As I analyze the situation of my business, Blossom Oats, I realize that there are some critical

factors to consider. First, the quality and taste of my product are as good as or better than
competing products, which gives me a competitive advantage. Moreover, only two competitors
serve the market, which means there is still room for growth.

I must remember that 3 years is not enough time to determine the viability of my business
operations, as it took Champion around the same time to establish itself on the national market.
However, there are some drawbacks to my current operating and marketing model that I need
to address. For instance, I lack market research and analysis of the competition's operating
model. The current distributors only take orders from retailers without stocking or delivering
products. This leads to logistical shortcomings that need to be addressed.

To overcome these challenges, I will have to make some changes to my decisions concerning
product and packaging, advertisements and promotions, pricing, and sales and distribution. For
example, I need market research to understand the demands of various regions. I need to
develop alternative packaging options to reduce costs and make packaging innovative and
different from my competitors. I also need to highlight my product's USP of "Quick Cooking" and
consider offering different packaging sizes to cater to various segments.

Regarding advertisements and promotions, I need to implement a more effective and aggressive
strategy that can lead to an increase in product penetration. I can change the smiling girl picture
on my packaging. I can provide incentives for retailers and distributors based on sales quantity,
and allocate funds for a more aggressive promotional campaign.

To address pricing concerns, I need to develop alternative packaging solutions that can reduce
costs and keep agents' commissions marginally above those of my competitors. This will enable
me to attract additional agents.

Lastly, regarding sales and distribution, I need to employ experienced and efficient sales agents
in areas of potentially high sales. I need to improve the inventory management system and
employ more sub-distributors to reach a broader market. It is also crucial for me to have
personal meetings with distributors and retailers for better communication.

Overall, I need to focus on addressing the problems faced by my business. I need to make
informed decisions concerning product and packaging, advertisements and promotions, pricing,
and sales and distribution. This is to ensure Blossom Oats' growth and success.