REAL-WORLD INSIGHTS

Published: Nov 12 , 2015
Author: Mark Simpson

A recent article on Stuff reveals that New Zealand dairy giant Fonterra are telling suppliers they must “share the pain” of its farmer shareholders by slashing their prices by 10% and waiting much longer for payment. Those suppliers who are not dependent on Fonterra business will likely stick two fingers up to the co-operative, depriving it of presumably good suppliers of goods or services. Many of those who can’t afford to walk away will no doubt feel pressured to accept. How should they respond?....

Published: Sep 28 , 2012
Author: Robin Copland

There is more and more emphasis on the bottom line. Negotiators are getting ever more ruthless in their search for a “better deal” and sometimes the old “win-win” mantra is lost in the stampede. One of the tactics we see most often used by – and sometimes against – clients is the late introduction of a procurement specialist to a negotiation. In many cases, this person is introduced rather shamefacedly by the regular negotiator; the excuse is given that they are just there to cast a paternal eye over proceedings and check that the deal is watertight....

Published: Jul 13 , 2012
Author: Alan Smith

A mother passing by her son's bedroom was astonished to see the bed was ?nicely made, and the room clean and tidy. Looking more closely she saw an envelope ?propped up on the pillow.??It was addressed, 'Mum'. With trepidation, she opened the envelope and read the enclosed note with trembling hands. Dear Mum,? It is with great regret and sorrow that I'm writing to you. I have had to elope with my new girlfriend because I wanted to avoid a row with you and Dad.?? I am crazy in love with Stacy, and she is so nice, but I knew ?you would not approve of her, because of all her piercings, tattoos, her tight Motorcycle clothes and because she is so much older than I am....