Question 1 (5 points): The article discusses Timbits Cereal. How
would you classify this type of consumer product? The cereal will be
sold in grocery stores. How would you classify the service level of
this type of retailer?
Ans.:
The Timbits Cereal can be classified as a consumer product falling
under the category of "Convenience Products." These are products that are
frequently purchased, require minimal effort in terms of comparison and
selection, and are widely available. The service level of this type of retailer,
which in this case is grocery stores, would be classified as "Self-Service."
In a self-service retail environment, customers are responsible for
selecting, purchasing, and often transporting the products themselves.
Question 2 (5 points): Copy and paste a quote or sentence from the
article that relates to the idea of consumer time poverty.
Ans.:
The article does not contain any specific quotes or sentences related
to the idea of consumer time poverty.
Question 3 (10 points): Copy and paste a quote or sentence from the
article that clearly represents a ‘Weakness’ in a SWOT analysis about
Tim Hortons. Explain why this is a weakness. Copy and paste a quote
or sentence from the article that clearly represents a ‘Threat’ in a
SWOT analysis about Tim Hortons. Explain why this is a threat.
Ans.:
Weakness: "There's a confusion as to what the brand is," he said.
"This is even a further example of that." Explanation: The quote suggests
that the expansion of Tim Hortons into various product categories, including
cereal, may lead to confusion about the brand's core identity, diluting its
image as a go-to place for the best coffee and doughnuts.
Threat: "Can you be all the things to all the people and still be a strong
brand?" asked Bowers. Explanation: The question implies a potential threat
to Tim Hortons' brand strength by trying to cater to diverse consumer
segments and offering a wide range of products. Attempting to be
everything to everyone may weaken the brand's appeal and clarity.
Question 4 (10 points): What type of brand sponsorship strategy is
being used for this new cereal? Explain two advantages and two
disadvantages of this type of strategy.
