Coolest thing i ever did Essay

The coolest thing I’ve ever done or should I say the dumbest thing I ever done was run my mother’s car into our house. It was the end of summer starting my freshman year at Destrehan High School and I wanted to do something that would have made me seem cool to the kids around the neighborhood so I decided to steal my mother’s car. My mom owned a 2002 Nissan Pathfinder that she didn’t really use, usually just my step dad would use it to go to work and my mom used the truck so I didn’t see a problem with them riding together one morning so I can have the car for myself for the day. One morning during the beginning of the week my step dad had set the key down on the table and it was just a key so I could have easily took it and have everyone else think he misplaced it. For two days straight my parents was looking for the key and I acted as though I had no idea of what they was looking for but he just used the spare key. The third day I woke up and I looked out my window and I saw the car outside knowing I still had the stolen key under my mattress. I was a little too anxious because I knew I had the car to myself and I couldn’t get caught for taking it. It was around eleven o’clock when I got up and went get in the car. A free adventure I took and I thought I was a grown driver driving on the road with other drivers but I wasn’t it was very illegal but I didn’t care†¦ I felt cool. An hour went by and I traveled all over Destrehan I felt like my cool patch should have been given to me that day because it took a lot out of me to do something that crazy. I arrived back to my place without being stopped by the police or pulling up to the truck in the driveway, I felt so bad even hammer couldn’t touch me. My step dad always parked the car really close to the end of the driveway so that was my goal to do, I pulled in, parked the car, and got out. Then I realized I wasn’t close enough and they would have notice something funny. So I decided to get back in the car and park it correctly. Backing up I didn’t notice that I was that far away so I pushed on the gas because our driveway was more of a hill so I needed a little help getting up there. When I pushed the gas I went to fast and had hit the trash can that was in front the house, I thought it was funny and didn’t really worry about it because I could have switched it out with someone else’s. I got out and I noticed I parked the car correctly so that was a good thing but when I walked towards the trash can I heard some noise behind it and I saw that the front window was shattered, that’s when I realized things just got real. I started to panic and come up with lies to explain the window since the car didn’t look damage. My friend Shawn came outside and stared making fun of me because he knew I was going to get in trouble. As he walked in my house to go get something to drink he noticed something that I should have took a look at. His exact words were â€Å" umm Laci I think you should come take a look at this† I know I was inside but I couldn’t understand why I could see outside, that’s when I knew I was dead but I still felt cool for some reason. Explaining this to my mom wasn’t easy at all so I stayed a few feet away from her. When my step dad arrived home he did a little bit more investigation and saw that not only did I brake the trash can, the window, and ran the car through the wall but I also smashed the hose pipe that was connected to the house inside the bricks so there was no water in the house at all. It took them a long time to forgive and trust me again and it also took a lot of butt whippings to relive all that anger out of my mom. Out of all that happened in that week in a weird way I still felt pretty cool for that since it was a fun story to tell to the class. So I am glad to say that was the dumbest, scariest, and coolest thing I ever done.

Third World and People

Academic Skills Research Essay Sl. No. | Essay Topics| Members| 1| Human beings do not need to eat meat in order to maintain good health because they can get all their food needs from meatless products and meatless substances. A vegetarian diet is as healthy as a diet containing meat. Argue for or against the opinion above. | | 2| Forests are the lungs of the earth. Destruction of the world's forests amounts to death of the world we currently know. To what extent do you agree or disagree? | 3| To what extent will migration from the developing world to the developed world become a social and political issue in the 21st century? | | 4| In Britain, when someone gets old, they often go to live in a home with other old people where there are nurses to look after them. Sometimes the government has to pay for this care. Who should be responsible for our old people? Give reasons. | | | | | 5| Telecommuting' refers to workers doing their jobs from home for part of each week and communicating with their office using computer technology.Telecommuting is growing in many countries and is expected to be common for most office workers in the coming decades. How do you think society will be affected by the growth of telecommuting? | | 6| In some countries the average worker is obliged to retire at the age of 50, while in others people can work until they are 65 or 70. Until what age do you think people should be encouraged to remain in paid employment? Give reasons for your answer. | | 7| To what extent should economic planning be influenced by the need of environmental conservation? | 8| Damage of the environment is an inevitable consequence of worldwide improvements in the standard of living. Discuss. | | 9| The rising levels of congestion and air pollution found in most of the world cities can be attributed directly to the rapidly increasing number of private cars in use. In order to reverse this decline in the quality of life in cities, attempts must be made to encourage p eople to use their cars less and public transport more. Discuss possible ways to encourage the use of public transport. | | 10| The idea of going overseas for university study is an exciting prospect for many people.But while it may offer some advantages, it is probably better to stay home because of the difficulties a student inevitably encounters living and studying in a different culture. To what extent do you agree or disagree this statement? Give reasons for your answer. | | 11| Many people believe that women make better parents than men and that this is why they have the greater role in raising children in most societies. Others claim that men are just as good as women at parenting Write an essay expressing your point of view. Give reasons for your answer. | 12| The mass media, including TV, radio and newspapers, have great influence in shaping people's ideas. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give reasons for your answer. | | 13| Tourism is becoming increasingly important as a source of revenue to many countries but its disadvantages should not be overlooked. What are some of the problems of tourism? | | 14| Should developing countries concentrate on improving industrial skills or should they promote education first? | | 15| Safety standards are important when building people's homes.Who should be responsible for enforcing strict building codes – the government or the people who build the homes? | | 16| Discuss the advantage and disadvantage of giving international aid to poor countries. | | 17| Should criminals be punished with lengthy jail terms or re-educated and rehabilitated using community service programs for instance, before being reintroduced to society? | | 18| In most countries disabled people are not catered for adequately, e. g. buildings are often inappropriately designed. Governments rely too heavily on charities and voluntary organizations to provide assistance and funding.What further measures could be taken to assist disabled people? | | 19| In your opinion should government intervene in the rights of the individual with regard to family planning? | | 20| To what extent should university courses be geared to the economic needs of society? | | 21| Many people think that nowadays people are being subjected to more and more pressure in their work, and thus are having less and less time to relax. What is your opinion? | | 22| With the increasing popularity of computers and calculators, student literacy is decreasing dramatically.What are the positive and negative effects the progress of science and technology has brought about? | | 23| In the past, buildings often reflected the culture of a society but today all modern buildings look alike and cities throughout the world are becoming more and more similar. What do you think is the reason for this, and is it a good think or a bad think? You should use your own ideas, knowledge and experience and support your arguments with examples. | | 24| The earth is being filled with waste material such as plastic bags and other rubbish. Is this really happening?What are some solutions to this problem? Gives reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. | | 25| The wealth gap between 1st world countries and 3rd world countries seems to be increasing. How can we reduce this gap? Do you think that developed countries have a duty to assist developing countries in every way? | | 26| Some people say that advertising encourages us to buy things we really do not need. Others say that advertisements tell us about new products that may improve our lives. Which viewpoint do you agree with?Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer. | | 27| Some people believe that the best way of learning about life is by listening to the advice of family and friends. Other people believe that the best way of learning about life is through personal experience. Compare the advantages of t hese two different ways of learning about life. Which do you think is preferable? Use specific examples to support your preference. | | 28| Some people think that human needs for farmland, housing, and industry are more important than saving land for endangered animals.Do you agree or disagree with this point of view? Why or why not? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer. | | 29| Many parts of the world are losing important natural resources, such as forests, animals, or clean water. Choose one resource that is disappearing and explain why it needs to be saved. Use specific reasons and examples to support your opinion. | | 30| A company has announced that it wishes to build a large factory near your community. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this new influence on your community. Do you support or oppose the factory? Explain your position. | 31| The government has announced that it plans to build a new university. Some people think that your community w ould be a good place to locate the university. Compare the advantages and disadvantages of establishing a new university in your community. Use specific details in your discussion. | | 32| Some people think that children should begin their formal education at a very early age and should spend most of their time on school studies. Others believe that young children should spend most of their time playing. Compare these two views. Which view do you agree with? Why? | |

Supporting and Promoting Children and Young People’s Positive

Natalie Cullen 19/11/12 Supporting and promoting Children and Young People's positive behaviour Part 1: Behaviour Policy Charles Saer primary school's behaviour policy is for all who are involved in the school. A few examples of who these people are pupils, staff, volunteers and school governors and even parents to name just a few. These rules are equal to all. This ensures all who attend the school know what behaviour is expected of them and what behaviour will not be tolerated.The policy gives a list of aims of what is hoped to be achieved by these rules being followed by everybody. The aim is for good behaviour to make a major contribution in providing a safe, pleasant enviroment for all to work and play in, to build and raise self-esteem, respect, honesty, truth, co-operation, kindness and tolerance of others. 1) This will make the children feel safe as with good and positive behaviour a safe, welcoming, enjoyable enviroment will be built for them to work and play in. ) By giving the children a safe positive enviroment where good behaviour is shown by all, it teaches the children respect, honesty, truth, co-operation, kindness and tolerance of others. This will make a positive contribution not only to school life but also society and their own futures. 3) By the children learning to behave in a good decent manner and being rewarded for this will also raise their self-esteem and self-worth as well as build their confidence. It teaches them to treat others with respect and kindness and to take other peoples feelings into account, thus helping their social and emotional skills. ) The children are able to learn the expectations of what is expected of them by rewarding their good behaviour and giving sanctions for any bad behaviour. This also will teach them that they are responsable for their own actions and bad behaviour choices have consequences. Code of Conduct The code of conduct is a set of short, simple, realistic rules for everyone to follow. These rules are again for everyone not only the children as it is also important that the adults lead by example and set good standards as they are infact role models for the children. Also read: Different Approaches to Promoting Wellbeing and ResilienceThe rules are useful in the day to day of school life. Charles Saer has 5 main rules of conduct: 1) We never shout or run in school 2) We always care for others and their property 3) We are always polite and do as we are told 4) We never fight or throw things 5) We always keep our school tidy Classes however may have their own rules for inside the classroom as different circumstances may arise for example ages of children, special needs etc. Although they will still reflect the behaviour of which is expected by the school. ) Children will feel safe by the code of conduct as it cleary states what is expected behaviour and what is not. So if a child experienced any type of bad behaviour towards them they know it will not be accepted and to inform a teacher of the issue. 2) The code of conduct will help the children to make a positive contribution towards helping the school achieve the safe, pleasant enviroment for all to work and play in, to build and raise self-esteem, respect, honesty, truth, co-operation, kindness and tolerance of others. ) By the children learning to behave in a good decent manner and being rewarded for this will also raise their self-esteem and self-worth as well as build their confidence. It teaches them to treat others with respect and kindness and to take other peoples feelings into account, thus helping their social and emotional skills. Also helping them to become well rounded members of society. 4) It helps the children to see rules are there to be followed and what is expected as good behaviour and what is unacceptable behaviour giving them expectations and limits. Rewards and SanctionsRewards and Sanctions are basically ways of teaching the children when they have shown good behaviour when a reward is then given or bad behaviour when a sanction is given and will be seen to be fair. This will emphasise the diffrence between good and bad behaviour. Rewards at Charles Saer it is important to recognise and encourage good behaviour with some types of rewards such as: signs of approval, praise and encouragement, displays of work, comments in homework books, class points which can be banked for negotiated class treats, student of the week certificates and medals, tickers and badges, golden book ticket, silver awards, special mention in assembly, postcard/phonecall home. This way the childs confidence and self worth is boosted and they are more likely to keep up the good behaviour. Sanctions however when a child has shown bad behaviour a sanction must be given to that child to teach them it is not acceptable how they have behaved. Some types of sanctions that we use at Charles Saer are: eye contact (a mean look! ), adult disapproval, time out chair or isolation table in the classroom, child will be given a post it which the teacher will write e. . 5minutes in Mrs Smiths class and child will go to that class for given time, unacceptable behaviour will be discussed with child after lesson and not during, kept in at play time, serious misbehaviour will lead to involvment of the head teacher and maybe parents will also be asked to come in to school. 1) Children will be made to feel safe by gaining rewards for their good behaviour as it will give them a sense of achievment, recognition and self worth. ) Children will want to make a positive contribution into the school by ensuring they show good behaviour and try their best at all times to gain the rewards on offer for any good behaviour as this gives them a great feeling of doing well and a sense of accomplishment. 3) The reward system helps develop social and emotional skills as by the children following the simple rules of respect, honesty, truth, co-operation, kindness and tolerance of others, this also gives them the basics for good behaviour and being rewarded for that also helps them develop self esteem, self worth, confidence in themselves. ) Rewards and Sanctions help childr en to understand when expectations are met they are rewarded and praised. When these are not met there is consequences to their actions, teaching them to take responsiblity and that there are limits to which bad behaviour will not be accepted. Dealing with conflict and Inappropriate behaviour At Charles Saer school if a pupil is still presenting challenging behaviour after numerous attempts to try and intervene e. g. rewards, sanctions etc then there are some steps the staff will take to take the matter further. ) A childs parents will be contacted and asked to come in to discuss the situation 2) the next step if still no improvement would be to put the child on a report where his behaviour is monitored throughout the day and good and bad behaviour is recorded, the SENCO should be informed and given copies, 3) If after 4 weeks no improvement the the child should be placed on the SEN register and parents and authorities will discuss the issue. There are 3 stages and if no improvement then child will be referred to pupil referral services . Of course this type of continuing challenging behaviour is very unlikely to occur so serverly.More often than not a conflict or any sort of inappropriate behaviour a pupil displays that is serious can be resolved quickly by informing the parents and the head and class teacher being involved and some sort of plan and agreement as to what the course of action should be. 1) The other children at the school would feel safe knowing that when another child is behaving badly to a serious extent the staff are seen to be taking action against the bad behaviour and taking the matter very seriously, keeping to the their promise in the behaviour policy of ensuring a safe and enjoyable enviroment. ) If inappropriate behaviour is seen to be dealt with seriously then the other children are more likely to make a positive contribution by showing good behaviour and abidding to the rules of the school. 3) The child may be behaving inappropriatl ey due to their home life, so by first displaying bad behaviour and getting into trouble. They may then learn how to behave in a better way with the help of the staff which would help to develop that childs social and emotional skills that they probably wouldnt have learnt at home. 4) Rules and structure help children to understand what is accecptable behaviour and what is not.There has to be boundaries or the children wont be aware of what the limits are and will just keep seeing how far they can go. Anti-Bullying Bullying can be in the form of indirect, physical, verbal or cyber. Common forms of bullying are racial, sexuality, disability etc. Bullying has zero tolerance and will dealt with extreme seriousness. Once the staff have been informed and it is brought to their attention that bullying is taking place the head teacher will interview all concerned and will record the incident, class teachers and parents will be informed and if serious enough police will also be contacted.Sa nctions such as warnings, detention, even exclusion will be given. The victim will recieve support to be able to talk about it. Monitoring of the situation will continue until the head feels it is no longer a threat. 1) Children no doubt feel a lot more supported and safer knowing there is action they can take if they are being bullied in or out of school. 2) Children can make a positive contribution by their behaviour by acting in kind and caring way to one another and learning to accept everyone and their diffrences. ) By teaching children to respect, have honesty, tell the truth, have co-operation, show kindness and to have tolerance of others, that there are people who are different in the world. We give them them knowledge to understand and be accepting of diffrences helping to develop their social and emotional skills 4) Understanding the expectations n limits of bullying is to always treat people kindly and the way you'd expect to be treated by others and to know bullying is an extremley serious matter and will be dealt with serverly. AttendanceCharles Saer's Attendance policy is very similar to the behaviour policy, in that it aims to provide a welcoming and caring enviroment so the pupils can recieve a full time education to reach their full potential, there are incentives and rewards given to acknowledge the efforts of high attendance. Giving the pupils a sense of achievment and self worth. There is also rules to be followed, such as to be on time when school starts, what procedures to follow if off sick or have appointments etc, if too many absences then school will have to ask a family support to becoming involved.So like the behaviour policy there are rewards for good attendance n sanctions for bad attendance. 1) The children will feel safe by the attendance policy as yet again its setting out rules and structure very clearly. Which will make the children reassured knowing its the same rules, same expections, no confussion or uncertainty. 2) The c hildren can make a positive contribution by keeping up a good attendance and geting to school on time. ) By keeping a good attendance this will develop their social and emotional skills because they will be in school socializing with other children and learning but also theyll be developing a sense of achievement, self worth. If awards are given this will highten their self esteem. It will also benefit them in later life when they have jobs. 4) The policy helps lay the expectations and limits out clearly of what the school expects to be good attendance and what will limit that high attendance rate they are hoping for. Part 2:It is benefical to encourage and reward positive behaviour as it shows the child that you have acknowledged their behaviour and paid attention to the effort made by them. It also gives them a feeling of pride and happyness to have their behaviour praised, even if the reward is just a smile or a simple â€Å"well done I'm really proud of you†. Rewarding an d encouraging good behaviour gives the child confidence, self-esteem, self-worth, all the important things a person needs to become a self efficent adult in the future and make them feel like they have a purpose.

Drug Discovery .. (Translation Of Science Into Medicines) Essay

Drug Discovery .. (Translation Of Science Into Medicines) - Essay Example any drug development studies failing to enter clinical practice after spending billions of dollars during their development, the scientific community is taking steps to create a more focused, effective and less expensive methods to develop new drugs (Tho & Graham, 2006). The probability of developing such drugs is becoming increasingly common with advancements in cellular and molecular biology. The field of translational studies involves the use of these latest techniques in drug development prior to their entry in to the clinical trial phase. These techniques help to provide a comprehensive view of the disease, identify molecular targets and then to develop specific drugs that would act against these targets. These lead compounds can be selected from a vast array of chemicals using screening techniques such as chemical library screening. Other techniques used in translational studies are microarray technique which is used to study the expression of genes and the use of genetically e ngineered humanized mouse which is useful in studying the biological responses to drugs in vivo. In addition, toxicology studies reveal potential drug toxicities to major organs such as the liver and the heart. More recent development include the use of computer simulation tools that are helpful in predicting the systemic exposure of the drug within the human body, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics studies to determine the efficacy of the drugs developed, and the development of biomarkers prior to clinical testing of the drug which could help in understanding disease progression and its prognosis (Yu, 2011). The major challenge posed by translational research is integration of data obtained from these various technologies and using them appropriately to determine the effectiveness of clinical studies (Tho & Graham, 2006). 1. Tho, L. M. & Graham, K. (2006) Translational Research- A Multidisciplinary Approach. Annals Academy of Medicine. [Online] 35 (6), 441-442. Available from

Business Profile on Bre Pettis Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Business Profile on Bre Pettis - Coursework Example In 2007 in Vienna he was also an artist-in-residence at Museum-Quartier of the art group named Monochrome. He has also been prominently featured in a documentary film named â€Å"Print the Legend† (Welch). Bre Pettis moved to Seattle at the age of 13. Before Seattle, he lived in Ithaca, New York. He graduated later from the Bellevue High School. He studied mythology, psychology and performing arts at Evergreen State College and was graduated from there in the year 1995. After college, he worked for a brief time as a floor runner and also as a camera assistant on films that were being featured in Prague. Bre Pettis also worked as an assistant for the Creature Shop of Jin Henson in London. He later studied at the Pacific Oak College from where he graduated with a teaching certificate and started working as an art teacher in Seattle Public School from the year 1999 to 2006. Pettis married Koi Stark and they have a daughter together named Nika Stark, who was born on July 8, 2011 (Dale). Pettis started thinking about creating something when he moved to New York in the year 2007. He used to play Frisbee each weekend with 20 people belonging to the technology industry in New York. This is how he met Zach and created NYC Resistor, a famous hackerspace. Zach and Pettis shared tools and they also invested collectively in a laser cutter worth $25,000. It was then that they started talking about creating 3D-printers; they had been hearing about them but never saw any as they were only available to the design firms. They later got involved with a community whose focus was to make 3D printers; a community that had the ability to make their own copies in order to build the foundation of a world without money. It was then that they began making prototypes. Even after working for two years they did not have any 3D-printer that actually worked (Kate). In January 2009 both Zach and  Pettis locked themselves in hackerspace and in a few months created an actual 3D printer.  

Lord Byron (1788-1824) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Lord Byron (1788-1824) - Essay Example Braham and Nathan (1815) offered one of the most notable contemporary commentaries on the poem, comparing Byron’s illustration of the beauty with that of the ancient poets such as Virgil, whose Venus was also known for her walk. Byron’s lady walks in beauty, like the night / Of cloudless climes and starry skies†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (line 1-2) According to Braham and Nathan, the readers are totally at a loss to conjure the beauty of this lady who seems to affect solitude. â€Å"She is altogether a very non-descript kind of personage, whether we regard her as ‘walking like night’, or as having ‘all that’s best of dark and bright in her eyes and aspect’; but what the particularities of this lady have to do with Hebrew circumstances or characteristics †¦ are supposed to give the poem its specific and appropriate character†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Braham and Nathan, 205) Therefore, it is fundamental to recognize that the people in the nineteenth century who loved literature shared their ideas, analyses, interpretations, etc of their contemporary literary works in various effective means. These criticisms and reviews are the basic scholarly literature for the modern attempts to analyze and understand these works. Work Cited Braham, J and Isaac Nathan. A Selection of Hebrew Melodies, Ancient and Modern with appropriate Symphonies and Accompaniments. The British review and London Critical Journal.

Research Topics in Insurance Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Topics in Insurance - Research Paper Example At the same time, it can also cover those who are bellow this specified age, but have special needs- the disabled or those suffering from the end stage renal disease. Under this scheme, one is eligible to be covered for the hospital bills under the umbrella of category ‘A’ at the same time, one can enjoy insurance coverage under part ‘B’ or be covered for the prescription of drugs under the scheme’s part ‘B’ This scheme however differs from the Medicaid programme because it mainly focuses on the elderly people at the age of 65 years and above. On the other hand, the Medicaid programme is open to any person in any age group. Similarly, the Medicare scheme solely relies on the federal government for funds while the Medicaid does not entirely depend on the federal government for funding. Part of its budget is footed by the respective semi- autonomous state governments. Medicaid insurance on the other hand relies on the federal government to offer health coverage or to provide home nursing for a specified category of people in the United States of America (US General Accountability Office, 2000). Such categories of people eligible for coverage under this noble programme are the low income earning people in the American society. They include the children, parents of eligible children, the elderly, pregnant women and the disabled who may be in a dire need for home nursing. Ideally, this programme was designed to help the categories of people to afford medical bills under the Medicaid programme, an eligible person is entitled to be wholly or partly be assisted to settle their medical bills. Generally, there are two distinct types of Medicaid- Community Medicaid and the Medicaid nursing. Community Medicaid in its part was designed to assist people who a little or no medical insurance schemes at all. However, medical nursing home scheme on the other hand, is meant for

Zara Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

Zara - Essay Example Several leading organizations are trying to implement business expansion strategy in order to develop a potential global client base and achieve significant market share growth. Zara has a strong global presence. The brand implemented a unique operation management strategy in the business processes which is totally different than other retailers selling similar types of apparels. Zara is known as a vertically integrated retailer. The organization has high control on each and every step in supply chain, manufacturing, designing and distribution of the products. The company has set up its own production factory in major areas around the globe (Jones and Robinson, 2012, p.29). It helped the organization to control each and every business operation process individually. Effective integration and close look at each and every business process help the organization to maintain a strong control on production and distributions. It is discussed earlier that the organization adopted different o peration strategy in business process unlike to the similar retailers or organizations. Zara adopted just-in-time approach in the business model in order to enhance the supply chain, inventory management, and logistics management and distribution management process. The manufacturing units are located in several parts in the world. It is true that the warehouses of Zara are located in Spain. 50 % of products are manufactured in Spain. The rest of the products are manufactured throughout the world. It is a significant example of effective operation process (Slack, Chambers and Johnston, 2010, p.97). It is true that, several leading organizations used to outsource products and services from the parent country. It increases the outsourcing cost and supply chain cost. Glocal manufacturing and distribution process helped Zara to cut down the outsourcing cost. Now-a-days, Zara is significantly trying to expand its business practices due to favourable external environmental factors. In add ition to this, strong global brand name is influencing Zara to implement global expansion strategy. Manufacturing factories in different places and strong vertical integration in business model are helping Zara to adopt and implement global expansion strategy quite successfully. Question 2 Zara, being one of the leading global apparel retain chain is facing several operation management issues in its global expansion strategy. It is discussed earlier that the organization adopted vertical integration strategy in the business model. In addition to this, the organization implemented just-in-time approach in the supply chain and distribution management process. Zara believes in lowest inventor management. Zara never goes for mass production and huge inventory. According to the management of Inditex group, large inventory can affect the product quality and brand image of the organization (Johnston, Clark and Shulver, 2012, p.76). The percentage of annual sales of Zara is lower that other potential competitors due to this reason. In addition to this, Zara used to avoid developing inventories in its supply chain part from the resources and raw materials to the end users. The brand designs and manufactures almost 10,000 new models in every year and distributes it to all the retailers twice per week. This system actually increases the inventory management cost. The organization believes that large inventory and limited logistics activity can reduce the exclusivity of the products as the organization tries to provide quality and exclusive products to the target customers. The organization faced

Beowulf and Pride Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 5

Beowulf and Pride - Essay Example He is thus prone too to the spiritual and psychological shortcomings that come with being human. That includes the possibility of becoming proud. In the end, one can say that it was pride that led Beowulf to his death in that combat with the dragon. He has become old. As Hrothgar probably sees in advance, Beowulf’s pride keeps him from seeing his limitations. This being so, he goes to do battle with the dragon on his own at the end of his life. In so doing Beowulf gets killed. Hrothgar’s words, therefore, ring true. At the height of Beowulf’s success, he knows that Beowulf is vulnerable too. He is vulnerable to becoming proud just like all human beings are. As Hrothgar cautions: â€Å"Ban, then, such baleful thoughts, Beowulf dearest, best of men, and the better part choose, profit eternally; and temper thy pride, warrior famous!†. This paper asserts, therefore, that as mortal and flawed, though Beowulf is the strongest and bravest warrior in all the land, he too is vulnerable to the weaknesses of all men, and in particular he is vulnerable to pride. Pride is the downfall of Beowulf. It is important to see that Hrothgar is speaking from the point of view of experience and great wisdom. That wisdom is forged from his own past success and present misfortune of seeing his kingdom devastated by Grendel. He sees that Beowulf is truly remarkable. He is able to do what his best men cannot. Beowulf is able to slay the dragon and also his mother, with his own hands. He is able to do battle with Grendel without using any arms too. Such is his power and his abilities that he is able to do all of this. Moreover, Hrothgar sees that Beowulf is also very popular. His fame has spread very far. In the midst of all these Hrothgar knows that any mortal man will become proud. When he gives out the warning to Beowulf he is not trying to diminish Beowulf’s success. He is trying to protect him in a way from his own weaknesses.

Step 1 of 4 Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Step 1 of 4 Paper - Essay Example How information flows from level to level in a company is also determined by the organizational structure. Decisions flow from top to down in a centralized structure while in a decentralized structure, making decisions is done at various different levels (Wailgum, 2007).Decentralized decision making should be preferred by managers because it gives the opportunity to the employees to participate in decision-making. This makes them have a sense of ownership of the company and, therefore, give their best. Companies can streamline their operations if they establish a hierarchical structure whose chain of command is clear. The organizational leadership structure should be able to provide direct supervision and regular feedback from employees (Lu, 2014). Corporate decision making allows all stakeholders be involved in decision making and their contributions valued. Autocratic leadership makes managers the sole decision makers and deters innovativeness as the creative employees do not get a room of implementing or sharing their ideas. Therefore, participative leadership which boosts the morale of employees because their contribution to the decision-making process is appreciated should be adopted by company heads. The success of any business is determined by the innovativeness of the company. Through innovation, companies bring into the market new products and services. Innovative methods assist companies reduce costs of operation and enhance customer satisfaction through quality improvement. Innovativeness can only be realized if creative employees are given room to share and implement their ideas. Leadership style used should support creativity and innovativeness among the employees to enhance the performance of their companies. Gilmore (2014) observes that the state of the art technology and network design has enabled Wal-Mart to track and predict inventory levels, manage customer service response logistics and relationships, develop more efficient

Structure and Agency in Revolutionary Theory Essay

Structure and Agency in Revolutionary Theory - Essay Example The school of culture and agency is based on the premise that repeated conditioning of individuals through their culture patterns human behaviour. Agency forwards the notion that human behaviour is determined by free will that charts the way for independent action and free will in making choices. Revolutions are occurrences in governance that result to a change in leadership, which is achieved through various means. Numerous schools of thought have been forwarded in an attempt to explain and the understanding of the making and the instigators of revolutions. This paper seeks to highlight the debate between structural theorists and the culture and agency school to the 1906 constitutional revolution in Iran. The 1906 constitutional revolution in Iran was instigated by the Shah’s extravagance, which led to the exploitation and destruction of the nation’s economy (Poulson 104). Teheran was the seat of Persian power and majority of the population was composed of merchants, noble classes, religious authorities and the educated elite who felt and understood the consequences of the Shah’s extravagance (Poulson 106). They were the main instigators of the revolution that called for the removal of the chancellor who was to blame for the dire economic situation. After the removal of the chancellor the Shah did not change his extravagant ways and the same group campaigned and advocated for the establishment of an institution would rule by law instead of royal and foreign influence. In the context of this discussion, the 1906 revolution in Iran can be viewed from both perspectives that are presented by structural theorists and the culture and agency school of thought. This is b ecause according to Skocpol, there are always structural forces that underlie the uprising of a revolution. Persia was facing an economic meltdown under the leadership of the Shah, which means the societal structure was under threat (Geels 32). This is in the

Ethical Behavior and Social Responsibility of Organizations Essay Example for Free

Ethical Behavior and Social Responsibility of Organizations Essay Introduction Proper ethical behavior is a significant part of conducting business. Organizations must therefore find ways to incorporate ethical considerations into their strategic plan. Firms need to practice self governance and obey existing laws if they are to ensure their survival and the well-being of the society in which they exist. The decisions made by an organization affect society as a whole. This paper will examine the social responsibilities of organizations to each of their stakeholders. These include: customers, employees, shareholders, suppliers, the local government and the environment. Each section of this report is supplemented with a case study illustrating the consequences of unethical behavior in business. Defining Ethics Ethics is a ubiquitous term that is subject to personal interpretation. Individuals and groups are guided by moral principles or values. Their beliefs help them to set standards for deciphering right from wrong (Little, 2011). Ethical values are dynamic and are therefore subject to renegotiation and change. These changes are often influenced by periodic and contextual circumstances. As ethical beliefs differ from person to person, it may not be entirely possible to instill a universal set of values. Also, many individuals have different points of reference when determining what is right and what is wrong (Little, 2011). Domestically, ethical values tend to be closely aligned. Individuals who have been socialized in a particular region are more likely to have similar values, laws, religion, knowledge and culture. With the emergence of free-trade agreements, many firms have the opportunity to conduct international business. Although these organizations are usually successful in aligning their economic interests, many have failed to recognize or understand the cultural norms, laws and ethical practices of the country they are conducting business with. Defining Social Responsibility An organization’s approach to social responsibility can impact its image and reputation. Depending on how an organization addresses this aspect of business, ethics can either be a strength or a weakness. Social responsibility can be divided into three categories: obligatory, reactive or responsive behavior (Duening Ivancevisch, 2008). An organization that acts out of social obligation tends to direct its behavior to the legal pursuit of profit (Duening et al., 2008). Socially reactive organizations often adhere to social norms, values and performance expectations (Duening et al., 2008). These organizations must be accountable for the ecological, environmental and social costs incurred by their actions (Duening et al., 2008). Lastly, socially responsive organizations often engage in behavior that exceeds the actions taken by socially obligated and socially reactive organizations. For example, these firms take stands on public issues, account for their actions, anticipate future needs of society, move toward satisfying them, and communicate with the government regarding existing and anticipated socially desirable legislation (Duening et al., 2008). As illustrated above, social responsibility can mean different things to different people. In a broad sense, social responsibility is a compliance to the legal obligations, social norms and ethical standards of society. For the purpose of this paper, I will use the broad sense of the term, unless otherwise specified. Social Responsibility of Organizations to Internal Beneficiaries Social Responsibility to Employees Legally, organizations are responsible for providing their employees with a minimum wage, safe working conditions and the freedom to form a union (Duening et al., 2008). These laws discourage management from creating workplaces that violate employee civil rights (Duening et al., 2008). However, many part-time employers, fast food restaurants and retailers provide only the minimum. Historically, employee benefits emerged out of pressure from employees, unions and the community. Today, most organizations are expected to go beyond the minimum legal requirements by providing their employees with â€Å"fringe benefits†, such as retirement funds, health and accident insurance (Duening et al., 2008). Many socially reactive and socially responsive organizations have extended their benefits to include training, career development, counseling, employee assistance programs, day-care and flex-time policies. As employee family life becomes more complex, organizations must find ways to offer support. Many modern organizations are concerned about employee satisfaction and the benefits associated with it. Employees who are content demonstrate a higher commitment to the organization, which often translates into less absenteeism, higher morale and higher productivity. Overall, the modern worker wants his job to be both meaningful and fulfilling (Duening et al., 2008). Social Irresponsibility to Employees: Wal-Mart Wal-mart is one of the most profitable and efficiently run organizations in the world. In 2005, the corporation grossed two-hundred and forty billion dollars in sales, yet still failed to provide its employees with health care benefits and a livable wage (Greenwald Gilliam, 2005). On numerous occasions, the organization neglected to provide its employees with the basic legal requirements. As a result, Wal-mart is now facing a number of class action law suits. Reports suggest that the organization is also notorious for keeping its stores understaffed. Although overtime is rarely an option, employees are still expected to work off the clock to get the job done (Greenwald et al., 2005). Workers are ordered to complete their tasks and are often told that they can be replaced. Given their unfortunate personal circumstances, many employees put up with this abuse. In terms of employee well-being, a large majority of Walmart’s workers cannot afford the company’s basic medical insurance at just seventy-five dollars per month. (Greenwald et al., 2005). However, Wal-mart encourages its employees to seek out section-8 housing, food stamps and government-provided health insurance. (Greenwald et al., 2005). Evidently, Wal-mart’s everyday low prices are a result of taxpayer subsidies. Nationwide, Wal-mart is costing taxpayers over one and a half billion dollars a year in subsidies for its employees (Greenwald et al., 2005). As a result of these policies, Walmart’s average sales employee is living below the Federal Poverty Line. (Greenwald et al., 2005). In 2001, Barbara Ehrenreich conducted a sociological study to determine whether or not she could survive on a low wage. She found a job at Wal-mart in Minnesota. Her study reaffirmed the poor working conditions that Wal-mart employees often endure. In the following quote Ehrenreich talks about a shirt that she wanted to purchase for work: â€Å"One of the rules is that our shirts have to have collars, so they have to be polos, not tees. Somehow Id missed this during orientation At $7 an hour, a $7 shirt is just not going to make it to my shopping list† (Ehrenreich, 2002, p.88). Given the low wage that she earns, she has difficulty justifying the purchase of a seven dollar work shirt. In the next quote, her co-worker Alyssa finds herself in a more difficult situation: â€Å"Alyssa is another target for my crusade. When she returns to check yet again on that $7 polo, she finds a stain on it. What could she get off for that? I think 10 percent, and if you add in the 10 percent employee discount, wed be down to $5.60. Im trying to negotiate a 20 percent price reduction with the fitting room lady when rotten luck Howard shows up and announces that there are no reductions and no employee discounts on clearanced items. Those are the rules. Alyssa looks crushed, and I tell her, when Howards out of sight, that theres something wrong when youre not paid enough to buy a Wal-Mart shirt, a clearanced Wal-Mart shirt with a stain on it. I hear you, she says, and admits Wal-Mart isnt working for her either, if the goal is to make a living† (Ehrenreich, 2002, p.100). Wal-mart is also notorious for squashing unions. If a branch plans to hold a union vote, the organization will hire new employees to dilute the number of people who are pro union. Moreover, the organization allots each store a seven-thousand dollar anti-union package; a thirty-thousand dollar undercover spy van, access to the organization’s one hundred thousand dollar anti-union hot-line; and the use of its seven-million dollar corporate jet for rapid response (Greenwald et al., 2005). If a branch is successful in a union vote, Wal-mart will not hesitate to close down that particular retail outlet. In summary, with the absence of unions and the current mind-set of management, it is highly unlikely that employee working conditions will improve any time soon. Social Responsibility to Shareholders Organizations have a social responsibility to their shareholders and must provide accurate information for investment decisions. (Duening et al., 2008). As stated by Duening and Ivancevich, â€Å"the ultimate action a stockholder can take is to sell the stock† (2008). It is important that organizational information be transparent and accessible. Also, organizations must be as efficient and effective as possible with the use of their resources. Any process or product feature that does not add value is wasteful and has an adverse effect on the bottom line. Investors of the twenty-first century want instant gratification and are therefore often fixated on short-term earnings. As corporations and their managers face pressure from shareholders to produce appeasing quarterly results, they often fail to think about the long-term well being of the organization, its employees and the environment. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in performance-based bonuses. In many multinational organizations, executives earn exponentially more than their lowest paid employees. As an incentive, executives often receive options for shares in the company. The value of those options is contingent upon the company’s short, medium or long-term performance. In 2010, chief executives at the United States’ five hundred largest firms collectively took home four billion dollars (DeCarlo, 2010). The value realized from exercised stock options accounted for the main component of their pay (DeCarlo, 2010). When managers act in their own self interest, bonus-based compensation schemes can have dire consequences for all parties involved. Social Irresponsibility to Shareholders: Enron In 2001, Enron filed for bankruptcy (Bryce, 2003). At the time, it was the largest bankruptcy in the history of the United States. The management cooked the books and misrepresented their position to shareholders (Little, 2011). Enron used mark-to-market accounting practices to manipulate earnings and to create a mirage of success. On several occasions, company executives lied to investors, overstated earnings and omitted critical information (Bryce, 2003). As a result, stakeholders lost billions of dollars. Also, the employee pension plan contained over two billion dollars in assets with sixty-two percent of the funds invested in Enron stock (Bryce, 2003). Thousands of Enron employees lost a bulk of their life savings. In addition, the California Public Employees Retirement system lost three billion dollars (Bryce, 2003). Many individuals, investment firms and hedge funds lost billions of dollars as well. While thousands of individuals lost large sums of money, Enron executives netted significant returns from their unethical stock manipulation and insider trading. Social Responsibility to the Supply Chain The supply chain is a system of organizations, people, technology, activities, information and resources involved in moving a product or service from the supplier to the consumer (Shafer et al., 2010). Within the chain, an organization can be both a supplier and a customer. Today, many organizations realize the importance of strengthening relationships and working with fewer suppliers. In effect, suppliers and their customers have become interdependent on one another. Traditionally, customers pitted suppliers against each other in hopes of getting the best price. Today, however, many suppliers play a vital role in the operations process. Through vendor-managed inventory systems, organizations have been able to avoid stockouts, thus reducing inventory costs (Shafer et al., 2010). Corporations that rely on sole sourcing have a partner-like relationship with their suppliers. The just-in-time delivery system is based on customers pulling their orders through the supply chain while suppliers ensure the inputs arrive according to schedule. Companies are also responsible for ensuring that their suppliers are treated respectfully and paid on time. In this relationship, both organizations have to turn a profit to ensure their survival. Social Irresponsibility to the Supply Chain: Monsanto Monsanto is an organization that has little regard for the farmers who use its products or the end users that consume them. In 1994, Monsanto introduced Posilac to the American market. Posilac is a bovine growth hormone that was developed to increase milk production. Today, â€Å"the United States is the only developed nation that permits humans to drink milk from cows that have been given artificial growth hormone† (Laskawy, 2010, para 3). This product was banned in twenty-seven countries including Canada and the European Union (Achbar et al.,2004). Moreover, Posilac was tested for only ninety days to assess for human toxicity (Achbar et al., 2004). There is widespread concern regarding the long-term effects of this product on the well-being of humans and animals. Despite these concerns, this product was approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Either Monsanto misreported its findings or the Food and Drug Administration did not look at them. Health Canada research showed that bovine growth hormone could be absorbed by the human body with the possibility of a link to cancer (Achbar et al.,2004). In addition to being harmful, Posilac is of little value to farmers and end users. Prior to Posilac’s release, there was an abundance of milk in the marketplace and farmers were told to produce less of it (Achbar et al.,2004) Monsanto is an organization that supplies harmful products and expects farmers to distribute them to the general population. This organization is responsible for the premature release of bio-engineered foods in the marketplace. The long-term effects of genetically-modified food are still unknown. However, Monsanto requires a high level of coordination to get its products to market. The firm often requires help from politicians, professors, scientists, experts, the general public, reporters, and the Food and Drug Administration (Achbar et al.,2004). Monsanto also engineers terminator seeds. These are seeds that terminate themselves through a suicide gene (Achbar et al.,2004). Since terminator seeds are only good for one season, Monsanto has lowered the intrinsic value of them. In nature, seeds are meant to be replanted annually. However, this product goes against evolution and human well-being. There are billions of people around the world who are starving to death and farmers have been denied the opportunity to replant their seeds on an annual basis.This product is immoral to its customers, the end users, and humanity as a whole. Nonetheless, Monsanto still expects its customers to distribute these products to the end users. Social Responsibility to Customers Value is defined as any action or process that a customer is willing to pay for (Shafer Meredith, 2010). To eliminate unnecessary waste, organizations should always be mindful of customer needs. Processes that drive up costs but do not increase the overall value of a product are wasteful. Firms should strive to reduce overproduction, inventory costs, unnecessary processing, wait times, transportation costs, and unnecessary human motions while minimizing the number of defects (Shafer et al., 2010). Competitive organizations continue to improve the quality and durability of their products (Shafer et al., 2010). However, if an organization fails to use its resources efficiently and effectively, it will likely be punished in the marketplace. A consumer has the ultimate decision on whether or not they will purchase a particular product. Therefore, companies should be adequately prepared to address consumer concerns and after-service needs, should they arise. Also, consumer goods should not do any biological or psychological harm to their customers. Products that have the potential to do harm to others should be put through rigorous testing to ensure they are safe for human use and consumption. Social Irresponsibility to Customers: Aguas del Tunari For twenty years, the World Bank has been working alongside successive governments toward independent development in Bolivia. The World Bank believes that a high proportion of leaders in developing nations are susceptible to corruption, including those in Bolivia. As a result, the organization has played a significant role in assisting the Bolivian government with privatization of its state-owned enterprises. In 2000, Aguas del Tunari corporation signed a forty-year contract with the Bolivian government to provide water to impoverished citizens in Cochabamba City, Bolivia. Aguas del Tunari was guaranteed a minimum annual return of fifteen percent on their two-and-a-half billion dollar investment (Salina Starr, 2008). As part of the deal, Aguas del Tunari Corporation agreed to repay thirty million dollars of debt accumulated by the state utility company (Salina et al., 2008). In an effort to pay off the debt, Aguas del Tunari corporation increased water rates to twenty dollars per month a thirty-five percent increase (Achbar, Abbott, Bakan Simpson, ,2004). However, the company failed to consider the fact that many of its new clients were surviving on only two dollars a day (Achbar et al., 2004). This meant that the cost of water would account for roughly twenty-five percent of their daily income (Achbar et al., 2004). To make matters worse, the government had privatized rain water, making it illegal to collect the rainfall (Achbar et al.,2004). When the newly-owned utility company shut off the water supply to non-paying customers, violent protests erupted across all classes of society. Ninety-six percent of citizens demanded that the contract with Aguas del Tunari be terminated (Salina Starr, 2008) . The government of Bolivia refused and told its citizens that there was nothing to negotiate. Protests spread to other major cities in Bolivia, eventually causing a ripple effect that would put the country into a state of emergency. To remedy this problem, the Bolivian government kicked Aguas del Tunari out of the country and resumed its role as the nation’s utility operator. In this unique case, it is difficult to conceptualize water as a commodity. Water is essential for survival and is seen as a birth right. Many would argue that the local government is responsible for regulating the cost of water and ensuring that it is affordable for all citizens. Since water surrounds us and falls naturally from the sky, it is difficult for a corporation to add value to it. Privatization of rain water is an extreme concept and certainly crosses some ethical boundaries. Social Responsibility of Corporations to External Beneficiaries Social Responsibility to Local Governments Elected officials have a social responsibility to the people whom they represent. Although corporations cannot directly cast a vote, they can leverage their power by donating large sums of money to political campaigns. In return, they often expect regulatory favors, exceptions, and preferential treatment. Corporations must however respect the local government and prohibit themselves from lobbying, bribing or manipulating local officials for the financial benefit of the organization. Although firms should not tempt government officials, politicians should also avoid situations where they may become vulnerable. As governments and organizations continue to work closely to achieve their objectives, they must ensure they maintain their ethical boundaries. When corporations gain power, the relative authority of local government diminishes and their authoritative power is often confined to their given jurisdiction. As organizations continue to grow, it is becoming increasingly difficult for them to be audited by local governments and regulatory bodies. For this reason, governments should consider implementing more rules and tougher sanctions to prevent legal and ethical misconduct. As history has shown, corporations are not always capable of self- governance. Social Irresponsibility to Local Governments: Long-Term Capital Management Deregulation of public enterprises and new business practices may not always be in the best interest of the general public. In 2000, the Clinton administration passed a bill that would deregulate the derivatives market and establish legal certainty for bankers (Lowenstein, 2002). The three major classes of derivatives are: futures, options and swaps. In detail, the derivatives market is not well understood by policy makers. There have been numerous cases of corporate fraud, financial mismanagement and unnecessary risk. Moreover, taxpayers have fronted billions of dollars to bail out financial institutions. In 2008, the value of the overall derivatives market was an astonishing six-hundred and sixty-eight trillion dollars (Sheridan, 2008). In 1994, Long-term Capital Management took the financial world by storm. This hedge fund was established by two proven Wall Street traders and two Nobel Laureates (Lowenstein, 2002). The fund started with four billion dollars in capital from its investors. The firm enjoyed four straight years of prosperity without a single monthly loss to be reported on their balance sheet. LTCM was thought to be the perfect hedge fund. It simply could not lose. LTCM leveraged its balance sheet trading by 30 to 1, while leveraging its off balance sheet trading by 250 to 1 (Lowenstein, 2002). At one point, the company had in excess of one trillion dollars in derivatives exposure (Lowenstein, 2002). In a short period of time, LTCM had lost nearly everything and turned to banks and the federal reserve for a bailout. At the time, this was the largest bailout ever. In Wall Street’s eyes, LTCM was simply too big to fail. It was thought that its demise would have had dire consequences for the entire economy. Since then, bigger investment firms have failed, bigger bailouts have been distributed and derivatives are still being heavily traded. It appears Wall Street still has a lesson to learn. It was the government’s deregulation of derivatives that allowed LTCM and other investment firms to behave unethically and do as they pleased. As a regulatory body, the Federal Reserve sent out the wrong message by bailing out LTCM. Condoning the behavior of this hedge fund created an environment that would encourage other financial institutions to take the same risks. Social Responsibility to the Environment and Future Generations Today, consumers and citizens increasingly expect more from organizations. Traditionally, firms externalized their costs while internalizing their profits. Today, however, many corporations are becoming ethically conscious and are working toward minimizing their carbon footprint. They have started to use mechanisms known as stakeholder management devices to respond to stakeholder claims (Duening et al., 2008). Progressive organizations have started working toward sustainable development to help create a world that is suitable for future generations. Many firms are also taking an interest in social issues. Some have started practicing corporate philanthropy. These positive efforts enhance a corporation’s good will and improves its overall image. This often translates into more sales and higher profit margins. Organizations that fail to take responsibility for their actions are often looked down upon. For example, an organization that shows complete disregard for the environment will likely tarnish their image and build up ill will. In effect, companies that act out of social obligation are viewed less positively than those that are socially responsive. Social Responsibility to the Environment and Future Generations: Tokyo Electric Power Company In March of 2011, the Japanese coast was rattled by a forceful 9.0 earthquake and a gigantic tsunami. The Fukushima Dai-chi and Fukushima Dai-ni power plants sustained critical damage (TEPCO to Compensate Nuclear Plant Victims, 2011). Both of these power plants are privately owned by the Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO to Compensate Nuclear Plant Victims, 2011). The nuclear disaster revealed the company’s misplaced confidence and a failure to adequately forecast its worst case scenario. Furthermore, the company chose to disregard Japan’s tsunami history and relevant GPS data. TEPCO engineers did not factor in earthquakes that occurred prior to 1896 (TEPCO Dimissed Important Scientific Evidence in Planning Nuclear Plant’s Defense, 2011). Tsunami modelers at TEPCO factored in an earthquake of 8.6 magnitude in its worst case scenario model (TEPCO Dimissed Important Scientific Evidence in Planning Nuclear Plant’s Defense, 2011). The earthquake that occured on March 11, 2011 was four times more powerful than the maximum presumed (TEPCO Dimissed Important Scientific Evidence in Planning Nuclear Plant’s Defense, 2011). Given Japan’s geographical position and the volatility of nuclear energy, TEPCO should have put more thought into their calculations. After much delay, the Japanese government has ordered TEPCO to pay partial retribution to the citizens affected by this nuclear catastrophe. Beginning on April 28, 2011, TEPCO has started to compensate families in the nominal sum of twelve-thousand dollars for losses attributed to evacuation, having to stay indoors and nuclear contamination (TEPCO to Compensate Nuclear Plant Victims, 2011). These partial retributions are miniscule. Often times it is cheaper for a corporation to hire a good public relations specialist than to rectify the actual problem. This nuclear disaster has crippled local businesses, fishing operations, tourism and the livelihood of citizens. TEPCO’s greed and irresponsibility has cost the citizens of Japan and the nation at large by causing tremendous losses. Moreover, citizens in neighboring countries and the Western part of the United States have grown concerned over their personal well-being. In TEPCO’s case, the local government should have taken extra measures to ensure the facilities were built to withstand an earthquake of great proportion. Local governments are elected and represent the interest of the people. Therefore, it is their responsibility to ensure private organizations behave ethically. Companies should be forced to take full accountability for their actions. In regard to privatization of nuclear energy, governments should pressure organizations to strive for seven-sigma quality. As we have witnessed, a defect in nuclear energy can have significant implications for the general population. Conclusion As illustrated in this paper, organizations have a social responsibility to both their internal and external beneficiaries. Firms should always conduct business with integrity and concern for others. Although many organizations may feel pressure to increase their short-term earnings, they must retain their focus and uphold their social responsibilities to their stakeholders. Through long-term objectives, organizations can set standards that will ensure their survival. It’s important to emphasize that the decisions an organization makes will often affect society as a whole. As illustrated in the case studies above, companies that go astray or act in their own self interest can adversely affect the well-being of many stakeholders. However, tougher sanctions and an organizational credo may help give an organization ethical focus. In conclusion, by practicing self-governance and obeying existing laws, corporations will be well on their way to becoming socially responsible and dependable organizations. Works Cited Achbar, M. (Director/Producer), Abbott, J. (Director), Bakan, J. (Writer), Simpson, B. (Producer) (2004). The Corporation (DVD). Canada: Big Picture Media Corporation. Bryce, R (2003). Pipe Dreams Greed, Ego and the Death of Enron. New York, NY: Public Affairs. DeCarlo, S. (2010). What the Boss Makes.Forbes.com.Retrieved on April 18th, 2011 from http://www.forbes.com/2010/04/27/compensation-chief-executive-salary-leadership-boss-10-ceo-compensation-intro.html Duening, T. N., Ivancevisch, J. M. (2006). Managing Organizations Principles Guidelines. Cincinnati, OH: Atomic Dog. Ehrenreich, B. (2002). Nickel and Dimed On Not Getting By in America. New York, NY: Owl Book. Greenwald, R. (Director), Gilliam, J. (Producer) (2005). Walmart: The High Cost of Low Price (DVD). United States: Brave New Films Disinformation Company. Laskawy, T. (2010). Court Rules rBGH-Free Milk Milk is Better Than the Kind Produced With Articifical Hormones. Now What? Retrieved on April 19, 2011 from http://www.grist.org/article/food-2010-10-06-court-rules-on-rbgh-free-milk. Little, C. (2011). Ethics [class lectures]. Texas AM University-Commerce. Spring 2011. Lowenstein, R. (2002). When Genius Failed: The Rise and Fall of Long-term Capital Management. Great Britain: Clays Ltd and St. Ives plc. Salina, I. (Director), Starr, S. (Producer) (2008). Flow: For The Love of Water (DVD). United States: Oscilloscope Laboratories. Shafer, S. Meredith, J. (2010). Operations Management for MBAs, 4th Edition. John Wiley and Sons, Inc. Sheridan, B. (2008). 600,000,000,000,000? Newsweek. Retrieved on April 20, 2011 from http://www.newsweek.com/2008/10/17/600-000-000-000-000.html. TEPCO to Compensate Japan’s Nuclear Plant Victims. (2011). BBC News Asia_Pacific. Retrieved on April 17, 2011 from http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-13090304 TEPCO Dimissed Important Scientific Evidence in Planning Nuclear Plant’s Defense. (2011). Japan Today. Retrieved on April 24, 2011 from http://www.japantoday.com/category/commentary/view/tepco-dismissed-important-scientific-evidence-in-planning-nuclear-plants-defense.

Coca Cola And Its Activities Marketing Essay

Coca Cola And Its Activities Marketing Essay Abstract This report takes the reader through Coca-cola and its activities and how it has been able to maintain sales despite the economic recession. It examines how three aspects of consumer behaviour -motivation, attitude, the buying process have an effect on the sales of Coca-cola within the Europe market and thereby immune to the economic recession. Chapter one gives a background into Coca-colas history and operations both in the national and international market. It also presents an overview of the soft drink industry in Great Britain, concentrating on Coke as an industry leader. It further talks on the economic recession and its effect on Great Britain. Chapter two discusses three consumer behaviour aspects motivation, attitude and the buying process- on how it made the coca-cola industry immune to the economic recession in the Great Britain. The conclusion of this paper ends with a summary that discusses the whole paper and propose recommendations for the brand as a whole. CHAPTER ONE 1.0 Introduction A consumer is a person who spots a need or desire, and then looks for the best way to satisfy his or her need either by purchase or acquisition (Solomon et al, 2010). Consumer behaviour as defined by Solomon et al (2006) is the processes involved when individuals or groups select, purchase, use or dispose of products, services, ideas, or experiences to satisfy needs or desires. Customer retention is vital these days and organisations are looking for the best way to please and satisfy the interest of their consumers. According to Fill (2009), the understanding of the buyers behaviour makes marketing strategies and plan come out successful. The Coca-Cola Company is soft drink industry that has been able to build its brand loyalty with its consumers over its years of operation, despite the highly competitive market (Euromonitor, 2010). But this success would not have been realistic without understanding who the consumer is, what the consumer needs and how the consumer behaves. The Econo mic recession was a trying time for companies which led to the closures of some and loss for majority, the soft drink industry is not an exception and Coca- cola which falls under the soft drink industry will be analysed on how effective the management of their consumers was to in ensuring their survival in the recession. 1.1 A brief summary of The Coca- Cola operations The Coca-Cola Company (TCCC) is the largest manufacturer, distributor and marketer of non alcoholic beverage, concentrates and syrups in the world. Coca-cola has a portfolio of more than 3,300 beverages, from diet and regular sparkling beverages to still beverages such as 100 percent fruit juices and fruit drinks, waters, sports and energy drinks, teas and coffees, and milk-and soy-based beverages, which are now sold in more than 200 countries in the world. (Coca-cola, 2010). ) Coca- cola first got to Britain in the year 1900, after Charles Candler brought a jug of syrup along on a visit to England. Soon after, in the early 1920s, it went on sale at the London Coliseum and in Selfridges. Since then coca-cola Britain has come up with innovative soft drinks namely: Coca-cola; Diet Coke; Coca-cola zero; Sprite; Sprite zero; Fanta;Fanta Zero; 5 Alive; Schweppes; Schweppes zero; Powerade; Powerade zero; Kia ora; Kia ora(no added sugar); Dr. Pepper; Dr. Pepper zero; Lilt; Lilt Zero; Oasis; Oasis extra light; Glaceau vitamin water and Relentless. (Coca-cola, 2010) With about 4,650 employees, Coca-cola GB claims to have sold 228million cases in 2008. Pic. 1.1 The Coca-Cola Company Great Britain brands Available on this link- http://www.coca-cola.co.uk/brands/ 1.2 An overview of the soft drink industry in Great Britain Mintel (2010) stated that close to one-quarter of companies in the UK soft drinks market is growing at more than 10% per year. Some of the main players in the UK soft drink industry include Coca-cola, Pepsi cola UK, Tropical UK, Nestle UK etc to mention but a few. The British Soft Drinks Associations 2010 UK Soft Drinks Report found that the overall market grew by 1.7% in 2009, with total consumption reaching 14,140 million litres, at a retail value of  £13.224 billion (Mintel, 2010). The British Soft Drinks Assocaition (2010) stated that it was encouraging to see that the soft drinks market was holding up during the economic downturn. According to mintel (2010), for the second year running, Coca-cola topped interbrands best global brands table, placing it above its competitors in the soft drink industry. The coca-cola company has continued to focus on expanding its business through taking tactical places in niche soft drinks producers, by purchasing a stake in UK smoothie producer , Innocent Drinks (Euromonitor, 2010). 1.3 The recession in United Kingdom Recessions occur during the down or contraction phase of the business cycle. The term business cycle refers to the familiar ups and downs of economic activity. (Pearce and Michael 2006). Furthermore, Pearce and Micheal (2006) opined that recessions cause significant declines in resources available to the firm because customers spend less, lenders lend less, and competitive rivalry increases. Initially, the behaviour of consumers changes during recessions. They have less money to spend and cut back personal spending in response to the overall decline in economic activity. Industrial and business customers may become disloyal, demand renegotiated contract terms, and alter purchase patterns. Also by Pride and Ferrell (1995), recession is a stage in the business cycle during which unemployment rises and total buying power declines, stifling both consumers and business peopless propensity to spend. The UK economy was growing faster than the average for the Euro zone throughout most of this decade. However, an abrupt slowdown began in 2008 and the economy entered a recession in the third quarter. According to Euromonitor (2010), real GDP fell by 4.9% in 2009, making this the UKs longest post-war recession. The UK has been harder hit than many countries because of its large financial sector. The fiscal position has deteriorated over the past several years. The deficit was pushed even higher as a result of the bailout of large banks. The number of unemployed also rose by 50% during the recession with 800,000 jobs being lost (Euromonitor, 2010). The recession led to business closures, job losses and a lack of employment opportunities in the UK (Athey, 2009). This first global recession in the new era of globalization, started in the US, spread to Europe, and eventually became global; its the worst economic crisis since the great depression. (Stiglitz, 2009). 1.4 The Coca-Cola Company and the recession TCCCs gross profit margin decreased to 64.2 percent in 2009 from 64.4 percent in 2008, primarily due to foreign currency fluctuations, unfavourable geographic mix as a result of growth in their emerging and developing markets, and current focus to drive greater affordability initiatives across many key markets, unfavourable channel and product mix in certain key markets, and the sale of certain bottling operations in 2008 (Coca-cola, 2010). Even though there was a slight decrease (0.2%) in their profit margin compared to the previous year, TCCC arguably performed well despite the economic downturn. Coca-cola unit case volume is one of the measures of the underlying strength of the Coca-Cola system because it measures trends at the consumer level. In Europe, the sales volume of year ended 2009 versus year ended 2008 shows that the unit case volume in Europe decreased 1 percent, primarily attributable to the ongoing difficult macroeconomic conditions throughout most of Europe. These difficult macroeconomic conditions impacted a number of key markets and contributed to unit case volume declines of 8 percent in South and Eastern Europe, 4 percent in Iberia and 2 percent in Germany. The volume declines in these markets were partially offset by 6 percent unit case volume growth in France and 4 percent growth in Great Britain.(Coca-cola, 2010). Great Britain which is the main focus of this study has shown that the recession did not affect the sales volume. Table below shows the financial data of The Coca-cola Company year ended December. Table 1.1- Financial overview of The Coca-Cola Company Year Ended December 31, 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 (In millions except per share data) SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS Net operating revenues $ 30,990 $ 31,944 $ 28,857 $ 24,088 $ 23,104 Net income attributable to shareholders 6,824 5,807 5, 981 5, 080 5, 872 GROSS PROFIT 19,902 20,570 18,451 GROSS PROFIT MARGIN 64.2% 64.4% 63.9% PER SHARE DATA Basic net income $ 2.95 $ 2.51 $ 2.59 $ 2.16 $ 2.04 Diluted net income 2.93 2.49 2.57 2.16 2.04 Cash dividends 1.64 1.52 1.36 1.24 1.12 BALANCE SHEET DATA Total assets $ 48,671 $ 40,519 $ 43,269 $ 29,963 $ 29,427 Long-term debt 5,059 2,781 3,277 1,314 1,154 1.5 Scope of Study The interest of this study lies mainly with The Coca-cola Company, focusing on Coca-cola Great Britain as the scope of study. This study also examines the level at which the recession affected the sales in coca-cola and the consumers attitude towards the purchase of coca-cola. 1.6 Definition of terms/operational definitions To avoid ambiguity and distortions in meaning, the following terms are being described. Ltd Limited Unit case-means a unit of measurement equal to 192 U.S. fluid ounces of finished beverage (24 eight-ounce servings); (Coca-cola, 2010) Unit case volume- means the number of unit cases of Company beverage products directly or indirectly sold by the Company to customers. (Coca-cola, 2010) TCCC- The Coca-Cola Company CHAPTER TWO 2.0 Key Consumer Behaviour Aspects According to British Soft Drinks Association, (2010), Consumers are loyal to the drinks they know and trust but remain open to innovative products and brand extensions which meet their ever-evolving needs. The industrys ability to provide the public with a wide range of enjoyable and affordable drinks will ensure it remains resilient despite the tough economic climate. Three key consumer aspects have been carefully selected from Jiang (2010) as explained in the Consumer Behaviour Lectures; The following aspect of the consumer behaviour may have influenced the continuous purchase of coca-cola products despite the economic downturn- the buying process, attitude and motivation. 2.1 The Buying process A buying decision making process is the selection of an option from two or more alternative choices (Jiang, 2010). Coca-colas consumers can be explained in Consumer as a Problem Solver (Habitual Decision Maker). A habitual decision maker makes choices that are characterised by an impulse made with little effort and without conscious control (Solomon et al, 2006). Coca-colas brands are low involvement products and so require little information search. Most decisions made by people who consume coca-cola are with little or no conscious effort. Coca-cola consumers purchase Coke for example based on a habit that has been formed over time. Also the Evaluation of alternatives can be used to explain the brands resistance to the recession, much of the consumers effort that goes into a purchase decision develops at the stage in which a choice must be made from the accessible alternatives (Solomon et al, 2006). In many cases, there are a number of alternatives (such as water, soft drink or alcohol) a consumer could consider in satisfying a biogenic need, i.e. to conquer thirst. A consumer that has formed a habit overtime to purchase Diet Coke for example will always have in mind a diet coke whenever hes thirsty. The choice a consumer makes over other alternatives is determined by the product qualities. Branding can also be an influence on the evaluation of alternatives. In a survey of Global Brands, Inter Brand and Business Week identified the significance for companies to create communities around their products and services, which gives the customers the opportunity to feel as if they own the brand (Solomon et al, 2006). Fill (2009) also supported that as a brand becomes established with a buyer, so the psychological benefits of ownership are preferred to competing offerings, and a form of relationship emerges Coke is not only seen as a drink by its consumers, but seen in the light of its heritage and relationship with them( Payne,2007). Brands also create impressions and strong feelings so much that when people see the coke bottle with its red label, and the content, people suddenly feel thirsty and the need to have a drink (Riesenbeck and Perrey, 2007) According to Mintel, (2010), the Interbrand ranked Coca-cola as the number one global brand in the year 2009 and 2010 respectively. Brands can influence a consumers choice in a decision making process, in a study conducted, 51percent of consumers preferred Pepsi over Coke , while in an open test, only 23percent preferred Pepsi over coke(Jenkinson, 1995). In my opinion, Coca-cola consumers have developed a relationship with the brand, which makes the m to choose coca-colas brands amongst all other alternatives even in a recession. The economic downturn did not affect consumers choices, habits did not change despite the recession; coca-cola consumers did not change their product preferences because a habit has been formed over time. Table 2.1 Buying Decision making process Evaluations After purchase behaviour/feeling Involvement Information search Need recognition Need Purchase Decision Identity Alternatives Source- (Jiang, 2010) 2.2 Attitude Formation and change Attitude is a persons learned predisposition, tendency to respond to an object in a consistently favourable or unfavourable way (Allport, 1935) as cited by (Jiang, 2010). An attitude formed, lasts over a period of time, an attitude towards what a person eats or drink or developing an attitude towards different brands (such as drinking diet Coke rather than drinking diet Pepsi) or also having an attitude towards a general consumption pattern(such as eating twice to eating once in a day) (Solomon et al, 2006). The Utilitarian Function which is related to the basic principles of reward and punishment will be used to explain why TCCC was not entirely affected by recession. Attitudes are formed based on the presumed product qualities (either pleasure or pain) (Solomon et al, 2006). Attitudes influence a consumers decision making and the goal of a marketer is always to create a positive attitude towards a product or change existing attitudes (Fill, 2009). In a recent research conducted by TCCC to evaluate consumers attitudes towards its brands, it revealed that coca-cola is the brand most associated with happiness (Coca-cola, 2010). The result of the survey revealed that over a half of the people that participated in the research said its the taste that makes them smile others said sharing a bottle of coca-cola with family and friends can provide an opportunity to spend time together (Coca-cola, 2010). Coca-cola consumers have developed an attitude overtime, so the recession would not change their product preference but might just alter their consumption pattern (such as reducing the intake of one three bottles per day to two bottles per day). The theme of the TCCC also stresses straight forward benefits (Coca-cola.Open Happiness). Attitudes towards coca-cola could also be formed by the yearly coca-cola adverts, as supported by Pearce and Micheal (2006) aggressive marketing campaigns may be more effective during recessions, as competitors feeling the pinch might attempt to forestall losses by reducing their advertising. During the recession, TCCC, engaged in massive paid advertising to reinforce their brands in the minds of the consumers. Also towards the end of each year, coca-cola does an advert, using the Christmas theme to convey its message to its viewers. The viewers feelings about the context in which an advertisement appears can also influence brand attitudes (Solomon et al, 2006). Liking this Christmas themed adverts would naturally link us to Attitude Formation (three hierarchies of effects), Affect, Behaviour and Beliefs. Affect (like the brand), behaviour (buy the brand), belief (feel satisfied with the brand) or belief (create awareness of the brand), behaviour (buy the brand), affect (like the bra nd) or belief (create awareness of the brand), affect (like the brand), behaviour (buy the brand). Attitude formed over time influences a consumers purchase behaviour, in spite of the recession, it can be argued that the attitude of the coca-colas consumers did not change, and there was a continual process in consumers purchase pattern. Coca-cola was not so affected by the recession because of the consumers attitudes towards their products Table 2.2 Three Hierarchies of Effects Attitudes based on cognitive information processing Affect Attitudes based on behavioural learning processes Behaviour Behaviour Behaviour Beliefs vvv Beliefs vvv Beliefs vvv Attitudes based on hedonic consumption Affect Affect Source- (Jiang, 2010) 2.3 Motivation Motivation is the driving force within individuals that impels them to action, this driving force is produced by a state of tension which exists as the result of an unfilled need (Jaing 2010). Every action is done for a reason. Motivation refers to the process that cause people to behave as they do, motivation occurs when a need (Utilitarian-consumers practical benefits or Hedonic-consumers emotional benefits) is aroused that the consumers wishes to satisfy. The desired end- state is the consumers goal. The degree of arousal is called a drive (Solomon et al, 2006). The purpose of purchasing a drink would be to satisfy a biogenic need, i.e. to conquer thirst. For a consumer to now choose a diet coke because hes thirsty is called psychogenic. Coca-cola motivates its consumers through its themed message (Open Happiness), and this can be explained in the hedonic needs (Consumers emotional benefits) The survey TCCC conducted for their consumers shows that the taste of coca-cola makes them happy. What motivates a consumer might be different compared to the other consumer. A regular coke consumer willing to reduce his sugar consumption will be happy to switch to coke zero which has no sugar and less calories. Also viewing it from the Consumer involvement angle, TCCC also motivates its consumers by connecting with millions of them every day through their brands Facebook pages, Twitter and influential blogs, creating a dialogue that allows TCCC to build their brand assets and strengthen their consumer relationships. Solomon, (2006) defines involvement as a persons perceived relevance of the object based on his/her inherent needs, values, and interests. Through this Fans page on facebook, consumers can access their advertisements, Coca-Cola applications and downloads, and get live updates from the Company. Also TCCC involves their consumers through the Coca-Cola Freestyle, this makes the consumers beverage innovators by giving them choices and variety to make more than 1 00 different branded beverages at the touch of a button, this provides fun, and a relationship that connects the company with its consumers. (Coca-cola, 2010). The recession did not really affect TCCCs sales because of the motivation TCCC tries to create and the relationship they have been able to build with their consumers. CONCLUSION 3.1 Conclusion Understanding consumers behaviour is key for a successful company; marketers need to deepen their research on their consumers because the consumers are becoming aware of the important role they play in their consumption pattern. Competitors are always also looking for tactics to grow and influence new consumers, and any organisation that does not meet up with consumers expectations would be losing a consumer. Companies should look for ways to retain their current customers and also focus on getting new ones attracting new customers should be a priority in a recession (Pearce and Michael 2006). Organisations should actively engage their customers more than before. INTRODUCTION There has been an ongoing concern about the impact of economic impact on the environment,(Peattie, 1995). Nations are getting aware of the need to save the planet, and make it conducive for both humans and the animals. In the year 2000, the beginning of a new century, the nations came together to form the Millennium Development Goals and conducted a millennium Ecosystem Assessment (A four year research project to access the health of the natural environment, the impact of human development on natural systems and their ability to support life and provide ecosystem services) (Belz and Peattie, 2009). In 2005, the results of the United Nations Millennium Ecosystem Assessment was released, this revealed that 60% of world ecosystem services have been degraded and species extinctions are running at between 100 and 1000 times the natural background rate, it was also revealed that they were losses in the diversity of life on earth but gains in human well-being and economic growth and the burning of Fossil fuels to provide much of the energy that drove our economies was the release of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. Changes in our climate will have a profound impact on the distribution and availability of water supplies and food productions supplies and immense loss of species. (Belz and Peattie, 2009). To save the planet, conscious efforts have to be made, and so industries, business, consumers and nations have realized that if we do not save the world, then one day the planet will not be able to save us. Using the Triple bottom Line approach, discuss what is sustainability marketing and why should marketers be concerned with CSR and sustainability issues? Before going into sustainability marketing we need to define marketing, marketing consists of individuals and organisations on activities that facilitate and expedite satisfying exchange relationships in a dynamic environment through the creation, distribution, promotion and pricing of goods and services and ideas (Pride and Ferrell, 1993). Sustainability marketing as defined by Belz and Peattie (2009) refers to planning, organising, implementing and controlling marketing resources and programmes to satisfy consumers wants and needs, while considering social and environment criterion and meeting corporate objectives This definition is very broad because it has covered the Triple Bottom line People (consumers), Planet (Environment) and Profit (Corporate objectives). In straightforward terms, Sustainability Marketing has been defined by Belz and Peattie (2009) as the building and sustainable relationships with consumers, the social environment and the natural environment. The Triple Bottom line (3PL) is a very important approach when discussing sustainability a positive 3PL reflects an increase in the companys value, including both its profitability and shareholder value and its social, human and environmental capital (Savitz and Weber 2006), they consists of Environmental Performance which is the planet and the way which we give and receive from the planet; Social performance, which is the people that constitutes the planet and consume different products and services, also emphasizes on satisfying different stakeholders, Being connected and responsive to shareholders, suppliers, communities and customers is the foundation of sustainability (Henrique and Richardson, 2004) and the; Economic performance or organisational goals which is the profit and the main aim of setting up an organisation (Leonidou, 2010). People A sustainability marketers aim is to meet the needs and wants of a sustainable consumer. Belz and Peattie (2009) supported this by saying consumers purchasing behaviour will determine the success or failure of new products and services that are marketed on the basis of their sustainability performance. Understanding the behaviour and buying process is also relevant for the sustainable marketer. The process which includes the recognition of need and want e.g. biological needs like food and drink to information search i.e. checking for information about the products, maybe its sustainable or not, to evaluation of alternatives i.e. a choice between two retailers to purchase i.e. buying of the product to the usage of the product (for a sustainable product, the use phase will generate more environmental impacts than non sustainable products) and finally post use which is the recycling, reselling or reproducing strategies, all used to reduce waste to land fill. (Belz and Peattie, 2009). Segmenting and understanding the consumers is really important for a sustainable marketer. They must understand the consumer they are sending the message to, according to the segments as identified by Belz and Peattie (2009), they are the Greens-this are the true greens, they understand and well educated about the sustainability issues and they consume green products. Consumers with a conscience-they want to be seen as green Wastage focused-they have good knowledge of pollution and wastage but lack awareness of other issues and behaviours and believe to be ethical currently constrained-they like to be sustainable but cant do much in their current circumstances, Basic contributors-they have relatively little knowledge of interest in environment issues and behaviours, Long term restricted- they have other priorities to consider before they can consider their environmental issues Disinterested-they may be aware of the sustainability issues, but they cannot be bothered as this has not affected current decision making processes. The segmentation allows a marketer to strategise a message to its different target so as to achieve its organisational goals. Profit The economic performance of a company is determined by the products and services offered to its consumers and how it has been accepted. The main of a company is to make profit, but the production process and post -post production process determines how sustainable a product/ organisation is. Belz and Peattie, (2009) further said that The underlying values of sustainability marketing should reflect the visions, missions, philosophies or principles of the company. Savitz and Weber (2006) identified 3 ways sustainability enhances your business (I) protecting the business-This includes risk of harm to the consumers, employees and the community, identifying emerging risks and management failures early. (II)Running the business-eco-efficiency, this includes reducing costs, improving productivity, eliminating needless waste and obtaining access to capital at a reduced cost, (III) growing the business-opening new markets and attracting consumers who are sustainable and increasing market shar e. Planet Environmental performance is the planet we occupy, and also the source of renewable (air, water, food) and non renewable resources (stone, metals, fossil fuel etc) (Belz and Peattie, 2009). Organisations are now more concerned with the use of critical substances and energy consumption, production processes, packaging and recycling of products to reduce the negative impacts the economy has had on the planet, solutions were implemented in the production process to reduce pollution and Co2 emissions. Corporate social responsibility has defined by European commission in (Belz and Peattie, 2009) is a concept whereby companies integrate social and environmental concerns in their business operations and in their interaction with stakeholders on a voluntary basis. In contrast to the definition above the World Business Council for sustainable Development separated the corporate social responsibility, corporate financial responsibility and corporate environment responsibility and put them under one umbrella which is Corporate Responsibility (Belz and Peattie, 2009). CSR is now gaining momentum in different organisations and the need to showcase and publish their environmental and social acts is rising. Consumers are equally aware of these activities and tend to build their loyalty with socially responsible organisations. Marketers now should be concerned with CSR and sustainability issues, because the world is moving and every consumer now is informed about the environment and how they need to be sustainable to save the planet. Harnes (1982) as cited in Peattie (1995) further explained that the successful company is the one which is the first to identify emerging consumer needs and to offer product improvements which satisfy those needs; the successful marketer spots a new trend early and then leads it. Marketers must key into this new trend which can be identified as CSR and sustainability, being socially and environmentally responsible is very important and marketers must continue to emphasize this in their organisation to the top management. Sustainability and CSR should be involved in an organisations values and goals; it should not be seen as a tactic to manipulate consumers sustainability concern to just make profit (Peattie, 1995). Critics of Sustainability Savitz and Weber (2006) have identified critics of sustainability from two camps (The cynics and the sceptics). The cynics concluded that the Sustainability movement as mere hype The cynics would always want the government to take responsibility in the environment rather than depending on the corporations to change themselves. They also argue that the corporations deliberately improved their environmental performance mainly for financial purposes. The sceptics condemn the concept of sustainable business on the grounds that business leaders have no concern with environment or social responsibility, their goal is to make profit, and if their aim is not moved from that, the world will be better off. From the criticism, no one can say whether the critics are right or not, even though todays efforts towards sustainability seems to be inadequate, that doesnt mean it should be stopped, sustainability has to work. The industries might be aiming at profit, its a step by step approach and no contribution is too small, if all industries are genuinely sustainable, the world will be a better place. Analyse the factors that contributed to the marketing success of FIJI water? Fiji Waters (FW) expansion into US market was based on the successful marketing mix campaign to penetrate the market. At the time, it made its entry into the US mar