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Whole Foods Business Analysis

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Business Analysis Part I
MGT 521
12/15/11

Whole Foods Business Analysis Part I
Whole Foods Market (WF) is the largest supermarket specialized in selling natural and organic foods ("About Whole Foods Market," 2011). They offer a wide variety of products, mostly specialized items, as well as prepared meals. The business operates on the principles of food quality, customer health and social responsibility.
Since their start in 1980, Whole Foods has continued to grow and today consists of more than 310 stores in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom ("About Whole Foods Market," 2011). The organic food retailer has growth opportunities in various areas, although its weaknesses and potential threats should be considered as factors in determining whether to invest in this company. The following is an analysis of Whole Foods’ strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats.
Strengths
Whole Foods 0 With consistent revenue growth throughout the years and 2010 financials reporting a 12 percent increase in sales and an 84 percent increase in stock price, WF market is undoubtedly the leader in the organic supermarket industry ("Whole Foods Market Annual Report," 2010). Their initial success was in large part due to existing health food stores that were small, pricey and carried few products. Whole Foods offers a wide variety of quality foods, even including deli food and other prepared food. They also offer catering, in-store events and a robust website with tips, recipes, blogs from the owner and more. Whole Foods’ stores have a lot to offer, but the WF brand isn’t just about food. Their motto – “Whole Foods, Whole People, Whole Planet” – stresses that they aim to be more than just an organic grocer that offers superior foods ("Declaration Of Interdependence," 2011). Whole People * People – employers, customers and beyond – are a factor

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