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The Mission Statement

15 January, 2016 - 09:17

The firm’s mission statement states the purpose of the organization and why it exists. Both profit and nonprofit organizations have mission statements, which they often publicize. The following are examples of mission statements:

PepsiCo’s Mission Statement

“Our mission is to be the world’s premier consumer products company focused on convenient foods and beverages. We seek to produce financial rewards to investors as we provide opportunities for growth and enrichment to our employees, our business partners and the communities in which we operate. And in everything we do, we strive for honesty, fairness and integrity.”  1

The United Way’s Mission Statement

“To improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities.” 2

Sometimes SBUs develop separate mission statements. For example, PepsiCo Americas Beverages, PepsiCo Americas Foods, and PepsiCo International might each develop a different mission statement.

KEY TAKEAWAY

A firm must analyze factors in the external and internal environments it faces throughout the strategic planning process. These factors are inputs to the planning process. As they change, the company must be prepared to adjust its plans. Different factors are relevant for different companies. Once a company has analyzed its internal and external environments, managers can begin to decide which strategies are best, given the firm’s mission statement.

REVIEW QUESTIONS

  1. What factors in the external environment are affecting the “Big Three” U.S. automobile manufacturers?
  2. What are some examples of Walmart’s strengths?
  3. Suppose you work for a major hotel chain. Using Porter’s five forces model, explain what you need to consider with regard to each force.