Task

Your task is to carry out a critical analysis and evaluation of strategy development in the global fast-food industry, using the information provided and other materials researched. You will be expected to select and apply appropriate theories, techniques and models studied during the module whilst having regard to the practical aspects of strategy development.

The report should include a title page and executive summary and be fully and consistently referenced, using the Harvard Referencing style. You must also submit a CD or DVD Rom containing an electronic version of the report. This should be clearly labelled with your name, your course and the name of the case study.

It is recommended that you research information additional to the case study to support your arguments. This may be obtained from a diverse range of sources and you are encouraged to research the issues in whichever way you deem appropriate.

Question One:

Using the case study as the basis for your thinking, answer the following questions using your knowledge and further research in the context of KFC today:

a) In the context of the process of strategic thinking and strategy formation, outline what SWOT and Porter's Value Chain techniques are, and explain their practical relevance to strategic planners at Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) Corporation.

b) Use Porter's Five Forces framework to critically evaluate the opportunities and threats that faced KFC Corporation in 2013.

c) Explain the ‘pressures for global integration of activities' and the ‘pressures for local responsiveness' facing KFC Corporation in the context of current developments in the global fast-food industry.

Question Two:

a) In the context of strategy development, explain your understanding of Whittington's ‘Evolutionary' and ‘Systemic' Schools of Thought.

b) Critically evaluate how you might apply these two Schools of Thought to KFC in 2013. Explain and explore which school of thought you prefer, and why?