Topic > An analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of Kentucky Fried Chicken and McDonalds

IndexWeaknessesQuestion 2-LO3bPolitical factorsEconomic factorsSocio-cultural factorsTechnological factorsEnvironmentQuestion-3LO3cQuestion 4-LOb4StrengthsAmong the strengths is that KFC has of adequate financial resources. KFC is the second best fast food brand globally in terms of value. Additionally, KFC enjoys a global presence just like McDonald's with nearly seventeen thousand (17,000) outlets in 105 countries. Furthermore, KFC's estimated value is $6 billion. Therefore, as a fast food outlet, KFC has better financial strength to facilitate its expansion. Furthermore, KFC enjoys perfect marketing tools. KFC dominates the market with many competitors featuring chicken as their main commodity. It has clearly positioned itself with a big business name among fast food chains. For example, the company enjoys a strong market position in the Chinese market. Furthermore, KFC derives half of its total revenue from the Chinese market, a market in which it has nearly 4,000 restaurants (Yang 2014). Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Weaknesses Despite all its strengths, KFC still receives negative publicity and criticism from PETA. The criticism mainly stems from the nature of the food they sell. For example, the company received negative criticism for selling chicken wings with a kidney. Additionally, they have received negative publicity due to their unhealthy menu. Some of the company's customers claim that the KFC menu contains high-calorie foods. The other weakness that threatens to bring down the brand is high employee turnover. Among the things that cause high turnover rates is the low salary rate. Furthermore, the company invests so much in training its low-skilled workers, which increases the overall cost of operations (Mylonakis & Evripiotis 2016). Question 2-LO3b Political Factors Individual state policies enforced by the government affect the operations of any company and, in particular, McDonald's. . For example, there are people in Europe and America who have protested in their states regarding the health effects of consuming junk food. The groups argue that obesity and cholesterol are attributable to junk food consumption. Additionally, there are other factors such as tax laws, employment regulations and related trade restrictions. Undoubtedly, tax rates greatly influence the growth of a business. On the other hand, labor laws, such as working hour regulations, will require a company to hire more staff. If a state changes these laws, the cost of doing business will increase (Greenspan 2015). Economic Factors Furthermore, Greenspan (2015) points out that changes in inflation and exchange rates affect companies such as McDonald's, which enjoy a global presence. Chains have no choice but to adapt to the changes and implications of the economic environment. For example, when the inflation rate increases, the cost of raw materials increases. It is correct to argue that economic factors influence the relationship between supply and demand. Additionally, the cost of living and wage rate can affect the operations of businesses in a state. Socio-Cultural Factors McDonald's global strategies appear to act on a number of fields to ensure profitable profits for the company. For example, the company thrives by creating a positive attitude among repeat customers. McDonald's has identified its regular customers based on their various aspects. Based on recent research, the majority of customers who frequent McDonald's outlets are under the age of 35.