Managerial Perspectives and Practices on Sustaining Competitive Advantage in the Hospitality Industry: a case study of Strawberry Hotels Finland
Moktan Lama, Kesang (2025)
2025
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-202601151327
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-202601151327
Tiivistelmä
The current hospitality market is characterized by intense competition and limited demand growth, conditions that compel firms to adopt multiple strategies to support their long-term competitive position. This thesis employed a qualitative case study research approach. The case organization in focus was Strawberry Hotels Finland. Managerial insights were gathered through four semi-structured interviews and two written submissions from managers of Strawberry Hotels representing diverse roles and professional backgrounds.
This study examined the managerial viewpoints and practices related to competitive advantage, competitive strategies, pricing, sustainability and the role of employees in sustaining competitive advantage. The research was grounded primarily in two theoretical frameworks: Porter's Generic Strategies for competitive advantage and the Triple Bottom Line (TBL) of people, planet, and profit.
Findings indicate that managers viewed differentiation and differentiation focus strategy as central to maintain the competitive positioning of Strawberry Hotels. Sustainability initiatives, pricing and human capital were also identified as critical elements and hold a significant value in sustaining the competitive advantage of a hospitality business. Additionally, the study highlights a range of managerial practices essential to stimulate operational excellence in the hospitality market. To name a few, adaptive and ethical leadership, competitor analysis and competitor monitoring, corporate social responsibility, customer relationship management, and outbound marketing.
This study examined the managerial viewpoints and practices related to competitive advantage, competitive strategies, pricing, sustainability and the role of employees in sustaining competitive advantage. The research was grounded primarily in two theoretical frameworks: Porter's Generic Strategies for competitive advantage and the Triple Bottom Line (TBL) of people, planet, and profit.
Findings indicate that managers viewed differentiation and differentiation focus strategy as central to maintain the competitive positioning of Strawberry Hotels. Sustainability initiatives, pricing and human capital were also identified as critical elements and hold a significant value in sustaining the competitive advantage of a hospitality business. Additionally, the study highlights a range of managerial practices essential to stimulate operational excellence in the hospitality market. To name a few, adaptive and ethical leadership, competitor analysis and competitor monitoring, corporate social responsibility, customer relationship management, and outbound marketing.