Australia's leading retailer Woolworths' retail operations

Abstract

This case discusses the transition of Woolworths, an Australian retailer, from a chain of small variety stores to big supermarkets, and details its growth strategies. Its businesses or operating divisions included: (1) supermarkets; (2) consumer electronics stores; (3) discount department stores; (4) petroleum and liquor outlets; and (5) hotels. It details some of the strategies that Woolworths adopted in the areas of supply chain and pricing, that helped it provide customers with a wide choice, high quality, and reasonable prices. The case also outlines the challenges faced by Woolworths in the Australian retail market. This case will help students to: (1) analyse the factors behind the growth of Woolworths; (2) understand Woolworths' operations and operational strategies; (3) analyse the supply chain practices adopted by Woolworths; and (4) determine the challenges faced by Woolworths in the competitive Australian and New Zealand retail market. This case is aimed at MBA / MS students, and is intended to be part of the general management / operations management / retail management curriculum. The teaching note includes: (1) the abstract; (2) the teaching objectives and methodology; (3) assignment questions; (4) feedback of the case discussion; and (5) additional readings and references. It does not contain an analysis of the case.

Related: Australia's leading retailer Woolworths' retail operations. Teaching note, Case Centre, Case Reference no. 609-015-8