Mending Wall Essay - 726 Words

In â€Å"Mending Wall†, Robert Frost made us aware that something doesn’t love the wall in the beginning of the poem, the wall that symbolizes boundary and obstacle between people. Although this restrictive wall gives protection and a feeling of safety for the people who are inside it, it also creates a huge barrier to the people who are on the outside. The only difference between a physical wall and an imaginary barrier is that a physical wall will eventually fall apart as time goes by, but the emotional one on the other hand will only get bigger. Does Frost agree with his neighbor on the perspective of relationship between people, or do they each hold a different idea? nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;In the poem, Frost and his neighbor had a†¦show more content†¦He wants to work along with his neighbor, and maybe even get to know more about him. This could be an implication that Frost dislikes a wall between him and his neighbor. nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;While they are fixing the wall, Frost suggests his neighbor that part of their land doesn’t really need a wall between them. Frost has all apple trees on his land, and his neighbor has all pine. There is an obvious distinction between two lands, why do they need a wall? Frost then reminds his neighbor â€Å"My apple trees will never get across and eat the cones under his pines, I tell him.†. From this point, we can see that Frost is trying to break through the barrier between them with trust. Frost starts saying he is not going to steal the cones under his pine, and he also trusts his neighbor that he will not take his apples either. He wants to get closer to his neighbor, and bring the wall down. However, his neighbor only says, â€Å"Good fences make good neighbors.† in return. We can see very clearly that Frost’s neighbor believes people should stay out of his life, keeping a distance. Only good strong fences con protect him, and give him the sense of safety. This behavior confuses Frost. He does not understand why good fences make good neighbor. He doesn’t even understand why they need fences at all, if they can trust each other. He begins questioning himself what does a wall build for, and he asks â€Å" What I was walling in or walling out.†Show MoreRelatedFrosts Mending Wall Essay960 Words   |  4 PagesRobert Frosts Mending Wall represents two opposing ideas through its dialogue between two neighbors. The narrator represents a newer way of thinking while his neighbor embodies an older mindset. In the poem the two neighbors are repairing a wall or fence that separates their property line. Although neither of the two men has anything that could cross the fence, the young man has apple trees and the old farmer has pines. The wall has been broken down by the winter that sends the frozen ground swellRead MoreEssay on Mending Wall2143 Words   |  9 PagesMending Wall by Robert Frost is a poem in which the characteristics of vocabulary, rhythm and other aspects of poetic technique combine in a fashion that articulates, in detail, the experience and the opposing convictions that the poem describes and discusses. The ordinariness of the rural activity is presented in specific description, and as so often is found in Frosts poems, the unprepossessing undertaking has much larger implications. Yet his consideration of these does not disturb the qualitiesRead MoreEssay on Analysis of Mending Wall by Robert Frost2085 Words   |  9 PagesAnalysis of Mending Wall by Robert Frost Robert Frost was inspired to write Mending Wall after talking with one of his farming friend Napoleon Guay. He learned from talking with his neighbor that writing in the tones of real life is an important factor in his poetic form (Liu,Tam). Henry David Thoreau once stated that, â€Å"A true account of the actual is the purest poetry.† Another factor that might have played a role in inspiring Frost to write this poem was his experience of living on a farmRead More the mending wall Essay557 Words   |  3 Pages ANALYSIS #2: THE MENDING WALL nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;In the poem, â€Å"The Mending Wall† Frost creates a lot of ambiguity in order to leave the poem open for interpretation. Frost’s description of every detail in this poem is very interesting, it leaves the reader to decide for themselves what deductions they are to be making of the poem. To begin with, Frost makes literal implications about what the two men are doing. For instance, they are physically putting theRead MoreEssay Mending Wall1273 Words   |  6 Pages What is so important about mending a wall? Robert frost a down to earth, phenomenon has used his supernatural skills to write a poem which may seem to be a simple, ordinary poem, yet what lays hidden behind the veils may be unraveled. That is the spiritual world that you and me may learn to understand the philosophical basis of human nature that provokes the human revolution. Believe it or not this poem was ingeniously devised by Robert Frost to articulately open up a world of ideas that acumenRead MoreAnalysis Of The Poem Mending Wall 821 Words   |  4 PagesFenil Patel Composition II Prof: Jon Anderson September 19, 201 â€Å"Mending Wall† a poem by Robert Frost seems to take place in countryside estate. Main theme in the poem is, whether the wall is necessary to have the good relation between neighbors. Narrator seems to think the wall is not so necessary as it separates him and his neighbor. However, he does find talking to his neighbor about the wall. but does provide a sense of privacy which is not bad. Frost is separating habit and and traditionRead More Working Together in Robert Frosts Mending Wall Essay869 Words   |  4 PagesWorking Together in Robert Frosts Mending Wall The air is cool and crisp. Roosters can be heard welcoming the sun to a new day and a woman is seen, wearing a clean colorful wrap about her body and head, her shadow casting a lone silhouette on the stone wall. The woman leans over to slide a piece of paper into one of the cracks, hoping her prayer will be heard in this city of Jerusalem. Millions are inserting their prayers into the walls of Japanese temples, while an inmate in one of aRead MoreWalls Placed on Relationships in Mending Wall by Robert Frost844 Words   |  4 PagesWalls Placed on Relationships in Mending Wall by Robert Frost In the poem Mending Wall, Robert Frost utilizes the literary devices of imagery, meter, and symbolism to demonstrate the rational and irrational boundaries or metaphoric walls humans place on their relationships with others. The precise images, such as the depiction of the mending-time ritual and the dynamic description of his old-stone savage armed neighbor, serve to enhance our enjoyment as well as our understandingRead MoreThe Mending Wall by Robert Frost Essay1226 Words   |  5 PagesThe Mending Wall by Robert Frost Robert Frost was not just a writer. Frost was, more importantly, an American writer whose works epitomized the Modernist literary movement, and in turn represented the mood and minds of a nation. Frost remains emblematic of a specific time in our country. Through the words of the poet, readers of his day could see a real-time reflection of themselves - visible in Frosts verses were the hopes and apprehensions that marked the first half of the twentieth- Read More Mending Wall by Robert Frost Essay2093 Words   |  9 Pagesâ€Å"Mending Wall† by Robert Frost   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"Mending Wall† by Robert Frost is a poem in which the characteristics of vocabulary, rhythm and other aspects of poetic technique combine in a fashion that articulates, in detail, the experience and the opposing convictions that the poem describes and discusses. The ordinariness of the rural activity is presented in specific description, and as so often is found in Frost’s poems, the unprepossessing undertaking has much larger implications. Yet his consideration

Human Resource Information Systems - 2522 Words

INTRODUCTION Office automation has become a reality. Stand-alone personal computers are universally used for word processing, and spread sheets have become the workhorses of office life. As a result, electronic records are being created virtually everywhere in the world. Wherever computers are used to carry out a function records are being generated. Records provide the primary evidence of how the functions of public administration are carried out. They are the building blocks of accountability. In a growing number of organizations human resources are now viewed as a source of competitive advantage. There is greater recognition that distinctive competencies are obtained through highly developed employee skills, distinctive†¦show more content†¦Transaction processing system provides this kind of information. This is a computerized system that performs and records the daily routine transactions necessary to conduct business such as employee record keeping and payroll. This type of system i s used as operational level and at this level tasks, resources and goals are predefined and highly structured (Laudon K, 2012,76). When using a transaction processing system for payroll processing, a payroll system keepsShow MoreRelatedQuestions On Human Resource Information System1588 Words   |  7 Pagessales volume. The daily average turnover rate for the restaurant is $2500 and we aims to achieve the daily sales by $3500 per day. To achieve these we need to work as a supportive work team. Assessment 1 Human resource information system HRIS is essentially an integration of human resource and information technologies linked through specific software. It makes HR actions and process to occur through a computerised application. It has the following functions: o Retaining of staffs o Staff recruitment oRead MoreQuestions On Human Resource Information System1588 Words   |  7 Pagessales volume. The daily average turnover rate for the restaurant is $2500 and we aims to achieve the daily sales by $3500 per day. To achieve these we need to work as a supportive work team. Assessment 1 Human resource information system HRIS is essentially an integration of human resource and information technologies linked through specific software. It makes HR actions and process to occur through a computerised application. It has the following functions: o Retaining of staffs o Staff recruitment oRead MoreCase Study : Human Resource Information Systems1237 Words   |  5 PagesStage I: Course Project Name: Duc Minh Nguyen HRM340: Human Resource Information Systems INTRODUCTION Numerous characters of HRIS systems and methods have been abstracted to help Jay Morgan and Family Castle Restaurant run more conveniently as a business. Jay Morgan the Operations Manager, have been using obsolete procedures for recruiting, hiring, scheduling, and answering inquiries from its staff members. Cultivating precise books and keeping continual conversation with the Managers haveRead MoreHuman Resource Information Systems Essay example1775 Words   |  8 PagesIntroduction Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS) can provide an organization a wide variety of functionalities that improve the productivity of the HR department while supporting the desires and requirements of the rest of the organization. However, organizations need to ensure that the costs associated with the HRIS is justified. Organizations spend on average $1,300.000 annually to maintain and administer HRIS and their portals (Gueutal, 2005). In a competitive market all project investmentsRead MoreThe Human Resources Information System978 Words   |  4 Pages The Human Resources Information System, â€Å"is a framework that gives you a chance to stay informed concerning every one of your workers and data about them. It is generally done in a database or, in a progression of between related databases† (Human Resource Information Systems, n.d.). It’s very important for an HR director to be knowledgeable of this information, because maintaining a business will produce a ton of data, both identified with the business and identified with yourRead MoreHuman Resource Information System And Human Resources Essay2170 Words   |  9 Pages1. Human Resource Information System is also known as Human Resource Management System, which is the integration of information technology and human resources through Human Resource software. The system enables Human Resource activities or processes electronically occur. Human Resource Information System is a technological solution to help corporates to solve human resource activities through software. Activities include human resources, accounting, management and payroll. The software also helpsRead MoreThe Human Resource Information System1260 Words   |  6 PagesThere are many things to consider when choosing the right Human Resource Information System (HRIS) for an organization. However, it is important understand that human resource information systems require different computer-based systems to run an HRIS. The purpose of this paper is to examine database management systems (DBMS) used with HRIS systems. The paper will evaluate two top-tier database systems, specifically, Oracle Database 12c and IBM’s DB2. Next, the paper will identify the advantagesRead MoreThe Human Resource Information Systems Essay1190 Words   |  5 PagesINTRODUCTION There are so many different Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS) available to choose from that a company can pick and choose what features and programs they need for their business. Companies range big and small and each business needs different options to run their business. Castle s Family Restaurant is looking into implementing an HRIS and they have asked our company to research and suggest programs that will benefit them as a company. Per the initial assessment of the businessRead MoreThe Human Resource Information System758 Words   |  4 Pagesthat this system does not have all of the ERP product that other human resource information system may have. The second that was research was Kronos. This is an electric system that does different tasks when it comes to human resources, and payroll. This system was founded in 1977. Kronos is a monitoring system that keeps a full track of employees’ time and attendance. It helps companies control labor cost, minimize compliance risk and manage talent with ease. When it comes to the human resourceRead MoreThe Human Resource Information System1475 Words   |  6 PagesThe Human Resource Information System (HRIS) teams work with the performance of tasks such as bookkeeping, employee performance and trainings, ordering, payroll, maintaining former, current, and potential employees information, and upholding policies and guidelines. Human resource managers use information systems to help in their daily duties of handling the above mentioned duties. Human Resource managers develop and analyze the many functions and determine the type of Human Resource Information

John adams Free Essays

John Adams had more positive characteristics than negative. John Adams of Brainteaser Massachusetts was a lawyer, farmer, Harvard graduate, husband of Abigail Smith Adams, father of four children, and a revolutionary. By the look of things, he seemed Like a pretty lovable man considering he was his wife’s tenderness of husbands and her good man. We will write a custom essay sample on John adams or any similar topic only for you Order Now He had many great qualities that everyone around him would appreciate his presence. As for the negative traits, he was fiercely stubborn and quick to anger. 2)John Adams thought his biggest flaw was his tendency to talk too much. When he was twenty years old, he worried over never having any bright ideas, or being too bright for his own good and show off to others who would befriend him. He hated that he was overly proud and conceited and wanted to change that about himself. 3) Abigail Adams had views on nearly everything and people. She was always quick to express what she was thinking. She was an independent woman who took responsibility of all her duties as a wife and a mother. She had the positive quality of being such a loving and caring wife, and made John Adams’ life Infinitely fuller. It’s almost as If she was the missing piece to his puzzle. His marriage to Abigail was the most Important decision of his life. 4) John Adams was asked to defend the soldiers and their captain when they came to trial. He was informed that no one else would take the case, but he accepted regardless what judgment he would soon be getting. He said that no man in a free country should be denied the right to counsel and a fair trial, and convinced, on principle, that the case was of utmost importance. He put law above his personal beliefs and knew it was his duty to accept the case. Eventually, his fellow patriots came to respect him for what he had done. John Adams said, â€Å"Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations, or the dictates of our passion, they cannot alter the state of facts and evidence. † He said this during his successful defense of the British soldiers who fired upon the crowd during the Boston Massacre. His actions to represent the British soldiers proved that despite all differences, men of principle can act Justly under the rule of law. This statement about facts, like many truths, Is universal and teaches that we must face truths, even when we don’t Like them. 6) Briefly describe each of the following George Washington: Commander of Virginia militia, Continental arrant commander in chief during Revolutionary War, first president James Otis: Also a leader with John Adams of a new generation of political activist, a group called Sons of Liberty. The Sons of Liberty united otherwise adversary groups taking opposition to the Stamp Act to the streets, organizing riots and intimidating tax collectors. Sam Adams: Ben Franklin: Philadelphia first citizen, the most famous American alive, printer, establishing the American philosophical Society resulting in Philadelphia becoming he recognized center of American thought and ideas. Thomas Jefferson: Be]main Rush: John Dickinson: 7) Describe the role Adams played in each of the following: Boston Massacre: March 5th. Stamp Act: Last week of May 1765, Starting in November, nearly everything written or printed on paper other than private correspondence and books were required to carry revenue stamps. This helped pay for the cost of the French and Indian war and to meet the expense of maintaining a colonial military force to prevent Indian wars. Adams remained cautious with his involvement in political activities involving the Stamp Act. He was worried that this might hurt his reputation. This Act marks the beginning of the struggle for freedom and independence. His involvement started in August 1765 when he published an essay in the Boston Gazette entitled â€Å"A Dissertation on Canon and Feudal LaW’. The Stamp Act was hardly mentioned, however it discussed British Law and how certain liberties and freedom Americans enjoyed was earned by many generations of Americans. How to cite John adams, Papers

Happiness free essay sample

Burn all, burn everything. Fire is bright and fire Is clean. This quote shows how Montage feels about Burning books In the beginning of the story he finds In enjoyable and Likes doing It. There must be something In books, things we cant imagine, to make a woman stay in a burning house; there must be something there. You dont stay for nothing. This happens when the old women stay behind with her kooks to burn montage starts to see that there must be something inside the books that are worth going over and now he is curious about what can be so valuable. Give a man a few lines of verse and he thinks hes the Lord of all Creation. Here you can tell that Montage read books and found the Joy in reading now he doesnt want to burn books, but he wants to protect them instead. We will write a custom essay sample on Happiness or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Before Montage wanted to burn books with fire now he sees fire as a threat to the books and doesnt like fire anymore.Fire shows Its destruction by burning things Like books and at one point It burns up a woman not willing to part with her books. This shows how Montage used this as a destructive tool. Later on Claries talks to Montage and shows him that fire Is also a candle light so It can be controlled and symbolizes knowledge and wisdom. This shows how fire can be used as a good thing as well too not so good thing in the novel fire takes two different meanings destruction and renewal and that is very interesting. Happiness free essay sample No, not meaning muscle strength, but strength in the mind- your mental capability of overcoming obstacles in your life that has brought you down and made you think that you cannot get back up. Benjamin Franklin once said, The Constitution only guarantees the American people the right to pursue happiness. You have to catch it yourself. No one can hand you happiness on a silver platter; you have to obtain it yourself and that comes from how strong you are to pick yourself up from disasters that occur in your life. There are many different types of disasters in the oral and one of them is poverty.In Kola slum, India people live on only salt and rice for food, their houses do not keep out the rain and most of their Jobs is to ride the citizens, who sometimes abuse them, on a cart around town. They seem like they are unhappy because they live hard lives. We will write a custom essay sample on Happiness or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page But the hard life has made them stronger and they have learned to accept their life and live it happily. According to a resident in the slums he states that as long as he has the love of his family and neighbors, he is happy. This resident uses that love to strengthen him to get through the day and end up happy. It isnt only people from the slums of India who are happy without money. A surfer from Sidney, Australia states, It doesnt make sense when you make money, and youre not happy. He lives in a small cottage and surfs night and day because it makes him happy. He didnt want a college degree or cared to become a doctor. The surfer is happy with the life he has and didnt need money to prove It. Tragedies can happen to anyone at any time and can sometimes permanently damage ones ability to ever feel happy again. However, Melissa Moody decided not to let her tragedy get In the way of her life. Melissa, In high school, was one of the most beautiful people in America and after marrying and having kids, she got ran over by a truck on July 4th by her sister-in-law. After undergoing over 30 surgeries and went Into rehab, her husband had divorced her and she was In a state of severe depression. Melissa had wanted to kill herself multiple times and was so disgusted with herself she didnt know how to go on. After a few years though, she learned to let go and understand her new self more and became a happier person than she was before. She met someone new and married him and now she feels beautiful again.There are some cases where a tragedy strikes someone and they arent strong enough to get back up and reassemble the pieces It had broken. In Melissa Moody case, she overcame her problem and found the strength within herself to move on. She had to catch her own happiness or else It wouldve never been found. In all, many people find a reason to be happy, either from family, surfing, or even love. Happiness helps people achieve their goals In life and can even help you live longer. If you really wish to be happy, prepare yourself from the worst of things so hat In the end, you can obtain your own happiness.By Conveyance doctor. The surfer is happy with the life he has and didnt need money to prove it. To let her tragedy get in the way of her life. Melissa, in high school, was one of the and went into rehab, her husband had divorced her and she was in a state of severe enough to get back up and reassemble the pieces it had broken. In Melissa Moody She had to catch her own happiness or else it wouldve never been found. Love. Happiness helps people achieve their goals in life and can even help you live that in the end, you can obtain your own happiness.

Marks Spencer an Analysis of the Demand for a MS Simply Food Convenience Store in Complexe Desjardins Essay Example

Marks Spencer: an Analysis of the Demand for a MS Simply Food Convenience Store in Complexe Desjardins Essay INTRODUCTION In this report we assess whether an MS Simply Food convenience store would be profitable when located in Complex Desjardins, Montreal. In the U. K. Simply Food possess a strong brand image and wide-variety of products that emphasize quality. Although considered more expensive than competing stores To see if the chain will have the same level of success in Montreal, we first analyzed the fundamentals and competitive landscape of the industry. Once a gap in the market was identified, we used quantitative research practices to examine each of the marketing mix factors involved in establishing the store. Our findings will indicate whether the location and consumer pool under consideration will RESEARCH OBJECTIVES * Identify the MS Simply Food products and services, and the factors that drive the chain’s success in the U. K. * Analyze the market fundamentals of the convenience store sector in Montreal, and identify whether a market gap for quality, high-end stores such as MS Simply food exists * Assess whether MS Simply Food will be profitable in Complex Desjardins based on the following factor: (i) Location (ii) Consumer Demographic (iii) Consumer Preferences (iv) Competition Pricing Propose key operating and marketing strategies to ensure the success of MS Simply food in Complex Desjardins. METHODOLOGY Industry Knowledge Exploratory research was employed to gain understanding of the U. K. convenience market and lean how the MS Simply Food chain is positioned. This involved a review of studies and data made available by leading international research institutions, as well as informal discussions with consumers who previously lived in London and are familiar with the brand. We applied the same methodologies when conducting a similar analysis of the Montreal convenience market. We will write a custom essay sample on Marks Spencer: an Analysis of the Demand for a MS Simply Food Convenience Store in Complexe Desjardins specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Marks Spencer: an Analysis of the Demand for a MS Simply Food Convenience Store in Complexe Desjardins specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Marks Spencer: an Analysis of the Demand for a MS Simply Food Convenience Store in Complexe Desjardins specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer In this stage of our research we were able to apply more formal approaches, such as conducting in-depth interviews with store managers. After all the necessary information was acquired, a qualitative comparison of the industries was made to determine whether opportunities existed for MS Simply Food in Montreal and whether a repositioning of products would be needed. Target Market From our previous analysis we establish a target market: consumers at the Complex Desjardins. This location is one of the main attractions in Montreal, at a vast 4 million square feet. Roughly 30,000 people come to the complex and its surroundings daily to work, shop, eat and/or enjoy the activities surrounding the Central Square. The Central Square inside the building has a surface of 15,000 square feet and is surrounded by a commercial gallery of 100 stores and restaurants. Thus, this location was chosen because of its notoriety and large exposure to residents and tourists. Survey and Sample Size To determine whether consumers at Complex Desjardins would be willing to purchase MS Simple Food products we conducted an anonymous survey on food services within the complex. The survey was a questionnaire made up variety of formats designed to draw out information about the location, demographic, consumer preferences, surrounding competition, pricing comparisons and consumers’ willingness to pay. Interviews were conducted at the Complex Desjardins, as well as within a 500m radius of its surroundings which comprised of Complexe Guy-Favreau, Bleury Street, Place Des Arts and Boulevard Saint-Laurent. We classified qualified respondents as consumers that came through the complex at least 3 times a week. In total, we interviewed 96 people, considering a variability of 50% and a 10% acceptable sampling error at 95% level of confidence. Assuming the total population under observation here is 30,000, it is evident that a 5% confidence interval is well above 96. Thus, no more readjustments are needed due to small sampling size. FINDINGS Convenience Market (1) U. K. Industry The U. K. convenience store market was valued at ? 30. 9 billion in the 12 months to April 2010, representing a 6. 3% increase on the previous year. The value of the market continued to grow despite a 0. 5% in store numbers. With he total U. K. Food and Grocery market expanding at a slower rate of 4. 1% in the same period, it is evident that the convenience sector is accelerating at a faster pace than the overall market. Thus, its market share has risen to 20. 5%. The factors driving the sector are the rising number of single person households, a growing population, increasing number of women in the work place and lon ger working weeks. The sector is also propelled forward by improved operational standards, greater awareness of shopper trends and more modern, tailored convenience solutions. (2) MS Simply Food Positioning The convenience sector is highly fragmented, with store operators divided into the following segments: co-operative, forecourts, multiples, symbols franchise, and non-affiliated independents. MS Simply Food is part of the franchise segment, which recorded the fastest growth in the previous year. This expansion was driven by additional stores, increased promotional activity and improved value for money. MS Simply Food specializes in selling ready-made meals: salads, sandwiches, desserts, snacks, and microwavable dishes. The self-service store also sells fresh produce, possessing wide selection of fruit and vegetables. Being high-end oriented, the franchise targets working professionals not only looking for a fast, healthy meal, but also willing and able to pay an additional expense for high quality food. For the added premium, customers have access to more adventurous recipes, better packaging and fresher ingredients. These value –added services, alongside the modern layout of the stores, give the brand a competitive edge in the market and allow it to capture a significant share of consumers. A negative sentiment expressed by consumers was attributed to the experience of purchasing at MS Simply Food stores. Due to brand’s high popularity, long queues often form inhibiting browsing by other potential customers and causing feeling of frustrations by professionals that are time-sensitive. (3) Montreal Industry The convenience sector in Montreal is made of Canadian chains and independents. Family-run depanneurs cater to local neighborhoods and immigrant populations, offering specialty foods and discount long-distance calling cards alongside the usual convenience-store fare. Others offer a wider variety of services such as Canada Post, Western Union transfers, Internet access, and home-delivery of groceries. However, the market is dominated by a large Canadian chain known as Couch-Tard Inc. The chain offers a quality assortment of freshly brewed coffee, frozen/iced beverages, fresh sandwiches and other fresh food items that are marked under proprietary brands. Arguing that most convenience stores are too cluttered, the Couche-Tard company introduced a new concept called â€Å"Store 2000†. These stores have wider layouts, brighter lighting, modern decor and often have Quick-Service Restaurants (QSR) located within them. The new concept was a success and the results were integrated into upgrades for all stores. 4) MS Simply Food Expanding to Montreal It is evident from our research that the U. K. has a more diverse group of convenience stores with different positioning catering to all consumer income brackets. However, in Montreal we see that Couche-Tard owns the majority of the market and is designed to target the average consumer, thereby not competing with deppaneurs immigrant po ol. This also illustrates a gap in the Montreal convenience market: value-added stores aimed at consumers from a higher income bracket. MS Simply Food’s positioning in U. K. onvenience markets makes it an ideal candidate. Survey Results (1) Location The statistical analysis of the questionnaire revealed that over 85% of the respondents visited the Complex Desjardins and its surrounding area at least 3 times a week. In Table below it is evident that the number of times a week respondents enjoy meals at the complex is greater in frequency towards higher values, with the overall average at 2. 7 times. This illustrates that the location receives a great deal of foot traffic, and is a popular food services venue. Table 1: How Often Consumers Eat at Complex Desjardins   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Never| 2| 2. 1| 2. 7| 2. 7| | Once a month| 2| 2. 1| 2. 7| 5. 4| | Biweekly| 4| 4. 3| 5. 4| 10. 8| | Once a week| 7| 7. 4| 9. 5| 20. 3| | Twice a wee k| 13| 13. 8| 17. 6| 37. 8| | Three times a week| 20| 21. 3| 27| 64. 9| | Four times a week| 16| 17| 21. 6| 86. 5| | Five times a week| 10| 10. 6| 13. 5| 100| | Total| 74| 78. 7| 100|   | Missing| System| 20| 21. 3|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | Furthermore, findings indicate that respondents favor particular designated areas within the complex and its surroundings when eating. With response rates of 38% and 34% respectively, the most popular areas are the food court and restaurants/cafes on the adjacent Saint-Catherine Streets. Diagram 1: Preferred Food Locations (2) Consumer Demographic In Table 2 we see the sample size under consideration reflects the social demographic profile of the area: professionals, local residents or students studying nearby. There is a fairly even distribution between male and female respondents, with males slightly ahead at 51%, conveying that the area equally attracts both sexes. Table 2: Social Demographic Profile of Complex Desjardins Based on Sample Statistics| |   | I work at or close to Complexe Desjardins| I live at or close to Complexe Deskardins| I study at or close to Complexe Desjardins| None of the above| N| Valid| 36| 28| 21| 3| | Missing| 58| 66| 73| 91| | Mean| 1| 1| 1| 1| | Median| 1| 1| 1| 1| | Mode| 1| 1| 1| 1| |   |   |   |   |   | I work at or close to Complex Desjardins| |   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Yes| 36| 38. 3| 100| 100| Missing| System| 58| 61. 7|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | I live at or close to Complex Desjardins| |   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Yes| 28| 29. 8| 100| 100| Missing| System| 66| 70. 2|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | I study at or close to Complex Desjardins| |   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Yes| 21| 22. 3| 100| 100| Missing| System| 73| 77. 7|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | None of the above| |   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Yes| 3| 3. 2| 100| 100| Missing| System| 91| 96. 8|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | |   |   |   |   |   | Consumers in the area tend to be well educated, with 63% of respondents having completed a college degree. This, alongside results that show 41% of respondents are between the ages18-24, indicates that complex attracts a great deal of young professionals. However, Diagram 2 below also illustrates that another 48% of respondents are between the ages of 25-40. Furthermore, the average household is occupied by 2. 8 residents and generates roughly CAN37,600 a year. These findings highlight another consumer profile, that of local residents; classifying them as small family units in the middle-to-high income bracket. Thus, our findings conclude that the consumer pool at Complex Diagram 2: Income levels (3) Consumer Preferences Our statistical analysis of the questionnaire revealed that the consumer preferences of the sample pool are aligned with MS Simply Food’s products and services. Roughly 61% of respondents stated that they would purchase food from a convenience store specializing in quality. Their main justifications for purchase included the reliability of quality food, the convenience of ready-made meals, the ability to enjoy restaurant quality food at lower prices, and the chance to maintain a healthy diet. Furthermore, the study revealed that when faced between the choices of picking up their own food or having it served to them, respondents were equally divided. These factors encompass the overall message, products and services of MS Simply Food value-added services. Table 3 analyzes the relationship between price and healthiness of food in terms of their importance to the end consumer. The cross tabulation clearly reflects the two variables are integral in the decision making process of the consumer: the more emphasis placed on the healthiness of food, the more significant pricing becomes. We can also conclude from the chi squared test that the relationship between the two variables is statistically significant. Unfortunately, our findings proved inconclusive when determining whether consumers would be willing to pay more for healthier, higher quality food. This limitation was due to the lack of responses to the particular question in the survey. Table 3: Relationship Between Price and Health in Consumer’s Decision-Making Process Healthy food on the menu * Price Cross Tabulation| Count|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Price|   | Least| 2| 3| 5| 6| 7| 8| 9| Most important| Total| Healthy food on the menu| Least important| 1| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| | 3| 0| 1| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| 1| 0| 3| | 4| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| 0| 0| 1| 2| | 5| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| 2| 0| 0| 0| 3| | 6| 0| 0| 0| 0| 2| 1| 3| 2| 0| 8| | 7| 0| 0| 0| 1| 1| 3| 3| 4| 3| 15| | 8| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| 3| 8| 2| 4| 18| | 8| 0| 0| 1| 2| 1| 2| 0| 2| 0| 8| | Most important| 0| 0 | 0| 0| 4| 0| 2| 2| 7| 15| | Total| 1| 1| 1| 3| 10| 12| 17| 13| 15| 73| |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Chi-Square Tests|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | |   | Value| df| Asymp. Sig. 2-sided)|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Pearson Chi-Square| 1. 52E+02| 64| 0|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Likelihood Ratio| 72. 529| 64| 0. 217|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Linear-by-Linear Association| 6. 593| 1| 0. 01|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | N of Valid Cases| 73|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | a. 81 cells (100. 0%) have expected count less than 5. The minimum expected count is . 01. |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Correlations|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | |   |   | Healthy food on the menu| Price|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Healthy food on the menu| Pearson Correlation| 1| . 303**|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | | Sig. (2-tailed)|   | 0. 09|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | | N| 74| 73|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Price| Pearson Correlation| . 303**| 1|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | | Sig. (2-tailed)| 0. 009|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | | N| 73| 73|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | **. Correlation is significant at the 0. 01 level (2-tailed). |   |   |   | How appealing varying food items are to the sample pool is illustrated in the table below through the mean value of each product; with the number 1 representing very little appeal and the number 10 great appeal. The relatively stronger desire for salads and sandwiches over desserts reflects the health conscious nature of the consumer. Furthermore, the high frequency of fruit’s appeal suggests consumers’ eagerness for diversity in menu options. Thus, it is evident that the taste preferences of the consumers are in line with some of the Simply Food products. However, the absence of responses concerning vegetables and microwavable meals suggest a lack of demand for such items. Table 4: Appeal of Food Products |   | Salads| Sandwiches| Desserts| Juices| Fruits| N| Valid| 74| 73| 74| 73| 74| | Missing| 20| 21| 20| 21| 20| | Mean| 7. 35| 7. 95| 6. 41| 7. 37| 6. 95| | Median| 8| 8| 7| 8| 7| | Mode| 7a| 9| 9| 8| 7| a. Multiple modes exist. The smallest value is shown|   | (4) Competition and Pricing Several questions in the survey were designed to size the level of competition MS Simply Food would face in Complex Desjardins. Our findings concluded that respondents favored a combination of restaurants and food court stations, with the top two in each respective category being: (1) Eggspectation and Baton Rouge; and (2) AW and Subway. This gives MS Simply Food a competitive advantage as its high quality food gives consumers the restaurant feel, while its ready-made, self-service concept mimics the convenience of the food court. Despite the popularity of some competitors, 63% of respondents stated that they do not have a preferred food chain. The results indicated that bad service and poor quality of food were the main deterrents of brand loyalty. However, nearly half of respondents expressed boredom with current food chain alternatives and eagerness to try new venues. When asked about sentiments regarding a new chain called â€Å"Simply Food†, 42% of respondents said that the name appealed to them. Also, Diagram 3 illustrates the styles of cuisines respondents believe are missing in the complex. Diagram 3: Styles of Cuisine Missing in Complex Desjardins The frequency below illustrates that 47% of respondents spend between CAN10. 00 to CAN14. 99 on a meal in Complex Desjardins, with the overall average meal costing CAN11. 80. In comparison, MS Simply Food individual products range on average from CA2. 00 to CAN4. 50. However, in Table 5 below we see that the brand’s luxury meals cost significantly more, averaging CAN22. 00. Taking into consideration the average expenditure of respondents, the findings suggest that consumers in Complex Desjardins are more likely to purchase individual food items, rather than an entire luxury meal. Table 5: MS Simply Food Prices | Cost in Pounds (GBP)| Cost in Canadian Dollars (CAN)| Average Cost of Salads| 2. 77| 4. 34| Average Cost of Ready-Made Meals| 2. 64| 4. 13| Average Cost of Fruit| 2. 81| 4. 40| Average Cost of Dessert| 1. 31| 2. 05| Average Cost of Luxury Meals| 14. 11| 22. 08| Correlations By running a series of correlation tests, we discover whether the demand for food within the complex is influenced by the income level of the respondents, the price of food, types of food chains available and consumers’ taste preferences. Table 6 below shows that the only 2 variables that are correlated are the number of times respondents eat at Complex Desjardins and the annual income levels. Although the value is not statistically significant to 0. 05, it is significant enough to display a relationship: that the frequency of visits, or rather demand, is determined by and proportional to the income levels of respondents. Table 6: Variables Correlated with the Demand for Food |   | How often eaten at Complex Desjardins| Which area do you prefer to eat in| Educational Level| Income Level| How often eaten at Complex Desjardins| Pearson Correlation| 1| . | . 343**| 0. 116|   | Sig. (2-tailed)|   | . | 0. 003| 0. 332| | N| 74| 0| 72| 72| Where? | Pearson Correlation| . a| . a| . a| . a| | Sig. (2-tailed)| . |   | . | . | | N| 0| 0| 0| 0| Education| Pearson Correlation| . 343**| . a| 1| . 324**|   | Sig. (2-tailed)| 0. 003| . |   | 0. 006| | N| 72| 0| 72| 70| Income| Pearson Correlation| 0. 116| . a| . 324**| 1 | | Sig. (2-tailed)| 0. 332| . | 0. 006|   | | N| 72| 0| 70| 72| a. Cannot be computed because at least one of the variables is constant. | **. Correlation is significant at the 0. 01 level (2-tailed). LIMITATIONS As in any research report, a number of limitations in the execution and analysis of our report occurred. The main issue we encountered was that of missing data, in which a number of questions in the questionnaire were left unanswered. As a result, many of our estimates were found statistically inefficient due to loss of information, while other estimates may be considered biased if the data from questions left vacant are systematically different. In the future, we suggest increasing the sample size to ensure a more reliable and valid data set. Another common limitation is the subjectivity of surveys in that respondents often fail to answer questions truthfully and therefore skew the results. Efforts to ensure data is accurate would have required more expenditure; however budget restrained us from implementing such solutions. Budget constraints limited the sample size, and care should be exercised in the future to general these findings further. CONCLUSION RECOMMENDATIONS After much assessment, we believe that MS Simply Food will prove to successful if established in Complex Desjardins. Our findings conclude that the complex and its surrounding are the ideal location to for Simply Food to attract its target market. Consumers that purchase food at the complex are young professionals and local residents who fall into the middle-to-high income bracket, and therefore are able to afford brand’s higher priced products. Furthermore, consumers’ product preferences reflected strong desires for higher quality food and a wider variety of cuisine options. Simply Food prides itself on offering its consumers premium quality meals made from adventurous recipes and fresh ingredients, and therefore will be able to capture this unmet demand. Although there is a great deal of competition in the Complex Desjardins, its consumers are open to change and are ever evolving their taste pallet. The unique style of MS Simply Food enables it to provide consumers with quality restaurant food at the speed and convenience of food court service, thereby capturing a wider share of the market and competing with both food chain categories. The following is a list of recommendations we believe will ensure the profitability of MS Simply Food in Complex Desjardins: * Locate the convenience store in the food court, as it attracts the greatest number of consumers. The food court also compliments the self-service nature of the store, providing consumers with an adjacent seating area. * Ensure all advertisements of the brand strongly highlight the â€Å"Simply Food† name, as well as key phrases that reflect the stores value-added services: for example â€Å"High Quality Food†, â€Å"Adventurous Recipes†, â€Å"Variety of Cuisine Options†, and â€Å"A Healthy Meal Option†. This well help the brand appeal to consumers’ preferences. * Limit products to ready-made meals, sandwiches, salads, fruits and beverages. Exclude the sale of vegetable produce and microwavable meals, as there does not seem to be a demand for such items. * To encourage the sale of more expensive luxury platter meals, we suggest holding discount promotions during the soft opening of the store. Reduce the price of platters to slightly below the average cost of meals in the complex, in order to entice consumers and build brand loyalty. * To compete with competitors, MS Simply Food must build up its reputation as a quality food provider at a quick and convenient pace. To ensure this is done successfully, stores must be designed to provide adequate space for browsing, which is to be separated from the pay register. By doing so MS Simply Food will not have the same queuing problem it encounters in the U. K. , which often deters potential customers. REFERENCES IGD The Food and Grocery Experts. â€Å"Convenience Retailing Market Overview,† [On-line]. Available: http://www. igd. com/index. asp? id=1fid=1sid=7tid=26cid=91 [20/1/11] Marketing Week (2007, April). â€Å"Assessing the MS Simply Food Brand,† [On-line]. Available: Marks Spencer an Analysis of the Demand for a MS Simply Food Convenience Store in Complexe Desjardins Essay Example Marks Spencer: an Analysis of the Demand for a MS Simply Food Convenience Store in Complexe Desjardins Essay INTRODUCTION In this report we assess whether an MS Simply Food convenience store would be profitable when located in Complex Desjardins, Montreal. In the U. K. Simply Food possess a strong brand image and wide-variety of products that emphasize quality. Although considered more expensive than competing stores To see if the chain will have the same level of success in Montreal, we first analyzed the fundamentals and competitive landscape of the industry. Once a gap in the market was identified, we used quantitative research practices to examine each of the marketing mix factors involved in establishing the store. Our findings will indicate whether the location and consumer pool under consideration will RESEARCH OBJECTIVES * Identify the MS Simply Food products and services, and the factors that drive the chain’s success in the U. K. * Analyze the market fundamentals of the convenience store sector in Montreal, and identify whether a market gap for quality, high-end stores such as MS Simply food exists * Assess whether MS Simply Food will be profitable in Complex Desjardins based on the following factor: (i) Location (ii) Consumer Demographic (iii) Consumer Preferences (iv) Competition Pricing Propose key operating and marketing strategies to ensure the success of MS Simply food in Complex Desjardins. METHODOLOGY Industry Knowledge Exploratory research was employed to gain understanding of the U. K. convenience market and lean how the MS Simply Food chain is positioned. This involved a review of studies and data made available by leading international research institutions, as well as informal discussions with consumers who previously lived in London and are familiar with the brand. We applied the same methodologies when conducting a similar analysis of the Montreal convenience market. We will write a custom essay sample on Marks Spencer: an Analysis of the Demand for a MS Simply Food Convenience Store in Complexe Desjardins specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Marks Spencer: an Analysis of the Demand for a MS Simply Food Convenience Store in Complexe Desjardins specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Marks Spencer: an Analysis of the Demand for a MS Simply Food Convenience Store in Complexe Desjardins specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer In this stage of our research we were able to apply more formal approaches, such as conducting in-depth interviews with store managers. After all the necessary information was acquired, a qualitative comparison of the industries was made to determine whether opportunities existed for MS Simply Food in Montreal and whether a repositioning of products would be needed. Target Market From our previous analysis we establish a target market: consumers at the Complex Desjardins. This location is one of the main attractions in Montreal, at a vast 4 million square feet. Roughly 30,000 people come to the complex and its surroundings daily to work, shop, eat and/or enjoy the activities surrounding the Central Square. The Central Square inside the building has a surface of 15,000 square feet and is surrounded by a commercial gallery of 100 stores and restaurants. Thus, this location was chosen because of its notoriety and large exposure to residents and tourists. Survey and Sample Size To determine whether consumers at Complex Desjardins would be willing to purchase MS Simple Food products we conducted an anonymous survey on food services within the complex. The survey was a questionnaire made up variety of formats designed to draw out information about the location, demographic, consumer preferences, surrounding competition, pricing comparisons and consumers’ willingness to pay. Interviews were conducted at the Complex Desjardins, as well as within a 500m radius of its surroundings which comprised of Complexe Guy-Favreau, Bleury Street, Place Des Arts and Boulevard Saint-Laurent. We classified qualified respondents as consumers that came through the complex at least 3 times a week. In total, we interviewed 96 people, considering a variability of 50% and a 10% acceptable sampling error at 95% level of confidence. Assuming the total population under observation here is 30,000, it is evident that a 5% confidence interval is well above 96. Thus, no more readjustments are needed due to small sampling size. FINDINGS Convenience Market (1) U. K. Industry The U. K. convenience store market was valued at ? 30. 9 billion in the 12 months to April 2010, representing a 6. 3% increase on the previous year. The value of the market continued to grow despite a 0. 5% in store numbers. With he total U. K. Food and Grocery market expanding at a slower rate of 4. 1% in the same period, it is evident that the convenience sector is accelerating at a faster pace than the overall market. Thus, its market share has risen to 20. 5%. The factors driving the sector are the rising number of single person households, a growing population, increasing number of women in the work place and lon ger working weeks. The sector is also propelled forward by improved operational standards, greater awareness of shopper trends and more modern, tailored convenience solutions. (2) MS Simply Food Positioning The convenience sector is highly fragmented, with store operators divided into the following segments: co-operative, forecourts, multiples, symbols franchise, and non-affiliated independents. MS Simply Food is part of the franchise segment, which recorded the fastest growth in the previous year. This expansion was driven by additional stores, increased promotional activity and improved value for money. MS Simply Food specializes in selling ready-made meals: salads, sandwiches, desserts, snacks, and microwavable dishes. The self-service store also sells fresh produce, possessing wide selection of fruit and vegetables. Being high-end oriented, the franchise targets working professionals not only looking for a fast, healthy meal, but also willing and able to pay an additional expense for high quality food. For the added premium, customers have access to more adventurous recipes, better packaging and fresher ingredients. These value –added services, alongside the modern layout of the stores, give the brand a competitive edge in the market and allow it to capture a significant share of consumers. A negative sentiment expressed by consumers was attributed to the experience of purchasing at MS Simply Food stores. Due to brand’s high popularity, long queues often form inhibiting browsing by other potential customers and causing feeling of frustrations by professionals that are time-sensitive. (3) Montreal Industry The convenience sector in Montreal is made of Canadian chains and independents. Family-run depanneurs cater to local neighborhoods and immigrant populations, offering specialty foods and discount long-distance calling cards alongside the usual convenience-store fare. Others offer a wider variety of services such as Canada Post, Western Union transfers, Internet access, and home-delivery of groceries. However, the market is dominated by a large Canadian chain known as Couch-Tard Inc. The chain offers a quality assortment of freshly brewed coffee, frozen/iced beverages, fresh sandwiches and other fresh food items that are marked under proprietary brands. Arguing that most convenience stores are too cluttered, the Couche-Tard company introduced a new concept called â€Å"Store 2000†. These stores have wider layouts, brighter lighting, modern decor and often have Quick-Service Restaurants (QSR) located within them. The new concept was a success and the results were integrated into upgrades for all stores. 4) MS Simply Food Expanding to Montreal It is evident from our research that the U. K. has a more diverse group of convenience stores with different positioning catering to all consumer income brackets. However, in Montreal we see that Couche-Tard owns the majority of the market and is designed to target the average consumer, thereby not competing with deppaneurs immigrant po ol. This also illustrates a gap in the Montreal convenience market: value-added stores aimed at consumers from a higher income bracket. MS Simply Food’s positioning in U. K. onvenience markets makes it an ideal candidate. Survey Results (1) Location The statistical analysis of the questionnaire revealed that over 85% of the respondents visited the Complex Desjardins and its surrounding area at least 3 times a week. In Table below it is evident that the number of times a week respondents enjoy meals at the complex is greater in frequency towards higher values, with the overall average at 2. 7 times. This illustrates that the location receives a great deal of foot traffic, and is a popular food services venue. Table 1: How Often Consumers Eat at Complex Desjardins   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Never| 2| 2. 1| 2. 7| 2. 7| | Once a month| 2| 2. 1| 2. 7| 5. 4| | Biweekly| 4| 4. 3| 5. 4| 10. 8| | Once a week| 7| 7. 4| 9. 5| 20. 3| | Twice a wee k| 13| 13. 8| 17. 6| 37. 8| | Three times a week| 20| 21. 3| 27| 64. 9| | Four times a week| 16| 17| 21. 6| 86. 5| | Five times a week| 10| 10. 6| 13. 5| 100| | Total| 74| 78. 7| 100|   | Missing| System| 20| 21. 3|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | Furthermore, findings indicate that respondents favor particular designated areas within the complex and its surroundings when eating. With response rates of 38% and 34% respectively, the most popular areas are the food court and restaurants/cafes on the adjacent Saint-Catherine Streets. Diagram 1: Preferred Food Locations (2) Consumer Demographic In Table 2 we see the sample size under consideration reflects the social demographic profile of the area: professionals, local residents or students studying nearby. There is a fairly even distribution between male and female respondents, with males slightly ahead at 51%, conveying that the area equally attracts both sexes. Table 2: Social Demographic Profile of Complex Desjardins Based on Sample Statistics| |   | I work at or close to Complexe Desjardins| I live at or close to Complexe Deskardins| I study at or close to Complexe Desjardins| None of the above| N| Valid| 36| 28| 21| 3| | Missing| 58| 66| 73| 91| | Mean| 1| 1| 1| 1| | Median| 1| 1| 1| 1| | Mode| 1| 1| 1| 1| |   |   |   |   |   | I work at or close to Complex Desjardins| |   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Yes| 36| 38. 3| 100| 100| Missing| System| 58| 61. 7|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | I live at or close to Complex Desjardins| |   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Yes| 28| 29. 8| 100| 100| Missing| System| 66| 70. 2|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | I study at or close to Complex Desjardins| |   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Yes| 21| 22. 3| 100| 100| Missing| System| 73| 77. 7|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | None of the above| |   | Frequency| Percent| Valid Percent| Cumulative Percent| Valid| Yes| 3| 3. 2| 100| 100| Missing| System| 91| 96. 8|   |   | Total| 94| 100|   |   | |   |   |   |   |   | Consumers in the area tend to be well educated, with 63% of respondents having completed a college degree. This, alongside results that show 41% of respondents are between the ages18-24, indicates that complex attracts a great deal of young professionals. However, Diagram 2 below also illustrates that another 48% of respondents are between the ages of 25-40. Furthermore, the average household is occupied by 2. 8 residents and generates roughly CAN37,600 a year. These findings highlight another consumer profile, that of local residents; classifying them as small family units in the middle-to-high income bracket. Thus, our findings conclude that the consumer pool at Complex Diagram 2: Income levels (3) Consumer Preferences Our statistical analysis of the questionnaire revealed that the consumer preferences of the sample pool are aligned with MS Simply Food’s products and services. Roughly 61% of respondents stated that they would purchase food from a convenience store specializing in quality. Their main justifications for purchase included the reliability of quality food, the convenience of ready-made meals, the ability to enjoy restaurant quality food at lower prices, and the chance to maintain a healthy diet. Furthermore, the study revealed that when faced between the choices of picking up their own food or having it served to them, respondents were equally divided. These factors encompass the overall message, products and services of MS Simply Food value-added services. Table 3 analyzes the relationship between price and healthiness of food in terms of their importance to the end consumer. The cross tabulation clearly reflects the two variables are integral in the decision making process of the consumer: the more emphasis placed on the healthiness of food, the more significant pricing becomes. We can also conclude from the chi squared test that the relationship between the two variables is statistically significant. Unfortunately, our findings proved inconclusive when determining whether consumers would be willing to pay more for healthier, higher quality food. This limitation was due to the lack of responses to the particular question in the survey. Table 3: Relationship Between Price and Health in Consumer’s Decision-Making Process Healthy food on the menu * Price Cross Tabulation| Count|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Price|   | Least| 2| 3| 5| 6| 7| 8| 9| Most important| Total| Healthy food on the menu| Least important| 1| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| | 3| 0| 1| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| 1| 0| 3| | 4| 0| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| 0| 0| 1| 2| | 5| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| 2| 0| 0| 0| 3| | 6| 0| 0| 0| 0| 2| 1| 3| 2| 0| 8| | 7| 0| 0| 0| 1| 1| 3| 3| 4| 3| 15| | 8| 0| 0| 0| 0| 1| 3| 8| 2| 4| 18| | 8| 0| 0| 1| 2| 1| 2| 0| 2| 0| 8| | Most important| 0| 0 | 0| 0| 4| 0| 2| 2| 7| 15| | Total| 1| 1| 1| 3| 10| 12| 17| 13| 15| 73| |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Chi-Square Tests|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | |   | Value| df| Asymp. Sig. 2-sided)|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Pearson Chi-Square| 1. 52E+02| 64| 0|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Likelihood Ratio| 72. 529| 64| 0. 217|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Linear-by-Linear Association| 6. 593| 1| 0. 01|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | N of Valid Cases| 73|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | a. 81 cells (100. 0%) have expected count less than 5. The minimum expected count is . 01. |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Correlations|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | |   |   | Healthy food on the menu| Price|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Healthy food on the menu| Pearson Correlation| 1| . 303**|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | | Sig. (2-tailed)|   | 0. 09|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | | N| 74| 73|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | Price| Pearson Correlation| . 303**| 1|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | | Sig. (2-tailed)| 0. 009|   |   |   |   |   |   |   |   | | N| 73| 73|   |   |   |   |   |   |   | **. Correlation is significant at the 0. 01 level (2-tailed). |   |   |   | How appealing varying food items are to the sample pool is illustrated in the table below through the mean value of each product; with the number 1 representing very little appeal and the number 10 great appeal. The relatively stronger desire for salads and sandwiches over desserts reflects the health conscious nature of the consumer. Furthermore, the high frequency of fruit’s appeal suggests consumers’ eagerness for diversity in menu options. Thus, it is evident that the taste preferences of the consumers are in line with some of the Simply Food products. However, the absence of responses concerning vegetables and microwavable meals suggest a lack of demand for such items. Table 4: Appeal of Food Products |   | Salads| Sandwiches| Desserts| Juices| Fruits| N| Valid| 74| 73| 74| 73| 74| | Missing| 20| 21| 20| 21| 20| | Mean| 7. 35| 7. 95| 6. 41| 7. 37| 6. 95| | Median| 8| 8| 7| 8| 7| | Mode| 7a| 9| 9| 8| 7| a. Multiple modes exist. The smallest value is shown|   | (4) Competition and Pricing Several questions in the survey were designed to size the level of competition MS Simply Food would face in Complex Desjardins. Our findings concluded that respondents favored a combination of restaurants and food court stations, with the top two in each respective category being: (1) Eggspectation and Baton Rouge; and (2) AW and Subway. This gives MS Simply Food a competitive advantage as its high quality food gives consumers the restaurant feel, while its ready-made, self-service concept mimics the convenience of the food court. Despite the popularity of some competitors, 63% of respondents stated that they do not have a preferred food chain. The results indicated that bad service and poor quality of food were the main deterrents of brand loyalty. However, nearly half of respondents expressed boredom with current food chain alternatives and eagerness to try new venues. When asked about sentiments regarding a new chain called â€Å"Simply Food†, 42% of respondents said that the name appealed to them. Also, Diagram 3 illustrates the styles of cuisines respondents believe are missing in the complex. Diagram 3: Styles of Cuisine Missing in Complex Desjardins The frequency below illustrates that 47% of respondents spend between CAN10. 00 to CAN14. 99 on a meal in Complex Desjardins, with the overall average meal costing CAN11. 80. In comparison, MS Simply Food individual products range on average from CA2. 00 to CAN4. 50. However, in Table 5 below we see that the brand’s luxury meals cost significantly more, averaging CAN22. 00. Taking into consideration the average expenditure of respondents, the findings suggest that consumers in Complex Desjardins are more likely to purchase individual food items, rather than an entire luxury meal. Table 5: MS Simply Food Prices | Cost in Pounds (GBP)| Cost in Canadian Dollars (CAN)| Average Cost of Salads| 2. 77| 4. 34| Average Cost of Ready-Made Meals| 2. 64| 4. 13| Average Cost of Fruit| 2. 81| 4. 40| Average Cost of Dessert| 1. 31| 2. 05| Average Cost of Luxury Meals| 14. 11| 22. 08| Correlations By running a series of correlation tests, we discover whether the demand for food within the complex is influenced by the income level of the respondents, the price of food, types of food chains available and consumers’ taste preferences. Table 6 below shows that the only 2 variables that are correlated are the number of times respondents eat at Complex Desjardins and the annual income levels. Although the value is not statistically significant to 0. 05, it is significant enough to display a relationship: that the frequency of visits, or rather demand, is determined by and proportional to the income levels of respondents. Table 6: Variables Correlated with the Demand for Food |   | How often eaten at Complex Desjardins| Which area do you prefer to eat in| Educational Level| Income Level| How often eaten at Complex Desjardins| Pearson Correlation| 1| . | . 343**| 0. 116|   | Sig. (2-tailed)|   | . | 0. 003| 0. 332| | N| 74| 0| 72| 72| Where? | Pearson Correlation| . a| . a| . a| . a| | Sig. (2-tailed)| . |   | . | . | | N| 0| 0| 0| 0| Education| Pearson Correlation| . 343**| . a| 1| . 324**|   | Sig. (2-tailed)| 0. 003| . |   | 0. 006| | N| 72| 0| 72| 70| Income| Pearson Correlation| 0. 116| . a| . 324**| 1 | | Sig. (2-tailed)| 0. 332| . | 0. 006|   | | N| 72| 0| 70| 72| a. Cannot be computed because at least one of the variables is constant. | **. Correlation is significant at the 0. 01 level (2-tailed). LIMITATIONS As in any research report, a number of limitations in the execution and analysis of our report occurred. The main issue we encountered was that of missing data, in which a number of questions in the questionnaire were left unanswered. As a result, many of our estimates were found statistically inefficient due to loss of information, while other estimates may be considered biased if the data from questions left vacant are systematically different. In the future, we suggest increasing the sample size to ensure a more reliable and valid data set. Another common limitation is the subjectivity of surveys in that respondents often fail to answer questions truthfully and therefore skew the results. Efforts to ensure data is accurate would have required more expenditure; however budget restrained us from implementing such solutions. Budget constraints limited the sample size, and care should be exercised in the future to general these findings further. CONCLUSION RECOMMENDATIONS After much assessment, we believe that MS Simply Food will prove to successful if established in Complex Desjardins. Our findings conclude that the complex and its surrounding are the ideal location to for Simply Food to attract its target market. Consumers that purchase food at the complex are young professionals and local residents who fall into the middle-to-high income bracket, and therefore are able to afford brand’s higher priced products. Furthermore, consumers’ product preferences reflected strong desires for higher quality food and a wider variety of cuisine options. Simply Food prides itself on offering its consumers premium quality meals made from adventurous recipes and fresh ingredients, and therefore will be able to capture this unmet demand. Although there is a great deal of competition in the Complex Desjardins, its consumers are open to change and are ever evolving their taste pallet. The unique style of MS Simply Food enables it to provide consumers with quality restaurant food at the speed and convenience of food court service, thereby capturing a wider share of the market and competing with both food chain categories. The following is a list of recommendations we believe will ensure the profitability of MS Simply Food in Complex Desjardins: * Locate the convenience store in the food court, as it attracts the greatest number of consumers. The food court also compliments the self-service nature of the store, providing consumers with an adjacent seating area. * Ensure all advertisements of the brand strongly highlight the â€Å"Simply Food† name, as well as key phrases that reflect the stores value-added services: for example â€Å"High Quality Food†, â€Å"Adventurous Recipes†, â€Å"Variety of Cuisine Options†, and â€Å"A Healthy Meal Option†. This well help the brand appeal to consumers’ preferences. * Limit products to ready-made meals, sandwiches, salads, fruits and beverages. Exclude the sale of vegetable produce and microwavable meals, as there does not seem to be a demand for such items. * To encourage the sale of more expensive luxury platter meals, we suggest holding discount promotions during the soft opening of the store. Reduce the price of platters to slightly below the average cost of meals in the complex, in order to entice consumers and build brand loyalty. * To compete with competitors, MS Simply Food must build up its reputation as a quality food provider at a quick and convenient pace. To ensure this is done successfully, stores must be designed to provide adequate space for browsing, which is to be separated from the pay register. By doing so MS Simply Food will not have the same queuing problem it encounters in the U. K. , which often deters potential customers. REFERENCES IGD The Food and Grocery Experts. â€Å"Convenience Retailing Market Overview,† [On-line]. Available: http://www. igd. com/index. asp? id=1fid=1sid=7tid=26cid=91 [20/1/11] Marketing Week (2007, April). â€Å"Assessing the MS Simply Food Brand,† [On-line]. Available:

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School Psychologist School psychologists have specialized training in both psychology and education. The training requirements to become a school psychologist are a minimum of 60 graduate semester hours including a year-long internship. This training emphasizes preparation in mental health, child development, school organization, learning, behavior and motivation. To work as a school psychologist, one must be certified and/or licensed by the state in which services are provided. School psychologists also may be nationally certified by the National School Psychology Certification Board (NSPCB). School psychologists use their training and skills to team with educators, parents, and other mental health professionals to ensure that every child learns in a safe, healthy and supportive environment. They understand school systems, effective teaching and successful learning. They work to help with the particular needs of each child and each situation. Some of their important duties include: Giving healthy and effective alternatives to teachers, parents, and administrators about problems in learning and behavior. Strengthen working relationships between educators, parents and community services. Use a wide variety of techniques at an individual, group, and systems level to evaluate academic skills, learning aptitudes, personality and emotional development and social skills. Work face-to-face with children and families to help solve conflicts and problems in learning and adjustment. Provide psychological counseling for children and families and social skills training, behavior management, and other strategies. Help promote tolerance, understanding, and appreciation of the diversity in the school community. Evaluate the effectiveness of academic programs, behavior management systems, and other services. Work with children and families to provide integrated community services focusing on psychosocial wellne... Free Essays on School Psychologist Free Essays on School Psychologist School Psychologist School psychologists have specialized training in both psychology and education. The training requirements to become a school psychologist are a minimum of 60 graduate semester hours including a year-long internship. This training emphasizes preparation in mental health, child development, school organization, learning, behavior and motivation. To work as a school psychologist, one must be certified and/or licensed by the state in which services are provided. School psychologists also may be nationally certified by the National School Psychology Certification Board (NSPCB). School psychologists use their training and skills to team with educators, parents, and other mental health professionals to ensure that every child learns in a safe, healthy and supportive environment. They understand school systems, effective teaching and successful learning. They work to help with the particular needs of each child and each situation. Some of their important duties include: Giving healthy and effective alternatives to teachers, parents, and administrators about problems in learning and behavior. Strengthen working relationships between educators, parents and community services. Use a wide variety of techniques at an individual, group, and systems level to evaluate academic skills, learning aptitudes, personality and emotional development and social skills. Work face-to-face with children and families to help solve conflicts and problems in learning and adjustment. Provide psychological counseling for children and families and social skills training, behavior management, and other strategies. Help promote tolerance, understanding, and appreciation of the diversity in the school community. Evaluate the effectiveness of academic programs, behavior management systems, and other services. Work with children and families to provide integrated community services focusing on psychosocial wellne...

Critically examine the duties and responsibilities of the head of your Article

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