Why Does Sexual Assault Increase In Army - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 2 Words: 537 Downloads: 3 Date added: 2019/02/20 Category Law Essay Level High school Tags: Sexual Assault In The Military Essay Did you like this example? Much of the preventative measures of the Army is teaching how to understand consent and to know that sexual harassment and assault are not tolerated. However it should include the topic of why it happens instead of just how to stop it. The three key foundations in which give desire to people to sexually assault are cultural influences, learned behavior and false biological justifications, and thus the main objective in preventing sexual assault in the army should be to address â€Å"the complex interactions between learning, biological, and cultural factors.† (Gannon A.T. Ciardha C.O.) Studies suggest that a large percentage of perpetrators were at one point a victim of sexual violence themselves. In regards to that, the third primary cause of sexual violence is learned behavior. This is defined by a persons childhood and how a guardian or mentor has treated the subject of sexuality. The most negative influence on an adolescents future perspective of healthy sexuality is to abuse or harass them, in particularly with expressive sexual intent. Such abuse can cause the individual to develop around the notion that sexuality is an aggressive or inherently evil subject. The SHARP program should include the ability for soldier to seek aid with victimization and to rehabilitate them regardless if the incident occurred prior to enlisting. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Why Does Sexual Assault Increase In Army" essay for you Create order Rape culture is a serious causation of sexual violence. It is defined as â€Å"an environment in which sexual abuse is prevalent and in which sexual violence is normalized and excused in media and popular culture.† (Tolliver L.) This type of society is apparent in scenarios such as objectifying individuals, accusing victims, and characterizing a gender with unnecessary requirements (manhood/ womanhood). This impacts many in the army and measure should be taken by greater enforcement of equality and understanding of who’s fault it is in an incident in SHARP briefs. It is theorized that a reason for sexual violence is that it is a favorable quality in reproduction. The theory explains that the reason it is a trait is because through evolution, males who asserted rape consistently with many females had higher chances of many offspring, therefor passing down the genetic coding for the trait. However, the more highly recognized/respected theory stating this is false, debunks this concept by questioning then why sexual assault occurs against adolescence, mentally impaired and males. Two concerns arise; One, that the notion that males inherently assault should not be the general understanding, and two that even if the original theory were true, it should not be used as an excuse that sexual violence is acceptable. This should be addressed in SHARP classes to cease the ideology that it is natural and excusable. In conclusion, much of the issues is how soldiers impact and influence fellow soldiers. If we can eliminate the misunderstandings of sexuality, child abuse and traumatization, and negative attitudes towards gender through extensive insight on these through SHARP programs. Sources Gannon A.T. Ciardha C.O.,(11 July 2014) Psychological Theories Related to Sexual Violence and Abuse. Retrieved 14 August 2018, From https://www.researchgate.net/publication/263818409_Psychological_Theories_Related_to_Sexual_Violence_and_Abuse Tolliver L., Snyder C., (Updated Daily) What is The Rape Culture. Retrieved 14 August 2018, From https://www.marshall.edu/wcenter/sexual-assault/rape-culture/

The Body Shop Marketing Essay - 2699 Words

1) Anita Roddick created the body shop in 1976 with the objective of opening an environmentally conscious cosmetic store. Today, the Body Shop (BS) has grown from being a single â€Å"hippie† store in England to a multinational company with over 2265 stores in 50 countries enjoying sales of  £820,000 in 2006/2007 period. (mintel 2006) People say that â€Å"one person cannot make a difference† but Anita Roddick proved it wrong by sticking to here ideals and ideas of doing business. This extract from the Body Shop’s mission statement ‘to dedicate our business to the pursuit of social and environmental change’ (www.thebodyshop.co.uk), shows us how she created a new way of dealing with customer needs and wants. She saw it as a better option to put†¦show more content†¦But critiques say that the â€Å"Trade not Aid† projects are simply a marketing tool and that not even 1% of the sales go to the projects. (www.mcspotlight.org) Promotion The BS way of advertising has mostly been done through indirect advertising. Indeed, by associating themselves to Greenpeace or the save the whales project or by doing fare trade with indigenous communities for example, journals, newspapers and magazines have written about the company’s products, campaigns and beliefs without the company actually carrying out or spending any money into promotion campaigns. The BS believes that beauty is reality and strongly disagrees on the advertising campaigns trying to glamorise their products – ‘We re saying our products will moisturize, cleanse and polish; they will not perform miracles.’ (Mrs Galanti, 1997). This was stated in 1997 after the release of a rare mainstream campaign called â€Å"Love your body† due to increased competition in the marketplace. The Body Shop also makes extensive use of its web site, delivery lorries and shop windows to communicate its campaigns and beliefs. Packaging is also a way of promoting a product. By showing consumers that the BS is involved in recycling plastic bottles used in the packaging of a product for example, it positions itself furthermore in the customers mind as being an environmentally caring organisation. It also tried to push consumers to use refills but the impact of this campaign was minimal.Show MoreRelatedEssay on Marketing Analysis on Body Shop4410 Words   |  18 PagesThe Body Shop International plc is a global manufacturer and retailer of naturally inspired, ethically produced cosmetics products. Founded in the UK in 1976 by Dame Anita Roddick, The Body Shop now has over 2,400 stores in 61 countries, with a range of over 1,200 products. Body Shop has a strict no animal testing policy. In fact The Body Shop is the first international cosmetics brand to be recognized under the Humane Cosmetics Standard for our Against Animal Testing policy. The Body ShopRead MoreMarketing Mix and Petrol Retail Outlet1542 Words   |  7 PagesMarketing Mix and Petrol Retail Outlet As of December 2010, there were 207 petrol stations in Singapore. These stations are owned and operated by four major players in the petroleum retail industry. They are; Shell Eastern Petroleum Pte. Ltd (Shell), ExxonMobil Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd (Esso), Chevron Corporation (Caltex) and Singapore Petroleum Company (SPC). In this essay, we’ll be looking at how these four players apply the Marketing Mix in running their petrol stations across Singapore. MarketingRead MoreThe Body Shop ( Tbs )1478 Words   |  6 PagesIntroduction The Body Shop (TBS) is a global beauty brand which is currently owned by L’Orà ©al. The company has a range of cosmetic and skin care products which sells in over 2,500 stores in 60 countries. Target customer of TBS are mostly female age 18 to 40 customer with financial unconstraint income. Why TBS has being so successful to target customer buying their products? TBS have used segmentation base to recognise their target market. People choose different types of product based on their perceptionsRead MoreMarket Orientation1426 Words   |  6 PagesMarketing can be define as â€Å"the process of creating, distributing, promotion and pricing goods, services and ideas to facilitate satisfying exchange relationships with customers in a dynamic environment† (Pride et al. 2007). Marketing concept shows an organisation always try to provide goods and services to satisfy consumers’ needs and wants. It may help the organisation to achieve their goals. The evolution of ma rketing concept is from production orientation to sales orientation, continuously itRead More Management And The Body Shop Essay1455 Words   |  6 Pagesand The Body Shop In this paper I will be taking a look at basic management functions. The approaches, and the synthesis of two views of management. I will attempt to take an overview of culture and its effect on a company. In todays changing global environments many companies have joined the open trade policies, and existing foreign opportunities available to growing companies with positive views and socially responsible attitudes. It all sounds like a lot to cover in a short essay so I willRead MoreManagement and the Body Shop1476 Words   |  6 Pagesand The Body Shop In this paper I will be taking a look at basic management functions. The approaches, and the synthesis of two views of management. I will attempt to take an overview of culture and its effect on a company. In todays changing global environments many companies have joined the open trade policies, and existing foreign opportunities available to growing companies with positive views and socially responsible attitudes. It all sounds like a lot to cover in a short essay so I willRead MoreSegmentation, Targeting and Positioning – Achieving a Successful Marketing Mix.1482 Words   |  6 PagesSegmentation, targeting and positioning – achieving a successful Marketing Mix. Creating and planning our own business we have to remember that the business is composed of variety of things which support one another. Our goal should be preparing a good marketing strategy which is a part of general strategy of our business. The marketing strategy contains segmentation, targeting and positioning what is a plan how our company will work in chosen market to gain our goals. Segmentation, targeting andRead MoreBenefits Of An Organization Using E Business1515 Words   |  7 PagesThe internet has transformed many organisations be it big or small, creating many positive and negative impacts for the business. This essay will list and discuss the advantages and disadvantages for an organisation using e-business to carry out their own business activities. Throughout this I am going to evaluate both of these aspects. E-business also known as electronic business is the conduct of business processes on the Internet. These electronic business processes include buying and sellingRead MoreAssingments 2012-20134348 Words   |  18 PagesASSINGMENTS 2012-2013 Marketing Studies (1 year, Diploma) 1 BUSINESS ENGLISH Assignment 1 a) Luis St. Jean is a famous design house in France with annual sales of $1.2 billion in clothing, perfume, scarves, and other designer items. Each year it prepares more than 150 original designs for its seasonal collections. As head buyer for Cindy’s, an upscale women’s clothing store at the Mall of America in Minneapolis, you think you might like to start offering the LSJ’s line of perfumeRead MoreThe Roles of Marketing and Public Relations in Modern Organizations1808 Words   |  7 Pagesconcerning the roles of marketing and public relations in modern organisations. Marketing professionals seem inclined towards incorporating publicity – traditionally controlled by public relations – within marketing strategies, while public relations (PR) practitioners seek more influence over marketing in a relational, counselling and policy-making role. With the birth of Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) or Integrated Communications (IC), the lines between marketing and public relations are

The Digestive System Essay Research Paper Every free essay sample

The Digestive System Essay, Research Paper Every life human cell demands O and foods to last. The O and foods gives the cells energy incorporating molecules and natural stuffs necessary for growing, fix, and reproduction and the production of new substances. Populating organisms get foods from the nutrients they eat. It # 8217 ; s of import for any being to acquire foods so they have energy to utilize. The Digestive System is a system that prepares nutrient atoms for their entry into the blood stream. Digestion involves interrupting organtic compounds into simple soluble substances absorbable by tissues. It besides includes both mechanical and chemical procedures. The mechanical procedures includes mastication and cut down nutrient into little atoms. These forces move through the digestive path and blend it with assorted secernments. There are three chemical reactions that take topographic point. They are the transition of saccharides into simple sugars like glucose, interrupting down of protein into amio acids, and the transition of fats into fatty acids. We will write a custom essay sample on The Digestive System Essay Research Paper Every or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page These procedures are accomplished by enzymes. Digestion begins at the oral cavity. This is where the nutrient interruptions down with the aid of the Salivary Gland. After the nutrient is chewed and softened, it so is swallowed and moves through the Pharynx and so enters the gorge. The gorge is a long muscular tubing that extends through the cervix and thoracic pit and penetrates the stop merely before it joins the tummy. The nutrient is so converted into a liquid mixture and the protein digestion begins with the aid of enzymes. After the nutrient is liquefied, it passes into the long, writhing little bowel. The liver and gall bladder give the little bowel a light-green yellow liquid that is besides known as gall, which helps with the digestion of fats. The liver besides helps with the remotion of foods from the blood stream and alterations these foods to chemical energy. These foods are so returned into the blood stream so they can be distributed through the organic structure. The pancreas aids the digestion of protein, saccharides, and fats. A primary site for soaking up into the blood stream is the little bowel. All the stuff that is non absorbed by the little bowels goes through the big bowels. Then the H2O is removed and returned to the blood stream. And the s olid stuff is eliminated from the organic structure by go throughing through the gap of the anus. The digestive system is of import because every cell in our organic structure needs O and foods and with out the procedure of digestion this would non be possible. It # 8217 ; s really of import to eat healthy so your organic structure will beable to map and utilize the energy.

International Corporate Governance System

Question: Discuss about the International Corporate Governance System. Answer: Introduction The Corporations Act, 2001 (Cth) puts an obligation on the directors and the other officers of the company to work in a manner which is in the best interest of the company, for a proper interest and in good faith. The same rules apply for the derivative actions taken by an applicant. This act shows that the best interest of the company is supreme for the individuals. However, the same can be difficult to determine in such cases where there is an overlapping of the interests of the members, with the control they have in the company. Blakeney v Blakeney is one of such cases where serious questions were raised regarding this overlapping of interests and when the actions of directors were evaluated by the court, it was held that the directors had not acted in the best interest of the company or with good faith with particular reference to derivative action. The following part covers a discussion on this case, along with the other cases, which highlights that quite often the best interest of the company is overlooked by the members, when it comes to their personal interest. Blakeney v Blakeney An officer or a member of the company is enabled through a derivative action to initiate proceedings on behalf of the company. This can be noticed recurrently when the members put an allegation regarding the breach of directors duties. The applicants of a derivative action usually believe that it they would not have to fund the litigations. Even though there have been different criteria, one of the recent decision of the Western Australian Court of Appeal has been focused on a major obstacle which a derivative applicant has to exhibit. This demonstration relates to showcasing that the derivative action is in the companys best interest. This point has to be noted by both the directors and members while they consider making such an application, or when they are threatened by one[6]. The case of Blakeney v Blakeney acts as a reminder to the fact that the likeliness of the best interest of the company in a proposed legislation is not sufficient. It is crucial to establish that the actions undertaken were actually in the companys best interest, in a clear and proven manner. The judgment in this case, given by the Court of Appeal showed that the proposed litigation which was born out of the derivation application, would hardly ever be in the companys best interest in case the company is a corporate trustee, the result of which is that are no beneficiary entitlements to the amount which is sought as recovery, and this would place the applicant director in a position which conflicts his duties[7]. In this case, it was held by the Court of Appeal that the initiation of litigation as being a derivative active was not at all in the companys best interest. And for giving this decision, the Court of Appeal considered a number of different factors. These were the nature of the business of the company; the ability to meet the judgment of the defendant; the possible consequences and costs in case of the proposed litigation being unsuccessful; the possibility of the company recovering the offered indemnity; the potential of bringing out a conflict of duties due to the prose litigation; with regards to the applicant; the requirement for the companys resources to be devoted to the litigation which has been proposed; the very nature of the indemnity which has been offered to the company by the applicant; the chances of the proposed litigation being a success; the other available avenues, in place of the litigation proposed; and the scale and character of the company[8]. In this case, the applicant director had a minimum of three other options, in form of making an application for appointing a new trustee; for initiating the proceedings on trusts behalf; and lastly, being an object of the trust, in addition to making the assumption of the existence of special circumstances. The applicant director could have initiated proceedings in his own name against the director and could have sought a declaration. The crux of the matter in this case was that the derivative application is very quickly taken as a part of strategy for litigation; however, there is a need to consider all the options especially in the stringent approach which is taken by the court while assessing the criteria of applicability. Legislative Requirements The right to bring the derivative action, in Australia, was earlier covered under the general law, which has been replaced through the statutory right to bring such derivative actions. Part 2F.1A of the Corporations Act 2001[10], containing sections 236 to 242, covers the procedure to bring statutory derivative action[11]. The applicants, who are eligible as per section 236(1) (a) have t make an application to the court for brining or intervening the proceedings on companys behalf. The reason for the application being derivative is due to the reliance of the applicant on the cause of action, which belongs to the company, instead of a personal cause of action. If satisfied, as per the criteria covered in section 237(2) (a) to (e), i.e., the leave criteria, the court can grant the leave application[13]. The order is made by the court, after considering the appropriate costs of the application, along with the derivative actions, under section 242 of this act[14]. The case of Foss v Harbottle[15] provides a useful background for understanding the provisions set out under Part 2F.1A of the Corporations Act 2001. The rule set out under this case was applied only in cases when the cause of action belonged to the company. In such cases, only the proper plaintiff could initiate the action and this proper plaintiff was the company. Wigram V-C in this case provided the exceptions to this rule, which have been included in the provisions set out in the act[16]. Derivative Action: Best Interest Section 237(2) (c) puts an obligation over the court to be satisfied regarding the best interest of the company for granting the leave to the applicant[17]. And for this grant of leave, the requirement is for more than mere satisfaction, or as has been quoted earlier, the likeliness of the same. There has to be conclusive decisiveness on part of the court regarding the companys best interest before the leave can be granted[18]. The term companys best interest imports the common concept of the interest of the company in its entirety. This term is associated with the independent and separate welfare of the company. In the case of Robash Pty Ltd v Gladstone Pacific Nickel Pty Ltd[19], identified some matter which had to be considered for granting the leave due to the same being in the best interests of the company. All such bases have already been summarized earlier. The quoted section does not merely acknowledge what is in the best interests of the company, but also regarding whether the same demands the grant of leave. In Blakeney v Blakeney, it was clarified that the bad interest cannot be established for the reasons of personal claims against the defendant. Though, the same becomes a common phenomenon in the disputes which lead to derivative actions. There have been cases where the grant of leave was made after attaining a conditional undertaking from the applicant which indemnified the company for the cos ts incurred by the company. Some of these cases include Roach v Winnote Pty Ltd[20] by Barrett J and in Cooper v Myrtace Consulting Pty Ltd by Davies J[21]. For deciding upon the point of best interest in Blakeney v Blakeney, a reference was made to the case of Cooper v Myrtace Consulting Pty Ltd. In this case, a serious question was raised regarding the proposition that the individual was plainly incapable of satisfying the indemnity[22]. The willingness to indemnify the company by the derivative applicant, who was William in t he case of Blakeney v Blakeney, was deemed as a relevant consideration, along with the extent of the capacity of William. And it this case, there was nothing which could show that William would indemnify Geraldton Builders and Fabricators[23]. In establishing the good faith of the directors in the case of Blakeney v Blakeney, the case of Swansson v RA Pratt Properties Pty Ltd[24] was quoted. In this case, Ms. Swansson and Mr. Highland were two individuals who were also divorced; where the former was the director and shareholder of RA Pratt Properties Pty Ltd. (RAPP), and the latter was the director. It was alleged by the plaintiff that the latter had contravened the directors duties stated in 180, 181 and 182 sections of the Corporations Act, 2001, in addition to the ones stated under the common law[25]. Swansson initiated actions against Highland as per section 237(1) of the act[26]. It was held by the court that Swansson was not acting in the companys best interest and hence, an application was not granted to her. The plaintiff in this case was John Carlton, and in case he won the case, the company was not required to pay the costs of litigations and would also receive compensation which would cover all the losses. Hence, the decision made by the plaintiff was held to be in the companys best interest. Recent Case As has been stated earlier, the rules have stemmed from the case of Foss v Harbottle, which was undertaken in the year of 1843. And the same carved out a number of exceptions from its operation, though, the same was not easy to establish. Due to this, the introduction of the provisions of statutory derivative action was seen as important, particularly for the enlargement of the rights of the shareholders. These provisions have been interpreted since their introduction, in a fairly conservative manner by the court of law[28]. One of the recent crucial decisions given by the Victorian Court of Appeal in this regard is the case of True Value Solar Holdings Pty Ltd and Anor v Fernandez[29], provided the interpretation of the steps which had to be established by the shareholders for obtaining the leave from court so that the statutory derivative action can be allowed, which is applied before the court[30]. In this case, three difficult grounds were set up which had to be satisfied by the shareholders and these were of acting in good faith, which was the least difficult of the three, the best interests of the company that the issue can continued in shareholders name and the possibility that the proceedings would not be brought forward by the company or for the steps in it or to take the proper reasonability for them. While interpreting the last point, it was held by the Court of Appeal that the directors in general, would not be keen on pursuing the action against their own numbers. This raises the question of conflict of the overlapping of interests, being against the best interest of the company[31]. Conclusion To sum up the entire decision, the derivative action allows the member of the company to initiate actions on behalf of it. However, in order to attain such a derivative action, the member of the company is required to establish certain points, one of which is the best interests of the company. However, the problem arises when this particular point has to be established due to the overlapping of control of the company and the interests of the members. This was famously held in the case of Blakeney v Blakeney, where the mere likeliness of best interest was not held to be a satisfactory ground for granting a leave for the derivative action. In order to give the judgment in this case, a number of other cases were used. And the similar grounds were also established in the case of True Value Solar Holdings Pty Ltd and Anor v Fernandez. In short, for the grant of derivative action, the best interest of the company has to be properly established and an overlapping of interest, can lead to the same not been granted. Bibliography Lessambo F, The International Corporate Governance System: Audit Roles and Board Oversight (Palgrave Macmillan, 2016) Loos A, Directors' Liability: A Worldwide Review (Kluwer Law International, 2nd ed, 2010) Picker CB and Seidman GI, The Dynamism of Civil Procedure - Global Trends and Developments (Springer, 2016) Blakeney v Blakeney [2016] WASCA 76 Cooper v Myrtace Consulting Pty Ltd [2014] FCA 480 Foss v Harbottle (1843) 67 ER 189 Roach v Winnote Pty Ltd [2006] NSWSC 231; (2006) 57 ACSR 138 Robash Pty Ltd v Gladstone Pacific Nickel Pty Ltd [2011] NSWSC 1235; (2011) 85 ACSR 432 Swansson v RA Pratt Properties Pty Ltd (2002) 42 ACSR 313 True Value Solar Holdings Pty Ltd and Anor v Fernandez (2013) VSCA 27 Corporations Act, 2001 (Cth) AR Conolly Company, Insurance, Banking, Construction Government (16 May 2016) https://benchmarkinc.com.au/benchmark/composite/benchmark_16-05-2016_insurance_banking_construction_government.pdf Australasian Legal Information Institute, Blakeney -V- Blakeney [2016] WASCA 76 (12 May 2016) (12 May 2016) https://www.austlii.edu.au/au/cases/wa/WASCA/2016/76.html#fnB63 Australian Institute of Company Directors, Enhancing the rights of shareholders (01 May 2013) https://www.companydirectors.com.au/director-resource-centre/publications/company-director-magazine/2013-back-editions/may/directors-counsel-enhancing-the-rights-of-shareholders Frawley N, The Cost of Bringing a Statutory Derivative Action in Australia- Is It Time To Reconsider the Terms of Section 242 of the Corporations Act 2001? (2007) https://www.clta.edu.au/professional/papers/conference2007/2007NF_CBSDAA.pdf Jins Legal Story, Swansson v RA Pratt Properties Pty Ltd (2002) 42 ACSR 313 (2017) https://www.jinslegalstory.com/corporate-law/swansson-v-ra-pratt-properties-pty-ltd-2002-42-acsr-313/ Legal Services Commission, General Duties of Directors - Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) (03 July 2012) https://www.lawhandbook.sa.gov.au/ch05s01s03s02.php Supreme Court, Australian Mortgage Finance Company (12 December 2014) https://static1.squarespace.com/static/538e6312e4b03cefc2a8a0c3/t/

Vermont Teddy Bear Case Essay Example

Vermont Teddy Bear Case Essay Although Vermont Teddy Bear is a company with a rich track record in the business of last-minute gifts, its mission statement lacked its basic goals and philosophies that aim to shape its strategic posture. Vermonts mission statement clearly speaks to someone who is well acquainted with what the company does and what it sells, which is in my opinion a crucial point that the company missed when they addressed its customers. The following points provide an insight on what went wrong when Vermont decided to formulate its mission statement: * The Basic Product the company sells: Vermonts mission statement clearly failed to mention the type of product they sell. By defining the product the company simply distinguishes its offered products from competitive products of similar nature provided by other competitors in the market. * The companys targeted customers In this element, the company mentions who are its customers or potential customers. What will it do to serve them and how will its customers find this company different from the other companies or competitors who provide similar products in the market. Although Vermonts mission statement might have implied that it is currently targeting American customers through :The Vermont Teddy Bear brand represents the rich heritage of the Great American Teddy Bear begun in 1902. , yet this contradicts with the companys current plan in which it intends to exploit international markets, in other words, the company should revise its statement to include potential customers too. * The Technology applied: By defining technology, the company tells its current technology that it uses in making its products i. . whether state of the art technology or hand-made technology. It also tells about the unique ways in which its products are technologically more advanced or distinguished then their alternates. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that the word craftsmanship found in the companys mission statement might tell that the companys products are hand-made, which distinguishes it from other players in the industry, given the fact that most stuffed toys to day are manufactured. The Companys concern for survival, growth and profitability: Vermont failed to fine the means it seeks to survive in the longer run given the fallback they are currently going through. It not merely lists them out but also defines the logic behind them and how will the company strive to achieve them; these goals serve as economic indicators for the companys performance, and hence indicates how far the company is from satisfying the principal claims and desires of its employees and stockholders. The Companys Philosophy: By defining philosophy, the company defines its way of working, its culture, its beliefs and how it sees work to be carried out. it is also an analytical way of defining the norms of which it runs. In my opinion, the companys mission statement had covered the companys creed through the following: We will strive to wholesomely entertain our guests while consistently exceeding our external and internal customer service expectations. * Concern for public image We will write a custom essay sample on Vermont Teddy Bear Case specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Vermont Teddy Bear Case specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Vermont Teddy Bear Case specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Concern for public image is a wide term that includes not only the corporate social responsibility but the overall impact of the actions taken by the company on its image, which in my opinion was totally dropped when formulating Vermonts mission statement. * Companys self concept By defining the self concept, the company shows the outside world its core strengths and the place it sees itself in the future. When reviewing Vermonts mission statement, it is clearly evident that the statement failed to express the companys core strengths in terms of the entrepreneurship capabilities and a robust distribution channels. In light of what was mentioned above, I suggest that Vermont should revisit its mission statement, the following statement will help the BOD in their plans for the company: Become number one instant gift solution in the USA in the next 20 years. We design and manufacture the best teddy bears in America. We satisfy customer needs through product differentiation, we offer exclusive hand-made teddy bears to premium customers as well as providing convenient products to the other customers. Speed and easiness of delivery of our products will be respected along with premium quality. Monthly Measuring customer satisfaction will be our main tool for maintaining our market positioning and for our continuous development for our brand and products. While achieving our mission in owning a profitable business, we will strive to being ethically, legally, and environmentally responsible while remaining fiscally sound. Vermonts external environment consists of three components: its operating, industry and remote environment. In these three environments, there is a chance that one of its external environments may change. All of these environmental sectors affect the companys operations both on the local and international level, and its very possible for change to occur (as witnessed throughout the case study). Operating Environment: Competitors of Vermont Teddy Bear could be subdivided into three categories: * Major plush doll manufacturers such as Mattel and Hasbro were considered competition in this sub segment of the toy industry. * Other bear manufacturers including Steiff of Germany, Dakin, Applause, Fiesta, North American Bear, and Gund, the leading market of toy bears. Variety of other special occasions greetings such as flowers, candy, balloons, cakes and other gift items that could be ordered by phone for special occasions and delivered next day. As for Labor, and given the massive production the company is required to undertake to meet its customers needs especially in special occasions such as Christmas, Valentines Day amp; Mothers Day , the company heavily relied on outsourced home worker s who performed production functions at their homes and hence were treated as independent contractors. Although these home workers/independent contractors allowed the company flexibility in meeting heavy demand as mentioned earlier which allowed them in scheduling their hours of work, home workers were free to reject or accept any work offered by the company which might make the company vulnerable to failure in meeting its customers heavy demand especially in high season sales. The company maintains a solid HR system through a strong built bear culture among employees. The companys manpower do not belong to any unions which eliminates any Labor issues. n the credit side I believe that the company does not face any problem with external financing; the company has two sources of financing, equity through issuance of shares since it is a traded company in the New York stock exchange market, in addition to debt and leasing which can be provided through commercial banks and leasing companies, which in my opinion is not a viable point for Vermont as it already consumed most of its credit li mits lately, comparing with its competitors who had greater financial resources. Historically, the companys focus had been to design and manufacture the best teddy bear made in America, using American materials. This philosophy was modified significantly in 1998 with the companys decision to explore the offshore sourcing of materials and manufacturing alternatives in an effort to lower the companys cost of goods sold and to broaden its available sources of supply, in my opinion such change would diverse the companys dependence on American supplies or raw material, now that it has a wide pool of international suppliers which will give the company a significant bargaining power in terms of cost and quality. Although many teddy bear producers define their product as toy and marketed solely to children. The company marketed its bears as an attractive gift or collectible for both children and adults which enabled the company to penetrate a wide-ranged customer pool, including children, young and old people whether males or females. If the company considers going globally, the company might face problems when addressing global customers, such Anti-Americans who might avoid buying the companys products knowing that it is an American product, especially that the companys competitive advantage stems from their origin, being one of the earliest producers of teddy bears in America. Industry Environment: Barriers to entry into this industry is there, evidenced by the challenges that Vermont along with the other current players face in the market, such as economies of scale, product differentiation, capital requirements and access to distribution channels. Given that both the stuffed toys and last-minute gifts markets are already saturated, I believe that the possibility of entry of a new player to the said markets is quite difficult, unless this new player intends to acquire an existing company to capitalize on its position in the market. For Vermont and as discussed earlier, the company had recently shifted to rely on various suppliers from local markets and different countries in its raw material in an attempt to reduce its costs, yet it was implied that it still relies on an American supplier-who happened to be the only eye maker left in America-in attempt to produce the ears with domestic materials, this might give this supplier some bargaining power to exert on Vermont. Last minute gift customers normally lack the power to force down prices or play competitors off against each other, this is mainly attributable to that Vermonts industry is a fragmented one, and last minute shoppers are ready to pay anything to acquire a gift due to time constraints which disable them to consider or make comparison with other competitors products; they will simply buy the first thing their eyes lie on to buy that gift especially in special occasions and events. Capitalizing on what was said earlier, Vermonts Teddy Bear as a product had several substitutes including toy bears, stuffed dolls or animals, flowers, candy, balloons, cakes and other gift items which in my opinion deserve the most attention strategically. To my opinion, and given that the Industrys competitors are numerous and that the industry growth is slow, Vermont is facing an intense rivalry from its competitors which the company should focus on strategically in the future. Remote Environment: The remote environment is what originates beyond the daily operations of Vermont. The remote environment is made up of five factors that are not influenced by a single company. These factors are economic, social, political, technological and ecological. Although these factors cannot be affected by Vermont, they can definitely effect the operations of the company. These must be all considered by the company when working with the market. Over the next twenty years, there are several changes that might take place in the remote environment. Since technology is not an important factor in this industry the company might disregard it when formulating its strategy. Political factors are quite stable on the local side yet if the company considers going global it must take these factors into consideration, for example if changes occurred in laws and regulations with respect to Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), they must make changes to meet Political standards. Ecological factors also might cause several issues; although the companys manufacturing practices are environmentally sound, other factors might be an issue (for example global warming) given the fact that the company owns and operate a factory at which it produces its products, then the energy used by the company to produce its products must e modified in order to meet ecological standards. To be sustaining in the market, Vermont should encourage the knowledge of the internal environment that affects its business. There are many internal factors that impact Vermonts performance; these factors constitutes of the companys competitively important resources and capabilities. Unfortunately reso urces whether tangible or intangible are scarce by nature and it will be a great challenge for the company to manage their resources in order to gain the competitive advantage. Tangible Assets: The company operates and owns a fully integrated facilities including retail stores, manufacturing and distribution facilities in a 62,000 square-foot building on 57 acres that the company owns; * The manufacturing/production facilities included a state of the art packing and shipping equipment; * The companys call centers had state-of-the art technologies including PC terminals and very high tech telephone switching equipment that allowed the company to handle significant call volume; * The company installed a new telephone system, which improved its telemarketing operations and was designed to accommodate future growth in telephone call volume; * The company had a high-tech shipping system, including state-of-the art multicarrier software so that if a major carrier like UPS went on strike, it could immediately make adjustments; * In 1998 the company succeeded to secure a source of finance amounting $600,000 (in the form of equity investment that was injected by Shepherd Group) which will provide working capital for the company to pursue growth in the Bear-Gram channel and to maximize the benefits of importing raw material; * The company had launched an extensive website including pictures of the product in 1997 where its customers are eligible to place their orders online, which was part of the companys computer network of approximately 250 workstations that linked order entry with sales and accounting systems. Intangible Assets: * The companys name in combinatio n with its original logo was a registered trademark in the United States including The Vermont Teddy Bear Company, Bear Gram, Teddy Bear Gram and Make-A-Friend-For Life; * It owned the registered trademark Vermont Teddy Bear in Japan; * The company claimed copyright, service mark, or trademark protection for its teddy bear designs, its marketing slogans, and its advertising copy and promotional literature; Organizational Capabilities: * The companys manufacturing practices were environmentally sound. The company sought to use the best available materials for its bears; * The companys products were sold with a Guarantee for Life under which the company undertakes to repair or replace any damaged or defective bear at any time; * The companys products were designed in such way to a certain event or occasions, the company even provided outfits to individualize the customers bears or to emphasize certain relevant characteristics of the receiver; * The company was primarily know for its Bear-Gram delivery service, where customers could send the gift of a Vermont Teddy Bear by placing an order through the companys 800 number or online, providing its customers with an instant and spontaneous solution for the perfect gift especial in events and special occasions; * Since its inception in the 80s, the companys main focus was to design and manufacture the best teddy bears made in America, using American materials and labor, which helped the company to build up a strong and extensive custome r base; * The companys decision to explore the offshore sourcing of materials was a brilliant and a dynamic solution for lowering the companys cost of goods sold and reducing the suppliers power over the company; * The company has a wide range of products that suits both premium and regular customers; it has its handcrafted 15-inch classic teddy bears as well as its manufactured bears, in addition to other items related to teddy bears such as clothing, jewelry and accessory ornaments; * The company strove to provide rapid response to its customer orders and complaints. It believed that as a result of the quality of its products and service, it had established a loyal customer base; The value chain analysis (demonstrated below) aim at increasing customer satisfaction and managing cost effectively; it is a systematic approach to examining the development of competitive advantage, it comprises both primary and support activities: Source: pcwin. com Primary activities of Value Chain Analysis are directly concerned with the production or delivery of a product and consist of: * Inbound Logistics: Vermonts manufacturing premises included a state-of-the-art packing and shipping equipment, in addition the company also had a three-year lease on 10,000 square foot of inventory space at a separate location in Shelburne. Exploiting offshore markets for the sourcing of its materials provided the company with a wider base of suppliers which prevented the company from dependence risks; * Operations: despite the companys 1998 move to the offshore sourcing of raw materials and which implied a significant departure from the companys historical position as an American manufacturer who uses almost exclusively American materials, the companys products were still environmentally sound; the company sought to use the best available materials for its bears. The company produced two type of products; its handcrafted 15-inch classic teddy bear for those customers who are interested in an American made product and its manufactured event or special occasion-customized teddy bears for the rest of its customers, in addition to selling items related to its teddy bears; * Outbound Logistics: The company was known for its Bear-Gram delivery services, which enabled the company to provide instant delivery services (either by air or ground delivery services) to its customers throughout the different states of America as well as outside customers such as Canada through a carrier such as UPS. In addition, the company had a high-tech shipping system, including state-of-the-art multicarrier software so that if a major carrier like UPS went on strike, it could immediately make adjustments; * Marketing and Sales: The companys extensive computer network in addition to its new telephone system enabled the company to expand its customer base not only in Ver mont but throughout the rest of the states and the world and provide rapid response to its customer orders which in turn; * Service: The company sought to respond promptly to customer complaints. Each bear was sold with a Guarantee for Life under which the company ndertakes to repair or replace any damaged or defective bear at any time; These primary activities are supported by secondary activities which help to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the primary activities of the company and consist of: * Firms Infrastructure: it can be subdivided into three main categories: * Organizational Structure: The companys Board members and Executive Officers had solid experience in different fields including marketing, finance amp; investment; * System of Planning Finance: The company managed to secure a $3. 5 Million commercial loan to partially finance its new facility, later the company completed a sale-leaseback transaction involving its factory, this financing replace the company s mortgage and line of credit. The company had also signed a letter of intent with a potential investor for a proposed $600,000 equity investment; the company intends to direct the proceeds of the said transaction to financing its working capital needs to pursue growth in the Bear-Gram channel and to maximize the benefits of importing raw materials; * Quality Control: The company strives to maintain its products environmental friendly and was safe for children. * Human Resource Management: * The company employed 181 individuals, none of them belonged to a union which provided the company with some sort of protection against strikes; * In order for the company to meet heavy demand at holiday periods such as Christmas, Valentines Day and Mothers Day, the company depended on independent contractors/home workers. * Technology Development: The manufacturing/production facilities included a state of the art packing and shipping equipment; * The companys call centers had state-of-the art technologies including PC termina ls and very high tech telephone switching equipment that allowed the company to handle significant call volume; * The company installed a new telephone system, which improved its telemarketing operations and was designed to accommodate future growth in telephone call volume; * The company had a high-tech shipping system, including state-of-the art multicarrier software so that if a major carrier like UPS went on strike, it could immediately make adjustments; * The company had launched an extensive website including pictures of the product in 1997 where its customers are eligible to place their orders online, which was part of the companys computer network of approximately 250 workstations that linked order entry with sales and accounting systems. * Procurement: * The most relevant long-term objectives for the company are as follows: * Competitive Position: the company always strives on keeping its position as a market leader backed by designing and manufacturing the best teddy bears made in America and represent an attractive gift or collectible for both children and adults; * Profitability: sustain and increase profitability by improving the Bear-gram services that is provided through either the internet or the phone which are designed to accommodate future growth in request volume; * Public Responsibility: the companys manufacturing practices respect the environmental aspects by using the best available materials for its bears. The company uses Differentiation-focus as a generic strategy illustrated in: * Using American-made materials in its products; * The company offers a life-time guarantee; * Easy order placement and prompt delivery; * Rapid response to its customer complaints. Grand strategies are applied through: * Product Development : The company diversified the spectrum of its products to include the following: * More than 100 different bear outfits to individualize the companys bears, to emphasize certain relevant characteristics, or to personalize bears for different occasions and events; * Using recycled Ben and Jerrys ice cream containers to make the bear joints movable, a feature associated with traditional, high quality teddy bears; * Selling items related to Teddy Bears; * Selling stuffed toys manufactured by other companies; * Changing the packaging structure to ensure damage-free products and lower courier services; * Turnaround Strategy: The company exercised the turnaround strategies to survive the following incidents: Incidents| Actions reflecting Turnaround Strategy| The companys expenses increased while sales growth did not offset this growth;| * Eliminate several unprofitable marketable ventures (such as its sponsorship to NASCAR circuit race car and driver); * Reduce General and Administrative exp enses; * Change of key management position;| * The company applied a new trademark name to broaden brand appeal and take advantage of national and international distribution opportunities; * Explore new opportunities for growth through opening new retail stores and expanding the catalog;| * Focus on Bear-Gram business to expand the companys distribution channels; * Shut down retail stores to reduce costs; * Change of key management position;| Vermont Teddy Bear Case Essay Example Vermont Teddy Bear Case Essay Although Vermont Teddy Bear is a company with a rich track record in the business of last-minute gifts, its mission statement lacked its basic goals and philosophies that aim to shape its strategic posture. Vermonts mission statement clearly speaks to someone who is well acquainted with what the company does and what it sells, which is in my opinion a crucial point that the company missed when they addressed its customers. The following points provide an insight on what went wrong when Vermont decided to formulate its mission statement: * The Basic Product the company sells: Vermonts mission statement clearly failed to mention the type of product they sell. By defining the product the company simply distinguishes its offered products from competitive products of similar nature provided by other competitors in the market. * The companys targeted customers In this element, the company mentions who are its customers or potential customers. What will it do to serve them and how will its customers find this company different from the other companies or competitors who provide similar products in the market. Although Vermonts mission statement might have implied that it is currently targeting American customers through :The Vermont Teddy Bear brand represents the rich heritage of the Great American Teddy Bear begun in 1902. , yet this contradicts with the companys current plan in which it intends to exploit international markets, in other words, the company should revise its statement to include potential customers too. * The Technology applied: By defining technology, the company tells its current technology that it uses in making its products i. . whether state of the art technology or hand-made technology. It also tells about the unique ways in which its products are technologically more advanced or distinguished then their alternates. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that the word craftsmanship found in the companys mission statement might tell that the companys products are hand-made, which distinguishes it from other players in the industry, given the fact that most stuffed toys to day are manufactured. The Companys concern for survival, growth and profitability: Vermont failed to fine the means it seeks to survive in the longer run given the fallback they are currently going through. It not merely lists them out but also defines the logic behind them and how will the company strive to achieve them; these goals serve as economic indicators for the companys performance, and hence indicates how far the company is from satisfying the principal claims and desires of its employees and stockholders. The Companys Philosophy: By defining philosophy, the company defines its way of working, its culture, its beliefs and how it sees work to be carried out. it is also an analytical way of defining the norms of which it runs. In my opinion, the companys mission statement had covered the companys creed through the following: We will strive to wholesomely entertain our guests while consistently exceeding our external and internal customer service expectations. * Concern for public image We will write a custom essay sample on Vermont Teddy Bear Case specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Vermont Teddy Bear Case specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Vermont Teddy Bear Case specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Concern for public image is a wide term that includes not only the corporate social responsibility but the overall impact of the actions taken by the company on its image, which in my opinion was totally dropped when formulating Vermonts mission statement. * Companys self concept By defining the self concept, the company shows the outside world its core strengths and the place it sees itself in the future. When reviewing Vermonts mission statement, it is clearly evident that the statement failed to express the companys core strengths in terms of the entrepreneurship capabilities and a robust distribution channels. In light of what was mentioned above, I suggest that Vermont should revisit its mission statement, the following statement will help the BOD in their plans for the company: Become number one instant gift solution in the USA in the next 20 years. We design and manufacture the best teddy bears in America. We satisfy customer needs through product differentiation, we offer exclusive hand-made teddy bears to premium customers as well as providing convenient products to the other customers. Speed and easiness of delivery of our products will be respected along with premium quality. Monthly Measuring customer satisfaction will be our main tool for maintaining our market positioning and for our continuous development for our brand and products. While achieving our mission in owning a profitable business, we will strive to being ethically, legally, and environmentally responsible while remaining fiscally sound. Vermonts external environment consists of three components: its operating, industry and remote environment. In these three environments, there is a chance that one of its external environments may change. All of these environmental sectors affect the companys operations both on the local and international level, and its very possible for change to occur (as witnessed throughout the case study). Operating Environment: Competitors of Vermont Teddy Bear could be subdivided into three categories: * Major plush doll manufacturers such as Mattel and Hasbro were considered competition in this sub segment of the toy industry. * Other bear manufacturers including Steiff of Germany, Dakin, Applause, Fiesta, North American Bear, and Gund, the leading market of toy bears. Variety of other special occasions greetings such as flowers, candy, balloons, cakes and other gift items that could be ordered by phone for special occasions and delivered next day. As for Labor, and given the massive production the company is required to undertake to meet its customers needs especially in special occasions such as Christmas, Valentines Day amp; Mothers Day , the company heavily relied on outsourced home worker s who performed production functions at their homes and hence were treated as independent contractors. Although these home workers/independent contractors allowed the company flexibility in meeting heavy demand as mentioned earlier which allowed them in scheduling their hours of work, home workers were free to reject or accept any work offered by the company which might make the company vulnerable to failure in meeting its customers heavy demand especially in high season sales. The company maintains a solid HR system through a strong built bear culture among employees. The companys manpower do not belong to any unions which eliminates any Labor issues. n the credit side I believe that the company does not face any problem with external financing; the company has two sources of financing, equity through issuance of shares since it is a traded company in the New York stock exchange market, in addition to debt and leasing which can be provided through commercial banks and leasing companies, which in my opinion is not a viable point for Vermont as it already consumed most of its credit li mits lately, comparing with its competitors who had greater financial resources. Historically, the companys focus had been to design and manufacture the best teddy bear made in America, using American materials. This philosophy was modified significantly in 1998 with the companys decision to explore the offshore sourcing of materials and manufacturing alternatives in an effort to lower the companys cost of goods sold and to broaden its available sources of supply, in my opinion such change would diverse the companys dependence on American supplies or raw material, now that it has a wide pool of international suppliers which will give the company a significant bargaining power in terms of cost and quality. Although many teddy bear producers define their product as toy and marketed solely to children. The company marketed its bears as an attractive gift or collectible for both children and adults which enabled the company to penetrate a wide-ranged customer pool, including children, young and old people whether males or females. If the company considers going globally, the company might face problems when addressing global customers, such Anti-Americans who might avoid buying the companys products knowing that it is an American product, especially that the companys competitive advantage stems from their origin, being one of the earliest producers of teddy bears in America. Industry Environment: Barriers to entry into this industry is there, evidenced by the challenges that Vermont along with the other current players face in the market, such as economies of scale, product differentiation, capital requirements and access to distribution channels. Given that both the stuffed toys and last-minute gifts markets are already saturated, I believe that the possibility of entry of a new player to the said markets is quite difficult, unless this new player intends to acquire an existing company to capitalize on its position in the market. For Vermont and as discussed earlier, the company had recently shifted to rely on various suppliers from local markets and different countries in its raw material in an attempt to reduce its costs, yet it was implied that it still relies on an American supplier-who happened to be the only eye maker left in America-in attempt to produce the ears with domestic materials, this might give this supplier some bargaining power to exert on Vermont. Last minute gift customers normally lack the power to force down prices or play competitors off against each other, this is mainly attributable to that Vermonts industry is a fragmented one, and last minute shoppers are ready to pay anything to acquire a gift due to time constraints which disable them to consider or make comparison with other competitors products; they will simply buy the first thing their eyes lie on to buy that gift especially in special occasions and events. Capitalizing on what was said earlier, Vermonts Teddy Bear as a product had several substitutes including toy bears, stuffed dolls or animals, flowers, candy, balloons, cakes and other gift items which in my opinion deserve the most attention strategically. To my opinion, and given that the Industrys competitors are numerous and that the industry growth is slow, Vermont is facing an intense rivalry from its competitors which the company should focus on strategically in the future. Remote Environment: The remote environment is what originates beyond the daily operations of Vermont. The remote environment is made up of five factors that are not influenced by a single company. These factors are economic, social, political, technological and ecological. Although these factors cannot be affected by Vermont, they can definitely effect the operations of the company. These must be all considered by the company when working with the market. Over the next twenty years, there are several changes that might take place in the remote environment. Since technology is not an important factor in this industry the company might disregard it when formulating its strategy. Political factors are quite stable on the local side yet if the company considers going global it must take these factors into consideration, for example if changes occurred in laws and regulations with respect to Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), they must make changes to meet Political standards. Ecological factors also might cause several issues; although the companys manufacturing practices are environmentally sound, other factors might be an issue (for example global warming) given the fact that the company owns and operate a factory at which it produces its products, then the energy used by the company to produce its products must e modified in order to meet ecological standards. To be sustaining in the market, Vermont should encourage the knowledge of the internal environment that affects its business. There are many internal factors that impact Vermonts performance; these factors constitutes of the companys competitively important resources and capabilities. Unfortunately reso urces whether tangible or intangible are scarce by nature and it will be a great challenge for the company to manage their resources in order to gain the competitive advantage. Tangible Assets: The company operates and owns a fully integrated facilities including retail stores, manufacturing and distribution facilities in a 62,000 square-foot building on 57 acres that the company owns; * The manufacturing/production facilities included a state of the art packing and shipping equipment; * The companys call centers had state-of-the art technologies including PC terminals and very high tech telephone switching equipment that allowed the company to handle significant call volume; * The company installed a new telephone system, which improved its telemarketing operations and was designed to accommodate future growth in telephone call volume; * The company had a high-tech shipping system, including state-of-the art multicarrier software so that if a major carrier like UPS went on strike, it could immediately make adjustments; * In 1998 the company succeeded to secure a source of finance amounting $600,000 (in the form of equity investment that was injected by Shepherd Group) which will provide working capital for the company to pursue growth in the Bear-Gram channel and to maximize the benefits of importing raw material; * The company had launched an extensive website including pictures of the product in 1997 where its customers are eligible to place their orders online, which was part of the companys computer network of approximately 250 workstations that linked order entry with sales and accounting systems. Intangible Assets: * The companys name in combinatio n with its original logo was a registered trademark in the United States including The Vermont Teddy Bear Company, Bear Gram, Teddy Bear Gram and Make-A-Friend-For Life; * It owned the registered trademark Vermont Teddy Bear in Japan; * The company claimed copyright, service mark, or trademark protection for its teddy bear designs, its marketing slogans, and its advertising copy and promotional literature; Organizational Capabilities: * The companys manufacturing practices were environmentally sound. The company sought to use the best available materials for its bears; * The companys products were sold with a Guarantee for Life under which the company undertakes to repair or replace any damaged or defective bear at any time; * The companys products were designed in such way to a certain event or occasions, the company even provided outfits to individualize the customers bears or to emphasize certain relevant characteristics of the receiver; * The company was primarily know for its Bear-Gram delivery service, where customers could send the gift of a Vermont Teddy Bear by placing an order through the companys 800 number or online, providing its customers with an instant and spontaneous solution for the perfect gift especial in events and special occasions; * Since its inception in the 80s, the companys main focus was to design and manufacture the best teddy bears made in America, using American materials and labor, which helped the company to build up a strong and extensive custome r base; * The companys decision to explore the offshore sourcing of materials was a brilliant and a dynamic solution for lowering the companys cost of goods sold and reducing the suppliers power over the company; * The company has a wide range of products that suits both premium and regular customers; it has its handcrafted 15-inch classic teddy bears as well as its manufactured bears, in addition to other items related to teddy bears such as clothing, jewelry and accessory ornaments; * The company strove to provide rapid response to its customer orders and complaints. It believed that as a result of the quality of its products and service, it had established a loyal customer base; The value chain analysis (demonstrated below) aim at increasing customer satisfaction and managing cost effectively; it is a systematic approach to examining the development of competitive advantage, it comprises both primary and support activities: Source: pcwin. com Primary activities of Value Chain Analysis are directly concerned with the production or delivery of a product and consist of: * Inbound Logistics: Vermonts manufacturing premises included a state-of-the-art packing and shipping equipment, in addition the company also had a three-year lease on 10,000 square foot of inventory space at a separate location in Shelburne. Exploiting offshore markets for the sourcing of its materials provided the company with a wider base of suppliers which prevented the company from dependence risks; * Operations: despite the companys 1998 move to the offshore sourcing of raw materials and which implied a significant departure from the companys historical position as an American manufacturer who uses almost exclusively American materials, the companys products were still environmentally sound; the company sought to use the best available materials for its bears. The company produced two type of products; its handcrafted 15-inch classic teddy bear for those customers who are interested in an American made product and its manufactured event or special occasion-customized teddy bears for the rest of its customers, in addition to selling items related to its teddy bears; * Outbound Logistics: The company was known for its Bear-Gram delivery services, which enabled the company to provide instant delivery services (either by air or ground delivery services) to its customers throughout the different states of America as well as outside customers such as Canada through a carrier such as UPS. In addition, the company had a high-tech shipping system, including state-of-the-art multicarrier software so that if a major carrier like UPS went on strike, it could immediately make adjustments; * Marketing and Sales: The companys extensive computer network in addition to its new telephone system enabled the company to expand its customer base not only in Ver mont but throughout the rest of the states and the world and provide rapid response to its customer orders which in turn; * Service: The company sought to respond promptly to customer complaints. Each bear was sold with a Guarantee for Life under which the company ndertakes to repair or replace any damaged or defective bear at any time; These primary activities are supported by secondary activities which help to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the primary activities of the company and consist of: * Firms Infrastructure: it can be subdivided into three main categories: * Organizational Structure: The companys Board members and Executive Officers had solid experience in different fields including marketing, finance amp; investment; * System of Planning Finance: The company managed to secure a $3. 5 Million commercial loan to partially finance its new facility, later the company completed a sale-leaseback transaction involving its factory, this financing replace the company s mortgage and line of credit. The company had also signed a letter of intent with a potential investor for a proposed $600,000 equity investment; the company intends to direct the proceeds of the said transaction to financing its working capital needs to pursue growth in the Bear-Gram channel and to maximize the benefits of importing raw materials; * Quality Control: The company strives to maintain its products environmental friendly and was safe for children. * Human Resource Management: * The company employed 181 individuals, none of them belonged to a union which provided the company with some sort of protection against strikes; * In order for the company to meet heavy demand at holiday periods such as Christmas, Valentines Day and Mothers Day, the company depended on independent contractors/home workers. * Technology Development: The manufacturing/production facilities included a state of the art packing and shipping equipment; * The companys call centers had state-of-the art technologies including PC termina ls and very high tech telephone switching equipment that allowed the company to handle significant call volume; * The company installed a new telephone system, which improved its telemarketing operations and was designed to accommodate future growth in telephone call volume; * The company had a high-tech shipping system, including state-of-the art multicarrier software so that if a major carrier like UPS went on strike, it could immediately make adjustments; * The company had launched an extensive website including pictures of the product in 1997 where its customers are eligible to place their orders online, which was part of the companys computer network of approximately 250 workstations that linked order entry with sales and accounting systems. * Procurement: * The most relevant long-term objectives for the company are as follows: * Competitive Position: the company always strives on keeping its position as a market leader backed by designing and manufacturing the best teddy bears made in America and represent an attractive gift or collectible for both children and adults; * Profitability: sustain and increase profitability by improving the Bear-gram services that is provided through either the internet or the phone which are designed to accommodate future growth in request volume; * Public Responsibility: the companys manufacturing practices respect the environmental aspects by using the best available materials for its bears. The company uses Differentiation-focus as a generic strategy illustrated in: * Using American-made materials in its products; * The company offers a life-time guarantee; * Easy order placement and prompt delivery; * Rapid response to its customer complaints. Grand strategies are applied through: * Product Development : The company diversified the spectrum of its products to include the following: * More than 100 different bear outfits to individualize the companys bears, to emphasize certain relevant characteristics, or to personalize bears for different occasions and events; * Using recycled Ben and Jerrys ice cream containers to make the bear joints movable, a feature associated with traditional, high quality teddy bears; * Selling items related to Teddy Bears; * Selling stuffed toys manufactured by other companies; * Changing the packaging structure to ensure damage-free products and lower courier services; * Turnaround Strategy: The company exercised the turnaround strategies to survive the following incidents: Incidents| Actions reflecting Turnaround Strategy| The companys expenses increased while sales growth did not offset this growth;| * Eliminate several unprofitable marketable ventures (such as its sponsorship to NASCAR circuit race car and driver); * Reduce General and Administrative exp enses; * Change of key management position;| * The company applied a new trademark name to broaden brand appeal and take advantage of national and international distribution opportunities; * Explore new opportunities for growth through opening new retail stores and expanding the catalog;| * Focus on Bear-Gram business to expand the companys distribution channels; * Shut down retail stores to reduce costs; * Change of key management position;|

Same-Sex Marriage essays

Same-Sex Marriage essays In America today, 84 percent of the population defines marriage as the union of two people of the opposite sex. Marriage is one of the fundamental establishments of the United States, as stated in the U.S. Constitution. However, many Americans are denied this basic right because of whom they are trying to marry. In most states, including Indiana, it is illegal for two people of the same sex to enter into a marriage together. The state of Indiana is one of 40 states whose constitutions clearly define marriage as  ¡the union of a man and a woman ¡. I believe that this is blatant discrimination towards homosexuals and their families, and the law should be altered in some way to accept everyone despite their sexual orientation. Indiana has no laws that address benefits towards gay and lesbian couples. The state does not recognize any same-sex marriage, regardless of where the marriage took place. Indiana does not grant any recognition of civil unions, nor do they offer same-sex partner benefits for government workers, as many states now offer. As stated above, Indiana will only grant a marriage license to a woman if she is marrying a man or a man if he is marrying a woman. In a poll taken by WTHR Channel 13, less than a quarter of Hoosiers believe gay couples should be allowed to marry. Only 19 percent of adults are in support of gay marriage, but the majority of Hoosiers under age 35 believe in some form of legal acknowledgment. All in all, it is going to take time before Indiana catches up with the rest of the country in awarding same-sex benefits and recognition. Although marriage is the primary goal, recognition in general would be a giant step in the right direction. Massachusetts is the only state right now that has legalized same-sex marriage. Many cities throughout the country have taken it upon themselves to grant marriage licenses to same-sex couples. These are a few places in the Unit ...

Environmental Economics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 4

Environmental Economics - Essay Example This paper compares Command-and-Control and Economic Incentive approaches. "Command and control" regulations focus on preventing environmental problems by specifying how a company will manage a pollution-generating process† (Stuart) In this type of approach to regulation of pollution, the companies which are responsible for pollution should take necessary precautions to prevent the environment pollution due to their activities. For example, industrial units mostly produce lot of toxic gases and solid wastes which generally they disposed to the land or sea improperly. Waste treatment plants are made compulsory with every industrial unit by implementing "Command and control" regulations. Command and control approaches were effective up to certain extent to reduce the industrial pollution. Periodical inspections from the governmental agencies forced the industrial units to keep tight control over the polluted materials it generated. Economic incentive approach is the way of controlling environmental pollution by offering economic incentives. In this approach, those who take effective measures to control environmental pollution will be rewarded and strict penalties will be enforced for those who destroy the environment. Pigovian Taxes, emission fees, abatement subsidies and tradable permit system are some of the common methods taken in the Economic incentive approach. Pigovian Taxes is a kind of special tax that is  often levied on companies that pollute the environment or create excess social costs, called negative externalities,  through  business practices. In a true market economy, a Pigovian tax  is the most efficient and effective  way to correct negative  externalities (Pigovian Tax) The main objective of this tax is to incorporate the social cost of the environment problems caused by the polluter. Thus the polluters will be forced to control their polluting activities because of the fear of the heavy Pigovian