Analysis of Primark Ltd, 2023 Case Study
Key Learning Outcomes
By the end of the case, students should be able to:
- Understand the broad macro-environment of Primark USA and the clothing retail industry in terms of political, economic, social, technological, environmental, and legal factors (PESTEL/PEST/STEEPLE).
- Understand the major strengths and weaknesses of Primark in the USA using the SWOT framework.
- Analyze the American clothing retail industry and how the five forces have affected Primark and rival firms and the impact on industry structure, attractiveness, and profitability
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Primark is the leading international clothing retailer with operations in the UK, US, Ireland, Germany, and Spain, among others. The company operates in the low-cost end of the market which has made it familiar to shoppers seeking the latest fashion items at modest prices. A few large firms dominate the US fashion and clothing market, creating an oligopolistic structure. Nike, Adidas, Zara, and H&M are some of the major players that compete for customers and profits. These firms have established strong brand identities and loyal customer bases, making it difficult for new entrants to challenge them. They also benefit from economies of scale, global distribution networks, and innovation capabilities. The US fashion and clothing industry is highly competitive and dynamic, requiring constant adaptation to changing consumer preferences and trends.
Primark is a global retailer with over 400 stores in more than 15 countries around the world. The company's website (Primark Website) provides information about its products, locations, and values. Primark achieved a revenue of £16.9 billion in 2022, an increase from £13.8 billion in the previous year. This shows the company's strong performance and growth in the retail sector. (Primark annual report, 2022)
This report examines the external and internal factors that affect Primark's performance and prospects in the clothing industry. It uses a PESTLE analysis to evaluate how political, economic, social, technological, legal, and environmental factors, such as the new laws passed by California, impact Primark's profitability and market share.
One of the most significant factors that affect Primark's performance and prospects is the new law passed by California in 2022 that bans the sale of new fur products in the state. (Reuters, 2019) This law directly impacts Primark's product portfolio, as it limits its ability to offer fur products to its customers in California. Moreover, this law indirectly impacts Primark's reputation and image, as it reflects the growing public awareness and concern about animal welfare and ethical fashion.
This report also uses a SWOT analysis to identify Primark's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, and to explore how it can leverage its competitive advantages and overcome its challenges. Furthermore, it uses Porter's Five Forces analysis to assess the level and sources of competition that Primark faces as a low-cost clothing brand and to suggest strategies to improve its position and growth potential.