What do you think about businesses that claim to be 'ethical' and 'green'? Do you think this is for more money

Question

The Body Shop® claims to be ‘ethical’ and ‘green’ but they do so to increase their market share to gain higher profits. How far would you agree with this statement?

Answer 1

Do you know who owns Body Shop now?

It's L'oreal. The biggest, baddest cosmetic company of the world.

The Body Shop that started out as an alternative product is a part of a giant corporation and it's unlikely that it has much to do with it's heritage.

Might want to keep that in perspective.

Answer 2

The fact that The Body Shop is doing anything makes them at least a little better in my book but let's be fair. Business is business and when you're in it, it's to make a profit.

Doing "green" things does add an extra tool to the marketing shed and in many cases will increase your market share but who benefits in the end? We all do.

Real issue should be taken with companies that promote social responsibility all the while knowingly adding to the problem by hiding their less-than-responsible actions.

Is The Body Shop one of these companies? Frankly, I don't know enough about them to answer fairly but when asked if I agree with the notion that they are being "ethical" and "green" to ultimately help their bottom line I'd have to say 'yes', I agree.

I also have to add that I don't have a problem with businesses doing good for profit. It's better than turning a profit at our collective expense, yes?

Answer 3

Yes, I agree - however what always puzzles me is why they even have to mention 'ethical'.  That always sends a red flag.

That's also like these new companies who promote "Christian based business", some just sucking in victims left and right because of their faith.

Answer 4

Long before this SUDDEN interest in "going green," I must say The Body Shop looked at it as a primary charter when it wasn't cool. However, I don't know how it has changed now that it is owned by L'Oreal.

I will say that when some companies are acquired, the parent company allows them to run their business as usual.