Case 2 Whole Foods

Case 2 Whole Foods

Danilo Monteiro da Silva, PID: 5152256

1. What is your opinion about John Mackey’s social mission at Whole Foods as a corporate strategy? Discuss the specific values in his “Declaration of Interdependence.”

John Mackey’s very often explained that the concept of wholes food was an application of Maslow’s theory about human hierarchy of needs: Human beings, once their need for food and safety was met, would aspire to fulfill their needs for belonging, community and beauty. He also said “I come to my desire to promote the general well-being of everyone on earth as well as the earth itself”. Hence, you can verify that he opened a business totally looking to the human and environment side.

John Mackey’s environmental and health principles are strongly reflected in the “Declaration of Interdependence” and it anticipates the employee’s equal commitment. His method and ideas were reflected and shared with his employees which give them authority and sense of inclusion on his goals and principles. Which motivate the team and make their moral be elevated. This was one of the key principles that made Whole Foods different from the competition and a successful pioneer business, with a clear and innovative strategy.  

1. Will Mackey’s plan for how teams operate be effective? Do you agree with the idea of publicly shared performance data and its links to compensation?

Mackey created a method to stimulate a healthie competitive environment on his business. Giving to all his employees a high “authority” and responsibility on the company and store goals and decisions. The “best” teams were rewarded with financial incentives as well as public recognition on the company which elevate more their morale. This can be validated looking at the exhibits and In 2005 Whole Foods was the largest specialist in natural and organic foods, with higher return on equity, net income and inventory turnover, compared to main competitors

.

1. What is your opinion about the perceived authenticity of the Mackey’s message, especially given the challenges to the “healthy eating” focus of Whole Foods? How might these challenges impact employee identification with the company?

In my point of view an employee will work better and be more dedicate if they feel connection with the values and ideals for the company which they work for. One of the drivers of the human being is the salary he makes to provide to themselves and their families. However, a person will work with a total different approach when they like what they do and when they believe in what they do, having it the productivity and efficiency of the person will be extremely higher as it has being shown by Whole Foods. I believe this is the message that he is showing other companies which is has being very successful to him.