Which strategy did 7-Eleven primarily employ to address competitive forces?

7-Eleven primarily focused on customer and supplier intimacy as a strategy to effectively navigate competitive forces. This approach emphasizes building close relationships with customers to better understand their needs and preferences. By establishing a strong connection with shoppers, 7-Eleven can tailor its offerings, enhance customer satisfaction, and foster loyalty. This strategy often involves gathering customer data, adjusting store layouts, improving service, and providing convenience, all of which help 7-Eleven stand out in a crowded retail market.

In addition, supplier intimacy allows 7-Eleven to optimize its inventory and ensure that it stocks products that are in high demand, thereby maintaining a competitive edge. By understanding both customers and suppliers, the company can create a more responsive and flexible business model that meets the dynamic demands of the retail industry.

Other strategies like low-cost leadership or product differentiation may certainly be relevant in a broader context, but the primary emphasis at 7-Eleven has been on forming these strategic partnerships and creating immediate value for customers, which has proven effective in sustaining their competitive position.