Kudler Fine Foods Problem Statement
Toni White
University of Phoenix
MGT: 521 Management
February 1, 2009
Kudler Fine Foods Problem Statement
At Kudler Fine Foods, the owner, Kathy Kudler, set a goal to open her own gourmet food store, which she did in 1998. Kathy’s ultimate goal is to open high end stores in various locations; and then to finally sell the entire business and retire. Kathy has opened a total of 3 store locations: La Jolla, Del Mar and Encinitas, CA.
In addition to the 3 store locations, Kathy has also extended her business to include a catering business. Because Kathy personally handles the delivery, set-up, distribution and clean-up for the events, she is able to keep costs down and the profit margin is 25% better than product profit margin in her stores. Kathy has also received tips on top of the profit, which she has used towards event expenses.
Kathy’s future plans include the automation of the inventory and ordering system; as well as hiring someone with a finance background to assist her. Kathy has hired the following staff for each store: a manager and an assistant manager; cashiers; stockers; specialists for advising and assisting clients with their culinary needs.
Currently, Kudler’s Del Mar location is failing and is planned for closure in June of 2009. Kathy works seven days a week and her duties include, but are not limited too: selecting and ordering products for purchase for the three stores, talking to customers and meeting with staff each week, stocking shelves, assisting with checkout, running the entire catering side of the business; managing the advertising/marketing portion of the business as well as all matters financial.
Kathy’s failure to delegate is affecting her ability to skillfully manage 1) her time, 2) the failing Del Mar location store 3) the growing needs of both the catering and the internet business opportunity and, 4) her ability to expand to a possible...