Wal-Mart and Levi Strauss Acheiving Competitive Advantage (PDF)

Essay from the year 2010 in the subject Business economics - Supply, Production, Logistics, grade: 97.00, University of Phoenix, course: Strategic Supply Chain Management, language: English, abstract: Wal-Mart and Levi Strauss and Competitive Advantage
Competitive advantage is important for businesses. However, without assistance from an organizations entire supply chain, competitive advantage is quickly lost. Whether in the form of technology, cost factors, or customer support, the supply chain plays a critical role in achieving and maintaining competitive advantage. Wal-Mart and Levi Strauss are two companies that have successfully used their supply chains to gain competitive advantage.
Wal-Mart is the largest and most profitable retailer in the world. In the United States, Wal-Mart is the largest grocer and private employer. Wal-Mart attains competitive advantage in different ways such as its cost structure, product offerings, and distribution assisted by technology, and customer support through empowerment of its employee associates.
Levi Strauss jeans created in 1873 began as a manufacturer of denim workpants with copper rivets used to strengthen the pocket stitching. By listening to its customers, Levi Strauss created the most popular piece of clothing in the world-blue jeans. Levi jeans sold in more than 110 countries has gained competitive advantage through its product offerings, distribution, and customer support.