Audubon Hill: a Relationship Marketing Case Study

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2013

Publication Title

Journal of the International Academy for Case Studies

Abstract

CASE DESCRIPTION
The following case demonstrates how local businesses can flourish even in tough economic times. The case highlights two dominant marketing topics, relationship marketing and customer gratitude, and reveals their favorable effects for a small local business. The case is particularly applicable in an introductory marketing course, although it is also suited for undergraduates enrolled in management, fashion merchandising or retailing courses. It is recommended that students will assess the company’s marketing strategy as well as target market, and examine the company’s practice of relationship marketing and generation of customer gratitude. Students should expect to spend two hours outside of class reviewing and responding to the case questions in groups. An in class discussion can follow, in which the class hears all of the different group responses.

CASE SYNOPSIS
Audubon Hill Antiques and Gifts is a gift shop located in Saint Francisville, Louisiana. Saint Francisville was founded in 1809 and has traditionally been a popular tourist attraction due to its historic plantations, churches, cemeteries, gardens and renowned golf course. Audubon Hill is located in the downtown market district and the rustic design of the store fits in well with the town’s history. The store has been in business for six years and carries a wide assortment of high-end merchandise including gifts, antiques, home décor, jewelry, bath and body products, children and baby items, women’s and men’s clothing, accessories, seasonal merchandise, souvenirs, and traditional Louisiana specialty foods. Gifts can be found for weddings, baby showers, holidays, and birthdays for all ages. The owner, Kathleen, describes the store as being the place where you can find a gift for anyone and take a little piece of Louisiana home with you. Although Audubon Hill has survived the 2008-2012 global recession thus far, the owner worries about the company’s future. Since 2008, tourism in Saint Francisville has been unpredictable and Audubon Hill’s current year-to-date sales are down from last year. Kathleen’s afraid that Audubon Hill may not experience enough sales to keep the business operating.

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