Ethics and Product Consumption Paper

Ethics and Product Consumption Paper

Varonika Allen

MKT/431

October 28, 2013

Randy Weinerman

Ethics and Product Consumption Paper

This paper will discuss Wal-Mart’s past performance, in marketing their product by way of using the six pillars of the marketing code of ethics which are honesty, responsibility, caring, respect, fairness, and citizenship. Sam Walton the owner and creator of Wal-Mart and Sam’s Clubs around the world once said “Don’t compromise your reputation. It’s a precious commodity. Don’t compromise your integrity… have a good name.” Wal-Mart and Sam’s Club knows that for the company to remain in business and be successful that everyone working in the company must adhere to the six marketing pillars of the marketing mix and provide its customers with products that are of great quality but in constant supply.

Honesty

Honesty is being trust worthy; do not deceive, cheat, or steal. Be reliable-do what you say you will do. Have courage to do the right thing (Morris, Pitt, Schindehutt, 2008). Wal-Mart has the code of ethics readily available for associates to read and access for their reading. Wal-Mart has a poster in the backroom of the stores for associates that reads “Associates Don’t Let Associates Steal” and for associates to call the ethics hotline if they are afraid to talk to a manager about the issue. Wal-Mart also have an Open Door Policy where associates can talk to any member of management including the store manager if they have any concerns or issues that they would like to talk about but of course there is a chain of command so by time it gets to the store manager if it goes that far the issues should have been solved but if not you can even talk with the district manager.

Responsibility

Responsibility is doing what you are supposed to do. Always do your best. Think before you act-consider the consequences. Be accountable for your choices. Sell products and services that are beneficial. Provide living wages. Curb child labor. Eliminate sweatshop labor practices. Consider the environment. Limit carbon emissions. Uphold stringent guidelines on product safety (Morris, Pitt, Schindehutt, 2008). Wal-Mart’s management associate is responsible for creating an environment for other associates encouraging them to adhere to and comply with Wal-Mart’s Statement of Ethics. Managers are responsible for supervising hourly associates in making sure they are performing their jobs to the best of their abilities, setting good examples for the associates by keeping and staying in compliance with Wal-Mart’s code of ethics.

Caring

Caring