Capstone Course

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to enlighten and explore the strategic and operational dimensions of Albany International Corporation. The core objective of this paper is to enlighten the generic strategy of the organization; moreover, the paper also focuses on the grand strategy presented by the company. Nonetheless, on the basis of information accumulated from different sources and after analyzing the current strategies of Albany International the paper will suggest diverse strategies through which Albany International can attain substantial market share.

Table of Contents

Introduction4

Best Value Discipline of Albany International5

Generic Strategy of Albany International6

Grand Strategy of Albany International8

Strategy Recommendations8

Niche Market Focus9

Innovation9

Low Cost Leadership10

Conclusion10

References12

Capstone Course

Introduction

The purpose of this paper is to analyze and explore different aspects that revolve around the corporate practices of Albany International. The core purpose of this paper is to identify the optimal values and disciplines of Albany International. Nonetheless, the paper aims to categorize the generic and grand strategies of Albany International in order to state suitable and strategic recommendations for the organization. According to diverse sources, Albany International is one of the successful multinational companies with its operations around the globe. The products and brands under the umbrella of Albany International incorporate diverse product lines such as paper machine clothing, industrial doors, microfiber insulation products, filtration technologies, engineered fabrics and composites.

There are several countries in which the operations of Albany are carried out; nonetheless, the most prominent among them are Unites States, United Kingdom, China, France, Germany, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Mexico, South Korea and Sweden. There are six business segments in which the business operations of Albany International can be categorized. Nevertheless, there are two prominent brands (PrimaLoft and Pyropel) that come under the brand portfolio of Albany International. The PrimaLoft products segment includes sales of insulation for outdoor clothing, gloves, footwear, sleeping bags, and home furnishings. The segment has manufacturing and sales operations in the US, Europe and Asia. In addition, the products that come under the brand “The Pyropel” incorporate optimal performance plastics.

Best Value Discipline of Albany International

Albany International has attained growth and improvement in its operations beyond its forecast. Albany international's performance is illustrated from the profitability of the organization which has been attained through accomplishment of targets above sales forecast. Nonetheless, the liquidity of the company has improved along with the strategic position of the organization incorporating each product line offered by the company. Albany International started 2011 with its every product line strategically well positioned in their respective markets. Albany International also enjoys product leadership in each major paper grade, and has an especially strong presence with new world-class facilities in the growing markets of Asia and South America (Dewinter, 2003, 66-72).

Nonetheless, the unique technology incorporated by Albany International in its Engineered Composites has enabled the organization as a potential sole-source supplier in a number of promising organic growth opportunities; in addition, it is well positioned to grow in the largest segment of the aircraft engine industry. Nonetheless, Albany International enjoys a particularly strong relationship with the SAFRAN Group which is one of ...