Satirical Abortion free essay sample

Also, murder, in the way that we characterize it in every single other occasion, includes theintentionalâ death of another human individual. Regardless of whether we were to accept that each incipient organism or hatchling were similarly as aware and the same amount of an individual as some other person, a contention that isn't legitimate based on logical proof, at that point the absence of information and aim would at present be sufficient to characterize premature birth as some different option from murder. Lets envision a situation wherein two men go deer chasing. One man confuses his companion with a deer, shoots him, and inadvertently murders him. For whatever length of time that we as a whole conceded to the realities of the case, its difficult to envision that any sensible individual would depict this as murdereven however we would all know for sure that a genuine, aware human individual was killed. Why? Since the shooterâ thoughtâ he was murdering a deersomething other than a genuine, conscious human individual. We will compose a custom article test on Mocking Abortion or on the other hand any comparative theme explicitly for you Don't WasteYour Time Recruit WRITER Just 13.90/page Presently think about the case of premature birth. In the event that a lady and her physicianâ thinkâ theyre executing a non-aware creature, theneven if the incipient organism or fetusâ were, unbeknownst to them, a conscious human personthey would not be submitting murder. Probably, they would be liable of automatic murder. In any case, even automatic homicide includes criminal carelessness, and it would be difficult to pass judgment on somebody criminally careless for not expressly accepting that a pre-suitable incipient organism or embryo is a conscious human individual when we dont really realize that this will generally be the situation. From the perspective of somebody who accepts that each prepared egg is a conscious human individual, fetus removal would be terrible. Grievous. Deadly. Be that as it may, it would be not any more lethal than some other sort of incidental passing. In the event that you trust you aren’t executing a human, it’s not murder. So you should accept your kid isn't human. Ladies pick premature births for some, reasons According to numerous examinations the essential explanations behind picking a fetus removal are: * †pregnancy was not arranged or needed †* †not prepared to have an infant yet †* †badly arranged time of life or the kid meddles with objectives †* †money related concerns †* †pressure by guardians or other relatives †* †dread of individuals getting some answers concerning the pregnancy †Be that as it may, the main explanation that ladies pick abortionist that their accomplice, the dad of the youngster, either latently or forcefully, would not bolster the ladies in conveying the kid to birth. At the end of the day, the lady accepts that she will be deserted by the most notable individual in her life on the off chance that she proceeds with the pregnancy. However 70% of Relationships End Anyway! It has been accounted for that an expected 70% of connections end inside the main year following a premature birth. On the off chance that you are feeling that having a premature birth will assist you with keeping your sweetheart, reconsider. For what reason do the men leave? Frequently, the men who will not satisfy their obligations despise the ladies that they have let down:â the mother of the youngster that they didn't bolster. Furthermore, when a lady understands the agony premature birth has caused, she will disdain the man who got them pregnant and didn't satisfy his commitments as a dad. Different factors, for example, blame, disgrace, outrage, and dread are different reasons why the relationship may end. If you don't mind understand that premature birth not just crushes your kid, it can likewise demolish the very relationship that you most trusted would last. Motivations to abort†¦Ã‚  †¦Answers to fetus removal! Mother’s health: Therapeutic abortionThere are in excess of 50 medical procedures which can be performed inside the uterus. On the off chance that this is conceivable, the baby, even inside the uterus other mother, is as of now viewed as a patient, as such, an individual; and,â if it is an individual, it has the pri vilege to live. These days, there are numerous prospects. New advances in science may cover practically any inconvenience in pregnancy, without deciding to execute the mother or the infant. For all intents and purposes any condition can be controlled until the conveyance. This image shows one of the medical procedures completed inside the uterus. Look what the dazzled picture taker observed however his camera lens†¦ the small hand of the child attempting to snatch the surgeon’s finger. * Imperfection (defect):  Eugenic abortionPerfection doesn't mean reserving the privilege to live. Individuals don't pass a quality control. An individual can be â€Å"defective† (truly flawed) yet still magnificent human being†¦ or be genuinely finished, â€Å"perfect†, however a human beast or a detestable individual. This isn't motivation to prematurely end. The generosity of a human heart does no need an ideal body to create itself totally. What might you exhortation a lady who is pregnant for the fifth time†¦Ã¢ â Whose spouse experiences syphilis and she experiences tuberculosis, Whose most established youngster was conceived blind†¦ Whose second kid died†¦ Whose third kid was conceived deaf†¦ Whose fourth kid experiences tuberculosis? That she have a fetus removal? You simply marked capital punishment of Ludwig van Beethoven. |  * It isn't an actual existence. Fetus removal for ignoranceOne would need to shroud huge amounts of logical data which affirms that it is an actual existence by taking a gander at theâ stages of growth. Most of ladies who have a fetus removal truly don't have the foggiest idea what they are doing. On the off chance that they knew, they would not do it. * Overpopulation:  Social fetus removal. As an example:â China, with its strategy of having only one kid, kept away from the introduction of at any rate 2 million youngsters from 1970 to the present†¦and as an outcome, sooner rather than later will see increment of matured individuals, the maturing of its populace. (AICA December 1, 1999). The maturing of the populace, not the in populace lives, the ripeness rate is under the 2. 1 important to guarantee the substitution of ages.  Rape:  Emotional abortionA brutal act, for example, assault, ought to be trailed by another, far more terrible demonstration of savagery, for example, murder. Is fetus removal the best alternative that society can offer a lady who has been assaulted? A lady is a casualty of an assault and not of a pregnancy. She should get mental treatment, a nd maybe active recuperation as well, yet not through a premature birth. This won't discharge her from any of the torment (physical nor mental delivered by an assault. *  not prepared to have an infant yet †you can be not prepared to have an infant, not prepared to have a multi year old, not prepared to have multi year old. For what reason is it just legitimate consequently until the infant is eight months old? Consider the possibility that you truly don’t figure you can deal with the adolescent years, shouldn’t you be permitted to prematurely end at that point. I mean it is your life, and your child still isn’t mature enough to use sound judgment for itself. * badly arranged time of life or the youngster meddles with objectives †A kid doesn’t quit meddling with your objectives or being badly designed once it’s conceived, imagine a scenario where something startling comes up when the child is five. Shouldn’t you be permitted to prematurely end at that point? Or on the other hand is that viewed as barbaric.. * money related concerns †Your kid gets progressively costly the more established it gets, so for what reason is premature birth illicit when you need it most? Possibly you can’t stand to purchase your child a vehicle, what will you do? Fetus removal ought to be authorized until the youngster is a legitimate grown-up at eighteen years old. Isn’t it increasingly human to permit the infant to have several years of life on the planet as opposed to slaughtering it immediately? The contention for fetus removal not being murder is that it’s not without a doubt that the child is â€Å"human† yet. Don’t loads of guardians whine about their kids being â€Å"monsters† and state â€Å"I’m not certain if he’s even human! † Well if you’re not certain, it’s not murder. It’s absolutely lawful. Cover sheet title-exacting proposition explanation two descriptors depicting general tone-a term assigning the degree of convention your name course and date 89Read an unassuming proposition. Message ricky. Do article diagram this evening. Three points :money related concerns, badly arranged time/interferers with objectives, not prepared. | Getting Away With Murder

Basics On Keats Essay Example For Students

Essentials On Keats Essay - John Keats was conceived in 1795 and kicked the bucket in 1821-John Keats was conceived in Moorfield, England-John Keats had two siblings, George and Tom, and a sister Fanny-At the age of 23, John Keats saw his sibling bite the dust of tuberculosis-John Keats was under five feet tall yet he got a kick out of the chance to battle, regularly getting into battles with men over a foot taller than himself-At the age of 26 John Keats passed on of tuberculosis-John Keats lost his dad at 8 years old and his mom when he was 14-Few well known writers have been more celebrated for their adversities than John Keats-John had concentrated to turn into a specialist yet in the long run relinquished the calling of medication for verse John Keats most popular work is the splendid Ode to a Nightingale which he composed on a warm and excellent day in 1819-John Keats was a significant figure in the Romantic development Keatss first distributed sonnets showed up in 1816 in the Examiner-Keatss first volu me of sonnets was distributed in 1817. It pulled in some great audits, however these were trailed by the first of a few unforgiving assaults by the powerful Blackwoods Magazine. - At the age of 23, Keats began to look all starry eyed at an excellent youngster named Fanny BrawneBook Reports

The Peanut Butter Delusion

The Peanut Butter Delusion Alright, its been a good five days since our blogs have come online, and I still havent found a novel way to detail my first three and half weeks here at MIT. So Ill dive right into two arguments Ive stumbled upon while on campus. I spent a good chunk of time during rush with the brothers of Alpha Delta Phi. One of the rush activities was a pizza dinner at Unos near Harvard. Here, I got into a heated debate with Arun 10 about the superiority or inferiority of crunchy peanut butter compared to creamy. Initial arguments centered around texture or lack thereof (looking at you, creamy). But Arun quickly turned the conversation towards much less tangible subjects, namely the homogeneity and isotropy of the universe. Being Course 8, he had an advantage over a mere frosh, but I had the powers of Course 16 in the form of Raul 10 to back me up. Arun claimed that creamy style peanut butter much better fits with the universe around us. I disagreed, pointing out that the bits of whole peanuts represent galaxies floating in that universe, and also that this had nothing to do with peanut butter. Thirty minutes later we were still arguing. A thought experiment involving a bathtub full of the stuff brought the discussion to a close, and at the end of the day, we accomplished nothing. No argument, no matter how ridiculous, will change someones preference. Which brings us to a debate I witnessed this Friday. During my one hour break between 5.111 and 8.01, I headed to the Student Center for some food. In front of the bike racks there were signs advertising a question and answer session later that night with Cliff Knechtle, a Christian author. The writer was actually there by the signs in the afternoon, and was in an intense argument with a heavily accented Australian man. The Aussie would always disclaim his sentences by saying “Now, Im a raving atheist, but,” to which Mr Knechtle would always reply, “Now, what if I slapped this man? This man right here. What if I slapped him?” The only thing the Australian man ever actually said was “I dont need to believe in God to believe in absolute morals,” which he repeated about every three minutes. Mr Knechtle alwaysâ€"seriously, alwaysâ€"responded with “Now, listen. What if I slapped this man?” Except he said it as if he had just received this intense deep revelation; as if every time he said it, he had stumbled upon a brilliant observation. It was all a bit absurd, really. On my way to lunch, and two strangers, an evangelical Christan and an atheist Australian are almost coming to blows over moral relativism. Eventually I got hungry and annoyed by these people who couldnt argue so I bought a burrito, ate it, checked my email, and then went outside again. Same people. Same arguments. As the conversation continued, Chi Alpha, the Christian group that brought Mr Knechtle here, was handing out business cards about his upcoming session that evening. There was a big picture of a pizza on it, so I attended. In a room in the student center, the organization had put about thirty chairs in a circle so that anyone could stop by and ask the author a question. Id say that 28 of the people there were Christians, and that me and another freshman were the only skeptics in the audience. I asked some hard-hitting questions, and I was extremely pleasantly surprised when the leaders of Chi Alpha genuinely thanked me for coming and putting the questions on the table. It was a great experience, and in that room I saw the vast differences in personal Christian philosophies. At the end of the program, there was a drawing for three gift cards. The other skeptic and I got the two of highest value (I walked away with the equivalent of 16.8539326 free donuts), which may be a hint So, the (relative or absolute?) moral of this roundabout story: Be prepared for a debate at MIT. Anytime, anywhere, any asinine argument.

The Difference Between Purines and Pyrimidines

Purines and pyrimidines are two types of aromatic heterocyclic organic compounds. In other words, they are ring structures (aromatic) that contain nitrogen as well as carbon in the rings (heterocyclic). Both purines and pyrimidines are similar to the chemical structure of the organic molecule pyridine (C5H5N). Pyridine, in turn, is related to benzene (C6H6), except one of the carbon atoms is replaced by a nitrogen atom. Purines and pyrimidines are important molecules in organic chemistry and biochemistry because they are the basis for other molecules (e.g., caffeine, theobromine, theophylline, thiamine) and because they are key components of the nucleic acids dexoyribonucleic acid (DNA) and ribonucleic acid (RNA). Pyrimidines A pyrimidine is an organic ring consisting of six atoms: 4 carbon atoms and 2 nitrogen atoms. The nitrogen atoms are placed in the 1 and 3 positions around the ring. Atoms or groups attached to this ring distinguish pyrimidines, which include cytosine, thymine, uracil, thiamine (vitamin B1), uric acid, and barbituates. Pyrimidines function in DNA and RNA, cell signaling, energy storage (as phosphates),  enzyme regulation, and to make protein and starch. Purines A purine contains a pyrimidine ring fused with an imidazole ring (a five-member ring with two non-adjacent nitrogen atoms). This two-ringed structure has nine atoms forming the ring: 5 carbon atoms and 4 nitrogen atoms. Different purines are distinguished by the atoms or functional groups attached to the rings. Purines are the most widely occurring heterocyclic molecules that contain nitrogen. They are abundant in meat, fish, beans, peas, and grains. Examples of purines include caffeine, xanthine, hypoxanthine, uric acid, theobromine, and the nitrogenous bases adenine and guanine. Purines serve much the same function as pyrimidines in organisms. They are part of DNA and RNA, cell signaling, energy storage, and enzyme regulation. The molecules are used to make starch and proteins. Bonding Between Purines and Pyrimidines While purines and pyrimidines include molecules that are active on their own (as in drugs and vitamins), they also form hydrogen bonds between each other to link the two strands of the DNA double helix and to form complementary molecules between DNA and RNA. In DNA, the purine adenine bonds to the pyrimidine thymine and the purine guanine bonds to the pyrimidine cytosine. In RNA, adenine bonds to uracil and guanine still bonds with cytosine. Approximately equal amounts of purines and pyrimidines are required to form either DNA or RNA. Its worth noting there are exceptions to the classic Watson-Crick base pairs. In both DNA and RNA, other configurations occur, most often involving methylated pyrimidines. These are called wobble pairings. Comparing and Contrasting Purines and Pyrimidines The purines and pyrimidines both consist of heterocyclic rings. Together, the two sets of compounds make up the nitrogenous bases. Yet, there are distinct differences between the molecules. Obviously, because purines consist of two rings rather than one, they have a higher molecular weight. The ring structure also affects the melting points and solubility  of the purified compounds. The human body synthesizes (anabolism) and breaks down (catabolism) the molecules differently. The end product of purine catabolism is uric acid, while the end products of pyrimidine catabolism are ammonia and carbon dioxide. The body does not make the two molecules in the same location, either. Purines are synthesized primarily in the liver, while a variety of tissues make pyrimidines. Here is a summary of the essential facts about purines and pyrimidines: Purine Pyrimidine Structure Double ring (one is a pyrimidine) Single ring Chemical Formula C5H4N4 C4H4N2 Nitrogenous Bases Adenine, guanine Cytosine, uracil, thymine Uses DNA, RNA, vitamins, drugs (e.g., barbituates), energy storage, protein and starch synthesis, cell signaling, enzyme regulation DNA, RNA, drugs (e.g., stimulants), energy storage, protein and starch synthesis, enzyme regulation, cell signaling Melting Point 214 C (417 F) 20 to 22 C (68 to 72 F) Molar Mass 120.115 gmol1 80.088 g mol1 Solubility (Water) 500 g/L Miscible Biosynthesis Liver Various tissues Catabolism Product Uric acid Ammonia and carbon dioxide Sources Carey, Francis A. (2008). Organic Chemistry (6th ed.). Mc Graw Hill. ISBN 0072828374.Guyton, Arthur C. (2006). Textbook of Medical Physiology. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier. p. 37. ISBN 978-0-7216-0240-0.Joule, John A.; Mills, Keith, eds. (2010). Heterocyclic Chemistry (5th ed.). Oxford: Wiley. ISBN 978-1-405-13300-5.Nelson, David L. and Michael M Cox (2008). Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry (5th ed.). W.H. Freeman and Company. p. 272. ISBN 071677108X.Soukup, Garrett A. (2003). Nucleic Acids: General Properties. eLS. American Cancer Society. doi:10.1038/npg.els.0001335 ISBN 9780470015902.

John Beckett s The Glorious Revolution - 971 Words

John Beckett mentions that â€Å"the Glorious Revolution† has been considered a historical event related to the political issues. The main target of this historical event was to create a commercial freedom in Europe. After this revolution was done, trade relations in Europe went up, and the Bill of Rights was also created in 1689. Today, the Bill of Rights is shown and knowns that it was the first building stone for â€Å"the British constitution† because it limited the monarchic power. During the eighteenth century, the period of the Age of Enlightenment is considered â€Å"from 1713 to 1789† because Anthony Pagden states that Europe was like â€Å"a republic of states,† and it was like a union acting together and talking with one voice. The Age of Enlightenment was totally an act of improvement in trade, preventing and thwarting religion related wars, and monarchic rules. E. P. Thompson mentions that â€Å"the first industrial revolution† occu rred in England, and he mentions that there were not many modern things, but there was only a clock making industry. The discoveries of new places, peoples and things also brought the Agricultural revolution, financial improvement, and the Enlightenment and the Scientific progress, and all of these new findings and innovations triggered to form the Industrial Revolution in England. Hence, the Glorious Revolution, the Age of Enlightenment and the Industrial Revolution should be considered as the first historical roots of the European Union because these

Susan’s intervention plan Free Essays

Reply to Response #1 I agree with you. Susan’s intervention plan is a good one and might just work given the necessary support from everyone concerned. Carl is not a hopeless case. We will write a custom essay sample on Susan’s intervention plan or any similar topic only for you Order Now His having been diagnosed with a behavior disorder which was apparently caused by his parents’ divorce three months previously did not make him a basket case. Actually, what Carl needs is attention and love which he feels was denied him by his parents as a result of their separation. Susan should therefore convince Mrs. Taylor that totally giving up on Carl by taking him out of her class altogether would not help at all. On the contrary, it would aggravate the situation as it would only remind him of the betrayal he believes he suffered from his parents. My reading of the case is that Carl could be saved if only everybody – his parents, Mrs. Taylor, and Susan – are prepared to show him that they would not give up on him. Carl is only misbehaving because he wants attention. Totally denying him of such attention might push him towards the point of no return. Reply to Response #2 Yes, it is evident that what Nancy really wants is to have Carl out of her class. She is not interested in doing anything more for him and appears to have entirely lost her patience. However, patience is what Carl needs most. He has been showing disrespect not only to Nancy but to the other teachers as well because his behavior disorder was caused by what he believed was an act of betrayal on the part of his divorced parents. In other words, he is merely taking it out on them. If the teachers at Skyler K through 12 Comprehensive School are not patient with Carl, his behavior disorder might develop into something more damaging. Reply to Response #3 I agree that talking with Carl might help. Susan could arrange a one-on-one session with Carl after class and establish rapport, befriend him. It could be that an adult friend is what Carl really needs under the circumstances, having â€Å"lost his parents to divorce. † I also agree with you that Carl’s behavior could very well be a defensive posture on Carl’s part because apparently, he has started feeling â€Å"unsafe† after his parents separated. In other words, Carl is feeling inadequate and insecure and persecuting him – like taking him out of Nancy’s class altogether – might push him over the edge. How to cite Susan’s intervention plan, Papers

Anatomy and Physiology free essay sample

The vagina is a  thin-walled tube 8 to  10 cm  long. It lies between the bladder and rectumand extends from the cervix to the body exterior. Often called the birth canal, the vagina providesa passageway for the delivery of an  infant and for the menstrual flow to leave  the body. The cervix (from Latin neck) is the lower, narrow portion of the uterus where it joinswith the top end of the vagina. Approximately half its length is visible with appropriate medical equipment; the remainder liesabove the vagina beyond view. It is occasionally called cervix uteri, or neck of the uterus. During menstruation, the cervix stretches open slightly to allow the endometrium to beshed. This stretching is believed to be part of the cramping pain that many women experience. Evidence for this is given by the fact that some womens cramps subside or disappear after their  first vaginal birth because the cervical opening has widened. We will write a custom essay sample on Anatomy and Physiology or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The portion projecting into the vagina is referred to as the portio vaginalis or ectocervix. On average, the ectocervix is three cm long and two and a half cm wide. It has a convex,elliptical surface and is divided into anterior and posterior lips. The ectocervixs opening is calledthe external os. The size and shape of the external os and the ectocervix varies widely with age,hormonal state, and whether the woman has had a vaginal birth. In women who have not had avaginal birth the external os appears as a small, circular opening. During childbirth, contractions of the uterus will dilate the cervix up to 10 cm in diameter  to allow the child to pass through. During orgasm, the cervix convulses and the external osdilates. The uterus is shaped like an upside-down pear, with a thick lining and muscular walls. Located near the floor of the pelvic cavity, it is hollow to allow a blastocyte, or fertilized egg, toimplant and grow. It also allows for the inner lining of the uterus to build up until a fertilized eggis implanted, or it is sloughed off during menses. The uterus contains some of the strongest muscles in the female body. These muscles areable to expand and contract to accommodate a growing fetus and then help push the baby outduring labor. These muscles also contract rhythmically during an orgasm in a wave like action. It20 is thought that this is to help  push or guide the sperm up  the uterus to the fallopian tubes wherefertilization may be possible. The uterus is only about three inches long and two inches wide, but during pregnancy itchanges rapidly and dramatically. The top rim of the uterus is called the fundus and is alandmark for many doctors to track the progress of a pregnancy. It is only after all alternative options have been considered that surgery isrecommended in these cases. This surgery is called hysterectomy. Hysterectomy is the removalof the uterus, and may include the removal of one or both of the ovaries. Once performed it isirreversible. After a hysterectomy, many women begin a form of alternate hormone therapy dueto the lack of ovaries and hormone production. The Fallopian tubes are paired, tubular, seromuscular organs whose course runs mediallyfrom the cornua of the uterus toward the ovary laterally. The tubes are situated in the upper  margins of the broad.

The Influence of Emotions on Organizational Change

Introduction Acceptance of change within an organization depends on the emotional state of employees and managers. The behavior, feelings and attitudes of employees within an organization are influenced by their emotions (Zerbe 2008, p. 173). It is important to highlight the interpersonal effects of emotions in order to comprehend the exact influence of emotions within an organization.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The Influence of Emotions on Organizational Change specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The domains of organizational behavior are very essential in understanding the effect of emotions on the performance of employees (Zerbe 2008, p. 173). Organizational behavior domains such as leadership, group decision making and customer service require emotional intelligence from the parties involved. Emotional intelligence is a very valuable attribute that all stakeholders within an organization need to possess (Ze rbe 2008, p. 174). The success or failure of an organization actually depends on the level of emotional intelligence among its employees and managers. This paper will highlight the role of emotions in the management of organizational change. Discussion Many organizations have always underestimated the effect of emotions in the day activities of an organization (Weick 1999, p. 364). In fact, the topic of emotions never featured in the past until recently when managers realized that emotions actually play a significant role in the success of an organization (Weick 1999, p. 364). Many organizations are now taking the subject of emotions very seriously after discovering its significance. Organizations believed that emotions could only be expressed at home but they forgot that employees still remained human despite being at the workplace (Weick 1999, p. 364). The corporate world is now discovering that the positive emotions of employees should not be left at home because they are crucial to the success of an organization. A recent research indicates that the productivity and creativity of employees is affected in a great way by emotions (Weick 1999, p. 366). Emotional intelligence determines the career success of an employee compared to cognitive intelligence. Although cognitive intelligence is important for an employee, research reveals that a combination of both cognitive and emotional intelligence is crucial for employees to achieve their career goals (Weick 1999, p. 366). The management of organizations has come to realize that their success depends on their ability to utilize positive emotions of employees to their organizations’ advantage (Weick 1999, p. 367).Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Managers who have mastered the art of stimulating and sustaining positive emotions in their employees have actually been able to witness positive results ( Vince 1996, p. 17). The current market is very competitive and it is therefore necessary for organizations to come with strategies that can give them a competitive advantage. The primary sources of competitive advantage such as intellectual capital, customer service, organizational responsiveness and productivity are influenced directly by employee emotions (Vince 1996, p. 17). The creativity and knowledge of employees are very significant in the success of an organization since the modern economy is knowledge-based. Employees that are creative and knowledgeable are very receptive to organizational change compared to those who are not knowledgeable and creative (Vince 1996, p. 17). The ability of an organization to harness intellectual capital from its employees will enable it to survive in an innovation driven economy. The intellectual capital of employees should therefore be engaged and cultivated by management for the expected results to be achieved (Vince 1996, p. 18). The emoti onal state of employees determines the organization’s level of intellectual capital (Pfeffer 1981, p. 43). The intellectual functioning of employees within the organization is also affected directly by emotions. A smart and innovative workforce is a dream of many organizations and this can only be achieved through proper management of employee emotions (Pfeffer 1981, p. 43). The flexibility and originality an employee’s thinking is normally diminished by a negative emotional state. Flexibility in thinking is one of the key attributes needed in the implementation of organizational change (Pfeffer 1981, p. 43). It is the duty of management to ensure that employees remain in a positive state of mind to enhance originality and flexibility in their thinking. A dispirited workforce loses the interest to innovate and identify new opportunities (Pfeffer 1981, p. 43). Negative emotions make employees lose the energy and drive to be creative. A passionate, confident and secure w orkforce will always make wise decisions and at the same time create new solutions (Pfeffer 1981, p. 44).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The Influence of Emotions on Organizational Change specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Sharing of knowledge and expertise in the entire organization is very important in a knowledge driven economy (Neal 2004, p. 60). Employees in a negative emotional state are always unwilling to help and share information with others. Implementation of organizational change requires knowledge to be shared throughout the organization and if this does not happen, then organizational change implementation becomes difficult (Neal 2004, p. 60). The intellectual capital of an organization enables information to be disseminated freely. Organizations that have effective information dissemination systems experience a lot of success because implementation of organizational changes becomes much easier (Nea l 2004, p. 60). Employees who are insecure about losing their positions are normally reluctant to share knowledge with others. Employees who feel safe and valued show high levels of commitment and are always available to share their knowledge with others (Lyubomirsky, King Deiner 2005, p. 805). In order to maximize intellectual capital, management must ensure the emotional state of employees is turned from being negative to being positive. It is not possible to separate emotions from customer service because the two greatly affect each other (Lyubomirsky, King Deiner 2005, p. 805). Service workers who are demoralized and angry will definitely create a negative service climate. It is very difficult to offset a negative emotional state with training initiatives. It is the responsibility of management to ensure that service employees are motivated in order for them to deliver quality service to customers (Lyubomirsky, King Deiner 2005, p. 805). It is dangerous to have disgruntled se rvice employees because they are the ones who come in direct contact with customers (Keifer 2002, p. 44). Failure to address emotional needs of service employees has serious economic consequences since the organization is bound to lose its customers due to poor customer service. The leadership of any organization should ensure that this group of employees remains in a positive emotional state (Keifer 2002, p. 44).Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More It is estimated that almost 68 % of customers defect from companies where the service staff treated them with an indifferent attitude. This defection figure exactly shows the amount of damage that negative emotions can to do to an organization (Keifer 2002, p. 45). The profitability of an organization is therefore dependant on the emotional state of service employees. The current market is always changing at a faster rate with organizational responsiveness being a major requirement for an organization’s sustainability (Hughes 2006, p. 52). Employees with positive emotions respond quickly to market changes. Threatened and dispirited employees will always resist change. Employees in a dispirited state will not be willing to adopt new methods and systems that are important in facilitating organizational change (Hughes 2006, p. 53). Employees who are stressed stick to outdated methods even if it is obvious that the methods and systems can not deliver the required results (Hughes 2006, p. 53). Employees with a peace of mind respond to market changes passionately. It is therefore true to say that the ability of an organization to respond to market changes and demands depends on the emotional state of its workforce (Hatfield, Cacioppo Rapson 1994, p. 28). Employee retention and attraction is another domain of organizational behavior that is influenced to a great extent by employee emotions (Hatfield, Cacioppo Rapson 1994, p. 28). Employees who are happy and motivated will always want to stay with the organization (Hartel 2006, p. 77). An organization that treats its employees well by taking care of their physical and emotional needs will always attract the best talents in the market. The productivity of employees will definitely rise if they are excited and proud of their workplace (Hartel 2006, p. 77). It is difficult for depressed employees to give out their maximum output. Organizations should provide the best working conditions for its employees in order to get the best out of them (Finlay 2000, p. 68). It takes a lot of effort and resources to motivate and satisfy a disgruntled workforce. The other advantage of having a happy and motivated workforce is the reduction in the turnover cost (Finlay 2000, p. 68). Employees who are happy will always save the organization from unnecessary costs (Finlay 2000, p. 68). A positive emotional state gives employees the energy to work hard because they will be happy with their work and the organization in general (Finlay 2000, p. 68). An atmosphere of positivity enhances positive results and success in an organization (Erick Yvonne 2008, p. 10). It is argued that a leader’s positive emotions are the most transferrable. The other way through which positive emotions can be enhanced in an organization is by creating chains of events that carry positive meanings for others (Burnes 2004, p. 113). Social and psychological experiments have shown that employees with positive emotions are more he lpful than those with neutral emotional states. Organizational field studies indicate that sales people who experience more positive emotions at work are more helpful to their customers (Burnes 2004, p. 113). The field research also revealed that sales people who exhibit positive emotions tend to attract more customers and in the process making a lot of sales. The reason for this argument is that sales people with positive emotions tend to be more creative, flexible and emphatic (Burnes 2004, p. 113). This argument shows that being helpful not only develops from having positive emotions but it also produces positive emotions in others. An individual who is helpful to others tends to have a feeling of joy and pride when he or she realizes that their positivity influence the people they interact with (Beer 2000, p. 66). Positive emotions enables a person to help others and at the same time fuel motivation that can help both presently and in the future (Beer 2000, p. 66). Witnessing an d hearing about helpful acts can make employees to experience positive emotions. Onlookers experience the positive emotion of elevation. The tendency sparked by elevation is a general desire to become a better person by performing helpful acts (Beer 2000, p. 66). Elevated employees do not simply mimic the helpful acts witnessed but creatively consider a wide range of helpful acts. The positive emotion of elevation gives employees the desire to be better for the sake of the organization (Barbara 1998). The employees who experience helpful acts tend to experience elevation and its beneficial repercussions. There is always a high probability that an employee who witnesses and experiences good deeds will definitely be influenced to start helping others (Barbara 1998). The elevation cycle can transform an organization into a more benevolent and coordinated place to be (Ashforth Humphrey 1995, p. 99). Positive emotions expand through organizations, members and customers. Positive emotion s produce meaningful relationships among employees and in the process preventing conflicts in the workplace (Ashforth Humphrey 1995, p. 99). Facial expressions and mimicry can not be seen as ways of determining whether a person has positive emotions or not. Positive emotions are developed from within and their expression should be sincere without any form of pretence (Ashforth Humphrey 1995, p. 99). The way an individual behaves in relation to positive emotions is understood and translated by the other individuals that they come cross (Alice 2008). The emotional state of managers plays a critical role in the success or failure of an organization. As mentioned earlier, leaders who display positive emotions have a great influence on the behavior and attitudes of other employees within the organization (Alice 2008). It is therefore true to say that positive emotions in an organization are linked to the managers. A manager with an attribute of positive emotions is able to transmit thi s trait to employees. The level of control and support towards employees is determined by this trait (Alice 2008). Positive emotions determine how employees deal with various situations within the organization. This development is highly dependant on the leadership traits or skills that managers within an organization possess (Alice 2008). Leadership is a process of symbolic management that involves creating and maintaining shared meanings among followers. The organization leadership should always evoke positive emotions in the workplace through the use of symbols (Finlay 2000, p. 69). Symbols are known to bring both interactive and emotional responses. Symbol elaboration by managers evokes emotions in an organization. Moreover, managers engage in communication of symbols that are specifically designed to make their employees feel better (Finlay 2000, p. 69). Employees are normally strengthened when they feel better about themselves. Resistance to change is a common thing in many or ganizations and it is the responsibility of managers to emphasize the importance of change as early as possible to prepare the employees psychologically for organizational change (Finlay 2000, p. 69). Managers give employees a sense of trust and understanding by preparing them psychologically for change. This approach enables employees adapt to change as quickly as possible and at the same time making them deal with situations more positively (Vince 1996, p. 20). It is important for managers to adopt the theory of positive emotions in order to influence organizational change. The behavior and attitudes of managers and employees has to change first before organizational change takes place (Vince 1996, p. 20). Managers should always be willing to influence positive emotions among employees because anything good or bad begins from the top (Vince 1996, p. 20). The emotions of managers can be transferred easily to employees and this actually determines how employees relate with one anoth er. The positive emotions of managers encourage creativity in the organization which subsequently improves the level of success in the organization (Vince 1996, p. 20). The emotions displayed by leaders are a critical determinant of their relationship with group members and their ability to communicate emotionally evocative symbols (Beer 2000, p. 66). Managers who are emotionally positive enhance organizational creativity performance by facilitating group cohesion. It is important for positive emotions to be built and sustained in the entire organization through a healthy emotional climate (Beer 2000, p. 66). Organizational policies and values are normally misinterpreted in the context of face to face interactions. Managers can identify cues of real and felt emotions among employees. The managers also have the ability to identify positive emotional indicators of employees who are motivated towards achieving personal and organizational goals (Beer 2000, p. 66). It is a difficult job for management to determine the emotional state of all employees at the same time (Keifer 2002, p. 60). Despite this difficulty, managers need to be aware of their organizational climate all the times. Negative feelings about change can only be improved if managers are aware of their organizational climate (Keifer 2002, p. 60). Negative feelings can have devastating effects on the performance of an organization. Leaders must have the ability to arouse motivation by appealing to human needs for achievement, affiliation and power (Keifer 2002, p. 60). A good organizational climate decreases the cost of turnover and the resistance of employees to change. A great organizational climate also improves the quality, creativity and acceptance of risks which make customers to be loyal (Neal 2004, p. 72). The mood and behavior of a leader within an organization have a great influence on the organization’s performance (Neal 2004, p. 72). There is a powerful chain reaction between a manag ers’ mood and behaviors which drive up the mood of everyone else within the organization (Neal 2004, p. 72). Managers with high emotional intelligence can create an environment where loyal, intelligent and positive minded employees strive towards achieving organizational goals (Neal 2004, p. 72). Conclusion The primary sources of competitive advantage are enhanced by employees with positive emotional states (Zerbe 2008, p. 175). It is also evident from the discussion in this paper that managers with positive emotions can influence the same in many areas of the organization (Zerbe 2008, p. 175). Employees that work in an organization with a positive climate work in persistent and strong groups where positive emotions are transferred from leaders to all the members within the group (Zerbe 2008, p. 175). Positive organizational behavior results in creativity, success and the ability of an organization to deal with emerging changes in the market (Hatch 2006, p. 40). Managers shou ld therefore pay more attention on the positive aspects of the organization and focus less on the negative aspects (Hatch 2006, p. 40). This enables employees to feel motivated and therefore leading to growth and development within the organization (Hatch 2006, p. 40). The ability of an organization to deal with the changes that occur in the market makes it more competitive. Bibliography Alice, B 2008, Positivity by Barbara Fredrickson. Web. Ashforth, B. E. Humphrey, R 1995, Emotion in the workplace: A reappraisal. Human  Relations, Vol. 48, pp. 97-125. Barbara L 1998, Positive emotions and upward spirals in organizations. Web. Beer, M 2000, Breaking the code of change, Harvard Business Press, London. Burnes, B 2004, Managing change, Pearson Education UK, London. Eric F. Yvonne R 2008, Leading strategic change, Bridging Theory and Practice, Vol. 1, no.1, pp. 9-10. Finlay, P 2000, Strategic management, Prentice Hall, London. Hartel, C 2006, Emotions in organizational behavior, Ro utledge, New York, NY. Hatfield, E., Cacioppo, J., Rapson, R l994, Emotional contagion, Cambridge University Press, New York, NY. Hatch, M 2006, Organization theory, Oxford University Press, London. Hughes, M 2006, Change Management: A critical perspective, CIPD, New York, NY. Keifer, T 2002, Understanding the emotional experience of organizational change: Evidence from a merger, Advances in Developing Human Resources, Vol. 4, no.1, pp. 39-61. Lyubomirsky, S., King, L. Deiner, E 2005, The benefits of frequent positive effect: Does happiness lead to success? Psychological Bulletin, Vol. 131, pp. 803-855. Neal, M 2004, Positive emotions in organizations, A multi-level framework, Vol. 1, no.1, pp. 57-73. Pfeffer, J 1981, Management as symbolic action: The creation and maintenance of organizational paradigms. Research in Organizational Behavior, Vol. 3, pp. 1-52. Vince, R 1996, Paradox, defense, and attachment: Accessing and working with emotions and relations underlying organizationa l change, Organizational change, Vol. 17, no.1, pp. 1-21. Weick, K 1999, Organizational change and development, Annual Review of Psychology, Vol. 50, no.1, pp. 361-386. Zerbe, W 2008, Emotions, ethics and decision making, Emerald Group Publishing, New York, NY. This essay on The Influence of Emotions on Organizational Change was written and submitted by user Crystal Carson to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

T5 Tax Slips for Canadian Income Taxes

T5 Tax Slips for Canadian Income Taxes A Canadian T5 tax slip, or Statement of Investment Income, is prepared and issued by organizations that pay interest, dividends, or royalties to tell you and the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) how much investment income you earned for a given tax year. Income included on T5 tax slips includes most dividends, royalties, and interest from bank accounts, accounts with investment dealers or brokers, insurance policies, annuities, and bonds. Organizations do not usually issue T5 slips for earned interest and investment income less than $50 CAN, although you should still report that income when you file your Canadian income tax return. Deadline for T5 Tax Slips T5 tax slips must be issued by the last day of February, in the year after the calendar year to which the T5 tax slips apply. Filing T5 Tax Slips With Your Income Tax Return When you file a paper income tax return, include copies of each of the T5 tax slips you receive. If you file your income tax return using NETFILE or EFILE, keep copies of your T5 tax slips with your records for six years in case the CRA asks to see them. Missing T5 Tax Slips If an organization doesnt issue a T5 even though you have investment income over the $50 CAN threshold, you are required to ask for a copy of a missing T5 tax slip. If you havent received a T5 slip despite requesting one, file your income tax return by the tax deadline anyway to avoid penalties for filing your income taxes late. Calculate the investment income and any related tax credits you can claim as closely as you can using any information you have. Include a note with the organizations name and address, the type and amount of investment income, and what you have done to get a copy of the missing T5 slip. Include copies of any statements you used in calculating the income for the missing T5 tax slip. Implications of Not Filing a T5 The CRA will charge a penalty if you file an income tax return and forget to include a tax slip for the second time within a four-year period. It will also charge interest on the balance due, calculated from the tax deadline of the year to which the slip applied. If you have filed your tax return and you receive a late or amended T5 slip, file an adjustment request (T1-ADJ) immediately to report this discrepancy in income. Other Tax Information Slips The T5 slip doesnt include other income sources that must be reported, even if they deal with seemingly similar investment-related sources. Other tax information slips include: T4: Statement of Remuneration PaidT4A: Statement of Pension, Retirement, Annuity, and Other IncomeT4A(OAS): Statement of Old Age SecurityT4A(P): Statement of Canada Pension Plan BenefitsT4E: Statement of Employment Insurance and Other BenefitsT4RIF: Statement of Income From a Registered Retirement Income FundT4RSP: Statement of RRSP Income

The Increasing Importance of Complexity in International Relations Essay

The Increasing Importance of Complexity in International Relations - Essay Example Thus, the environment for each state is no longer limited to its internal and neighboring environment. The increasing number of factors makes it quite challenging to analyze the international environment for any country. Traditional analytical models that are based on linear relationships are no longer sufficient to explain the complex phenomena of international relations. The twentieth century approaches focused on managing order are giving way to fresher approaches (Rengger, 212) . Hence, complexity has become an increasingly important aspect of research on international relations. It offers an opportunity to apply a general systems theory to the analysis of international events. The international environment today is more complex and open than a decade ago. Factors such as globalization, climate change and terrorism have contributed much to integrate the world along several dimensions. This paper explains the increasing importance of complexity in international relations by identi fying the components of complexity theory and explaining their relevance to contemporary international events as well as past events that have significantly impacted on the present state of affairs. Concepts such as interdependence, fitness, and coevolution are discussed along with other essential concepts. The paper concludes with an overall assessment of the value can understanding of complexity can provide to the study of international relations.... Complexity theory offers an explanation for identifying and acknowledging such relationships. Its concepts and principles can be applied to analyze relationships between individual actors and the areas where mutual benefits and risks lie. The rapid pace of globalization is one of the major stimuli that have made complexity theory increasingly relevant to the study of international relations. Under the WTO agreements, the economies of individual countries have become increasingly dependent on one another. In addition, regional alliances such as ASEAN and the EU have made the economic and political systems of nation states dependent on one another. The most recent examples of such interdependence can be observed in the 2008 global financial crisis and the more recent Euro debt crisis. Events such as a sub-prime crisis in the US have affected economies around the world, mainly because the US is today the centre of the global economic system. Similarly, a debt crisis originating in Greec e has raised issues for the well-being of the German economy. Complexity theory can increase our understanding of such contemporary issues by supporting existing theories and concepts. Fitness and International Relations Complexity theory aims to explain the fitness between an actor and its environment. The concept of fitness is an integral component of complexity theory and treats an actor as a member that can affect and is also affected by changes taking place in the environment (Clemens, 13). Thus, in complexity theory individual actors are assumed to act in a complex environment. A complex environment is characterized by a large number of

A+ Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

A+ - Assignment Example Question 2: In economics, the concept of allocation of resources is sometimes linked to efficiency and equity. Efficiency and equity often come in contrast to each other and in most instances both cannot be maintained. There is a difference of treatment of employees of high tech firms compared to those of the franchising firms. This is because the high tech firm employees are more economically efficient as their work has greater returns. This results in better compensations. On the other hand the returns of other workers like salesman or layman is lower compared to those at high level white collar jobs. As in economics people prefer efficiency rather than equity those who are more efficient get more benefits. Question 3: This is again related to efficiency and equity. â€Å"Related to the notions of efficiency and equity is that of social welfare and a concept called Pareto efficiency, named for the Italian economist Vilfredo Pareto. If no reallocation of resources or trade of goods and service can be made that increases value to some individual without anyone else being made worse off, the situation is Pareto efficient.† (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Therefore, as mentioned above by allowing for equitable distribution in some situations there is a chance of not only achieving Pareto efficiency but also increasing the standard of living of the people. This may in turn increase spending and will inject money back into the economy. Therefore, in an entirety this is beneficial. Question 4: The higher gasoline price is a matter of concern for the government. This is because it will increase prices and cause further inflation and unrest. Therefore, the government will encourage them to buy hybrid care. This can be done by reducing the taxation on these hybrid cars. Adding a support price will also be an excellent benefit. This can be further reinforced by increasing taxation on the gasoline fueled care. As the costs of those cars

Consumer Reactions Towards Product Placement In Movies Media Essay

Consumer Reactions Towards Product Placement In Movies Media Essay A review of trade and popular press over the past few years quickly reveals the interest in and growth of the product placement industry. Product placement is one of todays hottest new media, and it is getting increasing attention from advertisers, media planners, and research firms attempting to assess its effectiveness and value. It is getting increasingly popular and rapidly becoming a serious marketing discipline worldwide. Most major movie releases today contain product placements. It is a multimillion-dollar business with every frame in a movie having an opportunity for branding. From cars and cell phones, to mouth fresheners and branded tea-our heroes and heroines are the ultimate consumers. According to the PQ Media Global Product Placement Forecast Series 2006-2010 Country-by-Country Analysis, global paid product placement grew 37.2 per cent to $3.36 billion in 2006 and is forecast to grow 30.3 per cent to $4.38 billion in 2007, with growth accelerating in China, India and Australia (What Every Global 2006). Meeta Vora Munshi, Faculty (Marketing), Som-Lalit Institute of Management Studies (SLIMS), Opposite St Xaviers College, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad à ¢-  Phone: 9825071663 à ¢-  email: [emailprotected] Dr Sarla Achuthan, Director, B K School of Business Management, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad à ¢-  Phone: 26304811. Product Placement In Movies Product placements have played a role in motion pictures for many decades and can be found in Hollywood movies dating from the late 1940s and early 1950s (The Economist 1991). Movie legend Joan Crawford drank Jack Daniels whiskey in the 1948 movie Mildred Pierce (Nebenzahl and Secunda, 1993). In the 1950 movie Destination Moon, four space travellers rocketed to the moon drinking Coke and wearing Lee jeans (Vollmers and Mizerski, 1994). And Bollywood is not far behind. The earliest reference of product placement in Hindi movies comes in the 1940 classic Chalti ka Naam Gadi with Coca Cola. In 1967 movie An Evening in Paris, Sharmila Tagore was seen sipping delicately from a 200 ml bottle of Coke, struggling to make sure the logo was visible. Rajdoot motorbike was seen in Bobby way back in 1973. A few more recent and popular examples of product placements in Bollywood are Strohs beer in Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge; ICICI Bank, Ford Ikon, Archies Cards, Tide detergent and Tata Tea in Baghban; and Times of India in Hum Tum. The practice of using branded props in movies started as a casual process. Branded items were simply donated, loaned, or purchased for particular movie scenes to enhance their artistic qualities (Spillman, 1989). But things changed with the 1982 movie ET-The Extraterrestrial, in which the alien creature was lured from its hiding place with Reeses Pieces candy. The Pieces candy sales increased by 65 per cent just 3 months after the movies release (Buss 1998, Farhi 1998, Reed 1989). It was since then that marketers began actively seeking their own product placements, fully understanding its commercial impact (Caro, 1996). LITERATURE REVIEW Several studies have investigated the attitudes and perceptions of viewers regarding the practice of product placement. These studies were efforts at determining whether moviegoers find the practice objectionable, given the stealth and deceptive nature of the product placement, as claimed by some consumer groups. Interestingly, these studies found that, in general, the majority of people in the United States dont object to the practice of product placement (Gupta and Gould, 1997; Nebenzahl and Secunda, 1993; Ong and Meri, 1994). Placements are seen as adding realism to scenes, are preferred to fictitious brands and are understood to be more and more a necessary component to cost containment in the making of programmes and movies (DeLorme and Reid, 1999; Gupta and Gould, 1997). Most consumers considered product placement as a less obtrusive form of marketing communication than other advertising forms in the movie theatre, even though some of them criticized product placement as a deceptive communication strategy (Nebenzahl and Secunda, 1993). Not many similar consumer studies in India were found, though a study carried out among students in India did find positive attitude towards product placement (Panda, 2004). RATIONALE OF THE STUDY Since the beginning of televised programming, advertisers in India have shelled out big bucks to promote their products on TV. The 30-second TV ad spot had been the sole reigning champion for a very long time, but no longer so today. Although the number of television channels has increased in the last decade from under 50 to over 200 today, the number of advertisers has grown much more rapidly (Surapaneni, 2006). Moreover, the bulk of advertising is limited to few popular TV channels. This has resulted in tremendous advertising clutter. Also, it has been noticed that TRPs of ad breaks have declined with channel zapping. And with marketers demanding more bang for their advertising buck, agencies were prompted to come up with innovative solutions. An association with Bollywood gives them an opportunity to look beyond the 30-second television commercial. For advertisers, the product placements provide clutter free noticeability (and possible sales!) from the huge number of Bollywood viewers in the captive atmosphere of theatres, on TV during film telecasts and at homes through DVD/VCDs. For filmmakers, the placement of appropriate brands in their films offers a legitimate and profitable source of revenue, over and above making the films more realistic. Obviously, its a win-win script for advertisers and filmmakers. The penetration and popularity of films in India can never be doubted. The Indian film industry is one of the largest in the world, producing 1041 films annually. And Bollywood, the Hindi film industry, commands a huge 40 per cent share of the Indian film market (Media and Entertainment, 2007). The output of Bollywood is phenomenal. In 2006, the $3.5 billion industry produced 152 films. With a growing international market, Bollywood ticket sales are close to $4 billion every year (Bollywood-A Foretaste, 2007). The trend of product placements in Bollywood is increasing and advertisers are expecting mileage from this means of communication. This justifies the need to study the viewers reactions towards this practice in general. It could be helpful to marketers using this means of communication in understanding their target consumers. RESEARCH OBJECTIVE The research objective of this study is to understand the viewers reactions towards the current practice of product placement in Bollywood. The main objective is translated into the following seven questions representing different aspects of viewers reactions: Do the product placements make the scene in a movie more realistic? Are the product placements a source of information about latest products? Should undue focus to place product be avoided? Do product placements cause irritation/distraction? Are product placements overused these days? Are product placements a means of money making for film makers? METHODOLOGY For this study a total of 121 respondents were surveyed in the city of Ahmedabad. The sampling method was convenient sampling, with care taken to include approximately equal number of respondents across demographic variables of gender and age. Considering persons below 16 years as children, only people of 16 or above were surveyed. Each respondents frequency of watching Hindi movies per month (irrespective of whether at home or theatre, on satellite TV or VCD/DVD) was also noted. The persons who mentioned watching less than 1 movie per month on an average were considered underexposed to the medium of movies and hence not included in the sample. The survey tool was a structured questionnaire consisting of a short initial description of the product placement practice to familiarize the respondents with the topic. The questionnaire was divided in two parts. In the first part, respondents were required to give personal details resulting in 3 variables, namely, gender, age and approximate frequency (of watching Hindi movies per month). The second part contained 7 items/statements which were based on product placements in general and not for any specific movie. These statements measured viewers reactions as per the questions discussed above. The variables generated by the second part of the questionnaire are as follows: Variables Questions REALISTIC makes the scene in a movie more realistic INFORMATION is a source of information about latest products SUBTLE should not be given undue focus in the scene DISTRACT causes irritation/distraction OVERUSED is overused these days MONEY is a means of money making for film makers BAN should be banned Thus a total of 10 variables, 3 based on personal details and 7 based on reactions were generated by the questionnaire. PRELIMINARY FINDINGS Out of a total of 121 respondents surveyed, 64 (ie, 53 per cent) were males and 57 (ie, 47 per cent) were females. Their age ranged from 16 years to 76 years. The approximate number of Hindi movies watched ranged from 1 movie per month to 30 movies per month. Charts indicating the profile of respondents based on personal detail variables are provided below. The response in terms of percentage of the respondents is summarized below. Variable Agree/Strongly agree Disagree/Strongly disagree Neutral REALISTIC 23% 48% 29% INFORMATION 71% 12% 17% SUBTLE 64% 18% 18% DISTRACT 21% 52% 27% OVERUSED 64% 12% 24% MONEY 85% 4% 11% BAN 21% 47% 32% A first hand glance at the above table shows that a huge 85 per cent of respondents thought product placements was a money making means for film makers and a large majority also thought placements were a good way of knowing about ongoing products. More than half of the respondents thought product placements were overused in movies these days and that they should be subtle and not overbearing. Close to half the respondents did not think scenes got more realistic with product placements. But again around half the respondents also thought product placements did not distract them and should not be banned. The process of deriving detailed results is underway. It is proposed to report difference in reactions of respondents across gender, age and movie watching habits as also correlations between the reaction variables using various statistical analysis tools of the SPSS package. CONCLUSION Though this study is limited only to Ahmedabad city and a limited sample size, the results may not be conclusive but indicative enough for marketers using this means of communication. From the preliminary results it can be said that people do have positive reactions towards the product placement practice if done subtly. So creativity and innovation can actually make this form of advertising quite paying.

History of the Soft Drinks Industry Essay

Introduction Soft drinks, more popularly known as sodas, are not exactly referred to as items of necessity. People can live without sodas. In fact, people might be safer if they don’t drink soft drinks so much. And yet, soft drinks somehow make it to the top of the list of items bought by the average consumer. Why is this, exactly? Well, for one thing, sodas are delicious. They stand between liquor and juice. Those who are too young to drink beer but think that fruit juice is too juvenile can order sodas. Those too old and are putting their health at risk by drinking hard drinks can enjoy soft drinks and no one would think any less of them. In short, sodas have a mass appeal. They carry an image with them; an image of a person with a comfortable lifestyle. This report will take a look at the soft drink industry as a whole and particular industry’s leaders, brief history and description of the industry; will show industry characteristics, trends, changes, and competitive factors; will give recommendations for the companies within the industry. My experience of the consumer and the seller of the soft drinks, allowed me to say, that the soft drinks industry deserves attention. It is one of the biggest, fast growing, perspective, and profitable industries in the world. It takes a big place in our life as consumers. Soft drinks, and such big companies as Coca – Cola or PepsiCo, are widely spread everywhere and available in any country in the world. I decided to choose the soft drinks industry, because it illustrates the great production and distribution; and important business innovations, such as product development, franchising, and mass marketing, as well as the evolution of consumer tastes and cultural trends. History of the soft drinks industry. The soft drink industry began in the mid-1880s with the creation of syrup that was mixed with carbonated water and served at drug store lunch counters. During the early years, soft drinks were sold only in stores that could provide fountain service. Increasing distribution was tied to building additional syrup manufacturing plants. With the advent of bottling machinery, soft drinks began to be distributed beyond the town drug store. The first bottled soda water or soft drink in the United States was produced in 1835. These drinks were called soft drinks, only to separate them from hard alcoholic drinks. This drinks do not contain alcohol and broadly specifying this beverages, includes a variety of regular carbonated soft drinks, diet and caffeine free drinks, bottled water juices, juice drinks, sport drink and even ready to drink tea or coffee packs. So we can say that soft drinks mean carbonated drinks. Charles Aderton invented â€Å"Dr Pepper† in Waco, Taxes in 1885. Dr. John S. Pemberton invented â€Å"Coca – Cola† in Atlanta, Georgia in 1886. Caleb Bradham invented â€Å"Pepsi – Cola† in 1892, and so on. Bigger and smaller companies appear on a soft drink market since the greatest profitability (advantage) and cheap manufacturing of this industry was discovered. Today, soft drink is more favorite refreshment drink in the United States then tea, coffee, juice and etc. Soft drinks industry overview in the United States and World Wide. The soft drinks industry is very big, very visible, highly concentrated, and appears to have been very profitable. The leaders of the Soft Drink Industry are the Coca-Cola Company, PepsiCo, Cadbury Schweppes/Dr. Pepper Snapple, Cott Corp. , and National Beverage Corp. There is also noticeable Asian and European influence on a world market of the soft drinks. Leading companies have prominent presence in the soft drink industry. This industry is well established already, and it would be difficult for any company to enter or exit successfully. According to the Coca- Cola annual report (2009), it has the most soft drink sales with 24. 4 billion dollars. The Coca-Cola product line has several popular soft drinks including Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Fanta, Barq’s, and Sprite, selling over 400 drink brands in about 200 countries. PepsiCo is the next top competitor with soft drink sales grossing 21 billion dollars for the two beverage subsidiaries, PepsiCo Beverages North America and PepsiCo International (annual report PepsiCo Inc. , 2009). PepsiCo’s soft drink product line includes Pepsi, Mountain Dew, and Slice which make up more than one quarter of its sales. Cadbury Schweppes/Dr. Pepper Snapple had soft drink sales of 6 billion dollars with a product line consisting of soft drinks such as A&W Root Beer, Canada Dry, and Dr. Pepper (annual report Cadbury Schweppes/Dr. Pepper Snapple, 2009). Cott Corporation is one of the world’s biggest soft drinks manufacturers, but has a low profile among consumers because it specializes in producing private label products for retailers. In fact the company is largely credited with revitalizing the supermarket own-label beverage market during the early 1990s, scoring a number of important goals including the introduction of Sam’s American Choice cola by Wal-Mart and Sainsbury’s Classic Cola in the UK. Currently, its small portfolio of consumer brands includes RC Cola, Stars & Stripes and Red Rain. National Beverage Corp. (National Beverage) develops, manufactures, markets and distributes a portfolio of beverage products throughout the United States. The Company develops and sells flavored beverage products, including a selection of flavored soft drinks, juices, waters and energy drinks. Its brands include Shasta and Faygo, each of which has over 50 flavor varieties. The Company also maintains a line of flavored beverage products for the health-conscious consumer, including Everfresh, Home Juice and Mr. Pure 100% juice and juice-based products The Coca-Cola Company accounted for 26. 5% of the world’s soft drinks sales and 43 % of the US market, almost double the amount of rival PepsiCo, which holds a 13. 4 % share of the world market and 32 % of the US market. Both companies appear to be keen to extend their focus by expanding into growing segments for soft drink production. In the last month Coca-Cola has revealed it is extending began researching benefits of Chinese herbal remedies to target growing demand for nutritional benefits and functionality in their products. PepsiCo at the same time has increased its focus in production of non-carbonated beverages with juice in particular becoming important to its operations. Both companies remain significantly ahead of their rivals, reflecting the increasingly competitive nature of the soft drinks market. Cadbury Schweppes/Dr. Pepper Snapple takes 15 % of the US market and 3 % of the world market. Cott Corp takes 5 % of the US market. National Beverage Corp. takes 2% of the US market. (Table 1. â€Å"The top 10 Soft Drinks Companies in 2008 by global market share†, Page 21 and Table 1. a. â€Å"The Top 10 Soft Drinks Manufacturers in the US in 2008 by volume†, Page 21 ). At the core of the beverage industry is the carbonated soft-drink category. The dominant players in this area (Coca Cola, Pepsi, and Cadbury Schweppes/Dr. Pepper Snapple) own virtually all of the North American market’s most widely distributed and best-known brands. (Table 4 â€Å"Top Ten Soft Drinks in the US, 2009. † Page 24) They are dominant in world markets as well. These companies’ products occupy large portions of any supermarket’s shelf space, often covering more territory than real food categories like dairy products, meat, or produce. Coca-Cola and PepsiCo continued to dominate the soft drinks market in 2010 accounting for more than a third of global sales in the sector, according to market analytic. Soft drinks industry description. The market size of this industry has been changing. Soft drink consumption has a market share of 46. 8% within the non-alcoholic drink industry. (Table 2, 2. a. â€Å"Global Soft Drinks Market Segmentation: % Share, by Value, 2008†, Page 21). Total market value of soft drinks reached $367. 2 billion in 2008 with a market value forecast of $377. 1 billion by the end of 2010. In 2013, the global soft drink market is forecast to have a value of $456. 3 billion. The 2008 soft drink volume was 325,367. 2 million liters (Table 3 â€Å"Global Soft Drinks Market Volume: liters million†, Page 22). In 2013, the global soft drink market is forecast to have a volume of 474 million liters, an increase of 22. 3% since 2008. Soft drink industry is lucrative with a potential for high profits, but there are several obstacles to overcome in order to capture the market share. Carbonates sales proved the most lucrative for the global soft drink market, generating 46. 8% of the total value. However, the volume of the U. S. carbonated soft drinks declined -3% in 2009. That compares to – 2. 3% decline in 2008; a – 0. 6 % decline in 2007; and a -0. 2% decline in 2006. Top companies, Coke and Pepsi, generated similar results last year. Coke carbonated soft drinks volume was down -3. 1% and PepsiCo’s was down -4%. Both lost share. Dr. Pepper Snapple’s carbonated soft drink volume was down -1. 3%. (See below, Table 5 â€Å"Carbonated soft drink Companies in the U. S. for 2009†). In the U. S. , with the carbonated soft drinks decline accelerating, other categories are slowly growing. (For example, bottled water and energy drinks market. ) The Coca-Cola Company accounts for 22. 6% of the global soft drink market’s volume. Supermarkets and hypermarkets distribute 48. 4% of the global soft drink market’s volume. Table 5. â€Å"Carbonated soft drink Companies for 2009†. Top -10 CSD Companies in the US for 2009| 2009| 2009| 2008| | 2009| 2008| | Rank Companies| Market Share| Market Share| Share Change| Cases (millions)| Cases (millions)| Volume% Change| 1| Coca-Cola Co| 42. 7| 42. 8| -0. 1| 4107. 6| 4241. 1| -3. 10%| 2| Pepsi Co| 30. 8| 31. 1| -0. 3| 2960. 4| 3082. 8| -4. 00%| 3| Dr Pepper Snapple| 15. 3| 15| 0. 3| 1471. 2| 1491. 3| -1. 30%| 4| Cott Corp| 4. 7| 4. 8| -0. 1| 448| 476. 6| -6. 00%| 5| National Beverage| 2. 6| 2. 5| 0. 1| 247. 5| 243. 9| 1. 50%| 6| Hansen Natural| 0. 8| 0. 8| flat| 79| 76. 5| 3. 30%| 7| Red Bull| 0. 7| 0. 6| 0. 1| 67. 2| 63. 9| 5. 20%|. 8| Big Red| 0. 4| 0. 4| flat| 43. 6| 42. 4| 2. 70%| 9| Rockstar| 0. 4| 0. 4| flat| 40. 2| 41| -2. 00%| 10| Other| 1. 6| 1. 6| flat| 156. 3| 160. 3| -2. 50%| | Total Industry| 100| 100| | 9621| 9919. 8| -3. 00%| Statements of leading companies within soft drink industry of the US| | Coca – Cola Company | PepsiCo| Dr Pepper Snapple Group, Inc. | National Beverage Corp| Cott Corp (2008) | Net operating revenue| millions $ 30. 990| 43. 232| 5. 531| thousands $ 575. 177| millions $ 1. 648| Cost of goods sold| 11. 088| 20. 099| 2. 234| 405. 322| 1. 467| GROSS PROFIT | 19. 902| 23. 133| 3. 297| 169. 855| 181|. Selling Expenses| 11. 358| 15. 026| 2. 135| 131. 918| 179. 8| OPERATING INCOME| 8. 231| 8. 044| 1. 085| 24. 742| loss 113. 0| TOTAL ASSETS| 48. 671| 39. 848| 8. 776| 265. 682| 873. 1| LIABILITIES AND EQUITY| 48. 671| 39. 848| 8. 776| 265. 682| 873. 1| OPERATING ACTIVITIES| 8. 186| 6. 796| 865| 35. 829| 66. 9| INVESTING ACTIVITIES| used in 4. 149| used in 2. 401| used in 251| used in 3. 491 | used in 54. 8| FINANSIAL ACTIVITIES| used in 2. 293| used in 2. 497| used in 554| 305| used in 19. 4 | Five Forces of the Soft Drinks Industry. ( Figure 3. â€Å"Five Forces of the Soft Drinks Industry†. Page 24). Threat of New Entrants. Significant barriers exist to entering the soft drink industry. Bottling operations have a fairly high minimum efficient scale and require fixed assets which are specific not only to the process of bottling but also to a specific type of packaging. Entering bottling, meanwhile, would require substantial capital investment, which would deter entry. Exit costs are thus also high. Bottling operations do exist which in theory could be contracted out, but they are tied up in long-term contracts with the major players and thus can only contract with other producers in a limited way. Perhaps the most significant barrier to entry, however, is the strong brand identity associated with the best-selling soft drinks. Placing another cola on the market is not an attractive value proposition. Bargaining Power of Suppliers. Suppliers to the soft drink industry are, for the most part, providing commodity products and thus have little power over the industry. Sugar, bottles and cans are homogeneous goods which can be obtained from many sources, and the aluminum can industry has been plagued by excess supply. The one necessary ingredient which is unique is the artificial sweetener; aspartame is clearly preferred by consumers of diet beverages and for a time was under patent protection and therefore only available from one supplier. However, the patent expired and another producer entered, reducing the market power of NutraSweet. For example, the inputs for Coke and Pepsi’s products were primarily sugar and packaging. Sugar could be purchased from many sources on the open market, and if sugar became too expensive, the firms could easily switch to corn syrup, as they did in the early 1980s. Bargaining Power of Customers. Buyers can be considered at the consumer or the retail level. The soft drink industry sold to consumers through five principal channels: food stores, convenience and gas, fountain, vending, and mass merchandisers, fast food restaurants. For consumers, taste will be an important part of the preference for a particular soft drink; thus although there is no monetary switching cost, there may be a loss of enjoyment associated with a less-preferred brand. Because of this, consumers have historically been brand-loyal and not based purchase decisions on price. Retail outlets have not been able to exhibit much buyer power over the industry, although they can do so more easily than consumers. Traditionally these outlets have been fragmented and have been reliant on the major soft drink brands to increase store traffic. However, at the time of the case there has already been evidence of some buyer power on the part of grocery stores, as they successfully resisted an attempt to price the varieties with more costly inputs higher. As grocery chains increasingly consolidate and as discount outlets continue to grow, buyer power on the part of retailers is likely to increase. Threat of Substitute Products. While the U. S. soft drink market was growing, substitutes did little to interfere. Soft drinks are sufficiently unique that when a consumer wants a soft drink another product is not likely to satisfy. Other cold drinks such as water, juices and iced tea offer similar refreshing qualities, yet they do not have the same taste or properties. Hot beverages and alcoholic beverages are not desirable or appropriate for many of the occasions when one would want a soft drink. The one category which threatens soft drink producers is the â€Å"new age† product which offers (or implies) more natural ingredients and/or health benefits. The soft drink industry’s initial answers to these beverages, in the form of Tab Clear and Crystal Pepsi, are not going to compete effectively with the new age products. Competitive Rivalry within an Industry. The concentration in the industry (mainly between its leaders: Coke, Pepsi and Cadbury/Schweppes) would suggest that internal rivalry is somewhat less than if there were many players of equal size. Although the competition between Coke and Pepsi has become fiercer over time, they traditionally competed primarily on advertising, promotion and new products rather than price (although the explosion of new brands did eventually lead to some price competition). The products are similar but not homogeneous and buyers are fairly brand loyal. Retail buyers have significant costs for switching from the major brands since those are responsible for bringing people into the store. Flattening and potentially declining U. S.demand may be a factor which increases internal rivalry and encourages more price competition and thus erosion of profits. Revenues are extremely concentrated in this industry, with Coke and Pepsi, together with their associated bottlers, commanding 73% of the case market. In fact, the soft drink market can be characterized as an oligopoly, or even a duopoly between Coke and Pepsi, resulting in positive economic profits. As analysis using Porter’s five forces shows that the soft drink industry is very profitable. Suppliers and buyers have not had more power over the industry than it has had over them. Internal rivalry, while seeming intense, has not eroded the profitability of the industry because of its concentration and the fact that the two major players have primarily competed on the basis of advertising and promotion and not price. Entry is difficult both for reasons of scale and the strong brand identity of the current major players. Substitutes have not been close enough to take away significant market share, although the emergence of new substitutes may pose the largest threat to the industry’s profitability. Soft drink industry has an oligopolistic character. SWOT analysis of the main producers in the soft drink industry. Coca – Cola Company. The Coca-Cola Company is the world’s leading manufacturer, distributor and marketer of Non- alcoholic beverage concentrates and syrups, in the world. Coca – Cola has a strong brand name and brand portfolio. Business – Week and Interbred, branding consultancy, recognize Coca – cola as one of the leading brands in their top 100 global brands ranking in 2009. The Business Week – Interbred valued Cocoa – Cola at 67,000 million dollars in 2008. Coca – Cola ranks well ahead of its close competitor PepsiCo which has a ranking of 22 having a brand value of 12,690 million dollars. The Company’s strong brand value facilitates customer recall and allows Coca – Cola to penetrate market. However, the company is threatened by intense competition which could have an adverse impact on the company’s market share. Strengths| Weaknesses| World’s leading brand| Negative publicity| large scale of operations| Sluggish performance in North America| Robust revenue growth in three segment| Decline in cash from operating activities| Opportunities| Threats| Acquisitions Intense competition| Intense competition| Growing bottles water market| Dependence on bottling partners| Growing Hispanic population in US| Sluggish growth of carbonated beverages| Strengths. World’s leading brand: The Company owns four of the top five soft drink in the world: Coca – Cola, Diet Coke, Sprite and Fanta. Strong brands allow the company to introduce brand extensions such as Vanilla Coke, Cherry Coke and Coke with Lemon. Over the years, the company has made large investments in brands promotions. Consequently, Coca – Cola is one of the best recognized global brands. The company’s strong brand value facilitates customer recall and allows Coca – Cola to penetrate new markets and consolidate existing ones. Large scale of operations: With revenues is excess of 24 billion dollars Coca – Cola has a large scale of operation. Of the approximately 52 billon beverage servings of all types consumed worldwide every day, beverages bearing trademarks owned by or licensed to Coca – Cola account for more than 1. 4 billion. The company’s operations are supported by a strong infrastructure across the world. Coca – Cola owns and operates 32 principal beverage concentrates and/or syrups manufacturing plants located throughout the world. In addition, it owns or has interest in 37 operations with 95 principal beverage bottling and canning plants in the US. The company also owns bottled water production and still beverage facilities as well as a facility that manufactures juice concentrates. The company’s large scale of operation allows it to feed upcoming markets with relative ease and enhances its revenue generation capacity. Robust revenue growth in three segments: Coca – Cola revenues recorded a double digit growth, in tree operating segments. These tree segments are Latin America, East/South Asia, and Pacific Rim and Bottling investments. Revenues from Latin America grew by 20,4% during 2007, over 2006. During the same period, revenues from East/South Asia and Pacific Rim grew by 10. 6 % while revenues from the bottling investments segment by 19. 9%. Together, the three segments of Latin America, East/South Asia and Pacific Rim and Bottling investments, accounted for 34. 8% of total revenues during 2007. Robust revenues growth rates in these segments contributed to top-line growth for Coca – Cola during 2007. Weaknesses. Negative publicity: The company received negative publicity in India during September 2006. The company was accused by the Center of Science and Environment (CSE) of selling products containing pesticide residue. These pesticides included chemicals witch could cause cancer, damage to the nervous and reproductive systems and reduce bone menial density. Such negative publicity could adversely impact the company’s brand image and the demand for Coca- Cola products. Sluggish performance in North America: Coca – Cola’s performance in North America was far from robust. North America is Coca – Cola’s core market generating about 30 % of total revenues during 2007. Therefore, a strong performance in North America is important for the company. Sluggish performance in North America could impact the company’s future growth prospects and prevent Coca – Cola from recording a more robust top-line growth. Decline in cash from operating activities: Cash flows from operating activities decreased 7% in 2008 compared to 2007. Decline in cash from operating activities reduces availability of funds for the company’s investing and financing activities, which, in turn, increases the company’s exposure to debt markets and fluctuating interest rates. Opportunities. Acquisitions: Strong international operations increase the company’s capacity to penetrate international markets and also gives it an opportunity to diversity its revenue stream. Coca – Cola made acquisitions in Australia, New Zealand, Germany, and China for the last 3 years. These acquisitions strengthened Coca – Cola international operations. It gives Coca – Cola an opportunity for growth, through new product launch or greater penetration of existing markets. Growing bottled water market: Bottled water is one of the fastest – growing segments in the world’s food and beverage market owing to increasing health concerns. The market for bottled water in the US is forecast to reach revenues of about 19. 3 billion dollars by the end of 2010. The company’s Dasani brand water is the 3rd best-selling bottled water in US. Coca – Cola could leverage its strong position in the bottled water segment to take advantage of growing demand for flavored water. Growing Hispanic population in US: Hispanics are growing rapidly in number and economic power. As a result, they have become more important to markets than ever before. The company can benefit from an expanding Hispanic population in the US, which would translate into higher consumption of Coca – Cola products and higher revenues for the company. Threats. Intense competition: Intense competition Coca – Cola competes in the nonalcoholic beverages of the commercial industry. The company faces intense competition in various markets from regional as well as global players. Also, the company faces competition from various juice drinks and nectars. In many of the countries in which Coca – Cola operates, including the US, PepsiCo in one of the company’s primary competitor. (Other significant competitors include Nestle, Cadbury/Schweppes, Group DANONE and Kraft Foods. ) Competitive factors impacting the company’s business include pricing, advertising, sales promotion programs, product innovation. And brand and trademark development and protection. Intense competition could impact Coca – Cola market share and revenue growth rates. Dependence on bottling partners: Coca – Cola generates most of its revenues by selling concentrates and syrups to bottlers in whom it doesn’t have any ownership interest or in which it has no controlling ownership. Loss one or more of customers by any one of its major bottling partners could indirectly affect Coca – Cola business results. Such dependence on third parties is a weak link in Coca – Cola’s operations and increases the company’s business risks. Sluggish growth of carbonated beverages: US consumers have started to look for greater variety in their drinks and are becoming increasingly health conscious. This led to a decrease in the consumption of carbonated and other sweetened beverages in the US. The performance of the market is forecast to decelerate, with an anticipation compound annual rate of change of -0. 3% for the five-year period 2005-2010 expected to drive the market to a value of 62. 9 billion dollars by the end of 2010. Coca – Colas revenue could be adversely affected by a slowdown in the US carbonated beverage market. PepsiCo. In 2009 PepsiCo estimated that its annual retail sales had reached $92 billion, offering over 100 brands around the globe. The main cash cow of PepsiCo of course being the Pepsi carbonated drink that owned 10% of the US beverage market in 2008. PepsiCo offers the world’s largest portfolio of billion-dollar food and beverage brands, including 19 different product lines that each generates more than $1 billion in annual retail sales. PepsiCo mains businesses – Frito-Lay, Quaker, Pepsi-Cola, Tropicana and Gatorade – also make hundreds of other nourishing, foods and drinks. Strengths| Weaknesses| Strong core brand | Concentrated in North America . Strong market position | Health Craze will hurt soft drink | Solid brand portfolio | Negative publicity| | Strong revenue growth | | Economies of scale | | Opportunities| Threats| Food division expansion| Sluggish growth of carbonated drinks | Hispanic growth in the US | Competition with Coca-Cola & others| Bottled water growth | Declining economy/recession | Growing consumer health consciousness | | Cadbury Schweppes/Dr. Pepper Snapple. Dr Pepper Snapple Group Inc. (formerly Cadbury Schweppes Americas Beverages) is an American soft beverages drink company, which was spun off from Britain’s Cadbury Schweppes. Company manufactures, markets and distributes more than 50 brands of carbonated soft drinks, juices, ready-to-drink teas, mixers and other premium beverages across the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. Our diverse portfolio includes Dr Pepper, Snapple, 7UP, Mott’s, A&W, Sunkist Soda, Canada Dry, Hawaiian Punch, Schweppes, Penafiel, Squirt, Clamato, Mr & Mrs T Mixers, Rose’s, Yoo-hoo and other consumer favorites. Most of the brands in this segment are CSD brands. In 2009, our Beverage Concentrates segment had net sales of approximately $1. 1 billion. Strengths| Weaknesses| Strong portfolio, consumer-preferred brands| Weak performance in Asian Market| Integrated business model| A substantial amount of outstanding debt| Strong customer relationships| | Strong operating margins and stable cash flows| | Opportunities| Threats| New distribution channels in a market| Changing consumer tastes| Growing consumer health consciousness | Operating in highly competitive markets| Focus on opportunities in high growth and high margin categories| Depend on the 3rd party bottling and distribution companies | Cott Corporation. Cott Corp is one of the leading non-alcoholic beverage companies and retailer brand soft drink providers. The company primarily operates in the US, Canada, the UK and Mexico. It is headquartered in Toronto, Canada and employs 2,803 people. The company recorded revenues of $1,648. 1 million during the financial year ended December 2009, a decrease of 7. 2% compared to 2008. The operating loss of the company was $113 million during 2009, compared to the operating loss of $54. 5 million in 2008. The net loss was $122. 8 million in 2009, compared to the net loss of $71. 4 million in 2008. Strengths| Weaknesses| Leading Producer of Retailer Brand Beverages with Diverse Product Portfolio | Unable to compete successfully in the highly competitive beverage category. | Extensive, Flexible Manufacturing Capabilities | May not be able to respond successfully to consumer trends | | significant amount of outstanding debt| Opportunities| Threats| New distribution channels in a market| Changing consumer tastes| Growing consumer health consciousness | Intense competition| Focus on opportunities in high growth and high margin categories| | National Beverage Corp. National Beverage develops, manufactures, markets and distributes a portfolio of beverage products throughout the US. The company develops and sells a selection of flavored soft drinks, juices, sparkling waters and energy drinks. It is headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and employed about 1,300 people. The company recorded revenues of $566 million during fiscal year ending April 2008, an increase of 5% over 2007. The increase in revenue was due to 9% growth in case volume of energy drinks, juices, and waters. The operating profit of the company was $172. 6 million during 2008, a decrease of 0. 4% compared with 2007. The net profit was $22. 5 million in 2008, decrease of 8. 9% compared with 2007. Strengths| Weaknesses| Extensive Brand Portfolio| Geographic concentration| | Declining Profits| Opportunities| Threats| Focus on Asia Pacific Market| Limitations on Commercialization of Alcoholic Products| Rise in Demand for bottled Water in the US| Riding Input Costs| Change in Consumer Preferences| Intense Competitive Pressures| Company’s key success factors within the soft drink industry. Key factors for competitive success within the soft drink industry branch from the trends of the microenvironment. Primarily, constant product innovation is imperative. A company must be able to recognize consumer wants and needs, while maintaining the ability to adjust with the changing market. They must keep up with the changing trends. Another key factor is the size of the organization, especially in terms of market share. Large distributors have the ability to negotiate with stadiums, universities and school systems, making them the exclusive supplier for a specified period of time. Additionally, they have the ability to commit to mass purchases that significantly lower their costs. They must implement effective distribution channels to remain competitive. Taste of the product is also a key factor for success. Moreover, established brand loyalty is a large aspect of the soft drink industry. Many consumers of carbonated beverages are extremely dedicated to a particular product, and rarely purchase other varieties. This stresses the importance of developing and maintaining a superior brand image. Price, however, is also a key factor because consumers without a strong brand preference will select the product with the most competitive price. Finally, global expansion is a vital factor in the success of a company within the soft drink industry. The United States has reached relative market saturation, requiring movement into the global industry to maintain growth. Soft drink industry main characteristics, trends and changes. Soft drinks are an integral part of American life and culture and soft drinks have been produced or consumed in nearly every corner of the world. The industry is lucrative with a potential for high profits, but there are several obstacles to overcome in order to capture the market share. Growing consumption trends can be attributed to rising disposable incomes, falling trade barriers, universal product acceptance, and a rising demand for American consumer goods. It would be very difficult for a new company to enter this industry because they would not be able to compete with the established brand names, distribution channels, and high capital investment. Likewise, leaving this industry would be difficult with the significant loss of money from the fixed costs, binding contracts with distribution channels, and advertisements used to create the strong brand images. This industry is well established already, and it would be difficult for any company to enter or exit successfully. The carbonated beverage industry is a highly competitive global industry, and has some characteristics of an oligopoly in the US. Three leading companies have prominent presence in the soft drink industry. The leaders include the Coca-Cola Company, PepsiCo, and Cadbury Schweppes. Leader companies have to hold the highest percentage of the global market share; therefore, companies need to be able to compete globally in order to be successful. Profitability in the soft drink industry will remain rather solid, but market saturation especially.