Challenge. Private Equity Firm principals were considering investing in a category leading retail chain with over 2,000 locations in the U.S. and internationally and wanted to gather store level performance information to supplement existing information they had on the subject company. They had concerns about certain elements of the company’s business and wanted to better assess its viability via primary research at the store level.
Approach. As part of a team of consultants each responsible for gathering information independently in their local markets, I identified and visited three subject company stores in my region interviewing various store leaders including store managers, assistant store managers, and department supervisors, gathering information about comparative year-to-year store performance and high level trends. I also made observational notes on store appearance, merchandise in-stock and replenishment, and staffing and provided insights on customer base and market dynamics, as available. Afterwards, I compiled all information for each store into a standard report format and forwarded them to Private Equity Firm principals.
Results. Private Equity Firm principals received comprehensive and detailed store level information to supplement their existing body of information from which they could base an important investment decision. They were very satisfied with the insights produced and provided a five-star recommendation.
Feedback. “Steve was an incredible asset on this project. Not only did he drive along the project preparation process with his strong insights and questioning, but he was always offering to help other teammates with what he was finding. He is a detailed and hard worker that I would recommend for any other project. I look forward to working with him again!” – Luke F.