Module 4- Case: Distribution Channels and Logistics



[Name of the Instructor]

[Date of Submission]Abstract

This assignment relates to an important component of marketing mix that is distribution and is divided into two parts. Part 1 relates to the case study analysis and the other part relates to marketing audit for an iPad brand.Table of Contents

Module 4- Case: Distribution Channels and Logistics

Introduction1

Amazon's strategy to get into publishing1

Publication of latest project- whether it should be done in Amazon or not?2

Working on first book3

Amazon or Barnes & Noble: Will there be any change in the strategic decisions?4

Conclusion5

SLP 4

Introduction6

Distribution6

Channels6

Logistics8

SWOT Analysis9

Major Strengths9

Major Weaknesses9

Major Opportunities10

Major Weaknesses10

Conclusion10

References11

Module 4- Case: Distribution Channels and Logistics

Introduction

Marketing serves as a mean to bridge gap (it could be in terms of time, space, quantities) between producers and consumers. These marketing channels include number of components and among those an influential position is held by distribution channels and logistics. This part of assignment is based on the case study analysis that highlights the recent developments in the arena of book retailing. The focus of the case study is on two themes that relate to distribution channels and logistics: backward integration and forward integration, by looking at its practicality from the evaluation of the steps taken by Amazon- online retail giant (Haq, 2012).

Amazon's strategy to get into publishing

Entrance of Amazon into publishing has been considered a great drastic situation by small and large book stores. Amazon's attempt to get into publishing is considered as an act that will “undermine the industry”. The publishing industry in the past remains monopolized by the large booksellers such as Barnes & Noble where most of the books were sold in the brick and mortar stores. In addition to it, book business has suffered from number of challenges. According to an estimate, almost 500 independent bookstores have been lost by the United States since 2002 (Bosman, 2012). Amazon's strategy to get into publishing has provided platform for all the individuals and groups to compete with the large book publishers, thus it is considered a wise decision by the company. Company has gained support of other publishing groups (for example Veterans Publishing) as well as affiliation from bestselling authors. Amazon's wise entry in publishing industry can be defended by the point that its strategic move in the field has weakened the position of brutal capitalist Barnes & Noble, putting this business at great stake. If this book trader makes attempt to gauge back its ambitions, Amazon will have an opportunity to occupy more strong position along with its pivotal image in the virtual environment.

Publication of latest project- whether it should be done in Amazon or not?

Agents serve as an important member in the book publishing channel and having a project published by Amazon in my opinion serve as a great opportunity for children's fiction publication. Amazon's strategic decision of getting into publishing field serves as a sphere that promotes the competition element within the book industry. A booming and profitable trend has been shown by the e-books (Bosman, ...