Moral principles that should underpin
decision making. Decisions made on ethical
grounds may reject most profitable solutions
in favour of one of greater benefit to society
as well as the firm.
What are business
ethics?
Code of behaviour considered
morally correct. Shaped by:
behaviour of parents, religion,
peers, society (live and work).
Important ethical
considerations:
Dealing
honestly and
fairly with
customers
Protecting the envrionment
(sustainable raw materials)
Testing
products
on animals
Two major influences
shape moral behaviour of
businesses:
Individuals who have their
own moral codes, values
and beliefs
Cultures shape corporate
ethical standards
The developing
ethical environment
Cadbury and Nestle convert to
Fairtrade.
Sustainability. Supply products in such
a way as to not compromise the lives of
future generations.
Reducing carbon
footprint.
e.g 'Eurostar goes
carbon neutral'
Business ethics
and business
objectives
'Why do businesses exist?' make maximum profit? Most
people would consider it to be unethical to make staff
redundant if to add bonuses.
Ethical codes of
practice
'meaningfully
contribute to local,
national communities in
which we trade'
As a response to consumer
expectations and competitive
pressures.
Intended to
improve
behaviour and
image
Companies publicise
them - important
element of marketing
strategy.
Public relations
exercise?
Pressure groups and
ethics
'Greenpeace' -
environment
'Action on Smoking and Health' -
opposes tobacco
'Compassion in World Farming' - end
factory farming
The ethical balance
sheet
Advantages
Marketing
Consumerism (more
well-informed) so can think
carefully before spending
money
Ethical behavior = USP (Body
Shop)
'Caring image' =
increase sales
Public
relations
Enhance image..
increase sales and
profits
Co-op not lend to company in 'arms
trade', strong supporter of Fairtrade.
Pos effects on
workforce
Recruit staff: better
qualified, motivated, large
numbers apply.
Innocent Drinks low
labour turnver
Disadvantages
Reduced
profitability
Face higher
costs
Turn down
investments
Cant expolit cheap
labour
Ethical Behaviour:
future
developments
Ethics will be of increasing
importance
The adoption of ethical
practices
80% businesses in UK have
implemented ethical code of
practices.
The commercial success of
high-profile 'ethical' companies
Toyota - commitment to
sustainable methods of
production
Co-op £117m operating proit 2010, shows
ethical principles can be highly attractive to
customers.