Thema 4: Doing Business
Prüfling A
The student café at your school is set to relaunch, and students are invited to offer suggestions on how to run it both successfully and sustainably. Comment on the cartoon.
https://raesidecartoon.com/vault/coffee-fair-trade/ [accessed: 22 March 2022]
to grind: to exploit Together with your partner, discuss principles for doing business in a globalised world.
Agree on ideas to run the student café both successfully and sustainably.
Prüfling B
The student café at your school is set to relaunch, and students are invited to offer suggestions on how to run it both successfully and sustainably. Comment on the cartoon.
Adapted from:
http://patoeticopatologico.com/en/tag/comic-strip-en/page/9/7i=1 [accessed: 22 March 2022]
http://patoeticopatologico.com/en/tag/comic-strip-en/page/9/7i=1 [accessed: 22 March 2022]
warranty: guarantee Together with your partner, discuss principles for doing business in a globalised world.
Agree on ideas to run the student café both successfully and sustainably.
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Note:
Please note that these solutions are only suggestions. There are various possibilities for argumentation.
Please note that these solutions are only suggestions. There are various possibilities for argumentation.
- Here we are then.
- Let's talk about possible goals and what to achieve in the next 5 years. How will these goals and ideas open up an endless array of opportunities and at the same time will come with certain constraints.
- Let's start with...
- On the one hand / on the other hand
- It must be considered
- In my opinion / I think, personally, ...
- I agree / I disagree
Possible introductions to the topic and the argumentations
Prüfungsteilnehmer A
- the cartoon illustrates a café situation where fair trade coffee is promoted, the seller, however admits to exploit the paper cup producers in order to generate profit since paying for the coffee farmers "top dollar"
- the cartoon is a good example of the greenwashing phenomenon that has become increasingly popular among companies in recent years
- it is the attempt to create a sustainable and responsible image through marketing measures
- the cartoon café prioritizes offering fair trade coffee, which it promotes extensively to generate profit.
- however, it cuts costs and largens its profit by exploiting the producers of the paper cups
- a sustainable and responsible company understands the importance of ensuring fair pay, promoting regional sourcing, and considering seasonality throughout the entire supply chain
Comment on the cartoon
Prüfungsteilnehmer B
- the cartoon shows a buying scenario in which a product is labeled as biological.
- at first, the consumer questions whether the apple is really biological, but is convinced by the argument that he does not get a guarantee for it, but that the apple is cheaper than from the competition
- this cartoon says something about both the buyer and the seller side
- sellers use claims about sustainability and organic products for promotional purposes without giving the seller any validation
- buyers, however, is satisfied with claims without questioning, because the price is right
- this behavior is a reflection of our consumer society, where there is a strong demand for products that are marketed as superficially sustainable, organic, and locally sourced
- however, only a small minority of consumers are genuinely willing to pay the true cost associated with these ethical practices
- Instead, many choose to turn a blind eye and rely on labels or certifications to ease their guilt while prioritizing lower prices.
Comment on the cartoon
Argumente für beide Prüfungsteilnehmer
- Ethical Practices: Uphold ethical standards in all business operations, including fair labor practices, environmental sustainability, and responsible sourcing. Transparency and accountability are crucial in building trust with customers and stakeholders.
- Cultural Sensitivity and Diversity: Respect cultural differences and promote inclusivity within the business. Recognize and celebrate diversity in the workforce, as well as adapt products and services to meet the needs of a global customer base.
- Social Responsibility: Embrace social responsibility by actively engaging in community initiatives and supporting social causes e.g. donating a portion of profits to charitable organizations or implementing sustainable practices that minimize the café's environmental impact.
- Innovation and Adaptability: Embrace innovation to stay relevant and competitive in a rapidly changing global market. Continuously seek new ideas, technologies, and trends that can enhance the café's offerings and improve customer experience.
- Collaboration and Partnerships: Foster strategic partnerships and collaborations with other businesses, suppliers, and local communities. This can lead to shared resources, knowledge exchange, and mutually beneficial initiatives.
Business principles
- Menu Planning: Offer a diverse menu that caters to different dietary preferences and cultural backgrounds. Include healthy, sustainable, and locally sourced options. Regularly update the menu to incorporate seasonal ingredients and reduce food waste.
- Environmental Sustainability: Implement sustainable practices such as using eco-friendly packaging, reducing energy consumption, and promoting recycling. Consider sourcing ingredients from local suppliers to minimize the café's carbon footprint.
- Engage with the Student Body: Seek student input and feedback on menu choices, café layout, and overall experience. Conduct surveys, suggestion boxes, or focus groups to gather ideas and involve the student community in shaping the café's direction.
- Customer Loyalty Programs: Develop loyalty programs or incentives to encourage repeat customers. Offer discounts, special promotions, or loyalty cards to reward frequent visitors and build a loyal customer base.
- Student Employment: Provide opportunities for students to gain valuable work experience through part-time employment at the café.
- Technology Integration: Utilize technology to enhance customer experience and streamline operations. Consider implementing online ordering systems, mobile payment options, and social media platforms for marketing and engagement.
- Social and Community Engagement: Connect with the local community by hosting events, partnering with local businesses or organizations, and supporting community initiatives. This can create a positive reputation for the café and attract a broader customer base.
Ideas for a sustainable and successful café