1. What is your assessment of VFI's situation? How well is the company doing?
In answering Mr. Vlasic's request, and since he gave all of the information including the sales information during the plane trip, the immediate answer would be that the company is doing satisfactory. It is apparent that Mr. Vlasic is an ambitious man, aggressive and prone to quick decisions. The reason for the analysis of "satisfactory" is the sales growth chart that he presented. It is presented here for the benefit of those who were not on the flight.
This chart shows an increase in only three markets, certainly not an indication of superior growth. However, Mr. Vlasic seems quite proud of this accomplishment. In fact, here is the way he describes his new market penetration.
When we go into a new market, we know we'll be number one within two years. We get the best broker in town and convince him we can do it. When we first approach a customer, he usually says he needs another pickle item like he needs a hole in the head. He can't believe anyone would try to sell him 45 new items (Case Study).
2. What is your definition and evaluation of VFI's present strategy?
The best definition of the strategy adopted by Mr. Vlasic is known in some Mediterranean countries as the "Camel's nose." The idea behind this theory is that you have to be careful to not let your camel get his nose into your tent, otherwise he will w
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