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WTO has opened up many domestic markets for competition and the adoption of global supply-chain management has enhanced the efficiency in delivering products or services to end customers. Any enterprise must know how to build up its competitiveness in global markets in order to succeed in the wave of globalization. Capitalized on the critical competitiveness of operational efficiency due to the economy-of-scale effect and the pioneering use of information technology, Wal-Mart’s revenue has become the largest in the world. This thesis analyzed Wal-Mart’s eight strengths: efficient global logistics, advanced information technology, volume purchase drives costs down, frugal corporate culture, complete lines of consumer products, everyday low prices, customer oriented services, and management of multi-cultural human resources. Its business model is the key to Wal-Mart’s success in retail business. Furthermore, we analyzed Wal-Mart’s expansion histories in Mexico, China, Germany, Korea, and Japan. The lessons of successes and failures were summarized. Taiwanese retailers must learn from multi-national giants in order to meet global competition. Wal-Mart offers lessons in its globalization strategy, selection of and invests in local partners, and the adaptation of business models in different foreign markets.
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