekly distribution of over 18 million newspapers.84 Some of the full-line retailers are unable to match the inserts or mailers received by Big Five customers, which makes the company more recognized within given communities. Altogether, the consistency and reach of the company’s print advertising programs drives sales and creates high customer awareness of the name “Big Five Sporting Goods.”85 Strong vender relationships that provide a wide assortment of various products. Over the past five decades, Big Five Sporting Goods has developed very strong relationships with various venders throughout the United States. Currently, the company purchases merchandise from roughly 800 vendors including apparel, footwear, outdoor equipment, and other products.86 Only one other company maintains gr eater relationships with other vendors and that is Dick’s Sporting Goods. The company truly benefits from the long-term relationships that senior management has worked diligently in building.
  • 44.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 43 43 | P a g e Weaknesses of Big Five Sporting Goods Limited number of overall stores and customer basis. When evaluating Big Five Sporting Goods, it is important to emphasize that the company is strictly located on the West Coast in lower populated communities. It only operates in this manner, because it wishes to avoid major competitors such as Dick’s Sporting Goods and Wal-Mart. Because the company is quite limited in this capacity, the number of stores and its customer basis is considerably smaller than other major sporting goods retailers that exist within the marketplace.87 Lack of an online presence demonstrates a small market presence within the competitive environment. One of the major weaknesses demonstrated by Big Five Sporting Goods is its incapability of fulfilling online orders to serve its customers. While most of the company’s business is from repeat customers that do not wish to acquire their items online, the absence of an online presence for the company is a major component of them remaining in a small market setting.88 The growing trend of online retailing is a necessary factor for all businesses, and those that do not wish to incorporate this idea will be the companies that struggle and possibly cease to exist. Recent financial struggles have inevitably caused the company debt that must be addressed. Over the course of the last three years, Big Five Sporting Goods has seen an influx in its overall debt due to the economic recession, a struggling product mix and inventory management system, as well as recent managerial failures exhibited by senior officials89 While the company is addressing each of these issues, the ability to fix these problems will take a great deal of time. However, recent financial reports indicate that the company is showing a modest financial growth over the last few months.
  • 45.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 44 44 | P a g e Background Big 5 Sporting Goods was founded in 1955. It was founded by Maurie and Harry Liff and the present chairman Robert W. Miller. The first five stores had been in spread out through Southern California and the stores had been named “Big 5 Stores”. The founders had not been concerned with whether the name was strong or not. In its early years, Big 5 was known to sell military surplus items such as tents and air mattresses. The company was known for manufacturing itself and sold assorted household items and even tools. With the help of print advertisements, their only form of advertisement, they grew greatly and sold large numbers of products. But when sports emerged as a major trend in 1963, Big 5 management saw it fit to specialize in it. That same year, Big 5 Stores soon became Big 5 Sporting Goods.90 Timeline 1955 •United Merchandising is formed using the trade name "Big 5 Stores." 1963 •Operating name is changed to "Big 5 Sporting Goods" as the chain specializes in sporting goods. 1971 •Thrifty Corp. acquires the chain. 1986 •Thrifty is acquired by Pacific Enterprises. 1992 •Big 5 is acquired in management-led buyout financed by Leonard Green & Partners. 1997 •The company is recapitalized, with majority ownership passing to employees. 2002 •Big 5 goes public.
  • 46.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 45 45 | P a g e Big 5 Sporting Goods Management Team Officer 2011 Compensation Experience Steven G. Miller Age: 60 CEO, President, and Chairman of the Board Total Compensation: $811,828 Salary: $485,000 Bonus: $140,000 CEO since 2000 President and Chairman since 1992 Executive V.P. 1992-2000 Administration 1988-1992 Barry D. Emerson Age: 54 Chief Financial Officer, Principal Accounting Officer , Senior V.P. and Treasurer Total Compensation: $491,103 Salary: $333,000 Bonus: $ 92,500 Chief Financial Officer, Senior V.P. and Treasurer since 2005 V.P., Treasurer, and Chief Financial Officer of U.S. Auto Parts since July 5, 2005 V.P., Treasurer, and Chief Financial Officer of Elite Information Group Inc. from 1999-2004 Boyd O. Clark Age: 54 Senior Vice President of Buying Total Compensation: $408,136 Salary: $231,808 Bonus: $76,000 Senior V.P. of Buying since 2011 35 years of Retail Experience Served in the Buying Department since 1992 Prior to Big 5, he was a buyer and Divisional Merchandise Manager at another regional retailer Richard A. Johnson Age: 66 Executive Vice President Total Compensation: $416,351 Salary: $250,000 Bonus: $100,000 Executive V.P. since 2007 Senior V.P. of Store Operations 1992- 2007 Been with Big 5 for 36 years V.P. of Store Operations from 1982- 1992 Shane O. Starr Age: 54 Senior Vice President of Operations Total Compensation: $60,481 Senior V.P. of Operations since 2007 Been with Big 5 for 28 years Served as V.P. of Operations since 1999
  • 47.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 46 46 | P a g e Analysis The Big 5 Sporting Goods management consists of five executive officers who along with the board make all of the executive decisions regarding the company and its future. Most of the men on serving as high management are middle aged and have served with the company for a long time. All of which have significant experience in the retail industry. Products Sporting Goods Big 5 Sporting goods stores offer a wide variety of recreational sporting goods to the customer. Big 5 Sporting Goods offers a wide variety of goods from soft goods to hard goods. Their product mix includes athletic sportswear and fan gear, as well as equipment for outdoor activities and team sports. These products range from known brands like Nike and Under Armour to smaller private labels that Big 5 Sporting Goods itself owns. Brands Big 5 offers a wide variety of top brands in the sporting goods industry. They include : Adidas, Crocs,Head, K-Swiss, Razor, Spalding, Asics, Crosman, Heelys, Lifetime, Reebok, Speedo, Bearpaw Easton Hillerich & Bradsby Mizuno, Remington, Timex, Browning, Everlast, Icon (Proform), New Balance, Rollerblade, TitleistBushnell, Fila, Impex, Nike, Russell Athletic, Under Armour, Coleman, Footjoy, JanSport, Prince, Saucony, Wilson, Converse, Franklin, K2, Rawlings, Shimano, Zebco91 Private Labels There use of selling private labels represents 3% of our net sales. It allows Big 5 to offer the customer with a wider range of goods and at a variety of prices. These products are sold under Big 5’s trademarks they own or if they are licensed to them by third parties. The use of private labels lets Big 5 be able to target smaller markets with products with good value at a cheaper price. 92
  • 48.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 47 47 | P a g e Marketing Activities and Trends Executive Summary Big 5 marketing activities look to focus on reaching their target market. Their market is smaller neighborhoods. Big 5 Sporting Goods uses marketing strategies such as weekly ads in newspapers, emails, and social media to connect with their customers. Big 5 Sporting Goods is able to connect with their customers directly. Discussion Big 5 sporting goods targets a smaller niche, they focus in on the smaller neighborhoods. Big 5 Sporting Goods uses weekly print advertisements to help reach a greater number of households. This strategy has been in use since 1955. The print advertisements are primarily a four page color print that shows off promotions in their sporting goods. The ads are distributed through over 18 million newspaper inserts.93 Big 5 Sporting Goods uses an in-house advertising staff to produce their paper ads. In doing so, they have the flexibility to choose their own designs for their advertisement. Also with having an in house advertisement they are capable to react quickly to merchandise trends and work with management to maximize the effectiveness of the paper ads. 94 Big 5 also use social media to connect with their customers. They have an E-team that focuses on social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. With twitter Big 5 Sporting Goods will sometimes use the media site to promote various deals. They also contact their customers through email subscriptions. 95
  • 49.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 48 48 | P a g e Operations and Capacity Executive Summary Big 5 Sporting Goods Corporate offices are located in California. In a result of this Big 5 Sporting Goods stores are located in the western part of the country. Not only are their stores in the west, they also own distribution centers as well. Big 5 Sporting Goods has been recently growing with adding new stores each year. Discussion Currently Big 5 Sporting Goods has 406 stores in the western part of the US. In the past five years Big 5 has opened up 73 new stores. They mainly are located in California in which 38% of their stores are located. Their stores are on average 11,000 square feet. This helps Big 5 to target smaller neighborhoods. Big 5 Sporting Goods has continued to expand since 2007 and have continued to do since. 96 Big 5 Sporting Goods does not manufacture the goods they sell. They have to maintain a good relationship with the vendors. They purchase from over 800 vendors, and have had good relationships with vendors for 57 years. They also have a fully integrated management information system. This helps Big 5 sporting goods to get a report of sales, support merchandise management, inventory receiving and distribution, as well as business Figure 11 - Big 5 Sporting Goods Locations intelligence retail analytics tools. 97 Their distribution center is located in Riverside, California. The facility is 953,000 square feet. From this warehouse Big 5 uses leased tractors to distribute to all of their stores at least once a week. Oregon is also home to a small distribution hub. This 12,000 square foot facility enables trailers of products to ship to the Pacific Northwest. This helped to shorten the trip and make the distribution more efficient. 98
  • 50.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 49 49 | P a g e Financial Summary: Big 5 Sporting Goods Over the past five years Big Five Sporting Goods has seen Net Revenue shrink from $20.6 million to $11.7 million due to their target market and overall competitive ability in the market.99 Figure 12 - Big 5 Sporting Goods Stock Prices Net Income Overview 2011 $11,673 2010 $20,562 2009 $21,811 2008 $13,904 2007 $28,091 Big Five Sporting Goods is declining in both share price and net income, resulting in a smaller return on investment for the shareholders of the company; decreasing the competitive ability for the company. Current Events/Key Aspects: Big 5 Sporting Goods  May 16, 2012 Adidas (the world’s second largest sports retailer) sued Gig Five Sporting Goods for selling “Knock off” that were made to look like the company of Adidas.100  April 2011, Big Five Sporting Goods is sued for “False Advertisement”, said to have been advertising tennis, racquet ball equipment for a certain price and changing stores or register. The Company settled this lawsuit after paying $4M.101
  • 51.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 50 50 | P a g e Financial Analysis Financial Analysis of Hibbett Sporting Goods 2009-2011 Hibbett Financial Ratio's 2009 Change 2010 Change 2011 Asset Turnover 2.4 -0.26 2.14 -0.02 2.12 Avg. Inventory Investment 40 3 43 -3 40 Accounts Recievable 5% -2% 3% 0 3% Debt to Equity 10% 1% 11% -2% 9% Debt to Assets 6% 1% 7% -1% 6% Current Ratio 2.36:1 0.41 2.76:1 0.1 2.86:1 Acid-Test Ratio .33:1 0.32 .65:1 0.21 .86:1 Return on Assets 13% -1% 12% 3% 15% Return on Equity 22% -3% 19% 4% 23% Profit Margin 5% 0 5% 2% 7% Earnings Per Share $0.96 $0.06 $1.02 $0.09 $1.11 P/E $18.93 -$1.76 $17.17 $3.53 $20.70 Executive Summary Hibbett Sporting Goods appears to be in a stable financial condition. The financial ratios indicate that the company has made changes recently to better manage internal issues such as debt management and return on assets and shares. However the company still continues to struggle with the liquidity of assets. The ratios are very low compared to the satisfactory 1:1 ratios of the market. Better inventory and asset management is needed for the company to become more favorable for profits. Compared to the industry Hibbett has a favorable Profit Margin with almost a +5% over the industry average. Hibbett also has a better Return on Assets with nearly 9% over the industry average.
  • 52.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 51 Asset Turnover Ratio Accounts Recievable 51 | P a g e Activity and Efficiency Asset Turnover Ratio This formula determines how well the business is utilizing its assets to generate new sales revenue. It is better to have a higher ratio between the numbers. This means that the company has less money tied up in assets. Hibbett Sporting Goods ratio in 2011 was 2.12, which is much worse than in 2009 at 2.4 and still not as good as 2010 at 2.14. These ratios show that over the past three years the company has become less efficient in asset turnover. This means that Hibbett hasn’t been able to generate new sales revenue has quickly in the past three years. Although the drop in the ratio is minimal it is because of some money tied up in assets. Average Inventory Investment Period 2.4 2.2 2 This number indicates the number of days it takes to convert a dollar of cash outflow to a dollar of sales. It is better to have a smaller number with this formula. A longer inventory investment period requires a higher investment in inventory, which translates to less available cash. In 2011 Hibbett had a ratio of 40 which is an improvement from 2010 which was 43 and is the same as 2009. Overall Hibbett remains 45 40 35 Average Inventory Turnover (In Days) 2009 2010 2011 Average Inventory Turnover (In Days) pretty constant with its inventory investment periods. Accounts Receivable This number indicates sales for which payment has not yet been collected by a company. A lower ratio is desired in this formula because it shows that companies are being paid for their work and money is no longer tied up in accounts receivable. 6.00% 4.00% 2.00% 0.00% 2009 2010 2011 Accounts Recievable 1.8 2009 2010 2011 Asset Turnover Ratio
  • 53.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 52 In 2011 Hibbett had a ratio of 3%, remaining consistent with 2010 and maintaining much improvement from 2009’s 5%. Overall Hibbett does well with its accounts receivables. This means that Hibbett is paid more quickly and has more money coming in quicker from companies. As a retail store they don’t offer credit therefore the number is lower. Debt to Equity Debt to Assets 52 | P a g e Implications These ratios conclude that Hibbett Sporting Goods is having issues with their asset turnover time and have less revenue coming in and has more money tied up in assets, but however has made good improvements to managing its inventory and accounts receivable and make sure that money is paid to them more quickly resulting in a quicker turn around. Leverage and Solvency Debt to Equity This ratio measures funds provided by creditors versus the funds provided by owners. A lower ratio is preferred in this area. A rising Debt to Equity indicates increases in debt. Hibbett has made huge improvements in the last three years, ending 2011 with a ratio of 9% whereas it was 11% in 2010 and 10% in 2009. Debt to Assets This ratio measures the percentage of assets financed by creditors compared to those financed by the owners. A lower ratio is preferred (no more than fifty percent). Hibbett has remained pretty consistent in managing its debt to assets, pulling in a ratio of 6% in 2011, beating 2010’s 7%, while matching 2009’s 6%. Implications 12% 10% 8% 6% 4% 2% 0% 2009 Leverage 2010 2011 Hibbett Sporting Goods has been very successful in managing its debt to assets and equity in the past three years and looks as if it should remain this way. Hibbett has seen a
  • 54.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 53 decrease in assets financed by the owners has well as a decrease in debt. This shows that the management of money is improving. Current Ratio Acid Test 53 | P a g e Liquidity Current Ratio The current ratio is the liquidity ratio, which measures the ability to pay off short-term obligations. For current ratio it is better to have a higher ratio. An industry standard is to seek a 1.5:1 ratio. If the current assets of a company are more than twice the current liabilities, then that company is generally considered to have good short-term financial strength. Minimum acceptable ratio is 1:1, but this can be seen as having potential risks. 3 2 1 0 2009 Liquidity 2010 2011 Hibbett recorded a remarkable 2.86:1 ratio in 2011 and has not fall below 2:1 in the past three years. Demonstrating a major strength for the company and any of its partners and/or vendors. Acid-Test Ratio The Acid-Test ratio is considered to be the best measurement for liquidity of a company. This ratio focuses primarily on highly liquid assets. The formula takes into account the company’s ability to meet its obligations. A higher ratio is preferred with this formula. A 1:1 ratio is considered to be satisfactory. In 2011 Hibbett showed a .86:1 ratio for liquidity, falling under the satisfactory 1:1. However this is a great improvement compared to 2010’s .65:1 and 2009’s terrible ratio of .33:1. Implications Hibbett’s ratio for current assets is incredible compared to the ideal ratio in the market showing the company has enough current assets to meet the payments. However Hibbett’s Acid-Test ratio falls well below the ideal ratio for the industry; suggesting that the company does not liquidate its assets quickly enough as the top competitors in the industry.
  • 55.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 54 Return on Assets Return on Equity Profit Margin 54 | P a g e Profitability Return on Assets This formula measures how well a business is using its assets to produce more income. A higher ratio is preferred. “ROA gives an idea as to how efficient management is at using its assets to generate earnings”. In 2011 Hibbett Sporting Goods had a ratio of 15%, showing growth since 2010 with a low 12% and 2009 with a 13% ratio. Hibbett has been able to remain constant in their return on assets with an increase in the past year. Return on Equity This ratio is used to 25.00% 20.00% 15.00% 10.00% 5.00% 0.00% 2009 Profitability 2010 determine what return the company is providing to its shareholders. A higher ratio is preferred. 2011 Hibbett had a ratio of 23% in 2011 the highest in the past three years, comparing to 22% in 2009 and 19% in 2010. Hibbett has made a big jump from 2010 to 2011 and looks as if it will continue to remain in this area. Profit Margin This ratio is used to determine how much overall profit the company is making during a given timeframe. A higher ratio is preferred. If the ratio declines, this could be due to cost increases. Hibbett had been sitting consistently with a 5% ratio for 2009 and 2010, but was able to make a positive jump to 7% in 2011. This positive increase suggests a change in the way the company is being managed in order to bring in more profit.
  • 56.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 55 Shareholders Return 2011 55 | P a g e Implications Hibbett Sporting Goods has been able to make positive increases in the past three years to have 2011 be the best year for the company. Hibbett appears to be stable as a company in the profitability section of financials and have room to continue to improve. The increases in income as made the company very profitable as well as keep the prices from climbing too high. The Company looks to continue its prosperity in the future. Capital Market/ Shareholders Returns Earnings Per Share This ratio indicates the portion of a company's profit allocated to each outstanding share of stock. Excellent indicator of a company's profitability. Higher Ratios are preferred . Hibbett had a low return of $0.96 ratio in 2009 and has been able to change this ratio to a favorable $1.11 in 2011. Suggesting that the company has had success and is able to continue to be profitable in the near future and expect this ratio to climb. P/E Ratio $25 $20 $15 $10 $5 $0 This ratio indicates the market price of $1 of earnings. 2009 2010 Hibbett recorded its highest P/E ratio of $20.11 in 2011 showing the market price of the dollar to be the highest it’s been in the past three years. Implications Hibbett Sporting goods showed to be very beneficial to the shareholders from 2009- 2011 because they were able to bring their ratios higher than in the start; Resulting in a higher payback for shareholder, keeping them satisfied. This indicates that the company is very profitable and is a good sign for shareholders. It appears that the company will continue this profitability into the future. EPS P/E
  • 57.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 56 Dick's Sporting Goods Financial Ratios 2009 Change 2010 Change 2011 Asset Turnover 2.1 -0.3 1.9 -0.1 1.8 Average Inventory Period 104 -4 100 -6 94 Accounts Receivable 1.40% -0.60% 0.80% -0.08% 0.72% Debt to Equity 50.94% -17.11% 33.83% -5.57% 28.26% Debt to Assets 23% -7% 16% -1% 15% Current Ratios 1.7:1 -0.2 1.5:1 0.3 1.8:1 Quick Ratio .22:1 0.12 .34:1 0.34 .68:1 Return on Assets -2% 8% 6% 1% 7% Return on Equity -4.50% 16.50% 12% 1% 13% Profit Margin Ratio -0.90% 3.90% 3% 0% 3.00% Earnings Per Share -$0.36 $1.51 $1.15 $0.35 $1.50 P/E Ratio 0.31 0.89 1.20 0.37 1.57 56 | P a g e Financial Analysis for Dick’s Sporting Goods Executive Summary Dick’s Sporting Goods is a strong financial company. The company has been increasing each year in all aspects. Dick’s asset turnover has been decreasing each year and their average inventory period has seen a relatively drastic decrease has well. They have been reducing their debt since 2009. Their debt has been decreasing most likely due to expansion and offering more apparel and customizations to consumers. Liquidity has been slowly growing since 2009 and is strong. Dick’s has been very profitable since 2009 and continues to grow with increasing earnings per share.
  • 58.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 57 Average Inventory Turnover (In Days) Average Inventory Turnover (In Days) 57 | P a g e Activity and Efficiency Inventory Investment Period This number indicates the number of days it takes to convert a dollar of cash outflow to a dollar of sales. It is better to have a smaller number with this formula. A longer inventory investment period requires a higher investment in inventory, which translates to less available cash. Dick’s has seen a decrease in its average inventory investment period by 10 days between the years of 2009 which was 104 and 100 in 2010. This indicates that company is making the conversion of inventory to cash much faster. Asset Turnover Ratio 105 100 95 90 85 This formula determines how well the business is utilizing its assets to generate new sales revenue. It is better to have a higher ratio between the numbers. This means that the company has less money tied up in assets. 2009 2010 2011 Dick’s ratio has decreased from 2.1 in 2009 to 1.8 in 2011. They have had more money tied up in assets. Dick’s hasn’t been has efficient since 2009 Accounts Receivable Ratio This number indicates sales for which payment has not yet been collected by a company. A lower ratio is desired in this formula because it shows that companies are being paid for their work and money is no longer tied up in accounts receivable. Dick’s s seen a decrease in accounts receivable from 1.40% in 2009 to 0.72% in 2011. They have been improving on 1.50% 1.00% 0.50% 0.00% Accounts Recievable 2009 2010 2011 Accounts Recievable the time in which money is paid. Overall, this is a fairly large decrease in percentage resulting in quicker payments and less money tied up in receivables (Figure 3).
  • 59.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 58 Implications: Dick’s activity and efficiency ratios show that the company is doing well and managing the status quo. Its accounts receivable indicate that they are being paid more quickly for their work allowing for a quicker turn around and more available cash. Dick’s financial situation is stable and will continue to grow. The reduction in investment period has been a great improvement for Dick’s and it looks to continue to fall. Debt to Equity Debt to Assets 58 | P a g e Leverage and Solvency Debt to Assets This ratio measures the percentage of assets financed by creditors compared to those financed by the owners. A lower ratio is preferred (no more than fifty percent). Dick’s debt to assets has decrease from 23% in 2009 to 15% in 2011, which is a 8% decrease. This indicates that there are less assets being financed by creditors. Debt to Equity This ratio measures funds provided by creditors versus the funds provided by owners. A lower ratio is preferred in this area. A rising Debt to Equity indicates increases in debt. 60% 40% 20% 0% 2009 Leverage 2010 Dick’s debt to equity ratio has 2011 decreased substantially from 50.94% in 2009 to 28.26% in 2011, which is 22.68% reduction. This indicates a large reduction in funds that are provided by creditors. Implications: Dick’s has seen a decrease in drastic debt since 2009. The decrease in debt is their ability to receive payments and its debt looks to continually fall.
  • 60.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 59 Current Ratio Acid Test 59 | P a g e Liquidity Current Ratio The current ratio is the liquidity ratio, which measures the ability to pay off short-term obligations. For current ratio it is better to have a higher ratio. An industry standard is to seek a 1.5:1 ratio. If the current assets of a company are more than twice the current liabilities, then that company is generally considered to have good short-term financial strength. Minimum acceptable ratio is 1:1, but this can be seen as having potential risks. Dick’s current ratio saw a decrease from 1.7:1 in 2009 to 1.5:1 in 2010. However it rose again to 1.8:1 in 2011, the highest it’s been in three years Quick (Acid-Test) Ratio The quick ratio is considered to be the best measurement for liquidity of a company. This ratio focuses primarily on highly liquid assets. The formula takes into account the company’s ability to meet its obligations. A higher ratio is preferred with this formula. A 1:1 ratio is considered to be satisfactory. 2 1.5 1 0.5 0 2009 Liquidity 2010 2011 Dick’s quick ratio has seen a drastic increase from .22:1 in 2009 to .68:1 in 2011. There has been a quicker turn around for assets and they are much more reliable since 2009 . Implications: Both the current ratio and acid test have relatively high numbers which means they pay off whatever current debt they have quicker with the faster turnaround in inventory. The quick ratio for the industry is .62%102.
  • 61.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 60 Return on Assets Return on Equity Profit Margin 60 | P a g e Profitability Return on Assets This formula measures how well a business is using its assets to produce more income. A higher ratio is preferred. “ROA gives an idea as to how efficient management is at using its assets to generate earnings.” Dick’s saw a negative return on assets of -4.50% in 2009 and then an 8% jump to 6% in 2010. It then rose to 7% in 2011. After 2009, it appears that the management at Dick’s is using assets well to generate earnings. In the years up to 2009 there were large investments in expansion and marketing the company. Return on Equity 15.00% 10.00% 5.00% 0.00% -5.00% -10.00% 2009 Profitability 2010 2011 This ratio is used to determine what return the company is providing to its shareholders. A higher ratio is preferred. Much like the return on assets, the return on equity was negative in 2009 and rose over 16% to reach 12% in 2010. It climbed again in 2011 to 13%. The amount returned to shareholders had been increasing each year. Profit Margin Ratio This ratio is used to determine how much overall profit the company is making during a given timeframe. A higher ratio is preferred. If the ratio declines, this could be due to cost increases. Similarly to the return on assets and return on equity, Dick’s had seen a negative return in 2009, an increase to 3% in 2010 and then a .70% increase to 3.70% in 2011. Dick’s management has appeared to have turned the company around after its negative return in 2009 and increased its profitability.
  • 62.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 61 Implications: Dick’s has seen an increase in profitability since 2009 and continues to profit off of decreasing cost of goods which is a result from new vendors as well as and their ability to increase profits each year. With their return on assets and return on equity rising, the company will continue to do well. Shareholder's Return EPS P/E 61 | P a g e Capital Market and Shareholder’s Return Earnings Per Share This ratio indicates the portion of a company's profit allocated to each outstanding share of stock. Excellent indicator of a company's profitability. Higher Ratios are preferred. In 2009, Dick’s saw a negative earnings per share at $-.36, then a drastic increase to $1.15 in 2010 and continued to rise to $1.50 in 2011. The earnings per share will continue to rise as the company continues to do well. P/E Ratio $2.00 $1.50 $1.00 $0.50 $0.00 ($0.50) This ratio indicates the market price of $1 of earnings. 2009 2010 2011 Dick’s had a negative P/E ratio of $-.31 in 2009 and it increased to $1.20 in 2010. It continued to rise to $1.57 in 2011. These numbers show that Dick’s are increasing their earnings and they are projected to increase . Implications Due to the increasing earnings per share it is probable that people will sell or hold their stock since the stock continues to rise. The P/E ratio rose from 2009 to 2011 and looks to rise more in the future. This has risen due to a 2.9% rise in Dick's Sporting’s store sales, 4.4% increase in Golf Galaxy store sales and a 34.6% growth in e-commerce business.103
  • 63.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 62 62 | P a g e Financial Ratio Analysis for Big 5 Sporting Goods Big 5 Sporting Goods Financial Ratios 2009 Change 2010 Change 2011 Asset Turnover 2.45 -0.16 2.29 0 2.29 Average Inventory Period 139.06 13.7 152.76 3.07 155.83 Accounts Receivable 1.50% 0.18% 1.67% -0.22% 1.45% Debt to Equity 43.40% -10.31% 33.09% 9.45% 42.54% Debt to Assets 15.63% -2.92% 12.71% 4.19% 16.91% Current Ratio 1.82 -0.01 1.81 0.3 2.11 Quick Ratio 0.13 0 0.13 0 0.13 Return on Assets 5.96% -0.72% 5.24% -2.28% 2.96% Return on Equity 16.54% -2.90% 13.64% -6.19% 7.45% Profit Margin Ratio 2.44% -0.14% 2.29% -1.00% 1.29% Earnings Per Share 1.01 -0.07 0.94 -0.41 0.53 P/E Ratio 7.91 0.07 7.98 0.41 8.39 Executive Summary Big 5 Sporting Goods has shown a lack of ability to increase their profit over the last three years. There has been a decrease in asset turnover however the average inventory period has increase substantially over the past three years. Accounts receivable has been hovering around the same it has been and the debt equity has seen drastic decreases and increases. Debt to Assets has seen the same as their equity with the current ratio increasing minimally from 2010 to 2011. The Quick Ratio has seen no change with the Return on Assets, Return on Equity, Profit Margin and Earnings Per Share all having decreased.
  • 64.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 63 Average Inventory Turnover (In Days) Average Inventory Turnover (In Days) 63 | P a g e 1.70% 1.60% 1.50% 1.40% 1.30% Activity and Efficiency Accounts Receivable 2011 2010 2009 105 100 Accounts Receivable Inventory Investment Period This number indicates the number of days it takes to convert a dollar of cash outflow to a dollar of sales. It is better to have a smaller number with this formula. A longer inventory investment period requires a higher investment in inventory, which translates to less available cash. 95 90 85 Big 5 Sporting Goods has increased its average inventory investment period by 17 days, from 139 days in 2009, to 156 days in 2011. Big 5 Sporting Goods is taking longer to turn inventory into cash . Asset Turnover Ratio 2009 2010 2011 This formula determines how well the business is utilizing its assets to generate new sales revenue. It is better to have a higher ratio between the numbers. This means that the company has less money tied up in assets. Big 5 Sporting Goods’ asset turnover ratio of 2.29 in 2011 is the exact same as in 2010, and .16 better than in 2009. Overall, Big 5 sporting goods has been less efficient at utilizing its assets to generate new sales . Accounts Receivable Ratio This number indicates sales for which payment has not yet been collected by a company. A lower ratio is desired in this formula because it shows that companies are being paid for their work and money is no longer tied up in accounts receivable. Big 5 Sporting Goods’ accounts receivable ratio jumped from 1.50% in 2009 to 1.67% in 2010. From 2010 to 2011 accounts receivables made its way back down to 1.45%. Overall, these changes are minimal and should not affect the company .
  • 65.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 64 64 | P a g e 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% Leverage and Solvency 2011 2010 2009 Debt to Equity Debt to Assets Implications Big 5 Sporting Goods activity and efficiency ratios indicate that the company is doing a poor job of turning their inventory into sales. Inability to sell their inventory could result in too much money being caught-up in inventory, and limiting their cash on hand. If Big 5 Sporting Goods can’t become more efficient in their inventory investment and asset turnover, they could face financial problems as well lost opportunities for growth. Leverage and Solvency Debt to Assets This ratio measures the percentage of assets financed by creditors compared to those financed by the owners. A lower ratio is preferred (no more than fifty percent). Big 5 Sporting Goods’ debt to asset ratio has decreased from 15.63% in 2009 to 12.71% in 2010. From 2010 to 2011 that percent rose by 4.20% . Debt to Equity This ratio measures funds provided by creditors versus the funds provided by owners. A lower ratio is preferred in this area. A rising Debt to Equity indicates increases in debt. Big 5 Sporting Goods’ debt to equity ratio decreased from 43.40% in 2009 to 33.09% in 2010. Debt to equity rose by 9.45% from 2010 to 2011. Implications Big 5 Sporting Goods’ debt to equity and debt to assets ratios showed slight decreased in 2010 but are right back to where they started in 2011. Their debt to assets are below 50 percent, indicating that they aren’t in any serious trouble. Debt to equity is higher than debt to assets showing that increases in debt are evident. Furthermore, both debt to equity and debt to assets are below that of both Dick’s Sporting Goods and Hibbett.104
  • 66.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 65 65 | P a g e 2.50 2.00 1.50 1.00 0.50 0.00 Liquidity 2011 2010 2009 Current Ratio Acid-test Ratio Liquidity Current Ratio The current ratio is the liquidity ratio, which measures the ability to pay off short-term obligations. For current ratio it is better to have a higher ratio. An industry standard is to seek a 1.5:1 ratio. If the current assets of a company are more than twice the current liabilities, then that company is generally considered to have good short-term financial strength. Minimum acceptable ratio is 1:1, but this can be seen as having potential risks. Big 5 Sporting Goods’ current ratio was consistent at 1.8:1 from 2009 to 2010, but then increased to 2.1:1 in 2011. Big 5 was able to pay off short term obligations much faster with the incoming money they made Acid-Test (Quick) Ratio The acid-test ratio is considered to be the best measurement for liquidity of a company. This ratio - focuses primarily on highly liquid assets. The formula takes into account the company’s ability to meet its obligations. A higher ratio is preferred with this formula. A 1:1 ratio is considered to be satisfactory. Big 5 Sporting Goods’ acid-test ratio has remained constant at 0.13 from 2009-2011 (Figure 5). This number is very low because much of their assets are tied up in inventory and therefore their inventory turnaround is very high. Implications Big 5 Sporting Goods’ current ratio of 2.1:1 is above satisfactory, but only places in the median, below Hibbett Sporting Goods and above Dick’s Sporting Goods.105 The quick ratio industry average is 0.62:1.106 Big 5 Sporting Goods’ quick ratio of 0.13 places them well below the industry average indicating their difficulty to pay off short term debt. Big 5 Sporting Goods shows that it has the ability to pay off short-term investments but is struggling to convert their highly liquid assets to liquid cash.
  • 67.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 66 66 | P a g e 20% 15% 10% 5% 0% Profitability 2011 2010 2009 Return on Assets Return on Equity Profit Margin Ratio Profitability Return on Assets This formula measures how well a business is using its assets to produce more income. A higher ratio is preferred. “ROA gives an idea as to how efficient management is at using its assets to generate earnings.” Big 5 Sporting Goods’ return on assets decreased from 5.96% in 2009 to 5.24% in 2010, then large jump to 2.96% in 2011. Big 5 Sporting Goods has shown a decreasing ability in using their assets to produce income. Return on Equity This ratio is used to determine what return the company is providing to its shareholders. A higher ratio is preferred. Big 5 Sporting Goods faced a 2.9% decreased in return on equity from 2009 to 2010. From 2010 to 2011 that number decreased again 6.19%. This decrease in return on equity shows that Big 5 Sporting Goods is decreasing the return they’re providing to their shareholders. Profit Margin Ratio This ratio is used to determine how much overall profit the company is making during a given timeframe. A higher ratio is preferred. If the ratio declines, this could be due to cost increases. The profit margin ratio for Big 5 Sporting Goods has steadily decreased from 2.44% in 2009, to 2.29% in 2010, and then to 1.29% in 2011. This decrease in profit margin ratio signals that Big 5 Sporting Goods’ is making less profit year after year since 2009. Implications Since 2009 Big 5 Sporting Goods has shown a decrease in profitability. This is likely due to an increase in Cost of Goods Sold (COGS), an increase in operating expenses, as well as an overall increase in debt. Big 5 Sporting Goods is still profitable but if they don’t reduce their debt as well as operating expenses, further decreases could occur.
  • 68.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 67 789...00 P 67 | P a g e 1.50 1.00 0.50 0.00 Earnings per share 2011 2010 2009 Earnings per share 8.50 8.00 7.50 P/E Ratio 2011 2010 2009 P/E Ratio Capital Market and Shareholder’s Return Earnings Per Share This ratio indicates the portion of a company's profit allocated to each outstanding share of stock. Excellent indicator of a company's profitability. Higher Ratios are preferred. Big 5 Sporting Goods’ earnings per share numbers have decreased from $1.01 in 2009 to $0.94 in 2010. Further decrease to $0.53 was shown in 2011. This numbers are consistent with the decrease in profitability that Big 5 Sporting Goods has shown. P/E Ratio This ratio indicates the market price of $1 of earnings. Big 5 Sporting Goods’ P/E ratio has increased from $7.91 in 2009 to $7.98 in 2010, and then to $8.39 in 2011. These numbers show that the projected earnings for Big 5 Sporting Goods is increasing . Implications Due to the decrease in earnings per share, and only a slight increase in the P/E ratio, it is unlikely that shareholder’s will sell Big 5 Sporting Goods stock. Due to the slight increase in P/E ratio, there is a possibility that stock may be purchased.
  • 69.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 68 Golf Driver Head With Exchangeable Rear Sections Source: http://tinyurl.com/d2huzl8 68 | P a g e Patent Analysis Executive Summary Hibbett Sporting Goods is a moderate sized leader in the sports retailing industry; however, within their product portfolio, the company does not have any technological patents to support their status in the industry. In comparison, other leaders in the industry such as Dick’s Sporting Goods have several patents that relate to their product(s) offered; however, these expressed patents are strictly limited to their products and are not new technological patents in the industry as a whole. When observing the industry, the newly developed technological patents that have been created over the past few years have had a profound impact on the retailing market as a whole. If Hibbett Sporting Goods wants to remain highly competitive in the market, it would be considerably beneficial for the company to initiate patent research and development within their company and attempt to purchase the rights to patents. If Hibbett remains stagnant during this time, it is likely the other retailers in the industry will gain a significant competitive advantage by utilizing technology patents such as automated retail machines, online sports rental methods, or on shelf tracking systems to track product supplies. However, if Hibbett possibly purchases or leases some of these described patents, the company will likely gain a significant competitive advantage in the retail industry. Dick’s Sporting Goods Patents  Golf Driver Head With Exchangeable Rear Sections107 o US Patent Number: 7959522 o Issuance Date: June 14, 2011 o Original Assignee: Dick’s Sporting Goods, Inc. o Inventors: Richard Ray North, III, Ben S. Lavallee o Number of References: 5 o Patent Use: The patent is a complete golf driver kit. It allows for exchangeable connectable parts to hit a golf ball different distances.
  • 70.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 69 o Abstract: A golf driver kit includes a front portion and a plurality of rear portions exchangeably connectable to the front portion and being of different respective shapes for imparting different flight characteristics to a struck golf ball. The front portion includes a front face plate and a hosel for receiving a shaft, plus a rearwardly projecting base on which the rear portion is seated. The rear portion is removably attached to the front portion by screws. Implications The Golf Driver Head With Exchangeable Rear Sections was filed on August 12, 2008. The object of this patent is to provide a complete golf driver kit with interchangeable parts that enable different flight characteristics to a struck golf ball. With the recent acquisition by Dick’s Sporting Goods of Callaway Golf, the expansion of Dick’s golf products/services is likely to illustrate considerable financial growth over the next few years. If Hibbett Sporting Goods wants to remain a viable competitor with Dick’s, the company should consider a revamped outlook with their golf products. A patented product such as this object demonstrates considerable innovation and ingenuity, and Hibbett must show this sort of strategy with their product lines as well to remain competitive. Soccer Training System Source: http://tinyurl.com/ba7493y 69 | P a g e  Soccer Training System108 o US Patent Number: 6846253 o Issuance Date: January 25, 2005 o Original Assignee: Dick’s Sporting Goods, Inc. o Inventor: Damian A. Szwalek o Number of References: 8 o Patent Use: The patent is a specific soccer training system with three specific modes. It allows for independent training development. o Abstract: A soccer training system that has three modes and includes a frame, a net, a target panel, and a rebound panel. The frame with the net secured thereto provides a soccer goal mode; the frame with the target panel positioned across its front provides a soccer target mode; and the frame with the rebound panel positioned across its front provides a soccer
  • 71.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 70 rebounder mode. The target panel has cutouts and/or apertures to pass a soccer ball. The rebound panel redirects a kicked ball back toward the kicker. The rebound panel can also be inclined to alter the return angle of the ball. Preferably, elastic corded hooks attach the target panel or the rebound panel to the front of the frame. Implications The Soccer Training System was filed on March 12, 2003. The object of this patent is to provide a soccer training system that has three modes and includes a frame, a net, a target panel, and a rebound panel. With the ability of Dick’s Sporting Goods to offer more than just apparel and footwear products in their stores, their targeted consumer demographics expands exponetially. If Hibbett Sporting Goods wants to remain competitive with the retail leader Dick’s, the company should attempt to expand its product lines, including offering more technologically advanced products. By offering more unique sports equipment items such as this patent, the company will be able to attract greater cliental to their business. Sports Equipment Storage Racks Source: http://tinyurl.com/8vvkclz 70 | P a g e New Technology Patents Relative to Sports Retailing Industry  Sports Equipment Storage Rack109 o US Patent Number: 6053340 o Issuance Date: April 25, 2008 o Original Assignee: John L. Cameron o Inventor: John L. Cameron o Number of References: 17 o Patent Use: The patent is a sports equipment storage rack designed for universal actions. The equipment will be safe and secure within these storage areas. o Abstract: A rack for organizing, protecting, and storing various sports equipment has a backboard, a receptacle for holding a beverage container, at least one equipment hook, a bat holder hook, at least one flexible member such as a securing strap, an optional hanging hole, and a decorative area. The backboard supports the other components and contains points of attachment for the securing strap. The receptacle stores a beverage container in
  • 72.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 71 an upright position. The equipment hook allows for hanging sports or related equipment such as baseball gloves or baseball hats. The bat holder hook allows for holding a baseball bat or other equipment such as a jacket or other items of clothing. The flexible member such as a securing strap secures the rack to a fixture such as a chain link fence, wall or other support. Implications The Sports Equipment Storage Rack was filed on November 27, 2005 by John L Cameron. The object of this patent is to provide a sensible means for organizing, protecting, and storing various sports equipment. It is a universally used patent in the sports retailing industry as Hibbett Sporting Goods, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Big Five Sporting Goods all use some sort of variation of this patent. If Hibbett Sporting Goods wishes to gain a competitive advantage in the industry, it will continue to utilize this object within its stores and possibly look for innovative advancements or customizations of the object. The ability to develop newer means of storing sports equipment for Hibbett Sporting Goods will ensure the company’s future development and growth within the sports retailing industry. Automated Transaction Machine Source: http://tinyurl.com/9mtmkep 71 | P a g e  Automated Transaction Machine110 o US Patent Number: 8118222 o Issuance Date: February 21, 2012 o Original Assignee: Transaction Holdings Ltd. o Inventor: David M. Barcelou o Number of References: 5 o Patent Use: The patent is an automated retail terminal that is similar to an ATM or Internet kiosk. It is used with a credit card or smart card. o Abstract: An automated retail terminal in which a plurality of goods and/or services are provided in an integrated system. The integrated system generally avoids duplicating hardware or functions in the course of delivering the goods or services offered, so for example in a combination ATM and Internet kiosk the same credit card or smart card reader is used for both the ATM and the Internet kiosk functions, the same control screen activates the ATM functions and the Internet functions, and etc.
  • 73.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 72 Implications The Automated Transaction Machine was filed on November 22, 2010. The object of this patent is to provide an automated retail terminal source that provides an assortment of goods and/or services in an integrated system. It is a newly developed technology in the retail market; however, the potential implications of this patent are virtually limitless, as companies will be able to incorporate some of their smaller sized products/services in this automated transaction machine without the need for human interaction. If Hibbett Sporting Goods wishes to maintain their current position in the sporting goods retailing market, the company will likely need to incorporate newer technological innovations such as this patent. The ability to automatically serve consumers without human interaction is the future of the retailing industry, and the businesses that implement this concept into their company will benefit in the long run. It would be beneficial for Hibbett to purchase or lease this patent, which would thereby allow them to own the product and/or market. In addition, the company could be in a position to lease out the patent for royalties from other companies. o US Patent Number: 8239272 o Issuance Date: August 7, 2012 o Original Assignee: Amway Corporation o Inventors: David M. Bamborough, James G. Blodgett, William R. Dangl o Number of References: 7 o Patent Use: The patent is a system and method for providing complete o Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system and method for providing complete electronic commerce (“E-Commerce”) transactions and solutions for a marketing company's products via the World Wide Web, including facilities for signing up new customers and recruiting, training and supporting new 72 | P a g e  Electronic Commerce Transactions Within A Marketing System111 electronic commerce for a company’s marketing products online. Electronic Commerce Transactions Within A Marketing System Source: http://tinyurl.com/9mjo4he Independent Business t an interactive online p In another aspect, the p invention relates to the combination of a marketing b with a membership buying opportunity using both e commerce and face-to-face transactions. The present invention is also directed to a system and method for
  • 74.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 73 combining a marketing business with a membership buying opportunity, so that Independent Business Owners participating in the marketing plan can introduce customers to a membership buying opportunity and earn bonuses or commissions based on the purchases by those members. Implications The Electronic Commerce Transaction Within A Marketing System was filed on June 23, 2010. The object of this patent is to provide complete electronic commerce (“E-Commerce”) transactions and solutions for a marketing company’s products via the World Wide Web. The rapid growth of electronic commerce over the past few years illustrates the necessity of interactive commerce for companies over the traditional face-to-face transaction. If Hibbett Sporting Goods wishes to maintain their current status in the industry, they need to strengthen their online commerce presence. Almost all of the purchases made by customers shopping at Hibbett Sporting Goods are made in person, and electronic commerce is an underutilized element for Hibbett. The ability to serve both electronic and interpersonal commerce is a necessary action that companies will need to address in the future. It would be beneficial for Hibbett to purchase or lease this patent, which would thereby allow them to own the product and/or market. In addition, the company could be in a position to lease out the patent in exchange for royalties from other competitors. Internet-Based Sports Equipment Rental Method Source: http://tinyurl.com/9s8k444 73 | P a g e  Internet-Based Sports Equipment Rental Method112 o US Patent Number: 6885998 o Issuance Date: April 26, 2005 o Original Assignee: Jeffrey A. Smith o Inventor: Mark J. Arduino o Number of References: 4 o Patent Use: The patent is a conceptual idea of renting sports equipment online for predetermined times, dates, and locations. o Abstract: Disclosed is an Internet-based sports equipment rental system and method that enables individuals to rent sports equipment and other items, such as golf clubs, from a renting company's Web site. The system and method includes automated rental processing and tracking software that runs on the renting company's Web site to allow individuals to
  • 75.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 74 rent sports equipment conveniently over the Internet for use at predetermined locations at predetermined future times. Implications The Internet-Based Sports Equipment Rental Method was filed on March 25, 2000. The object of this patent is to provide consumers with the ability to rent sports equipment and other items online and ultimately allow individuals to rent them at predetermined locations and future times. With the ongoing economic recession occurring throughout the United States, the concept of renting, leasing, or maintaining temporary ownership is becoming a growing trend. If Hibbett Sporting Goods wishes to gain a competitive advantage in the industry, the company has the opportunity of offering some form of rental service to its consumers. The ability to implicate such a strategy in the sports retailing goods industry will grant Hibbett Sporting Goods the opportunity to become a large market sized company in the marketplace and give them a significant competitive advantage over its competitors. Interactive Shopping System With Mobile Apparatus Source: http://tinyurl.com/cbj8dsz 74 | P a g e  Interactive Shopping System With Mobile Apparatus113 o US Patent Number: 6434530 o Issuance Date: August 13, 2004 o Original Assignee: Retail Multimedia Corporation o Inventors: Martin A. Sloane, Tod Bogan o Number of References: 22 o Patent Use: The patent is an interactive system adapted for online shopping venues. It is implemented through the use of a mobile device. o Abstract: An interactive system adapted for use in a shopping venue, comprises: an interactive and intelligent source of information, for example supplemental information related to articles available for selection by shoppers in a shopping venue, and not otherwise available to the shoppers during shopping; and, a plurality of interactive, mobile apparatus which shoppers can
  • 76.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 75 move throughout the shopping venue and use for transmitting queries to the interactive source of information and use for receiving information transmitted from the interactive source of information, whereby shoppers can receive information useful for evaluating the articles when making article selection decisions, and at least some of the received information can be formulated to influence the article selection decisions. At least some of the information transmitted to the shoppers can be responsive to the queries. Implications The Interactive Shopping System With Mobile Apparatus was filed on January 20, 2001. The object of this patent is to provide consumers with an interactive system for use in a shopping venue with their mobile devices. With the rapid development of technological concepts in the retail industry, especially with mobile devices, the need for companies to be well aware of these growing technologies is a required element for the company if they wish to remain competitive. If Hibbett Sporting Goods wishes to gain a competitive advantage in the industry, the company should lease this patent to enable the company the option of offer marketing advertisements and selling their products through consumer’s mobile devices. The social value expressed with mobile phones continues to grow and expand, and the ability for Hibbett Sporting Goods to utilize this strategy will grant them a significant competitive advantage in the industry. On-Shelf Tracking System Source: http://tinyurl.com/b6qbbqz 75 | P a g e  On-Shelf Tracking System114 o US Patent Number: 3249320 o Issuance Date: September 20, 2012 o Original Assignee: N/A o Inventor: Patrick Campbell o Number of References: 4 o Patent Use: The patent is an on shelf tracking system that tracks for both consumer theft and inventory amounts. o Abstract: A system to be installed on a merchandising unit having one or more inventory zones, one or more units of product, one or more product sensors, a mounting structure, and an electromagnetic signal processor. The one or more product sensors, each at least associated operatively with one of the one or more inventory zones, converts a sensed quantity of the one or more units of product into a respective analog electromagnetic signal. The mounting structure secures the one or more product
  • 77.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 76 sensors to the merchandising unit. The electromagnetic signal processor in communication with the one or more product sensors can sample output from the one or more product sensors. Implications The On-Shelf Tracking System was filed on August 29, 2010. The object of this patent is to provide a product sensor that is designed to ensure the security and output of a specific merchandising unit. With the threat of potential theft that all retailers face, the ability to ensure the number of inventory of a specific product is a valuable asset for all companies. In addition, this patent also allows management to know the total number of sales of a particular product. If Hibbett Sporting Goods wishes to ensure the safety and security of their products, the company should purchase/lease the patent or attempt to establish some sort of on-shelf tracking system like this patent. This concept is the new wave of the future, and companies that are unable to address it will be obsolete. Articles of Apparel Providing Enhanced Body Position Feedback Source: http://tinyurl.com/d9dwjpu 76 | P a g e  Articles Of Apparel Providing Enhanced Body Position Feedback115 o US Patent Number: 2148585 o Issuance Date: August 1, 2011 o Original Assignee: Nike International Ltd. o Inventors: Todd Kenneth Craig, Steven Wright o Number of References: 7 o Patent Use: The patent is a highly developed form of sporting goods apparel that enhances body position feedback. o Abstract: Articles of apparel include: (a) a garment structure having one or more fabric elements structured and arranged to provide a close fit to at least one predetermined portion of a body (e.g., area(s) of the body for which enhanced position sensing and/or feedback are desired, such as the lower back, the arch of the foot, etc.); and (b) a body position feedback system engaged with or integrally formed as part of the garment structure. The body position feedback system may apply higher tensile or constricting (compressive) forces to selected portions of the wearer's body, which can help stimulate or interact with nerves
  • 78.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 77 and deep tissue receptors located in various portions of the body. The increased forces at selected locations of the body give the wearer sensory feedback regarding the position or orientation of these parts of the body and can improve or accelerate development of 'muscle memory.' Implications The Articles of Apparel Providing Enhanced Body Position Feedback was filed on May 15, 2008. The object of this patent is to provide a piece of athletic apparel that is a close fit to at least one predetermined portion of the body (e.g. arms, legs, torso, etc.). With the current constructs of athletic apparel, the ability to offer a product that is capable of providing sensory feedback is a significant advancement in the manufacturing of the clothing. If Hibbett Sporting Goods were capable of providing such a product, the company would be a technological innovator in the industry. Many of the consumers that shop at Dick’s Sporting Goods or Big Five Sporting Goods, would likely switch to Hibbett for this specific product. It would be beneficial for Hibbett to partner with the Nike and possibly lease this patent for exclusivity. In addition, Hibbett should also consider establish a long term strategy to work with Nike on other possible patents as well. Social Networking And E-Commerce Integration Source: http://tinyurl.com/b98txaa 77 | P a g e  Social Networking And E-Commerce Integration116 o US Patent Number: 1682167 o Issuance Date: June 3, 2011 o Original Assignee: Greg M. Lemelson o Inventor: Greg M. Lemelson o Number of References: 5 o Patent Use: The patent is a method of relating electronic commerce shoppers with social media users. o Abstract: The present invention relates to methods, systems and databases for sharing user inputted data obtained from two different environments. In particular, the present invention relates to methods of obtaining user inputted data (e.g., metadata or links) from a social networking environment, and providing the data to other users in an e-commerce environment, and vice versa. Data from both environments can be stored in a database accessible by either
  • 79.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 78 environment. In another embodiment, a user can access the data via a search performed or provided to the user in real-time. Implications The Social Networking And E-Commerce Integration patent was filed on February 13, 2007. The object of this patent is to allow for sharing user inputted data obtained from two different environments. In this case, the two environments are metadata or links from a social networking environment and the e-commerce environment. As both of these trends are showing significant growth, the ability to coordinate them under a single integrated system will be very beneficial to any businesses that incorporate them into their corporate strategy. If Hibbett Sporting Goods developed this coordinated system with these two environments, the company would establish a whole new cliental segment. Those that participate in electronic commerce and utilize social networking would be able to receive Hibbett Sporting Goods news, ongoing sales and advertisements, and price listings. The possibilities of this patent are virtually limitless, and Hibbett should take full advantage of them. In addition, Hibbett should definetly consider purchasing this patent because at the moment there is no original assignee associated with the patent. 78 | P a g e
  • 80.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 79 79 | P a g e Strategies SWOT Analysis Executive Summary Over the past six decades that Hibbett Sporting Goods has been a retailer in the sporting goods industry, many strengths and weaknesses have accumulated within the organization that effect the means in which the company targets its customer basis. While Hibbett Sporting Goods is generating a great deal of financial and regional success in its base of operations in the Southeast, its regionalized setting, large market competitors, and complete reliance on vendors for its product(s) have amounted to the company only becoming a small-sized market business within the industry. In order for Hibbett to develop itself into a large market presence in the industry, the company must be willing to utilize newly developed technologies to its advantage, promote a growing desire to utilize online commerce as a means of purchasing, and expand the company to the western portion of the United States as all opportunistic notions. In addition to applying the company’s overall strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities, Hibbett must address looming threats it faces such as new competition and decrease in consumer spending.
  • 81.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 80 80 | P a g e Hibbett Sporting Goods SWOT Analysis & Strategies Strengths:  Small-market strategic advantages  Specialized product selection catering to community  Managerial experience Weaknesses:  Complete reliance on vendors for products  Strong competition  Regionalized company setting in industry Opportunities:  Rapid growth rate of online commerce  Growth/Expansion  Development of new technological innovation in retail industry Strengths/Opportunities Strategies:  Embrace local communities to expand and fill voids left by major retailers.  Utilize specialized product selection through an online presence.  Through the expertise of the managers, acquire a new piece of technology in the retail industry. Weakness/Opportunities Strategies:  Utilize online commerce as an ability to become less regionalized and grow.  Enter into long-term agreement with vendors to ensure growth.  Market new technologies acquired that competitors will not have. Threats:  New competitors  Decrease in consumer spending  Competitors have a larger market presence Strengths/Threat Strategies:  Offer discounts of specialized products to increase consumer spending  Offer community oriented sales/events that larger competitors are unable to accomplish  Through the expertise of managers, develop new competitor threat assessments. Weakness/Threats Strategies:  Open stores nationwide to compete with competitors with a large market presence  Attempt to decrease the product costs from vendors to increase consumer spending  Develop viral advertising campaigns to increase national brand awareness
  • 82.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 81 Target market for Hibbett Sports is in small to mid-sized markets that major retailers such as Wal-Mart and Dick’s are absent towards. 81 | P a g e Strengths/Opportunities Hibbett Sporting Goods is in a prime position to take advantage of many existing opportunities by utilizing the company’s strengths. Hibbett maintains many small market strategic advantages that their customer basis values and is conscience about when shopping in their stores. It is essential that Hibbett avoid taking on large market retailers such as Dick’s in urban areas because of their vast product lines, competitive prices, and overwhelming popularity. Instead, Hibbett should embrace the local and midsized communities to fill a void that Wal-Mart and Dick’s are not able to fulfill.117 There is also a growing popularity in offering retail options through an online presence.118 Hibbett is making progressive steps towards offering purchasing options on their website, and if the company is capable of performing these measures it is likely they will utilize their specialized products to sustain growth and development through online orders. The rapid development of new technological innovation in the retail industry is having a profound impact on the way consumers shop, order, and pay for things.119 At the moment, Hibbett maintains no registered patents within their company, and the growing opportunistic advantages of patents for certain companies are remarkable. Through the expertise and experience of the managerial team of Hibbett, the company should attempt to acquire a type of patent that gives them a competitive advantage in the industry over its competitors. Weaknesses/Opportunities Hibbett Sporting Goods operates its sporting goods stores in small to mid-sized markets throughout the Southeast, Southwest, and lower Midwest regions of the United States.120 Its reliance on these regions is one of the company’s main focal points in their competitive strategy model; however, this limits their overall influence in the industry as a whole. With the rapid development of online commerce occurring in the industry, Hibbett can utilize online commerce as a means of growth and expansion within the market. Like many other sporting goods retailers in the industry, Hibbett is completely reliant on their vendors (such as Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, etc.) to supply their products within their stores.121 With the notable reliance by Hibbett towards these vendors, Hibbett can ensure its status within the retail industry by entering into long term agreements with these vendors to remain a viable competitor within in the industry as a whole. Rapid technological developments in retail means that retailers must ensure their company’s status by identifying and implementing certain technological developments that would aid the company itself and offer something that a competitor may not have.122 In this case, if Hibbett is capable of marketing a newly acquired technology that the company purchased, the company could gain a significant competitive advantage over its major competitors in the industry such as Dick’s Sporting Goods and Big Five Sporting Goods.
  • 83.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 82 The above map illustrates the locations of Hibbett Sporting Goods stores, which are primarily based in the Southeast region of the US. Growing development of social media in retail 82 | P a g e Strengths/Threats With the recession showing some signs of abating within the United States, the overall impact of it is still felt in many business industries, particularly in the retail industry.123 A major influence for many businesses is the overall decrease in consumer spending. To counteract these figures for Hibbett, the company should offer various discounts and advertisements to boost consumer spending figures. Probably the best method to implement such discounts and advertisements would be through social media, and Hibbett recently joined Facebook over the past year. Online advertising is an inexpensive way to attract new customers and increase consumer spending. Placing advertisements on a social media website such as Facebook would allow Hibbett to expand their market much further and boost consumer spending overall. In the third quarter of 2009 alone, Facebook exposed users to 297 billion ads, 23 percent of all the advertisements on the World Wide Web.124 In addition to being most viewed, Facebook advertisements are one-third the price of other online advertising such as on Google searches.125 The ability of Hibbett Sporting Goods to develop small-market strategic advantages and tactics that other major sporting goods retailers are unable to address is one of the pivotal competitive advantages the company has to offer. In comparison, one of Dick’s Sporting Goods essential practiced strategies is primarily operating in urbanized areas that enable them to attain a greater number of potential customers in their stores.126 Unlike Dick’s, Hibbett focuses a great deal of their efforts on community oriented sales and events that attract their repeat cliental back to their stores. In addition, this practice also shows individuals living in urbanized areas or those that are more familiar with Dick’s Sporting Goods the capabilities of Hibbett. Altogether,
  • 84.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 83 this focused strategy emphasizes the overall conduct of Hibbett Sporting Goods in the retail industry, as it is a company that operates with the primary focus of satisfying the consumer and the community. Although the market demonstrates considerable economic struggles for retailing companies, a major threat many corporate leaders or managers of companies face are new competitors in the marketplace. According to 2011 figures, the future of retail is quite promising, as there was a 28% increase in the number of new retailing businesses from the previous year.127 The focus of many companies needs to be on addressing some of these new competitors before they emerge as a large market presence in the industry. In regards to Hibbett, companies such as Big Five Sporting Goods and other sporting goods retailers that have only been in the industry for a short time must be addressed. It is the responsibility and strategic value for the managerial officials working at Hibbett Sporting Goods to develop such strategies to ensure Hibbett’s overall success in the industry. Weaknesses/Threats With large market sporting goods retailers expanding both their product portfolios and number of nationwide stores, the need for a small market sized company such as Hibbett Sporting Goods to develop a greater presence in the marketplace is essential for the company’s overall success. According to Dicks Sporting Goods annual report from 2011, the company opened an additional 44 stores bringing its total number of stores up to 525.128 The demand for a greater number of Hibbett Sporting Goods is essential in order for the company to remain competitive, and these locations need to be beyond the current region in which Hibbett normally operates. The company needs to strategically break out of its current hub in the Southeast and develop additional stores on the West Coast, Northwest, and Southwest of the United States to become a nationwide recognized business. The reduction of Nike’s prices would enable Hibbett to discount their product line prices as well. 83 | P a g e Investing in decreasing the costs relating to vendor fees for Hibbett Sporting Goods products would benefit the company by promoting an increase in consumer spending. The diminished costs Hibbett would have to provide the vendors (such as Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour) would enable the company to offer many of their products at discounted prices. At the moment, consumer spending rates continually show signs of increasing, which ultimately forces businesses to keep their prices at a high level because of the potential lost business from these individuals.129 If Hibbett Sporting Goods is capable of reducing the purchasing costs of these vendor product lines, the company will see consumer satisfaction at higher levels, increase of market share and market growth, as well as gain a significant competitive advantage in the retail industry of sporting goods.
  • 85.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 84 While maintaining a diligent focus on Hibbett’s primary competitors and vendors is a necessary action that the company must perform, Hibbett needs to focus more on broadening their customer base rather than being satisfied with their current customers. Currently, Hibbett’s advertising on all media outlets is non-existant. On YouTube, Hibbett has only several video uploads with a total of only a few thousand views; Dick’s has millions of total viewers on their page because of their overwhelming popularity and notable figures they bring in the commmercials.130 Within these commercials, Dick’s highlights the premier stature of the company, its historic roots, and the well known individuals that use Dick Sporting Goods products. Many of these well known individuals are athletes that dominate their sports such as Ray Rice, Justin Verlander, and Lebron James, and ultimately it is through their testimonials that the Dick’s Sporting Goods brand name presence is considered by most to be the leader within the industry. If Hibbett Sporting Goods wants to remain competitive, the company needs to address its marketing scheme. The company needs to focus less on community oriented market targeting and more on focusing on a national level marketing concept that will enable Hibbett to become a large market retailer like Dick’s and other notable businesses. 84 | P a g e
  • 86.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 85 85 | P a g e Porters 9 Forces Model Executive Summary Five industry level forces and four macro-environmental forces were taken into account when determining the threat levels for Hibbett Sports. Hibbett Sports is likely to face high threats from industry rivals, the social macro-environment, and from suppliers. Hibbett Sports’ industry rivals offer a variety of the same products at competitive pricing, putting pressure on Hibbett to be the most competitive. Hibbett Sports’ industry rivals also offer online shopping allowing them to expand their customer base to the entire United States. Social factors, mainly social media, is one of the leading marketing tools for companies currently. Hibbett Sports must take advantage of social media and further expand their social media marketing in order to reduce social threats. Finally, the threat from suppliers is a direct result of extremely high switching costs. Hibbett Sports is forced to pay whichever price the manufacturer sets, this could be detrimental during periods of economic distress.
  • 87.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 86 86 | P a g e Social  Smart phones allow customers to access information on the go  Social media is the leading way to reach customers  Increased use of eCommerce and online shopping Buyers  Low differentiation  Large number of competitors Suppliers  High concentration  High switching costs  Unique suppliers Porter’s 9 Forces Model Technological  Mobile coupons  Near Field Communication (NFC)  Increased ability to customize clothing, shoes, jerseys etc… Political Legal  Presidential election likely to influence how business will choose to operate  Federal policies discourage business opportunities  Limited government resources Economical  Mobile and web platforms offer increase in sales  Market development  Reduced store sizes improve capabilities New Entrants  Economies of scale  High capital required  Broad product line Industry Rivals  Industry composed of many firms of equal size and competitive position  Competitors offer online shopping Substitutes  Competitive market, similar products  Low switching costs Legend: = High Threat = Medium Threat = Low Threat
  • 88.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 87 industry rivals. Competitors Dick’s Sporting Goods and Big 5 Sporting Goods offer similar products at competitive prices. Customers have the ability to shop around and compare prices. If Hibbett Sports’ prices aren’t the lowest there is a chance at a loss of business. Furthermore, Dick’s Sporting Goods offers an expansive eCommerce website that allows consumers from all over the world to purchase products131. In addition to Dick’s current eCommerce website, they are looking to further develop their online shopping capabilities by incorporating a more user friendly website as well as an option for online purchase and in-store pickup132. From 2010 to 2011, Dick’s reported a 36 percent increase in sales just through eCommerce sales alone133. If Hibbett would build an eCommerece website and then continue to support and promote eCommerce channel shopping, than they will likely see similar growths in sales numbers. Industry rivals will always be present, but taking advantage of opportunities such as online shopping will enable Hibbett Sports to be highly competitive. 87 | P a g e Industry Rivals  Industry composed of many firms of equal size and competitive position  Competitors offer online shopping Discussion The highest threat that Hibbett Sports faces is Social  Smart phones allow customers to access information on the go  Social media is the leading way to reach customers  Increased use of eCommerce and online shopping The next highest threat is the social environment. Companies in the sports retail industry are looking more into social media everyday. With 63 percent of adults using social media daily, it is more important than ever to take advantage of low cost social media marketing134. Furthermore, 90 percent of small business marketers are using social media, and of those 90 percent, 93 percent rate social media tools as important135. Hibbett is currently using social media outlets Facebook and Twitter, and is currently seeking to hire social media jobs136. Social commerce is also a huge market that Hibbett Sports has yet to develop into. Social commerce sales should total $9.2 billion by the end of 2012, and are expected to rise to $14.25 billion by the end of 2013137. Lastly, 50.4 percent of Americans are reported using smartphones in 2012138. Smartphone users are able to access websites and social media outlets easier and more often than they were five years ago. This ease of use is likely to result in more online purchase and increased social media usage.
  • 89.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 88 88 | P a g e Suppliers  High concentration  High switching costs  Unique suppliers The third highest threat facing Hibbett Sports is suppliers. Hibbett Sports relies on B2B transactions from the companies whose products they are selling. The result of this is extremely high switching costs. Hibbett Sports chooses to sell the top brands in the industry. The only way to reduce switching costs would be to carry cheaper, lower quality brands. The cost of switching to lower quality brands would be a large decrease in sales. Because Hibbett is relient on the companies whose products they are selling, they are unable to determine the costs in which they purchase the products. Instead, the costs are completely dependent on the manufacturer. Hibbett Sports prides themselves on their long-standing relationships with their vendors, but even they admit that a loss in key vendor support would be detrimental to their business, financial condition, and results of operations139. This poses as a risk for Hibbett because if they are unable to purchase the top name brands they will have to settle for less qualified companies at the cost of reduced sales. Growth Vector Matrix Executive Summary Considering the Growth Vector Analysis Matrix above, Hibbett Sporting Goods have only a small group of options to consider going forward in order to continue to remain the "Vendor of Choice"140 for those in the region and motivate sales growth across all product lines and improve market exposure and go beyond the current thoughts of what is the addressable market. Hibbett Sporting Goods must apply most of its attention and its corporate energy into the areas of new products; for example only, non-sport casual wear and diversification into non-traditional markets; online. With the changes to social trends of fashion and new technology in textiles and manufacturing, it is paramount that Hibbett remain diligent to this new trend and technology and be the first to deliver this improved product to the retail market. This diversification plays a major roll within this competitive landscape in order that Hibbett Sporting Goods remain able to posture their product in the most effective manner as "Best in Class"141. Product bundling should be considered to exploit the variety of sport and non-sport offerings to the public. Hibbett already does a great job of being an active player in a small target market and absolutely should continue to do so to keep consumers feeling personal and close to the company. Hibbett Sporting Goods must continue to remain focused on customer care by way of requiring all Hibbett Sporting Goods representatives having any direct contact with the customer base, undergo a rigorous and continuous inter-personal training thereby extending the Hibbett Sporting Goods Mission Statement onto the customer; "We are local and personally committed to you"142.
  • 90.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 89  Create the ability for consumers to customize their products.  Allow consumers to make purchases with their mobile devices with options such as Near Field Communication.  Adopt new brand names that create products to keep up with rising popular trends. 89 | P a g e Market/ Products Current Products  Athletic Apparel  Athletic Equipment  Footwear New Products Legend: = High Importance = Medium Importance Current Market  Small regional  High School > Market Penetration  Sponsorships of High schools and local community charities.  Small market target allows for a more personal feel for the customers to relate. Product Development  Invest in mobile technology software for consumers to receive coupons and discounts on mobile devices as well as make purchases.  Invest in patents for “Organic” or “Recycled” materials to be used in packaging or products sold. New Market  Internet/ Social Media  College < Market Development  Creation of a better functioning website to allow for online ordering from the store.  Stronger advertise to become more recognizable to a larger market. Diversification  Stand out in the consumers’ minds by offering better customer service such as extended warranties or insurance on products.  Stay present and even go further in the community through sponsorships and charity giveaways and rallies.
  • 91.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 90 90 | P a g e Discussion New Market New Products: Diversification Hibbett needs to stand out from the competition to the consumers not only in their current region but to the new markets such as the online community. Hibbett should stand out from the competition by offering better services and warranty opportunities to attract and keep consumer loyalty. Also the idea of product bundling should be a major part of the business model because with this kind of offerings consumers will be able to get products together for any event or occasion as one sale unit. New Market Current Products: Market Development As time goes continues to move forward and social and shopping trends continue to advance into the online communities, Hibbett needs to be able to respond and keep up with trends. Hibbett needs to create a usable shopping website that is able to process orders online rather than just show what products they carry. As consumers become more inclined to shop via the internet Hibbett will begin to fall behind to their competitors that have the online shopping database. Current Markets Current Products: Market Penetration Hibbett currently is very successful by standing out in the community through sponsorships of high schools and events throughout the year. This strategy needs to remain a high priority because relating to their consumer base sets Hibbett apart from larger competitors such as Dick’s Sporting Goods.
  • 92.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 91 1Marie, Beerens. Investors Business Daily, "Hibbett Plays To Its Strengths; Sporting Goods Retailer Targets Smaller Markets ." Last modified 2006. Accessed September 23, 2012. http://news.investors.com/investing/010306- 414639-hibbett-plays-to-its-strengths-sporting-goods-retailer-targets-smaller-markets.htm 2Benjamin, Sacks. Tulane University: Freeman School of Business, "HIBBETT SPORTS INC. Continuing Coverage: Consistently Sporting Good Returns." Last modified 2011. Accessed September 24, 2012. http://www.freeman.tulane.edu/burkenroad/pdf/HIBB.pdf. 3Benjamin, Sacks. Tulane University: Freeman School of Business, "HIBBETT SPORTS INC. Continuing Coverage: Consistently Sporting Good Returns." Last modified 2011. Accessed September 24, 2012. http://www.freeman.tulane.edu/burkenroad/pdf/HIBB.pdf. 4 Grainger, Devin, and Brenda Hanson. Decorah Newspaper, "Hibbett Sports opening soon." Last modified 2010. Accessed September 24, 2012. http://www.decorahnewspapers.com/main.asp?SectionID=2&SubSectionID=13&ArticleID=29173. 5 Benjamin, Sacks. Tulane University: Freeman School of Business, "HIBBETT SPORTS INC. Continuing Coverage: Consistently Sporting Good Returns." Last modified 2011. Accessed September 24, 2012. http://www.freeman.tulane.edu/burkenroad/pdf/HIBB.pdf. 6 "Hibbett Sports: Investor Reports & Statements." Last modified 2012. Accessed September 24, 2012. http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=78137&p=irol-reports. 7 Bloomberg Businessweek, "Hibbett Sports Inc. ." Last modified 2012. Accessed September 25, 2012. http://investing.businessweek.com/research/stocks/news/news.asp?sourceFilter=AW& 8 Zacks Investment Research Group, "Hibbett Gets Dicks Competition." Last modified 2008. Accessed September 25, 2012. http://www.zacks.com/stock/news/14401/hibbett-gets-dicks-competition. 9 Hibbett Sports: Investor Reports & Statements." Last modified 2012. Accessed September 24, 2012. http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=78137&p=irol-reports. 10 Hibbett Sporting Goods, www.hibbet.com 11 Hibbett Sporting Goods Inc., "Hibbett Sports: About Us." Last modified 2012. Accessed September 25, 2012. http://www.hibbett.com/about-us/. / 12 Hibbett Sports: Investor Reports & Statements." Last modified 2012. Accessed September 24, 2012. http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=78137&p=irol-reports. 13SOWEB, "Social Media Trends to Watch for if Your in the Retail Industry." Last modified March 9, 2011. Accessed October 23, 2012. http://www.sowebinc.com/seo/social-media-trends-to-watch-if-you-are-in-the-retail-industry. 14 SOWEB, "Social Media Trends to Watch for if Your in the Retail Industry." Last modified March 9, 2011. Accessed October 23, 2012. http://www.sowebinc.com/seo/social-media-trends-to-watch-if-you-are-in-the-retail-industry. 15 CBS NEWS, "Survey: Teens' Cell Phones Indispensible ." Last modified April 2, 2010. Accessed October 23, 2012. http://www.cbsnews.com/2100-503063_162-4449232.html. 16 Allison, David. BCBusiness, "Five Social Trends that Will Change Your Business." Last modified June 6, 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. http://www.bcbusinessonline.ca/bcb/bc-blogs/one-brand-clapping/2009/11/04/five-trends- 91 | P a g e will-change-your-business. 17 Allison, David. BCBusiness, "Five Social Trends that Will Change Your Business." Last modified June 6, 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. http://www.bcbusinessonline.ca/bcb/bc-blogs/one-brand-clapping/2009/11/04/five-trends- will-change-your-business. 18 Allison, David. BCBusiness, "Five Social Trends that Will Change Your Business." Last modified June 6, 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. http://www.bcbusinessonline.ca/bcb/bc-blogs/one-brand-clapping/2009/11/04/five-trends- will-change-your-business. 19 Belcher, Lynda. Chron, "How to Make A Retail Business Work Without A Store Front." Last modified 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. http://smallbusiness.chron.com/make-retail-business-work-store-front-20426.html. 20 Charlton, Graham. Econsultancy, "Ten Reasons for Retailers to Use Mobile Coupons." Last modified May 19, 2012. Accessed October 25, 2012. http://econsultancy.com/us/blog/5936-ten-reasons-for-retailers-to-use-mobile-coupons.
  • 93.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 92 21 Merrill, Douglas. Urgent Communications, "How Retailers Are Using Near Field Communications." Last modified 2012. Accessed October 25, 2012. http://urgentcomm.com/near-field-communication/reach-out-and-touch-someone- 92 | P a g e related-video. 22 SAScom Magazine, "Top Five Economic Retailing Trends." Last modified 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. http://www.sas.com/news/sascom/2012q1/industry_spotlight.html. 23 SAScom Magazine, "Top Five Economic Retailing Trends." Last modified 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. http://www.sas.com/news/sascom/2012q1/industry_spotlight.html. 24 Plunket Research, Ltd, "Retailing Industry Market Research." Last modified 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. http://www.plunkettresearch.com/retailing-stores-market-research/industry-and-business-data. 25 Plunket Research, Ltd, "Retailing Industry Market Research." Last modified 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. http://www.plunkettresearch.com/retailing-stores-market-research/industry-and-business-data. 26 Plunket Research, Ltd, "Retailing Industry Market Research." Last modified 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. http://www.plunkettresearch.com/retailing-stores-market-research/industry-and-business-data. 27 Franchise Help, "Retail Industry Analysis 2012-Cost & Trends." Last modified 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. http://www.franchisehelp.com/industry-reports/retail-industry-report. 28 Siegel, Adam, and Maggie Burnside. Retail Industry Leaders Association, "2012 Retail Sustainability Report." Last modified 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. http://www.rila.org/sustainability/sustreport/sustainability-report-landing- page/Documents/RetailSustainabilityReport.pdf. 29 Franchise Help, "Retail Industry Analysis 2012-Cost & Trends." Last modified 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. http://www.franchisehelp.com/industry-reports/retail-industry-report. 30 Franchise Help, "Retail Industry Analysis 2012-Cost & Trends." Last modified 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. http://www.franchisehelp.com/industry-reports/retail-industry-report. 31 Franchise Help, "Retail Industry Analysis 2012-Cost & Trends." Last modified 2012. Accessed October 23, 2012. http://www.franchisehelp.com/industry-reports/retail-industry-report. 32 Spors, Kelly. Small Business Trends, "4 Sustainability Trends Among Retailers." Last modified January 31, 2012. Accessed October 25, 2012. http://smallbiztrends.com/2012/01/4-sustainability-trends-among-retailers.html. 33 CBS News, "Poll: Economic Status of Country." Last modified October 20, 2012. Accessed October 25, 2012. http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-250_162-57539891/poll-gender-gaps-all-but-gone-in-white-house-race/. 34 The MudGood Job Journal, "Retail Sector Urges Obama Administration to Address Retail Sector." Last modified 2012. Accessed October 25, 2012. http://www.mudgoodjobs.com/retail-sector-urges-obama-administration-to-address- retail-job-creation-in-tuesdays-state-of-the-union-address/. 35 Nixon, Mike. Tri-Parish Times, "Federal Policies Ruin Businesses." Last modified October 23, 2012. Accessed October 25, 2012. http://www.tri-parishtimes.com/business/local/article_1410e3d0-1d3f-11e2-b122- 001a4bcf887a.html. 36 Nixon, Mike. Tri-Parish Times, "Federal Policies Ruin Businesses." Last modified October 23, 2012. Accessed October 25, 2012. http://www.tri-parishtimes.com/business/local/article_1410e3d0-1d3f-11e2-b122- 001a4bcf887a.html. 37 2011 Dicks Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC. Last Modified 2011. http://phx.corporate-ir. net/phoenix.zhtml?c=132215&p=irol-irhome 38 2011 Dicks Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC. Last Modified 2011. http://phx.corporate-ir. net/phoenix.zhtml?c=132215&p=irol-irhome 39 Hines, Michael. Dick's Sporting Goods Investor Relations, "Dick's Sporting Goods Announces Completion of Aquisitions." Last modified February 13, 2012. Accessed October 16, 2012. http://phx.corporate-ir. net/phoenix.zhtml?c=132215&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=962720&highlight=. 40 Weil, Dan. Money News, "Dick's Sporting Goods: A Winning Strategy." Last modified February 29, 2012. Accessed October 16, 2012. http://www.moneynews.com/Companies/Dick-s-Sporting-Goods- DKS/2012/02/29/id/431009. 41 2012. Accessed October 16, 2012. http://www.cnbc.com/id/49086246/The_Zacks_Analyst_Blog_Highlights_Dick_s_Sporting_Goods_Nike_Under_Ar mour_Foot_Locker_and_Wal_Mart_Stores
  • 94.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 93 42 2011 Dicks Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC. Last Modified 2011. http://phx.corporate-ir. net/phoenix.zhtml?c=132215&p=irol-irhome 43 Annual Reports, "DKS 2011 Annual Report." Last modified 2011. Accessed October 17, 2012. https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&q=cache:iAVBSteQAgEJ:phx.corporate-ir. net/External.File?item=UGFyZW50SUQ9MTM1NjAyfENoaWxkSUQ9LTF8VHlwZT0z&t=1 strengths of dicks sporting goods annual report&hl=en&gl=us&pid=bl&srcid=ADGEEShNg5n0rX2coa677R_YNVCzcunPXCDovHw-lMre2VlVo4Vg8RAWp6WOyLIenjU0J46Nw1dV4r_ BC4fy1nWURKSalCXKNTQUOAcp0NdP7X8PNxu0EJhoCSdHg5Jpxy rdSepbCOEH&sig=AHIEtbTBJnoUYtYgz8S0qsvyj9MYIYHl6A. 44 Zacks Equity Research Group, "Dick's Ongoing Strategies." Last modified September 18, 2012. Accessed October 17, 2012. http://community.nasdaq.com/News/2012-09/dicks-to-expand-store-base-analyst-blog. 93 | P a g e aspx?storyid=174330. 45 2011 Dicks Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC. Last Modified 2011. http://phx.corporate-ir. net/phoenix.zhtml?c=132215&p=irol-irhome 46 http://www.wikinvest.com/stock/Dick%27s_Sporting_Goods_%28DKS%29#_note-1 47 http://www.wikinvest.com/stock/Dick%27s_Sporting_Goods_%28DKS%29#_note-1 48 Zacks Equity Research Group, "Dick's Ongoing Strategies." Last modified September 18, 2012. Accessed October 17, 2012. http://community.nasdaq.com/News/2012-09/dicks-to-expand-store-base-analyst-blog. aspx?storyid=174330. 49 Weil, Dan. Money News, "Dick's Sporting Goods: A Winning Strategy." Last modified February 29, 2012. Accessed October 16, 2012. http://www.moneynews.com/Companies/Dick-s-Sporting-Goods- DKS/2012/02/29/id/431009. 50 2012. Accessed October 16, 2012. http://www.cnbc.com/id/49086246/The_Zacks_Analyst_Blog_Highlights_Dick_s_Sporting_Goods_Nike_Under_Ar mour_Foot_Locker_and_Wal_Mart_Stores 51 “History of Dicks Sporting Goods” Last modified 2011, FundingUniverse.com 52http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/shop/index.jsp?categoryId=13086108&ab=ACLN11_Cspot_ProShop_Servic es 53http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/category/index.jsp?ab=TopNav_Outdoors&categoryId=4413993 54 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg .14 55 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg. 15 56 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg. 16 57 http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/field--stream-reaches-agreement-to-sell-certain-trademarks-to-dicks- sporting-goods-170159776.html 58 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg. 17 59 http://seekingalpha.com/article/20585-dick-s-sporting-goods-to-purchase-golf-galaxy-for-225-million 60 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg. 18 61 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg .33 62 http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-03-01/dick-s-sporting-goods-channels-rudy-film-in-branding-strategy. html 63 http://adage.com/article/agency-news/dick-s-sporting-goods-taps-anomaly-ad-agency/232016/ 64 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg. 33 65 http://seekingalpha.com/article/287829-dick-s-sporting-goods-inc-ceo-discusses-q2-2011-results-earnings-call-transcript
  • 95.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 94 94 | P a g e 66 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg. 7 67 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg. 31 68 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg. 33 69 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg. 33 70 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg. 7 71 “Annual Report of Dicks Sporting Goods” Last modified 2011, NYSE, AnnualReports.com 72 Hennion R. Jeffery. Dicks Sporting Goods, Last modified 2004, Dicksportinggoods.com. http://phx.corporate-ir. net/phoenix.zhtml?c=132215&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=598768&highlight 73 Booton, Jennifer. Fox Business News, "Dick’s Sporting Goods Reports Home-Run Quarter As Earnings Jump 34%." Last modified May 15, 2012. Accessed October 8, 2012. http://www.foxbusiness.com/industries/2012/05/15/dicks-sporting-goods-reports-home-run-quarter-as-earnings-jump- 34/. 74 Booton, Jennifer. Fox Business News, "Dick’s Sporting Goods Reports Home-Run Quarter As Earnings Jump 34%." Last modified May 15, 2012. Accessed October 8, 2012. http://www.foxbusiness.com/industries/2012/05/15/dicks-sporting-goods-reports-home-run-quarter-as-earnings-jump- 34/. 75 New York Times, "DICK'S Sporting Goods Launches Mobile Application." Last modified September 20, 2012. Accessed October 8, 2012. http://markets.on.nytimes.com/research/stocks/news/press_release.asp?docTag=201209200900PR_NEWS_USPR X____NY77911&feedID=600&press_symbol=90523. 76Yantis, John. USA Today, "Dick's Sporting Goods Building Distribution Site." Last modified January 14, 2012. Accessed October 8, 2012. http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/USCP/PNI/NEWS/2011-12-19-PNI1219biz-swv-dicks-groundbreakingART_ ST_U.htm. 77 2011 Big 5 Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC Last Modified 2011. http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/01/11/idUS197639+11-Jan-2012+GNW20120111 78Englander, David. Barron's, "Big 5 Sporting Goods Changing Its Game." Last modified September 22, 2012. Accessed October 16, 2012. http://online.barrons.com/article/SB50001424053111904706204578004352048047468.html. 792011 Big 5 Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC Last Modified 2011. http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/01/11/idUS197639+11-Jan-2012+GNW20120111 80 2011 Big 5 Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC Last Modified 2011. http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/01/11/idUS197639+11-Jan-2012+GNW20120111 81Englander, David. Barron's, "Big 5 Sporting Goods Changing Its Game." Last modified September 22, 2012. Accessed October 16, 2012. http://online.barrons.com/article/SB50001424053111904706204578004352048047468.html 82 2011 Big 5 Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC Last Modified 2011. http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/01/11/idUS197639+11-Jan-2012+GNW20120111 83 PR Newswire, "Big 5 Sporting Goods Announces Strategic Policy." Last modified October 19, 2011. Accessed October 18, 2012. http://www.thestreet.com/story/10893501/1/big-5-sporting-goods-corporation-announces-entry- into-new-credit-agreement.html. 84 2011 Big 5 Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC Last Modified 2011. http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/01/11/idUS197639+11-Jan-2012+GNW20120111 85 2011 Big 5 Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC Last Modified 2011. http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/01/11/idUS197639+11-Jan-2012+GNW20120111
  • 96.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 95 86 2011 Big 5 Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC Last Modified 2011. http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/01/11/idUS197639+11-Jan-2012+GNW20120111 87 Englander, David. Barron's, "Big 5 Sporting Goods Changing Its Game." Last modified September 22, 2012. Accessed October 16, 2012. 88 2011 Big 5 Sporting Goods Annual Report. SEC Last Modified 2011. http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/01/11/idUS197639+11-Jan-2012+GNW20120111 89 Englander, David. Barron's, "Big 5 Sporting Goods Changing Its Game." Last modified September 22, 2012. Accessed October 16, 2012. 90 “History of Big 5 Sporting Goods” Last modified 2011, FundingUniverse.com. http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/big-5-sporting-goods-corporation-history/ 91 2011 Annual Report for Big 5 Sporting Goods” Last Modified 2011, NYSE, Annualreports.com 92 2011 Annual Report for Big 5 Sporting Goods” Last Modified 2011, NYSE, Annualreports.com 93 2011 Annual Report for Big 5 Sporting Goods” Last Modified 2011, NYSE, Annualreports.com 94 2011 Annual Report for Big 5 Sporting Goods” Last Modified 2011, NYSE, Annualreports.com 95 2011 Annual Report for Big 5 Sporting Goods” Last Modified 2011, NYSE, Annualreports.com 96 2011 Annual Report for Big 5 Sporting Goods” Last Modified 2011, NYSE, Annualreports.com 97 2011 Annual Report for Big 5 Sporting Goods” Last Modified 2011, NYSE, Annualreports.com 98 “2011 Annual Report for Big 5 Sporting Goods” Last Modified 2011, NYSE, Annualreports.com 99 “2011 Annual Reports for Big 5 Sporting Goods” Last Modified 2011, NYSE http://www.annualreports.com/Company/2828 100 “Adidas Sues over Knock off Products” Reuters. Last modified 2012, http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/05/16/adidas-sneaker-lawsuit-idUSL1E8GGMMM20120516 101 “Big 5 Settles false advertising case” Last modified April 27, 2011 http://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/settlements/15751/big5-sporting-goods-settles-false-advertising-case. 95 | P a g e html#.UHNEgFYw-7t 102 http://smallbusiness.chron.com/characteristics-financial-ratios-wholesale-retail-industry-14458.html 103 http://www.zacks.com/stock/news/86618/earnings-preview-dicks-sporting 104 http://ycharts.com/rankings/industries/Sporting%20Goods%20Stores/debt_equity_ratio 105 http://ycharts.com/rankings/industries/Sporting%20Goods%20Stores/current_ratio 106 http://smallbusiness.chron.com/characteristics-financial-ratios-wholesale-retail-industry-14458.html 107http://www.google.com/patents/US7959522?dq=inassignee:%22Dick%27s+Sporting+Goods,+Inc.%22&hl=en&s a=X&ei=YEqTUPb-HuaVyQHM5IEI&ved=0CDoQ6AEwAQ 108http://www.google.com/patents/US6846253?dq=inassignee:%22Dick%27s+Sporting+Goods,+Inc.%22&hl=en&s a=X&ei=DL6TULDVMcWU2QWBxIHYAw&ved=0CD0Q6AEwAg 109 http://www.google.com/patents/US6053340?dq=sports+retailing+patents&ei=7vyPUKqeCubp0QH2vIHQDg 110http://www.google.com/patents/US8118222?dq=sports+retailing+industry&hl=en&sa=X&ei=aAqQUKmbFM6L0 QHrxoD4BQ&ved=0CDkQ6AEwATgK 111http://www.google.com/patents/US8239272?dq=sports+retailing+technology&hl=en&sa=X&ei=BhCQUNC5ErH H0AHX-IHoBg&ved=0CD8Q6AEwAw 112 http://www.google.com/patents/US6885998?dq=sports+equipment+rental&hl=en&sa=X&ei=Zj- QUJPeLMi60QHHy4G4CA&sqi=2&pjf=1&ved=0CDIQ6AEwAA 113http://www.google.com/patents/US6434530?dq=sports+retailing&hl=en&sa=X&ei=FXWRUPHlNcqZ0QGZ7YDoB g&ved=0CDcQ6AEwATgK 114 http://www.google.com/patents/US20120245969?dq=retail+product+tracking&hl=en&sa=X&ei=rH-RUNe2KqmB0QHTtICoDQ& ved=0CDQQ6AEwAA 115http://www.google.com/patents/EP2148585B1?cl=en&dq=sports+apparel+technology&hl=en&sa=X&ei=xAmTU JaMMLH62AWogYGgAw&ved=0CDQQ6AEwADgK 116http://www.google.com/patents/US20070168216?dq=e+commerce&hl=en&sa=X&ei=5dCTUP7QHany2QWD64 GIAg&sqi=2&pjf=1&ved=0CEYQ6AEwBg
  • 97.
    H i bb e t t S p o r t i n g G o o d s I n c . C o m p e t i t i v e A s s e s s m e n t | 96 117http://news.investors.com/business-the-new-america/080112-620575-rising-industry-trends-for-hibb-ua-nke-dks. 96 | P a g e htm?p=full 118 http://www.epsit.com/ecommerce.php 119 http://www.guardian.co.uk/media-network/media-network-blog/2012/oct/30/technology-retail-interview-series 120http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=78137&p=irol-irhome 121 http://www.hibbett.com/uploads/default/files/vendor_compliance_manual-hibbett_plan_version_may12.pdf 122 http://www.retailtechnology.co.uk/market-analysis/technology-change-throws-spotlight-support 123 http://www.google.com/webhp?hl=en&tab=ii#hl=en&tbo=d&output=search&sclient=psy-ab& q=recession+affects+retail+industry&oq=recession+affects+retail+industry&gs_l=hp.3..0i30j0i8i30j0i22.757.67 40.0.6998.35.29.1.5.5.4.924.4361.20j5j0j2j1j0j1.29.0.les%3B..0.0...1c.1.l7M0GjkFZ0w&pbx=1&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_ pw.r_qf.&fp=bb4ade3441768232&bpcl=38093640&biw=1280&bih=930 124 http://blog.onlinemediadirect.co.uk/facebook-is-the-favoured-platform-for-online-ads/518/ 125 http://voices.washingtonpost.com/posttech/2010/11/facebook_ranks_first_in_displa.html?wprss=posttech 126http://community.nasdaq.com/News/2012-10/hibbett-expected-to-outperform-analyst-blog. aspx?storyid=181223 127 http://www.businessinsider.com/fastest-growing-retailers-in-america-2012-7?op=1 128 http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=132215&p=irol-irhome 129 http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/money/story/2012-06-01/consumer-spending-april-report/55326804/1 130 http://simon.com/mall/longview-mall/stores/hibbett-sporting-goods 131 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg .14 132 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg .14 133 Dick’s Sporting Goods. (2011). 2011 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg .4 134 Pring , C. (2012, 10 05). 99 more social media statistics for 2012 [Web log message]. Retrieved from http://thesocialskinny.com/99-new-social-media-stats-for-2012/ 135 Pring , C. (2012, 10 05). 99 more social media statistics for 2012 [Web log message]. Retrieved from http://thesocialskinny.com/99-new-social-media-stats-for-2012/ 136 Thesocialconcept.jobamatic.com/a/jobs/find-jobs/q-Hibbett-Sports 137 Pring , C. (2012, 10 05). 99 more social media statistics for 2012 [Web log message]. Retrieved from http://thesocialskinny.com/99-new-social-media-stats-for-2012// 138 (n.d.). Retrieved from http://techcrunch.com/2012/05/07/nielsen-smartphones-used-by-50-4-of-u-s-consumers- android-48-5-of-them/ 139 Hibett Sporting Goods. (2012). 2012 Annual Report to the Stockholders. Pg .7 140 Hibbett Sporting Goods Mission statement. www.hibbett.com 141 Hibbett Sporting Goods Mission statement. www.hibbett.com 142 Hibbett Sporting Goods Mission statement. www.hibbett.com