Name of Book: Business Ethics A Managerial Approach by Andrew C. Wicks, R. Edward Freeman, Patricia H. Werhane, Kirsten E. Martin; 9780131427921
ECBA 401 Business Ethics
Module 5 – 5.3.2 Assignment (75 points)
Read Ben & Jerry’s Homemade, Inc. (A): Acquisition Suitors at the Door, pp 262-281
Write an essay that provides a brief synopsis of the case study and answer the following questions. Your paper should be in APA format, include a title page and reference page, and be a minimum of 500 words. Two peer-reviewed sources are required, one of which must be from the textbook.
Why is Ben & Jerry’s considered an ethical company? Can you cite practices that merit this reputation? Do you agree that they are a good company or not?
Who are the key stakeholders and what do they hope to gain or fear losing in this transaction? Which stakeholders deserve special consideration here (or not)?
What are Ben & Jerry’s responsibilities to the shareholders? Do non-shareholder customers have the right to a say in the direction of the company?
What do you think Ben & Jerry’s should do? Would it be best for the company to try to remain independent or to accept a buyer’s offer?
Assuming the company does accept the buyer’s offer, what should the management do once it is sold? How does your advice change (or does it) if you assume that the new management genuinely wants to maintain the image of Ben & Jerry’s as an ethical and socially responsible company?
Writing requirements:
500 word minimum
The paper is to be written in 12-point font and should be double-spaced
APA format
Two peer-reviewed sources are required, of which one must be from the textbook
Include a title page and a reference page
Comments from Customer
Discipline: Business Ethics