Mr. Suleiman finished his Bachelor's in Marketing at the University of Technology and Applied Sciences in Nizwa. After completing his studies, he worked in a retail shop selling swimming and diving equipment and gears as a Customer Support and Sales Consultant for two years. During his tenure in that retail store, Suleiman dealt with many customers, helped them choose suitable products, and gave them good service. He also learned how to design shelf space and make POPs. Later, Suleiman decided to quit his job and start his own retail business. Since he cannot accumulate the funds to start his own business, he invited his friend Mr. Saud to join him as his partner. They have created a retail shop selling cosmetic items for women in Nizwa and named it "S & S Retail Market" The business was running successfully, and they were able to get good returns. After two years, they opened three more branches in Muscat, Sohar, and Salalah.

Mr. Saud suggested that Mr. Suleiman start a new branch in Izki and Bhala, but Mr. Suleiman rejected his idea. Initially, Mr. Saud got hurt, but later, he understood the reason behind Suleiman's rejection. As they have opened many branches taking a financial burden on themselves, the partners ran out of money and could not meet the retail requirements. They were trying to find out to solve their transportation, warehousing, and material ordering issues. As they dealt with cosmetics, they had to import international brands from other countries and figure out a feasible solution.

Questions:

1. What is the classification of the retailer and what type of retail format Mr. Suleiman worked for?

(0.50 marks)

2. What was the designation of Mr. Suleiman, and what was the nature of his work? (0.50 marks)

3. If a customer finds no stock available on a shelf and asks Suleiman, is he responsible for answering the customer? Justify your answer. (0.50 marks)

4. Identify the retail classification and retail format Suleiman and Saud started? Prove your answer by giving at least two features of the retail business they have. (0.50 marks)

5. Can we say the type of business is the same after they expanded? Explain with valid reasons. (1 marks)

6. Why Suleiman rejected Saud's idea of opening stores in Izki and Bahla? Explain Suleimans reasons.
(1 marks)

7. What strategy do you suggest to the partners to fulfill their retail requirements, and how can they come out of their problem? Discuss your answer. (1 marks)