Abstract
Woolworths Holdings Limited is a South African based retail group that operates locally and internationally through two subsidiaries, Woolworths (Pty) Ltd and Country Road Ltd. Stores are based in Africa, the Middle East, Australia, New Zealand, the United States of America, Europe, and Singapore. Woolworths in South Africa, was established in 1931 by Max Sonnenberg. Links with the UK based Marks and Spencer retail organisations were forged in 1947. Although M&S ultimately sold its shares in Woolworths, the two companies maintain close personal ties as well as a formal technology agreement. Woolworths offers a selected range of clothing, beauty products, home ware, food and financial services under its own brand name. The Woolworths' environment is distinct by 6 competitors: The Edcon Group, Truworths, Foschini, Mr. Price, Pep Stores and Ackermans. Direct competitors are Edcon, Truworths and Foschini, while the others are specialized in different target markets.
