W H O L E
Marlena Montesione Adam Castro Larry Viglizzo Aren Salbashian
Introduction of Company
• Worlds leading retailer of natural and organic foods • Now has 270 stores in US and UK • Recently bought out their leading competitor • America’s first certified organic grocer • Currently over 52,600 employees
Company Background
• Founded in 1980 in Austin, Texas
– Originally called SaferWay
• Unique niche in the organic food industry • #16 on Fortune’s 100 best companies to work for
Corporate Business Strategy
• Whole Foods
– Food in its purest state is best
• Whole People
– 5% of sales to non-profit organizations – Each team member completes service hours
• Whole Planet
– Whole Planet Foundation – Animal Compassion Foundation
Competitive Strategies
• Growth Strategy
– Opened 21 new locations in 2007
• Cost leadership strategy
– 365 Everyday Value – 365 Organic Everyday Value
Competitive Strategies
• Alliance Strategy
– Acquired or merged with 17 companies
• Innovation
– Store layout – Purchase of renewable energy credits – Eliminating plastic bags
• Differentiation
– Higher quality standards
Company Structure
• Hierarchical • CEO and Chairman John Mackey • 2 COO • 3 Executive VPs • 11 regional Presidents • Store teams
Company Culture
• Five core values • Decentralized decision making • Team member benefits
– Members all owns stock in the company – Receives free health insurance – 20% off all purchases – Paid time off
Use of IT/IS
• In store scanners that provide
– Price information – Catering services – Answers to FAQs
• State of the art on site training facilities
Use of IT/IS
• Company newsletter
– Emailed to customers monthly
• No marketing • Large screen TVs in store
Use of IT/IS
• Customer assistance
– Podcast of meal tips
• Website
– Access to company information – Educates customers, suppliers, and investors
Conclusion
• Deep rooted commitment to preserving the environment • Whole Foods uses various competitive strategies
– Differentiation – Innovation – Growth – Alliance – Cost leadership
• Great motivated employees • Very promising future
W H O L E
Marlena Montesione Adam Castro Larry Viglizzo Aren Salbashian
OUTRO