Assignment 1

Evaluate the product offerings at REI. Select a product category and review the product line at REI, then select a similar competitor and review its products for the same category. Take a close look at product features and benefits, distribution, promotion, and pricing.

Then, review the direction and focus of REI from the Fickes article. After completing your analysis and comparison, how does REI compare with the competitors you have reviewed? Submit your review comments in the assignment area.

Assignment 2

Submit your analysis of the first P (product) for your chosen company's product/service as an attachment to this assignment. The central focus of a marketing program will be on a product or service. Your product analysis should include the company, competition, and customer requirements. You should also look at branding, design, product positioning, and other elements that allow the company to either carving out a niche or maintain market share leadership against the onslaught of competitive products.

In your analysis, you should evaluate your competitors' product strategies. Do they have the right branding in place for the product. Does the product have a customer? Cite any resources you use.