Subject category:
Ethics and Social Responsibility
Published by:
INSEAD
Version: 05.2013
Length: 18 pages
Data source: Field research
Abstract
This is part of a case series. In 2005, Unilever and Oxfam reported on their joint investigation of the impact of business on poverty, based on a study of Unilever Indonesia (UI). Case (B) identifies the key lessons learnt, both with regard to the study's objective and what the two organisations learnt from each other. Business impacts were assessed at the macro-economic level and in terms of employment effects. UI's value chain was studied from supply through to distribution, as well as impacts on low-income consumers. As a result, Oxfam garnered an insight into the potential of value chains to generate employment and income, and the differences in social performance between multinational corporations. Unilever gained a better appreciation of its social contribution, especially as a 'job multiplier'. Both parties felt the project had established a precedent for future corporate-non-governmental organisation collaboration.
About
Abstract
This is part of a case series. In 2005, Unilever and Oxfam reported on their joint investigation of the impact of business on poverty, based on a study of Unilever Indonesia (UI). Case (B) identifies the key lessons learnt, both with regard to the study's objective and what the two organisations learnt from each other. Business impacts were assessed at the macro-economic level and in terms of employment effects. UI's value chain was studied from supply through to distribution, as well as impacts on low-income consumers. As a result, Oxfam garnered an insight into the potential of value chains to generate employment and income, and the differences in social performance between multinational corporations. Unilever gained a better appreciation of its social contribution, especially as a 'job multiplier'. Both parties felt the project had established a precedent for future corporate-non-governmental organisation collaboration.