BKM4111 Academic Professional Studies, Assignment, Amity University [IN] London

1.   PURPOSE OF THE ASSESSMENTS

The assessment aims to demonstrate that the students understand the key concepts and issues relating to the students’ subject areas in businesses, and the importance of being able to evaluate the different methods of overcoming challenges. It is designed to demonstrate that the students understand critical and reflective practice, development planning, research, writing, the theories, and practices of team working and presentation skills, to improve success with their studies and professional practice.

2.    ASSESSMENT TASKS

2.1  Group Reflective Oral Presentation Assignment (AS1), weighting 40% of the mark (LO1)

Case-Study

Marks & Spencer Group PLC (M&S) is a famous British brand established in 1884. It is multi- channel retail company offering own-brand luxury food products, clothing, and home products. It has stores across the UK and operates in territories across Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

M&S fell out of the FTSE 100 (a list of the UK’s 100 most valuable stock market companies) in 2019 for the first time in its history after initially being a founding member of it.

The retailer returned to the FTSE 100 in August 2023 after four years, following a return to growth. Its market capitalisation stands at around £4.4bn (as of 2 November 2023).

Requirements:

As a group, you are required to prepare a 15-minute presentation with a maximum of 10 slides.

You must focus on ALL of the following parts:

a.  In relation to your studies in Business and Marketing, identify and explain TWO main issues that M&S was facing leading up to its fall from the FTSE100 in 2019.

b.  With particular reference to the structure of the business and its brand growth, detail how M&S handled the post-pandemic challenges from mid-2021 onwards, and

c.  State TWO factors which have contributed the company’s turnaround over the last financial year and enabled it to requalify for the FTSE 100. Your analysis must contain a conclusion as to your perception of M&S’ ability to sustain this position.

d.  Presentation & style: Produce up to a maximum of THREE slides in total for your presentation, to be uploaded in advance to Turnitin (one submission per group).

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The learning outcomes being addressed through these first assignments:

•    LO 1 – Identify strengths and developmental needs using relevant assessment tools.

•    LO 2 – Identify, and reflect on, personal development actions to achieve study and career ambitions.

•    LO 3 – Demonstrate effective communication skills for academic and business purposes.