Harvard Case - Crisis at Away (A)
"Crisis at Away (A)" Harvard business case study is written by Yo-Jud Cheng, Jared D. Harris, Noelle Surprise. It deals with the challenges in the field of Strategy. The case study is 16 page(s) long and it was first published on : Oct 23, 2022
At Fern Fort University, we recommend that Away implement a comprehensive strategic plan to address the current crisis, focusing on restoring customer trust, strengthening its brand image, and achieving sustainable growth. This plan should involve a multi-pronged approach encompassing operational improvements, marketing initiatives, and a renewed focus on corporate social responsibility.
2. Background
Away, a direct-to-consumer luggage brand, experienced rapid growth fueled by its innovative and stylish products, strong social media presence, and a focus on customer experience. However, the company faced a crisis in 2019 due to a series of negative events, including product defects, manufacturing issues, and allegations of poor employee treatment. These issues significantly damaged Away's reputation and led to a decline in sales and customer loyalty.
The case study focuses on the challenges faced by Away's CEO, Jen Rubio, who needs to navigate this crisis and develop a strategy to regain customer trust and achieve sustainable growth.
3. Analysis of the Case Study
SWOT Analysis:
Strengths:
- Strong brand recognition and a loyal customer base.
- Innovative product design and focus on customer experience.
- Strong online presence and social media marketing capabilities.
- Direct-to-consumer business model allows for greater control over pricing and customer interactions.
Weaknesses:
- Dependence on a single product category (luggage).
- Lack of transparency and communication during the crisis.
- Issues with manufacturing quality and customer service.
- Negative media coverage and public perception.
Opportunities:
- Expanding into new product categories and markets.
- Leveraging technology and analytics for personalized customer experiences.
- Building strategic partnerships and collaborations.
- Embracing sustainability and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
Threats:
- Intense competition from established luggage brands and new entrants.
- Economic downturns and changes in consumer spending patterns.
- Negative media attention and social media backlash.
- Potential for further manufacturing and quality issues.
Porter's Five Forces:
- Threat of new entrants: High, due to the relatively low barriers to entry in the luggage market.
- Bargaining power of buyers: Moderate, as customers have numerous choices and can easily compare prices and reviews online.
- Bargaining power of suppliers: Moderate, as Away relies on a network of suppliers for materials and manufacturing.
- Threat of substitute products: High, as there are many alternative travel accessories and luggage brands available.
- Rivalry among existing competitors: High, as the luggage market is crowded with established brands and new entrants.
Value Chain Analysis:
Away's value chain consists of the following activities:
- Inbound logistics: Sourcing materials and manufacturing luggage.
- Operations: Production and quality control.
- Outbound logistics: Shipping and delivery to customers.
- Marketing and sales: Online and offline marketing, customer service, and brand building.
- Service: Warranty and repair services.
The crisis highlighted weaknesses in Away's value chain, particularly in operations and customer service.
4. Recommendations
1. Restore Customer Trust and Rebuild Brand Image:
- Transparency and Communication: Be open and honest with customers about the issues faced and the steps taken to address them.
- Customer Service Improvements: Implement robust customer service processes, including faster response times, proactive communication, and a focus on resolving customer issues.
- Product Quality Assurance: Implement rigorous quality control measures at all stages of production to ensure product reliability.
- Public Relations and Media Management: Engage with media outlets and influencers to rebuild trust and share the company's commitment to improvement.
- Social Media Engagement: Actively engage with customers on social media, address concerns, and share positive customer stories.
2. Achieve Sustainable Growth:
- Product Diversification: Expand into new product categories related to travel and lifestyle, such as travel accessories, backpacks, and personal care items.
- Market Expansion: Explore new international markets with high growth potential, leveraging global partnerships and distribution channels.
- Technology and Analytics: Implement advanced data analytics to optimize marketing campaigns, personalize customer experiences, and identify new growth opportunities.
- Strategic Alliances: Collaborate with complementary brands and businesses to offer bundled products and services, expand reach, and enhance customer value.
- Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility: Implement sustainable practices throughout the value chain, prioritize ethical sourcing, and support social causes aligned with the company's values.
3. Operational Improvements:
- Manufacturing Process Optimization: Streamline manufacturing processes, implement lean principles, and invest in automation to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
- Supply Chain Management: Strengthen supply chain relationships, diversify suppliers, and implement robust inventory management systems to ensure timely delivery and product availability.
- IT Management: Invest in robust IT infrastructure and systems to support business growth, improve data security, and enhance customer experience.
4. Organizational Culture and Leadership:
- Employee Empowerment and Engagement: Create a culture of transparency, accountability, and respect, empowering employees to contribute to the company's success.
- Leadership Development: Invest in leadership development programs to equip managers with the skills and knowledge to navigate challenges and drive positive change.
- Diversity and Inclusion: Promote diversity and inclusion within the organization, fostering a welcoming and supportive work environment for all employees.
5. Basis of Recommendations
These recommendations are based on a comprehensive analysis of Away's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, considering the competitive landscape, customer needs, and industry trends. They are designed to address the core issues identified in the case study, including:
- Restoring customer trust: By addressing product quality issues, improving customer service, and being transparent with customers, Away can rebuild trust and regain lost loyalty.
- Strengthening brand image: By focusing on corporate social responsibility, sustainability, and ethical practices, Away can enhance its brand image and appeal to a wider audience.
- Achieving sustainable growth: By diversifying its product offerings, expanding into new markets, and leveraging technology and strategic partnerships, Away can achieve long-term growth and profitability.
6. Conclusion
The crisis at Away presents a significant challenge, but it also presents an opportunity for the company to emerge stronger and more resilient. By implementing the recommended strategies, Away can restore customer trust, rebuild its brand image, and achieve sustainable growth.
7. Discussion
Alternatives:
- Liquidation: This would be a drastic measure and would result in significant job losses.
- Selling the company: This would be a quick solution, but it would likely result in a loss of control and potentially a change in the company's values.
- Status quo: This would likely lead to further decline in sales and customer loyalty.
Risks and Key Assumptions:
- Implementation challenges: Implementing the recommended strategies will require significant resources and effort.
- Competition: The luggage market is highly competitive, and new entrants may pose a threat to Away's market share.
- Consumer sentiment: Consumer sentiment can be volatile, and negative media coverage could continue to impact Away's reputation.
Assumptions:
- Away has the financial resources to implement the recommended strategies.
- The company's leadership is committed to change and improvement.
- Customers are willing to forgive Away and give the company a second chance.
8. Next Steps
- Form a task force: Assemble a cross-functional team to develop and implement the strategic plan.
- Develop a communication plan: Communicate the company's plans and progress to customers, employees, and stakeholders.
- Set clear goals and metrics: Establish measurable goals and track progress against key performance indicators.
- Invest in resources: Allocate sufficient resources to support the implementation of the recommended strategies.
- Monitor and adapt: Continuously monitor the company's performance and adjust the strategy as needed.
By taking these steps, Away can overcome the current crisis and emerge as a stronger and more sustainable company.
Hire an expert to write custom solution for HBR Strategy case study - Crisis at Away (A)
more similar case solutions ...
Case Description
When should a board of directors push for a CEO change? This case explores the experiences of the board of directors of a popular and successful lifestyle-brand start-up as it grapples with a public-relations crisis after a young female CEO makes serious missteps in a public forum. This case allows for a discussion of the role and responsibilities of a board of a start-up backed by venture capital (VC), when and how to remove a CEO, and the evolution of executive leadership as a company rapidly scales up and approaches a potential IPO. Through the case discussion, students take the perspective of the board of directors to come to a decision about whether (and how) to implement a CEO transition amid an unexpected crisis. A supplemental B case (UVA-S-0362) presents what the board chose to do next and provides an opportunity to discuss the longer-term leadership challenges that followed the initial crisis.
🎓 Struggling with term papers, essays, or Harvard case studies? Look no further! Fern Fort University offers top-quality, custom-written solutions tailored to your needs. Boost your grades and save time with expertly crafted content. Order now and experience academic excellence! 🌟📚 #MBA #HarvardCaseStudies #CustomEssays #AcademicSuccess #StudySmart Write my custom case study solution for Harvard HBR case - Crisis at Away (A)
Hire an expert to write custom solution for HBR Strategy case study - Crisis at Away (A)
Crisis at Away (A) FAQ
What are the qualifications of the writers handling the "Crisis at Away (A)" case study?
Our writers hold advanced degrees in their respective fields, including MBAs and PhDs from top universities. They have extensive experience in writing and analyzing complex case studies such as " Crisis at Away (A) ", ensuring high-quality, academically rigorous solutions.
How do you ensure confidentiality and security in handling client information?
We prioritize confidentiality by using secure data encryption, access controls, and strict privacy policies. Apart from an email, we don't collect any information from the client. So there is almost zero risk of breach at our end. Our financial transactions are done by Paypal on their website so all your information is very secure.
What is Fern Fort Univeristy's process for quality control and proofreading in case study solutions?
The Crisis at Away (A) case study solution undergoes a rigorous quality control process, including multiple rounds of proofreading and editing by experts. We ensure that the content is accurate, well-structured, and free from errors before delivery.
Where can I find free case studies solution for Harvard HBR Strategy Case Studies?
At Fern Fort University provides free case studies solutions for a variety of Harvard HBR case studies. The free solutions are written to build "Wikipedia of case studies on internet". Custom solution services are written based on specific requirements. If free solution helps you with your task then feel free to donate a cup of coffee.
I’m looking for Harvard Business Case Studies Solution for Crisis at Away (A). Where can I get it?
You can find the case study solution of the HBR case study "Crisis at Away (A)" at Fern Fort University.
Can I Buy Case Study Solution for Crisis at Away (A) & Seek Case Study Help at Fern Fort University?
Yes, you can order your custom case study solution for the Harvard business case - "Crisis at Away (A)" at Fern Fort University. You can get a comprehensive solution tailored to your requirements.
Can I hire someone only to analyze my Crisis at Away (A) solution? I have written it, and I want an expert to go through it.
🎓 Struggling with term papers, essays, or Harvard case studies? Look no further! Fern Fort University offers top-quality, custom-written solutions tailored to your needs. Boost your grades and save time with expertly crafted content. Order now and experience academic excellence! 🌟📚 #MBA #HarvardCaseStudies #CustomEssays #AcademicSuccess #StudySmart Pay an expert to write my HBR study solution for the case study - Crisis at Away (A)
Where can I find a case analysis for Harvard Business School or HBR Cases?
You can find the case study solution of the HBR case study "Crisis at Away (A)" at Fern Fort University.
Which are some of the all-time best Harvard Review Case Studies?
Some of our all time favorite case studies are -
Can I Pay Someone To Solve My Case Study - "Crisis at Away (A)"?
Yes, you can pay experts at Fern Fort University to write a custom case study solution that meets all your professional and academic needs.
Do I have to upload case material for the case study Crisis at Away (A) to buy a custom case study solution?
We recommend to upload your case study because Harvard HBR case studies are updated regularly. So for custom solutions it helps to refer to the same document. The uploading of specific case materials for Crisis at Away (A) ensures that the custom solution is aligned precisely with your needs. This helps our experts to deliver the most accurate, latest, and relevant solution.
What is a Case Research Method? How can it be applied to the Crisis at Away (A) case study?
The Case Research Method involves in-depth analysis of a situation, identifying key issues, and proposing strategic solutions. For "Crisis at Away (A)" case study, this method would be applied by examining the case’s context, challenges, and opportunities to provide a robust solution that aligns with academic rigor.
"I’m Seeking Help with Case Studies,” How can Fern Fort University help me with my case study assignments?
Fern Fort University offers comprehensive case study solutions, including writing, analysis, and consulting services. Whether you need help with strategy formulation, problem-solving, or academic compliance, their experts are equipped to assist with your assignments.
Achieve academic excellence with Fern Fort University! 🌟 We offer custom essays, term papers, and Harvard HBR business case studies solutions crafted by top-tier experts. Experience tailored solutions, uncompromised quality, and timely delivery. Elevate your academic performance with our trusted and confidential services. Visit Fern Fort University today! #AcademicSuccess #CustomEssays #MBA #CaseStudies
How do you handle tight deadlines for case study solutions?
We are adept at managing tight deadlines by allocating sufficient resources and prioritizing urgent projects. Our team works efficiently without compromising quality, ensuring that even last-minute requests are delivered on time
What if I need revisions or edits after receiving the case study solution?
We offer free revisions to ensure complete client satisfaction. If any adjustments are needed, our team will work closely with you to refine the solution until it meets your expectations.
How do you ensure that the case study solution is plagiarism-free?
All our case study solutions are crafted from scratch and thoroughly checked using advanced plagiarism detection software. We guarantee 100% originality in every solution delivered
How do you handle references and citations in the case study solutions?
We follow strict academic standards for references and citations, ensuring that all sources are properly credited according to the required citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.).