Chapter 210: Three-Year Corporate Planning
The Hardy Group's establishment marked a significant milestone, with two major projects underway: the "Caesar Palace Hotel" and the "Venetian Hotel." The design bidding process had been completed, and the chosen designs were now in the works. The Caesar Palace, inspired by Roman architecture, would feature grand columns, intricate Roman sculptures, and a large fountain modeled after Rome's Trevi Fountain. The Venetian Hotel, on the other hand, would replicate the charm of Venice with its picturesque canals and classical Venetian architecture.
For the construction, Caesar Palace was assigned to Mittel Real Estate Development Company, while the Venetian Hotel was given to another major construction firm. Both projects, along with the Hardy Building, which would serve as the Hardy Group headquarters, were set to commence. The Hardy Building's design, a coin-shaped structure symbolizing wealth, was a reflection of Hardy's ambitions.
With the group's headquarters temporarily in Los Angeles, plans were underway to relocate to Las Vegas upon completion of the Hardy Building. The Los Angeles office would then become a branch.
In the Chairman's Office, Hardy and Andy convened to discuss the future direction of the Hardy Group. Hardy emphasized the importance of having a strategic plan for the company's growth.
Andy was already working on the plan but sought Hardy's input on several key areas. Hardy shared his vision for the group's future, highlighting several core industries.
1. Media Industry
Hardy prioritized the media sector, which included ABC Broadcasting Company, HD Film Company, Global Times, Playboy Magazine, ABC Radio, HD Record Company, and HD Broker Company. He outlined plans to expand ABC TV stations from 118 to over 200 in five years, covering more remote areas and expanding internationally to Canada, Mexico, Hong Kong, and Japan. The Global Times would aim for global coverage, and Playboy Magazine would be joined by a new publication modeled after Reader's Digest to broaden the audience. Film and TV productions would focus on quality, with an emphasis on TV series and variety shows.
2. Security Company
The HD Security Company, a closely-held subsidiary, was tasked with providing security services. Hardy planned to enhance its role by increasing factory security and providing personal protection for celebrities. Additionally, a transportation service department was to be established to handle piracy issues at sea.
3. Wells Fargo Bank
Hardy envisioned expanding Wells Fargo into a national bank with numerous branches and introducing an angel investment department. The goal was to position Wells Fargo as a major player in future investments, akin to Goldman Sachs.
4. Gambling Industry
The Hardy Group's gambling ventures, centered in Las Vegas, included existing hotels and casinos. With ongoing construction of the Caesar Palace and Venetian Hotel, the group aimed to strengthen its foothold in the gambling industry.
5. Retail Industry
Surprisingly, Hardy introduced the idea of a supermarket chain, which he believed would become a significant cash cow. The plan was to establish supermarkets in major cities, offering a platform for merchants to showcase their products. The Hardy supermarket chain would charge display fees or commissions, reducing financial pressure. TV shopping channels, such as "Shopping Street," would be used to promote products and attract merchants.
Andy was impressed by Hardy's strategic thinking and innovative ideas, which demonstrated the importance of the media industry in the group's broader strategy.