Harley Davidson SWOT Analysis

Harley-Davidson, enlisted in the New York Stock Exchange as HOG (Harley Owners Group), is well-known for its motorcycles that also represent the American spirit and image. It was founded at the time of beginning of the 20th century. It is also known for surviving the Great Depression. The firm provides heavyweight motorcycles especially designed for cruising.

Strengths:

• It has approximately 70% market share regarding the heavy weight motorcycle market.

• It has its operation in manufacturing motorcycles, and it also operates in providing financial services.

• The only American brand for heavy weight motorcycle manufacturers.

• It has a strong brand name and is well established in the mind of the consumer with the image of ‘freedom & strength’.

• BRAG (Buell Riders Adventure Group), formed to endorse the brand and involve customers to tap their loyalty level.

• Motorcycles customization makes up a major amount of revenue for Harley Davidson.

• Excellent relationship with the supplier, due to which integrity of the work and cost effectiveness is achieved without expensing out the quality.

• Strong image regarding the good-will factor (The firm got its employees to join in with communities to give a helping hand).

• Strong and long lasting relationship with the employees.

• The firm supports BCNS (Breast Cancer Network of Strength).

• It also supports the MDA (Muscular Dystrophy Association) and it has in many ways aided the association regarding it research and development by providing financial resources.

• Strong marketing and distribution channel in the U.S.

• Enlisted in Fortune 500.

• Customer loyalty foremost strength of the firm (Once a customer purchases a bike, the jacket, bandanas, etc. become a part of him).

Weaknesses:

• Price charged is quite high.

• Losing market share continuously, especially in the European market.

• Analyzing the future need of producing heavyweight bikes is weak, due to which the required production amount is not met.

• Poor marketing techniques which is not attracting new customers in the international market.

• Many people also fear of being categorized as ‘hooligans’ in the society if they started riding bikes.

Opportunities:

• The demand for Harley Davidson is the highest in Europe regarding the international market.