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, MNP3701
ASSIGNMENT 4 SOLUTIONS
SEMESTER 01 – 2024
1
QUESTION 1 Response:
Feasibility of Introducing a Low-Cost Country Sourcing Strategy (LCCS) at Pepkor
a) Support or Inhibit Pepkor's Sustainability Objectives
Introducing a low-cost country sourcing strategy (LCCS) at Pepkor, which currently
emphasizes local sourcing, involves evaluating both economic benefits and
sustainability commitments. The feasibility of this strategy impacting sustainability
objectives can be multifaceted:
Potential Support: LCCS could potentially allow Pepkor to offer a broader range of
affordable products to its customers, aligning with its value proposition. Economically,
this could lead to increased market competitiveness by reducing costs, which can be
passed on to consumers as savings.
Potential Inhibition: On the downside, LCCS might undermine Pepkor’s
sustainability objectives. Local sourcing supports community development and
reduces carbon footprints associated with long transportation distances. Moving to an
LCCS might lead to increased carbon emissions, conflicts with the company's
commitment to environmental stewardship, and potentially disrupt local economies
previously supported by Pepkor’s initiatives.
b) Regulatory and Compliance Hurdles
Introducing LCCS can encounter significant regulatory and compliance hurdles:
Import Regulations and Tariffs: Importing goods from low-cost countries may
subject Pepkor to various trade regulations and tariffs, which can add complexity and
cost, potentially negating some of the savings from lower product costs.
Quality and Compliance Standards: Ensuring that products sourced from abroad
meet South African standards for quality and safety could pose challenges. Non-
compliance risks could lead to product recalls or legal issues, harming Pepkor's brand
reputation.
Ethical Sourcing and Labor Practices: Compliance with international labor laws and
maintaining ethical sourcing practices becomes more challenging when dealing with
multiple foreign suppliers. This could expose Pepkor to risks of association with
unethical practices unless stringent controls and audits are implemented.
QUESTION 2 Response:
Porter’s Five Forces Analysis for Pepkor’s Locally Sourced Products