A shoe company with a differentiation focus strategy is likely to reward which accomplishment?

A shoe company that employs a differentiation focus strategy aims to distinguish its products from those of competitors by offering unique attributes that resonate with customers. This strategy typically emphasizes quality, innovative features, superior design, and strong brand identity rather than simply competing on price or production efficiency.

Rewarding innovative design is central to a differentiation strategy because it is through unique designs and innovative features that the company can attract and retain customers who value these aspects over cost. By motivating employees and teams to push the boundaries of creativity and function in shoe design, the company can maintain its competitive edge and appeal to consumers looking for something distinctive.

The other options, while valuable in certain contexts, don’t align as closely with a differentiation focus. Cost reduction initiatives might enhance profitability but could undermine the quality and uniqueness that the differentiation strategy seeks to promote. Increased production speed may lead to efficiency gains but might not result in the innovative and distinctive characteristics that differentiate the product. Lastly, while a sales volume increase is a positive outcome, it does not directly support the core objective of differentiation, which prioritizes product uniqueness over sheer volume. Thus, the focus on innovative design is directly aligned with the company's differentiation strategy, making it the most relevant accomplishment to reward in this scenario.