Ethically and socially responsible export initiatives and practices

The world and our consumers are getting increasingly concerned about the provenance of the products they consume.

So, the sourcing of your raw materials (palm oil) and your working practices (Boohoo) are now a major factor in the way that your business and your products are being perceived.

What is also changing that in an age of social media and key-board activists you can no longer hide any misgivings, if you have any, indeed.

You must understand and, even anticipate, any cultural differences in the markets where you are operating and one thing that is acceptable in Norway, may not be the done thing in neighbouring Sweden.

So, do you have your nose to the ground (the Germans call it fingerspitzengefühl – the feelings in your fingertips?)  You do have to listen to people on the ground and not just your business chums and study the various emerging community groups.

You may say that you are too busy for all that, but

• • • • • • • the consequences could be dire and
            • this could give and provide you with invaluable tools to gain competitive advantages