Read the case study named ASDA: Competitive strategy in U.K. retail market and answer the following four questions.
Question 1: Critically evaluate ASDA's positioning as a "value-for-money" store. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this approach?
Question 2: The case study suggests that ASDA is currently pursuing a number of initiatives. To what extent are these being driven by competitive forces and how would you evaluate their effectiveness?
Question 3: How would you manage the impact on the workforce of implementing (in 2005) the removal of 1400 middle management posts?
Question 4: What is your overall assessment of ASDA's current situation and what recommendations would you make for their future strategic direction? Explain the reasoning behind your recommendations.