The start of the most recent U.S. recession (2008), marked the beginning of an almost unfathomable payment method: a software-based currency known as the Bitcoin. Since then, the virtual coinage has incited a spectrum of protestors and followers whose reactions range from chagrin to downright satisfaction. Currently, some companies deny its worth altogether, while others…
What does it take to become the next international manufacturing hub? Many countries look to China for the answer to that question. Countries across the world will embark on this “Made In” voyage, but few will discover uncharted market opportunities.
The 2006 film Blood Diamond shed light on conflict gems mined in warzones. Often these diamonds bring death to the diggers – some of whom are children. Many of these rocks are later used in jewelry sold throughout the world. With consumers being more informed about products than ever — thanks to the Internet —…
In his hit song Thrift Shop, Macklemore proclaims, “I wear your granddad’s clothes; I look incredible.” And it’s true – the part about chic attire (sometimes) excluded. These days, thrift stores do fashionably outfit consumers with goods that come from a variety of sources – your family members included.
In many cases, international corporations have an edge up on local and national-only businesses for their ability to mass produce and ship items. Off-price retail is an especially competitive industry. It’s one in which the best brand for the best deal wins; however, it seems where and how these companies conduct business matters too. Here…
Trader Joes positions itself as an offbeat grocer that’s (somewhat) locally-minded, but rumors about the company’s less than honest practices have been surfacing as of late. These days, consumers want to know where their food is coming from – whether it’s farm to table or a change in the label. Trader Joes may be subject…
The Rana Plaza tragedy in Bangladesh serves as a warning to many fashion stores and clothing manufacturers — or at least it should. Far too few clothing producers know how or where their clothes are really made. H&M, in stark contrast, is both ethical and sustainable, and stands as an inspiration for competitors.
With the recent boom of frozen yogurt shops, numerous chains and independent stores have opened throughout the world. Typically the stores offer self-serve yogurt machines, where customers can choose from a variety of flavors and toppings, and then pay by the ounce. Orange Leaf is one of these frozen yogurt shops, but is revolutionizing the…
Genetically modified organisms, or GMOs, are getting a lot of coverage in the media throughout the country. Coalitions along with local and federal governmental agencies are trying to fight against the use of GMOs in the production of crops and livestock, but one company is fighting back. Monsanto, an agricultural biotechnology and chemical corporation based…
As more producers seek to placate local foodies and decrease global hunger, they come up with incredibly innovative ideas. Of these, vertical farming is quickly taking the world by storm. The most important question involves whether this type of farming is sustainable —and if it’ll do any good.