Kudler's StrategyKudler Fine Foods is able to use its information technology, marketing strategies and sales plans to create a prominent place in its niche market. Focusing on the internal and external environments will help Kudler formulate a successful plan for the future and prepare for the changes that occur in such a diverse platform of partnerships, contracts, suppliers and customers. Having a sales plan in place demonstrates the foresight of the management team. Planning is the most important part of a successful business and now that Kudler has three stores, he is in a position to evaluate where he is and develop his future. The grocery industry has changed dramatically over the past decade, as have consumer tastes, preferences and demands. Although the demand for gourmet foods is increasing, specialty food stores are facing increased competition from larger food chains and Internet sites. According to the National Association for the Specialty Food Trade, specialty food sales reached $38.5 billion in 2006, a 13 percent increase from 2005. About 69 percent of these sales were attributed to supermarkets or to other mass-market outlets, leaving 21% of total sales for specialty foods. grocery stores (Gatty, 2007). Kudler must adapt to meet consumers' evolving desires and preferences. More than ever, food consumers want convenient, healthy, organic and moderately priced products. According to FMI's 2006 US Grocery Shopper Trends report, 86 percent of shoppers have some level of concern about the nutritional content of their food. This is especially true for high-income families (Gatty, 2007). Kudler offers local, organic products to meet these needs, as well as loyalty points to earn high-end items. For me... middle of paper...... Keeping the store fresh and vibrant with new local organic products and a points system to reward consumers, providing existing customers with something new to see while attracting new customers to the stores. Kudler can accommodate the changing preferences of its customers and remain a strong force against the competition with its quality processes and staying in line with its customers' wishes. References Gatty, B. (May 2007). Very special. Progressive Grocer, 86, 88-91. Retrieved January 17, 2008, from EBSCOHost Research Databases. Gomez-Mejia, L., & Balkin, D. (2005). Management (8th ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill Kudler. (2007). Retrieved February 19, 2008 from UOP Virtual Organization Portal: Kudler Fine FoodsTurban, E., Rainer, R.K., Potter, R.E. (2003) Introduction to Information Technology (2nd ed.). New York: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.