SWOT/TOWS analysis

S-O strategies pursue opportunities that fit well the company's strengths.

W-O strategies overcome weaknesses to pursue opportunities.

S-T strategies identify ways that the firm can use its strengths to reduce its vulnerability to external threats.

W-T strategies make a defensive plan to prevent the firm's weaknesses from making it susceptible to external threats.

StrengthsWal-Mart is a powerful retail brand. It has a reputation for value for money, convenience and a wide range of products all in one store.

WeaknessesWal-Mart is the World's largest grocery retailer and control of its empire, despite its IT advantages, could leave it weak in some areas due to the huge span of control.

OpportunitiesTo take over, merge with, or form strategic alliances with other global retailers, focusing on specific markets such as Europe or the Greater China Region.

ThreatsBeing number one means that you are the target of competition, locally and globally.