Question

Brantley is an apparel manufacturer whose products are carried only by two major retailers in the United States. In the context of SWOT analysis, which of the following can be classified as a weakness of Brantley in this scenario?

Bridger's research and development department is on the verge of a major breakthrough and needs extra funding.
A ship carrying a dozen containers of Bridger's clothing sank in a storm.
Bridger's manufacturing units use older technology that sometimes leads to backorders.
One of the U.S. retailers plans to start manufacturing its own brand of clothes.
One of the retailers tells Bridger that it will carry Bridger's products with its own brand name.

Answer 1

In the context of SWOT analysis, the weakness of Brantley in this scenario is that "One of the U.S. retailers plans to start manufacturing its own brand of clothes."

Step-by-step explanation:

The potential entry of one of the U.S. retailers into manufacturing its own brand of clothes poses a significant threat to Brantley, the apparel manufacturer. This development can be considered a weakness in the SWOT analysis. The diversification of the retailer into in-house manufacturing may lead to reduced dependence on external suppliers like Brantley. Consequently, Brantley could face a decline in sales and market share, impacting its overall business sustainability.

Moreover, the retailer's decision to carry Bridger's products with its own brand name indicates a potential loss of brand identity for Brantley. Branding is a crucial aspect in the apparel industry, and the shift towards private labeling by the retailer may diminish the recognition and value associated with Brantley's brand. This, in turn, could result in a weakened competitive position and customer loyalty for Brantley, further emphasizing the identified weakness.

In summary, the prospective entry of a U.S. retailer into in-house manufacturing and the decision to label Bridger's products under its own brand name represent a notable weakness for Brantley in the SWOT analysis. It underscores the importance of strategic adaptation to changes in the competitive landscape to maintain market relevance and sustainability.