Kudler Fine Foods
An issue and a problem are two very similar concepts. Clouse writes in chapter 15 of The Student Writer that an issue “is a concern or problem about which people disagree” (2008, p.436). Even the Miriam Webster Dictionary defines the two words almost identically. Merriam-Webster’s Online Dictionary defines an issue as “an unsettled matter” and a problem as “an unsettled question.” The difference between a problem and an issue is that a problem causes an issue to arise. A problem is definitive and has a solution. An issue is broader and grows from an unresolved problem. One additional difference is the negative connotation the word “problem” brings. Often, people will use the word “issue” interchangeably with “problem” to avoid bringing a negative tone to the message.
To determine Kudler Fine Foods’ issues, the problems facing the company should be determined. In order to do that, I looked to the SWOT analysis of the company, particularly Kudler’s weaknesses and threats. The two main issues concern the product they sell and where they sell it, or their location. The problems that make their product an issue is it is a specialized and highly perishable product. Kudler’s location is an issue because they face competition from other stores encroaching on their market, and the viability of the communities where the stores are located.
The solution for the problems that have created these issues lies in Kudler’s strengths and opportunities. Kudler addresses these issues in the Strategic Plan by addressing avenues of increased marketing and future growth. By working to expand the catering, coffee and tea, fish, and deli sections of their stores, Kudler would diversify the product the store offers, which would appeal to a wider audience and potentially winning customers from competing stores, and possibly appealing to new customers. By advertising the new and expanded services, Kudler could ensure the company is reaching the people it hopes to...