Competitive horizons
Article Type: Competitive horizons From: Strategic Direction, Volume 31, Issue 6
Positive outlook for e-commerce in emerging economies
The latest survey conducted by the Credit Suisse Research Institute has indicated that e-commerce is positively impacting on consumer sentiment within many key emerging markets. In partnership with global market research firm Nielsen, the organization interviewed consumers in India, China, Brazil, Turkey, Russia, South Africa, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, and Mexico. Responses suggested that online transactions in these nations could soon account for a larger share of overall retail sales than in developed markets. A report, as published by http://www.chinadaily.com, cites increased Internet access via smartphones, greater consumer spending power, and an underdeveloped traditional retail sector as key factors in the growth of e-commerce. The latter issue is especially pervasive in rural areas. In addition to retail, it is predicted that finance, technology, and security will benefit as annual online sales across the economies surveyed could reach $3 trillion. Of those surveyed in China, 60 per cent reported making an online purchase during the last six months. That figure was below 40 per cent in the other nations. However, increase in the percentage of respondents using the Internet for shopping was greatest in India. The figure of 32 per cent showed a rise from the 20 per cent reported in a comparable survey carried out in 2013.
Why business plans are important
A business plan serves as the foundation for any company. At the outset it will help indicate whether or not a business idea is viable or not and can save considerable time and money if something is identified as flawed at that stage. Creating a detailed plan also ensures that important operational and financial objectives are considered. Businesses need money. Without a clearly developed business plan, any prospect of securing financial help from banks or other lenders will be negligible at best. An article published by http://www.about.com also points out the need to constantly revise the original plan as the business becomes established. New goals emerge and the plan can help identify what changes are necessary in order for the company to keep growing. The plan is important if the firm hopes to attract the attention of investors. A detailed and well-written plan can provide potential backers with the information needed before any decision is made. Writing a business plan is an exhaustive process but essential to the prospects of success.
Strong growth expected for plastics industry in India
Industry figures have prompted claims that the plastics’ sector in India will expand by an annual 10 per cent until 2018. Around 18 million metric tons will be processed by that time. Economic revival and expectations that manufacturing output will improve are seen as key to achieving this level of performance. Another important factor is lower oil prices. Considerable scope exists to expand the industry in India as the country presently accounts for a maximum of just 7 per cent of global demand for plastics. This is despite the nation having almost a fifth of the world’s population. According to a report published by http://www.prw.com, the various sectors predicted to be main growth drivers include agriculture, automobiles, infrastructure, medical manufacturing, and food packaging. The report attaches particular significance to packaging innovations and the aim of Indian auto makers to standardize platforms for production. Various social and environmental government initiatives should also positively impact on demand for plastics.
The benefits of outsourcing staff training
Developing employees is key to the success of any business. But ensuing that people possess the requisite skills and knowledge to sustain the firm’s competitiveness is also time-consuming and costly. An article published by http://www.growthbusiness.co.uk suggests that outsourcing the training and development of employees could provide a viable solution for many companies. One of the main attractions of going down this route is the opportunity to embark on programs which combine teaching with practical elements that can be tailored to fit with existing work projects. The article notes the relevance of such an approach that also generally means spending less time away from work compared to alternative methods. Outsourcing is regarded as being reasonably cost-effective and thus appealing to companies unable to fund a dedicated in-house training department. Another advantage is the scope to free up middle managers to concentrate more on strategic tasks instead of being burdened by training responsibilities and the administration typically involved. It does take time for this approach to provide a return but firms do report increased demand for course places once such initiatives become established.
