Handout And Rubric For Case Study Assignment Busu630 ✓ Solved

Handout And Rubric Case Study Assignment Busu630 Assignment 1 Ca

Choose a company you want to analyze, not your current employer. Write a master's level case study about a problem in that company. Include a one-sentence problem statement, a scenario summary (3-5 sentences, citing relevant facts, company and principle names, and financial considerations), an analysis section (2-3 pages with 3-5 APA references), a conclusions section (half to full page, citing business sources), and a recommendations section (half to full page, presenting options or opportunities based on your data, with explanations and citations). Use APA formatting and include references.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

In this case study, I analyze the strategic challenges faced by Starbucks Corporation regarding their supply chain sustainability. The core problem identified is how Starbucks can enhance its supply chain practices to ensure ethical sourcing and environmental sustainability while maintaining profitability.

Scenario

Starbucks, founded in 1971, has become a global coffeehouse chain with thousands of stores worldwide. In recent years, increasing consumer awareness around ethical sourcing and environmental impact has pressured the company to reevaluate its supply chain practices. Specifically, Starbucks faces challenges in ensuring that its coffee is ethically sourced, reducing its carbon footprint, and maintaining cost efficiency. Financial considerations include the potential costs of transitioning to more sustainable suppliers and the impact on product pricing and profit margins (Starbucks Corporation, 2022). The strategic issue revolves around balancing sustainability and profitability in a highly competitive industry.

Analysis

Starbucks’ supply chain strategy rests on ethical sourcing, including Fair Trade certifications and direct relationships with farmers (Smith & Johnson, 2020). However, as consumer demand for transparency increases, the company must address issues like deforestation and labor practices among suppliers. A SWOT analysis reveals strengths in brand loyalty and CSR reputation but highlights weaknesses in cost structures associated with sustainability initiatives. Opportunities include expanding ethically sourced product lines and enhancing traceability technologies (Lee & Kim, 2021). Threats involve supply chain disruptions due to climate change and fluctuating commodity prices. Implementing blockchain technology for supply chain transparency could provide a competitive advantage (Dutta, 2022). Strategic tools such as Porter’s Five Forces could evaluate competitive pressures, emphasizing supplier power and threat of new entrants.

Conclusions

  • Starbucks' commitment to ethical sourcing enhances brand loyalty but increases operational costs.
  • Technological integration like blockchain can improve transparency and supplier accountability.
  • Strategic partnerships with sustainable farmers are critical for long-term supply chain resilience.

Recommendations

  • Invest in blockchain technology to improve supply chain transparency and consumer trust.
  • Develop long-term contracts with sustainable farmers to lock in prices and ensure supply stability.
  • Enhance supplier audits and sustainability standards to mitigate risks of environmental and labor violations.
  • Communicate sustainability achievements actively to strengthen brand positioning.

References

  • Dutta, S. (2022). Blockchain for supply chain management: Opportunities and challenges. Journal of Supply Chain Innovation, 4(1), 45-58.
  • Lee, H., & Kim, S. (2021). Strategic opportunities in sustainable supply chain management. Business Strategy Review, 33(2), 76–82.
  • Smith, J., & Johnson, L. (2020). Ethical sourcing in the coffee industry. International Journal of Business Ethics, 32(3), 250-263.
  • Starbucks Corporation. (2022). Global sustainability report. Retrieved from https://www.starbucks.com/responsibility

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