Ethical Implications Of Ethical Consumerism - 1552 Words

1.0 Ethical Consumerism 1.1 Definition The term Ethical consumerism, means that more customers prefer to purchase goods that are obtained ethically, made ethically and distributed ethically. According to Jacqueline Payne (2012), â€Å"An ethical consumer is someone who buys things that are produced ethically. Depending on the context, ethical production may mean producing something that is recycled, using labour that is produced in facilities without the use of slavery and child labour, or processing food that is raised organic or free range. If you buy one of these products, you could be an ethical consumer and not even know it†¦ or you may not be one. However, the whole point of the ethical consumerism movement is that you ‘know’ what you†¦show more content†¦For the purpose of this report, Apple’s ethical code of conduct and practices and how it affects not only profits but its reputation, shareholders and customer retention. 2.0 Apple Apple, Inc. is an American multinational establishment that designs and markets consumer electronics (Smart phones, MP3 players and tablets) computer software, and personal computers. Apple became popular with its Mackintosh line of personal computers. Over the years, Apple has gained a significant amount of global presence through the introductions of new dynamic products such as Ipad, iPhone and IPods. In May 2012, Apple exceeded the software giant Microsoft, securing the reputation of the largest and most valuable companies of all time (Forbes 2012). Apple has 424 retail stores in 16 different countries as well as an online store in 39 countries (Apple Inc. 2014) Apple s supplier responsibility program, has increasingly received public attention and criticism. The next section of this report will examine some of the scandals apple was involved with, and how it affected the business. 3.0 Apple Ethical Standards A majority of Apple’s products and components are manufactured in overseas factories in Asia. On paper, it states that all employees, both home and abroad, have safe working condition and are treated with utmost respect and dignity. They also claim to be environmentally friendly. On paper, this looks great, but was this the case in reality? The next