[An investigation for the failure of market/share value of Marks & Spencer during Christmas sale 2008 in comparison 2007]

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AckNowledgement

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DECLARATION

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Abstract

In this study we try to explore the concept of market share value of Marks & Spencer during Christmas sale 2008 in comparison 2007 in a holistic context. The main focus of the research is on market share value and its relation with Marks & Spencer. The research also analyzes many aspects of failure of Marks & Spencer's and tries to gauge its effect on Marks & Spencer's sale. Finally the research describes various factors which are responsible for failure of Marks & Spencer's share value during Christmas 2007 and 2008.

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

In UK, Retail is one of the largest industries and has its roots in this part of the world since decades. The Retail industry participated approximately at 19.3% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the UK Retail Sector in 2008 and thus plays a crucial role in building the country's economy. (The Scottish Government, retail Development Survey 2003.)The total turnover of Retail Sector was around £287 billions in UK in 2008.( Department for Business Innovation and Skill (BIS), The market for public service: International Comparison). The Retail Sector also contributes in providing employment to the people not only in UK but around the world as well. This Sector has become the largest private sector employer in UK by employing people for part-time and full-time jobs and has generated opportunities for around 3 million people in UK which shows the strength of this sector and contribution in making UK a great country to work within and had attracted people all around the world. The influence of this sector is such that one person out of every ten is absorbed by the Retail sector in UK.

Furthermore, the Retail Sector has different formats of stores. The Retail formats are classified into four different categories and further classified into sub-categories.

1) Convenience:

Supermarket

Superstore

Discount Supermarket and other convenience

2) Comparison:

Retail Warehouse Units

Retail Warehouse Park and other comparison

3) Mixed:

Retail Park

Shopping Centre/ Mall

District/ village/ town Centre Infill

Local Shops/ Neighbourhood Centre and Other Mixed

4) Others:

Factory Outlet

Factory Outlet Centre

These different categories provide varied options to the customer. The world-class Retail companies in UK are the leaders in introducing new technologies and e-commerce. Few retailers in UK have been successfully operative in global market and their performance is remarkable. Another type of retailing has now become popular which is well-known as Electronic Retailing (e-retailing) and the growth over the period of time has been substantial. Despite of the considerable growth in ...