Marketing Insights with Alexis

Back in 2015, a once-successful brand by the name of "American Apparel" had filed for chapter 11 bankruptcy. This was a shocker to many as not even 8 years prior, the company was trading high on the stock market and had build a reputable and profitable brand. What could of been done differently to save "American Apparel" using the retailing mix? Applying the Pricing Mix Due to a domestic manufacturing model, American Apparel's gross margins were significantly higher than other basic apparel brands that carried similar wear of bodysuits, casual lingerie and mid-end footwear. According to the company, its blended margins were 70%, in comparison to an direct competitor like GAP, who averages 30%. In order to create more profitability moving forward, a great strategy would be to cut down on manufacturing costs by moving labour overseas. Even though this is seen as bad business for local economy and for brand image - American Apparel can use this opportunity ...

A & W's Pricing Strategy & why it works Introduction Fast-food joints make their money by offering quick, cheap eats and marketing them towards a large segment of the market. Often times, the quality is low - but financial goals are met with tactful pricing strategies, promotional strategies and impulse-driven branding. However, recent years have shown society moving towards healthier lifestyles and more health-conscious choices when it comes to their food. At first, giants like A&W and their competitors dismissed the new health wave as a fad - but soon noticed a steady decline in their sales - which triggered a movement to re-brand to appeal to the new-found values of a large segment of consumers.  Odd-even pricing defined One of the main strategies used by fast-food joints is odd-even pricing.  It has been suggested that pricing items just under a whole number, such as at $3.99 instead of $4.00, makes the price seem like a bargain – that customers ...

Volkswagen Precision Parking: A Creative Ad This is a creative print advertisement for Volkswagen. Using a visual analogy - this picture clearly communicates that Volkswagen's park assist is so precise and reliable in its abilities, that it is comparable to placing a porcupine next to plastic bags full of water - which will puncture with ease even with the slightest contact from the needles. This advertisement is incredibly eye-catching due to its crisp lighting, contrast of subjects and no-explanation-needed visual communication. These are the same reasons that make it incredibly effective. Sources:  https://www.boredpanda.com/creative-print-ads/?media_id=creative-print-ads-74