Marketing Plan: Jeep Wrangler Mock Marketing Plan
Executive Summary
Company Profile
Market Segmentation & Targeting
Situation and Company Analysis
Ethics and Social Responsibility
Marketing Information and Research
Customer Decision-Making Profile
Positioning and Differentiation
Branding
Marketing Mix (4Ps)
Product Strategy
Pricing Strategy
Place: Distribution Strategy
Promotion: Integrated Marketing Communications Strategy
Budget
Action Plan
Risk Factors
Attributions
Executive Summary
This proposal is for Jeep’s 2022 Wrangler 4xe EV Model marketing campaign. This campaign is important because this is the first time, we will be introducing our one of kind, first-of-its-kind Hybrid 4x4 Open Air recreational vehicle. After the last 2 years of our world being under the Covid-19 cloud, seeing all the loss and sickness, the economical strain, and now the road to recovery, here at Jeep we believe that showing what is new in the world. Something they can look forward to is out there waiting to be discovered. Jeep Wrangler is the best way to take them there. The unwavering ability to manage about any terrain, the super cool look, and the always fun feel of driving a Jeep. The second purpose of this ad campaign is to reach a wider demographic. It is important that we find ways to reach all people, particularly the younger generations. Early twenty-somethings to be more specific. Our goal is to give them the ability to see and realize that owning a Jeep even at their age, or income is an attainable goal. Jeep has many great options with financing, trade-ins, and now less expensive models for the younger generation that is new to the road and car payments. It is also our goal to remind those Jeep fans not to forget about our used, or certified used vehicles that in most cases do not lose but gain value over
the years. We need to bring more awareness to the Jeep brand, and how much it has to offer.
Jeep Wrangler simply cannot be beaten in its off-road capabilities. Wrangler is still the original 4WD fun and “freedom machine wrangler's wide appeal has much to do with its three models: The value leading SE, the mid-level Sport, and the well-equipped Sahara. Target Segment
Identify and briefly describe your target segment.
The marketing plan objective for this campaign is to reach and wider demographic in an age range. Even though Jeep covers all ages in their advertisements many still believe the dream of Jeep ownership is unattainable due to cost. Jeep also intends to unveil the brand new 2022 Wrangler 4xe EV. The first-ever open-air EV Hybrid 4x4 vehicle. Increasing sales by 25% and focusing on the American people getting back to the way of life before Covid.
Company Profile
● Jeep is owned by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles who merged w/ Stellantis in Jan 2021
● Automotive industry
● Headquarters are located Toledo, OH, USA
● Jeep was founded in 1943
● Approximate number of employees 6500 in the Toledo assembly plant alone
● Jeep’s annual revenue is estimated to be around 65.1 billion
● Jeeps major products and/or service are sport utility and luxury vehicles Jeep Wrangler
● Target customers: Adventurous outdoorsy type 25-54 age demographic
● Distribution channel(s): Jeep has mass promotions in TV, print media, and social media
Key competitors: International Harvester Scout Ford Bronco Chevrolet K5 Blazer Dodge Ram charger Suzuki Samurai.
● Link to website: www.Jeep.com
● Link to Yahoo! Finance information page (for public companies): Not Public
· Jeep Wrangler has legendary off-road capabilities in addition to reliability and avoiding depreciation. The Wrangler offers durability and resilience to manage terrain that would damage most other vehicles.
· Jeep Wrangler’s total market covers all age groups for about anyone over the age of 25. The average household income for Jeep owners is $100k-125k who also own homes. The average age group for new 2018-2021 Jeep JL owners, 93% of whom have children in the home: 26% of new 2018-2021 Jeep Wrangler JL owners are Jeep women. 28% OF 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited owners are female, 72% are male. For the 2007-2018 Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited (JK and JKU) gender, 28% of these are owned by women, 72% by men.
· Under 25: 1%
· 25 to 54: 38%
· 55 to 64: 30%
· 65 and older: 31%
● The key segments within this market are geographic, demographic, and behavioral.
● The key segments for this market are income, age, homeownership, and product value.
● The Jeep Wrangler marketing focus segments are mostly geared towards behavior. The Wrangler has been around for decades and has three models and their many variables, not to mention the 13 different “trims”. There is a wrangler for any age of adventurer while still providing comfort and style.
March of 2020 was the beginning of a long and challenging time of uncertainty for the United States, along with the rest of the world. Something that no one had experienced to this severity or extent. It is now December 2021, and we are still in the depths of the Covid-19 pandemic. Over the 2 years millions of Americans alone have lost their jobs, and filed for unemployment, and as life slowly returns to normal, so does employment, and the economy. In the meantime, car prices are at an all-time high, interest rates for those with exceptional credit are low, and those who want to benefit from those great interest rates are unable to buy because of the low inventory. There currently is a semi-conductor, or chip, shortage keeping car manufacturers unable to keep up with the demand. There’s good news though! When you purchase a used Jeep Wrangler, (and many other Jeep Brand models) from a respected dealership, it can be a smart investment. That’s right. Jeeps can gain appreciation. This is because of how well these vehicles are built and their lasting power.
Technical Environment
New tech innovations for the automotive world come out every year. This year, 2021, has not disappointed. With the Jeep Wrangler choosing the Technology Group package adds a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a one-year SiriusXM subscription. Mid-level trims like the Sahara trim have these items as standard features. Other available features include an 8.4-inch touchscreen, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and an Alpine sound system.
2021 Toyota 4Runner: Can seat up to 5 people whereas the Wrangler can only seat 4, the 4Runner has much more cargo space, the ride is slightly smoother, and the interior is much nicer. However, the 4Runner has a much higher price tag, it is not as memorable or as attractive as the Jeep. Finally, although the offroad performance is good, it is nowhere close to the beaten path as the Wrangler.
2021 Land Rover Defender: has similar off-road performance as Jeep, but still falls a bit short. Powerful with plenty of torque but less fuel-efficient than Jeep’s. Fuel economy is poor in the Defender. The Land Rover does have a much better-towing capability than what the Wrangler offers. However, Jeep is much less expensive and has better value.
When it comes to safety, they are close to the same in Tech and Interior quality.
Political Environment
Despite Inventory Crunch and All-Time High Costs, U.S. Automobile Dealer Sentiment Remains Positive
Internal
Strengths
● Does the organization have a strong brand presence? Strong image and brand reputation. Great word of mouth from brand advocates.
● What resources are available for marketing activities? Social Media, Cable, Satellite, Billboards, Marques, Print Media…
● Does the company have unique products or services that satisfy the needs of its target market? Yes, Jeep Wrangler’s offroad capabilities are unmatchable.
● What makes the company's products or services unique? History, strength, power, offroad capabilities, ruggedness, resale value, and long-life span.
● What value is brought to customers? The best quality and safety for a great affordable price.
Weaknesses
Does the organization have a weak brand presence? NO, Jeep’s Brand presence is strong.
Are resources insufficient for Jeep Wrangler’s marketing activities? Money, Time, Expertise, and Energy are all-sufficient for marketing activities.
Do current products or services fail to bring value to customers? Listed below are the common complaints known about the Wrangler
Problems reported about Jeep Wranglers
Electronic Sway Bar Disconnect
TRW Crash Sensor Defect. ...
Jeep Vehicles with Recalled Takata Airbags. ...
Faulty Wrangler Welds. ...
Jeep TIPM Electrical Problems.
Death Wobble.
Window Regulator Failure.
Wrangler Gas Overflow Complaints.
External
Opportunities
● What C-PESTs could the company try to take advantage of? #1 Growing tensions and instabilities in the global political environment can affect the gold industry growth and limit the growth opportunities available to Jeep. #2 Frequent changes in government policies harm business performance by increasing environmental uncertainty.
● Does the target market have any unfulfilled needs that the company can satisfy? Jeep’s Target market covers everyone
● Are there emerging target markets with needs that the company can satisfy? Jeep is getting a social reach for younger buyers.
● Currently, there are no plans for collaborating with any other businesses at this time.
Are there opportunities for collaborating with customers to build a brand presence? Yes, in current years Jeep has reached out on various social media and media platforms to encourage some competitiveness. Some of these contests involved essays, others involved producing slogans, and many more. Jeep is always welcoming new and fresh ideas.
Threats
What are the tactics that competitors use to pursue customers?
Listen to gossip. ...
Outsmart your competition. ...
Let the leads come to you. ...
FedEx them the defective stuff. ...
Use Facebook to gain insight
Great Twitter Ads
Offer better customer service ...
Flood the market with content.
What are the strengths of the company’s biggest and or emerging competitors?
Toyota 4-Runner seating for 5, smoother ride, fancier interior
Land Rover- Better Towing Capacity w/ power and torque
How are competitors likely to respond to any changes in the way the company markets? Price changes by a company rarely go unanswered by competitors. Reactions may be strong and aggressive if the competitor is the market leader or an aggressive challenger.
What do customers dislike about the company?
Poor Fuel Economy.
Expensive.
Lack of Cargo Space.
Less Comfortable on the Road.
Road Noise.
Lack of Engine Options.
Freedom—Being true to your dreams and working to make them real. Adventure—The ultimate search for a place where you can be true to who you really are. Authenticity—The higher standard pursued in all you do and dream. Passion—Stretching your limits to achieve greatness.
List three (3) objectives that move the organization a step closer to achieving the mission.
1. Jeep has made significant strides in terms of improving the SUV’s user-friendliness.
2. The 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe Hybrid open-air SUV. The first of its kind.
3. The extensive number of trim options available for each of the models.
Current Status Regarding corporate social responsibility and pursuing sustainable business practices, Jeep has been asked to remove the “Cherokee” name from one of its most popular selling models. Although the presiding judge in the matter has deemed the name ok, Stellantis, Jeep’s parent company, says he is open to ending the use of the Cherokee name and that the conversation with the Cherokee Nation is ongoing.
Jeep has made significant efforts in reducing its environmental footprint and changed towards Jeep’s overall environmental impact in the last decade.
Stellantis and Jeep® Brand has also led the Motor City Pride Parade.
Recommendations I have for the Jeep brand is to release the “Cherokee” name from the fleet usage. Have the newer models return to focusing on better fuel efficiency (better than 2020) and investigate better struts and shocks for some of the newer models, the rides are becoming a little rougher than they used to be. I also recommended Jeep look further into more volunteer work, donations/contributions to the greater good of the community, and to use these practices to advantage in promoting business into larger demographic areas.
Marketing Information and Research
Jeep will need to have an open dialect with the Cherokee nation to determine what would be the best way to either eliminate the “Cherokee” name completely from its product line or produce another alternative while still respecting the heritage of the Cherokee people.
Having newer models return to focusing on better struts and shocks should not be a problem. The technology and knowledge have already been utilized in several other Wrangler models, so it is already there. Jeep just needs to figure out how to implement the older smoother shock technology with the newer models.
Volunteering within any community is easy to determine by calling the City Hall and asking for community volunteer information, local shelters, or even the county library. Often there are volunteer board postings, looking for new volunteers.
Research recommendations for struts and shocks should go directly through the R & D (research and development) department with Jeep itself. Quite often the schematics and/or details of the next models are not made public until released for sale.
Finding ways to volunteer in the community and put Jeep in a positive light could easily be done by contacting the local City Hall, and/or shelters, and food banks.
The largest decision-maker in Jeep’s target segment is an age group of 25-54 which was at 38% of overall sales. The primary problem is 1. The buyer does not believe they can afford a Jeep, so they don’t consider one (not even a certified pre-owned). Or two. The geographical characteristics in which some of this age group live, believe that jeep is only for off-road life.
● Geographic characteristics: Mountains, desert, beach, forest, and about anywhere someone wants to go. Jeep’s motto “Go Anywhere”
● Personal and demographic characteristics: e.g., based on current reports, the age and gender information does not change the overall interest.
● Social and Psychological characteristics: e.g., Motivation to be adventurous and to be outdoors or to live on the edge seems to appeal to the Jeep lifestyle. This is not to say that this is not attractive to other adventurers who prefer to live a little less on the edge either.
● Situational characteristics: e.g., buying situation, level of involvement, market offerings, the frequency of use, brand loyalty.
● B2B/organizational buying considerations: e.g., individual factors, organizational factors, business environment factors, types of complexity
Ø -Jeep can continue reaching the customer by conducting surveys and offering special financing options for new or used Jeep purchases through social media platforms.
Ø -Offer more economical models that younger people can afford, while strategically pleading to the parents that may be buying their child their first car. Highlight Jeep Wrangler’s safety record and how well they hold resale value.
Focus some advertising on a younger demographic. Provide certified pre-owned financing information on platforms they are more likely to see them. i.e., social media, Netflix, etc.
Jeep Wrangler has always offered exemplary safety ratings. Not to mention its off-road capabilities, and yet equally enjoyable and smooth city navigation. All wrapped up in one rugged, sporty, sleek, and sexy SUV. The only way you can experience it is to test drive one yourself!
The marketing niche would be to stay the same except for just adding a wider age demographic. Early 20’s. This is because younger people are saving more and becoming much more frugal with their money. Understanding that living a minimalist lifestyle while still enjoying life and owning the things you enjoy is completely achievable.
Develop a positioning statement using this formula: “To You Adventure Seekers, You Trail Blazers, Jeep Wrangler is the only SUV that offers the best of both worlds with luxury and off-road capabilities, because if Jeep can make it happen, then you can make it happen for you.”
No, I do not recommend a repositioning that improves on what the organization has been using up to this point because I think what they have been using is great. A younger demographic is also capable of owning a Jeep.
Jeep’s brand today is as it has been since the beginning, rugged, adventurous, can go anywhere! And in recent decades America, for people, style, and luxury.
Brand Promise
● Jeep is adventurous and fun
● Jeep is never boring
This message would be reiterating an already well-known and established brand position of Jeep. Making new and fresh advertisements, or adding new promotional advertisements on social media, can be a great reminder to those who do know and educate those who do not.
Marketing Mix (4Ps)
Product Strategy
● When the pandemic hit, Jeep which prides itself on getting people outside to explore, was challenged with a new obstacle to navigate around through in their stay-at-home campaign that began back in April of 2020
● Jeep Wrangler offers four main models- Sport, Sahara, Rubicon, & the 4xe, but there are no less than sixteen variations in the Jeep Wrangler Trim Line. Jeep models are well known for their customizable exterior. You can remove the doors or tops, making them one of the most desirable cars out there.
● Jeep Wrangler continues to deliver an excellent product and service because of its outstanding performance over the years, it maintains its resale value very well, it is SO FUN to drive, has a plethora of Special Edition Options, and is Extremely Safe.
● Jeep is not done improving. To stay current with our economy Jeep engineers had to stop making their regular improvements and shift to vehicle efficiency. In 2017 Jeep announced its plan to include a hybrid powertrain on the 2017 Wrangler model.
● First is the Wrangler, which got a ground-up rework only a few years ago. It now offers a diesel engine option and has spawned a mid-size truck sibling in the form of the Gladiator. Customers will be sensitive to price changes regardless of whether they can afford to pay the difference. Now, lately, with the pandemic lockdown about everything has its prices on the rise. Jeep staff is no stranger to this. They all must make their money and pay their bills. Those price increases trickle down to the consumers.
● Jeep® Brand has been indelibly linked to freedom, adventure, authenticity, and passion. Our core values are embodied in every Jeep Brand.
Place: Distribution Strategy
First, to show what the customer’s attention by showing what they are missing. Older generations, Covid-19 fear, less spending in our current economy. Establish trust with clients primarily, then help the customer see the value of our product or service as a solution.
● First, social media has enhanced Jeep's market performance by creating an optimal level
of market awareness regarding the Jeep brand
● Jeep is already sold across the United States, and Worldwide except for Cuba, Syria, Iran,
North Korea, and Sudan.
Approach
Built on 80 years of legendary heritage, Jeep is the authentic SUV brand with capability, craftsmanship, and versatility for people who seek extraordinary journeys. The Jeep brand delivers an open invitation to live life to the fullest by offering a full line of vehicles that continue to provide owners with a sense of security to handle any journey with confidence. Jeep Wave, a premium owner loyalty and customer care program that is available to the entire Jeep 4x4 lineup, is filled with benefits and exclusive perks to deliver Jeep 4x4 owners the utmost care and dedicated 24/7 support.
The Jeep vehicle lineup consists of the Cherokee, Compass, Gladiator, Grand Cherokee, Renegade and Wrangler. To meet consumer demand around the world, all Jeep models sold outside North America are available in both left- and right-hand drive configurations. Jeep is part of the portfolio of brands offered by leading global automaker and mobility provider Stellaris. For more information regarding Stellantis (NYSE: STLA), please visit www.stellanris.com.
Goal
The target audience for the Jeep Wrangler is the individual who wants the “go anywhere, do anything” promise offered by the iconic Jeep. They want the American promise and pride that comes with owning a vehicle that won a war, built countries, explored a world, and gets the job done. No matter what that job entails. (Bell)
The Jeep Tribe is large, diverse, and - while a family - is made up of individuals.
Messages
The Primary message for Jeep Wrangler is to get out there, live free, live uninhibited,
“Go, anywhere.” Focusing on seeing the countryside, taking those roads less traveled, and seeing things that paved roads do not go.
Interestingly, the Jeep is the “only” vehicle made that crosses all demographic lines. Men, women; rich, poor; suitors, hikers; urban, rural; old young, all own Jeeps. You will not find that mix with any other vehicle. (Adler)
Promotional Mix and IMC Tools
Jeep has integrated diverse social media platforms to attain competitiveness by improving the relevance of its brand including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Jeep has created Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts through which it interacts with its customers. Jeep is also likely to include more efforts to email marketing trends, artificial intelligence use, and better ways to approach customer service.
‘The Big Finish is here so hurry in for No Monthly Payments until 2022 on the Most Awarded SUV Brand Ever There is a community of capability with worry-free maintenance for your peace of mind. You will be automatically enrolled into the Jeep Wave® program with the purchase or lease of any 2021 or 2022 model year vehicle.”
Sales Alignment
Once the inquiries begin coming in as a result from the recent campaign ads that have been generated, this is the opportunity for Jeep to establish a relationship with a potential client. This is an example of a lead. Others come in through social media, by reading the print campaign material, seeing a commercial, or even word of mouth. It all adds up.
Measurement (KPIs - Key Performance Indicators)
Total sales/revenue information is extremely valuable in leaning more: to offer a great deal of information strategy, price point, demographics, etc.
In addition to this any new incremental sales leads, or revenue increase since the innovative marketing plan began Number of qualified leads generated
Using a social media metrics program or service will be the most accurate in obtaining information regarding visitor traffic tonight. Followers’ and subscribers’ totals go up or down.
Budget
Item
Purpose
Cost Estimate
60 x 30 sec TV ads
Primetime TV Ad spot Campaign featuring the New 2021 Wrangler 4xe EV Hybrid 60 (30sec) ads @ $115k each =
$6,900,000/month production Costs
TV (Average) Production Company car/truck commercial costs
$241000
Social Media YouTube
YouTube Ads $10/day/ad x 4 unique ads 4 x $10 x 30=
$12000/month
Social Media Facebook
Facebook Ads 600 + $1500 campaign management
$800/month
Social Media Instagram
Instagram Ads $600 + $1500 campaign management =
$2100/month
Print Media Ads
2 Different
Outdoor Life $56k full-page black & white
Off-Road 4-Wheeler Full page
$56000.00
$17000.00
Social Media Manager
Managing/Monitoring ads responding to inquiries
Average Pay $25/hour x 40/week x 4 weeks=
$1000.00/month
Estimate Total
$7,229,000.00
Estimated campaign impact: [insert
Outline the specific activities you must complete executing your marketing campaign. Each element of your integrated marketing communications plan should be listed as a separate activity. List actions in the order they need to take place for the plan to be successful: first things first, later steps last. Follow-up activities and evaluation of campaign effectiveness also should be captured in this action plan. For the purposes of setting due dates in this action plan, you should assume you must complete the marketing campaign within 3-12 months.
Timing
Activity Type
Brief Description
Audience
Owner
Today’s Date
Example:
Website Update
Add new key messages that fit the repositioning strategy and audience focus
Tech company hiring managers Jim Hill
Date12/19/21
Primetime TV Ads
30sec @ $115k ea. 60ads=$6.9m/mo.
Launch Date
Add additional rows as needed.
Contingency plans and risk management: You should consider the possible risks to your business and make contingency plans to address them. You note some risks under the “weakness” and “threats” sections of your SWOT analysis. Identify steps you can take to either reduce risks or work around them if they occur
CC LICENSED CONTENT, SHARED PREVIOUSLY
Flinders Business School Marketing Plan Template. Authored by David Medlow-Smith. Located at: https://archive.org/details/FlindersBusinessSchoolMarketingPlan2. License: CC BY-SA.
ORIGINAL CONTENT
SWOT and Integrated Marketing Communications Templates. Authored by Melissa Barker. License: CC BY: Attribution.
Revision and adaptation. Authored by Lumen Learning. License: CC BY-SA.
Revision and adaptation. Authored by Waymon D. “Wade” Hyde, faculty, El Centro College/Dallas County Community College District. License: CC BY-SA.
Works Cited
Bell, Shawn, and J Stephen Adler. “Who Is the Target Audience for the Jeep Wrangler?” Quora, 28 Mar. 2017, www.quora.com/Who-is-the-target-audience-for-the-Jeep-Wrangler. Accessed 18 Dec. 2021.
Jeep. “2021 Jeep® Wrangler Pricing & Specs - 4x4 Midsize SUV.” Www.jeep.com, 2021, www.jeep.com/wrangler.html?sid=1037056&KWNM=jeep+wrangler&KWID=43700047422494967&TR=1&channel=paidsearch&ds_rl=1273281&ds_rl=1267886&ds_rl=1272981&gclid=CjwKCAiAh_GNBhAHEiwAjOh3ZBsSIfNCbLRozm24nvizjhB8Fuv5foaZhNgENTxm5ktvkBeDULZYaBoCxPYQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds.
Kiino, Ron, et al. “Stellantis Media - Jeep® Brand Announces 2022 Wrangler Willys with Xtreme Recon Package at 2021 Detroit 4Fest.” Https://Media.stellantisnorthamerica.com, 23 Sept. 2020, media.stellantisnorthamerica.com/news release.do?id=23134&mid=. Accessed 18 Dec. 2021.
Motortrend, and Alex Leanse. “2021 Jeep Wrangler Buyer’s Guide: Reviews, Specs, Comparisons.” MotorTrend, 2021, www.motortrend.com/cars/jeep/wrangler/. Accessed 17 Dec. 2021.
Simari, Michael. “2020 Jeep Wrangler Review, Pricing, and Specs.” Car and Driver, 3 Sept. 2019, www.caranddriver.com/jeep/wrangler.
Stellantis. “Jeep® Brand Is Recognized as America’s 2021 ‘Most Patriotic Brand.’” Www.prnewswire.com, 2 July 2021, www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/jeep-brand-is-recognized-as-Americas-2021-most-patriotic-brand-301325144.html. Accessed 18 Dec. 2021.
Study Corgi. “Jeep Company’s Marketing | Free Essay Example.” StudyCorgi.com, 14 Apr. 2020, studycorgi.com/jeep-companys-marketing/. Accessed 18 Dec. 2021.
Talbot, Paul. “Inside Jeep’s Marketing Strategy.” Forbes, 9 July 2020, www.forbes.com/sites/paultalbot/2020/07/09/inside-jeeps-marketing-strategy/?sh=5196ee8d5168. Accessed 17 Dec. 2021.
Zigu. “Jeep Marketing Mix (4Ps) Strategy | MBA Skool-Study.Learn.Share.” MBA Skool-Study.Learn.Share., 2015, www.mbaskool.com/marketing-mix/products/17479-jeep.html.