2. About Apple inc. Founded in Cupertino, California, U.S. (April 1, 1976) Previously named as Apple Computer, Inc but removed the word "Computer" on January 9, 2007 Founders Steve Jobs Steve Wozniak Ronald Wayne Steve Jobs, Chief Executive Officer
3. Contd. Timothy D. Cook, Chief Operating Officer (Acting CEO during Steve Jobs' health issues) In May 2010, Apple's market cap exceeded that of Microsoft for the first time since 1989. Fortune magazine named Apple the most admired company in the United States in 2008, and in the world in 2008, 2009, and 2010. Apple Inc.'s world corporate headquarters are located in the middle of Silicon valley, at 1infinite loop, Cupertino, California Website www.apple.com/startpage/
4. Logo Original Apple logo The rainbow "bitten" logo, used from late 1976 until replaced in 1998 by monochrome themes. The monochrome-themed logo maintained the same shape as the rainbow theme it replaced
5. SWOT Analysis STRENGTHS Strong, reliable eco-system (OS) Attractive designs Product integrations (all their products connect/work with each other) WEAKNESSES Expensive High research and development cost
6. Opportunity Brand is all-important. The company has the opportunity to extend new products due to strong brand loyalty Providing better warranty support. Apple's warranty purchase plan is pretty horrible and you only get like 90 days standard service compared to everyone else at 1yr.
7. Threats Global economic situation is likely to reduce demand for higher-priced consumer items. Since Apple offers no lower-end alternatives, consumers will switch to other manufactures in the face of falling incomes. There is also a high product substitution effect in the innovative and fast moving IT consumables market The biggest threat to IT companies such as Apple is the very high level of competition in the technology markets.
8. Advertising and Apple store Since the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984 with the 1984 Super Bowl commercial to the more modern 'Get a Mac’ adverts. Apple has been recognized in the past for its efforts towards effective advertising and marketing for its products The Apple Store is a chain of retail stores owned and operated by Apple Inc., dealing in computers and consumer electronics. As of August 7, 2010 Apple has opened 300 stores.
10. Latest news about apple inc. Apple launched laptops without keypad. Latest iphone 4 series has been launched. According to surveys by J. D. Power, Apple has the highest brand and repurchase loyalty of any computer manufacturer Apple is set to release new ipoditouch in september 2010. Apple has released latest ipad with wi-fi+3g model on april 30, 2010.
