Discuss customer intimacy. Why is it important? Provide an example of a company that successfully abides by this value discipline

What will be an ideal response?

Student answers will vary. A company provides superior value by precisely segmenting its markets and tailoring its products or services to match exactly the needs of targeted customers. It specializes in satisfying unique customer needs through a close relationship with and intimate knowledge of the customer. It builds detailed customer databases for segmenting and targeting, and empowers its marketing people to respond quickly to customer needs. Customer-intimate companies serve customers who are willing to pay a premium to get precisely what they want. They will do almost anything to build long-term customer loyalty and to capture customer lifetime value. Examples include Nordstrom, Lexus, American Express, British Airways, and Ritz-Carlton hotels.