1. What is the competition like in the luxury goods industry? What competitive forces seem to have the greatest effect on industry attractiveness? What are the competitive weapons that rivals are using to try to outmaneuver one another in the market place? Is the pace of rivalry quickening and becoming more intense? Why or why not? Elaborate on the conclusions from your analysis.
2. What are the defining characteristics of the luxury goods industry? What is the industry like? (Describe market size and growth rate, scope of rivalry, consumer characteristics, degree of product differentiation, etc.)
3. How is the market for luxury handbags and leather accessories changing? What are the underlying drivers of change and how might those forces change the industry?
4. What are the key factors that determine the success of makers of fine ladies handbags and leather accessories?
5. What is Coach’s strategy to compete in the ladies handbag and leather accessories industry? Has the company’s competitive strategy yielded a sustainable competitive advantage? If so, has that advantage translated into superior financial and market performance? Explain.
6. What are the strengths and weaknesses of Coach Inc? What competencies and capabilities does it have that its main rivals don’t have? What new market opportunities does Coach have? What threats do you see to the company’s future well-being? Bring conclusions to your analysis.
7. What recommendations would you make to Lew Frankfort to improve the company’s competitive position in the industry and its financial and market performance?