Burton Snowboards Essay Example
Burton Snowboards Essay Example

Burton Snowboards Essay Example

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  • Pages: 4 (893 words)
  • Published: August 4, 2016
  • Type: Case Study
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Jake Burton was one of many young people in the 1960s who enjoyed using Sherman Poppen's Snurfers for snow surfing. However, in 1977, he was surprised to find that there had been little progress in terms of development, expansion, or innovation within the industry. In response to this lack of advancement in snowboards, he left his job in Manhattan and moved to Londonderry, Vermont where he designed and tested his own snowboards. This led to the founding of Burton Snowboards—the world's first snowboard factory. This happened because Burton recognized a need for a product and saw an opportunity for profitability in a specific market niche while remaining committed to creating a high-quality product.

The early years of the business were characterized by change and hard work, just like most new small businesses. In its second year, Bu

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rton relocated the company to a farmhouse in Manchester, Vermont. A team of four to five workers operated from Burton's home, handling the production, sales, and repairs of all the Burton snowboard models. The company's toll-free customer service line would constantly ring in Burton's bedroom during the night. Whenever orders were low, he would load his car and visit up to 10 shops per day to pitch the company's boards to shop owners.

In the 1980s, Jake Burton saw the importance of expanding snowboarding beyond its limited presence on sledding hills and snow-covered golf courses. He pushed for ski resorts in the eastern U.S. to permit snowboarders to utilize their lifts, and gradually, they agreed. As more resorts embraced snowboarders, there was a substantial increase in demand for Burton's innovative snowboards.

In terms of

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ski conditions, Burton Snowboards prioritizes boards that are suitable for both powder and icy conditions. The company believes that if a board fails to perform well in the icy conditions of eastern ski resorts, it should not be manufactured. To accommodate its growth, Burton relocated the company to a contemporary facility in Burlington, Vermont.

In order to remain the leading global brand in snowboarding and snowboarding accessories, Burton consistently monitors the external environment. The social trends within the snowboarding community play a significant role in this environment. This community has its own distinct slang, fashion, and activities that shape the industry culture. It is Burton's responsibility to ensure that their products meet the constantly changing tastes and preferences of this dynamic group. While serving customers of all age groups, Burton primarily focuses on individuals between 12-35 years old. However, due to diverse preferences within this demographic, Burton designs different boards for various segments.

The company's commitment lies in technological innovation, as it frequently redesigns and updates its main products. By integrating the most recent computer advancements, the company is capable of simulating diverse landscapes for their boards to ride on. This allows them to improve product design prior to developing a physical prototype.

Burton Snowboards has been a trailblazer in the industry, attracting many imitators who often duplicate its past designs. Additionally, smaller competitors are being absorbed into larger corporations as the industry consolidates. However, Burton remains optimistic about its future by remaining devoted to serving its main customers. To accomplish this, Burton Snowboards must continue to prioritize creating the most cutting-edge and top-notch snowboards available, even if it results in increased

expenses.

Questions

The factors that impact Burton Snowboards from an environmental perspective should be described.

Burton Snowboard is influenced by various environmental factors, including social trends, demographics, technological advancements, and global competition. Social trends have the most significant impact on the company since its consumers view snowboarding as a lifestyle and have their unique clothing and language culture. Demographics play a crucial role in determining the age and gender of consumers; while Burton caters to both men and women of all ages, its primary target group comprises individuals aged 12 to 35. In terms of technology, continuous innovation in product design and quality remains vital for the company's success. Lastly, competition within the industry is increasing due to smaller competitors merging with larger ones.

Identify the most influential of the five competitive forces in the industry on Burton Snowboarding.

Burton Snowboards and other players in the industry are influenced to varying degrees by the five competitive forces, including competitors, new entrants, substitute goods and services, customers, and suppliers. The company's main focus is on markets (customers), thus it needs to regularly keep track of, evaluate, and cater to their preferences for snowboards and accessories. Furthermore, Burton Snowboards must continuously monitor the consolidation of its competitors and take proactive measures to prevent any threats to its dominant market position.

Is socialization a significant factor at Burton Snowboards? Justify your response.

Socialization is the process by which individuals acquire the values necessary for an organization and society as a whole. Adhering to these fundamental values reduces the likelihood of supporting opposing viewpoints or engaging in actions that could harm the

organization or society. At Burton Snowboarding, employees exhibit a shared passion for snowboarding and a genuine understanding of customer preferences. Whether these beliefs are innate or developed through socialization, company employees remain devoted to meeting consumer needs. This collective perspective resulting from socialization is further emphasized by consistent testimonials from employees who highlight the importance of new-product innovation and a commitment to producing the best possible snowboard, even if it means slightly higher costs.

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