JNK produces pottery such as plates and bowls for the mass market by using batch production. Quality control matters. JNK employs 30 unskilled workers, all of whom are paid the legal minimum wage. To motivate staff, JNK uses job enrichment. Because demand has risen, JNK plans to replace its old machines with new technology. The Managing Director believes that some of the low cost materials bought by JNK are made using child labour. One of JNK’s competitors has recently adopted a new ethical policy.
(a)[2]
What does ‘mass market’ mean?
(b)[2]
What does ‘job enrichment’ mean?
(c)[4]
Identify and explain two ways in which JNK employees might be affected by the arrival of new technology.
(d)[6]
Identify and explain two ways, other than new technology, that JNK could use to raise output.
(e)[6]
Do you think JNK ought to become more ethical? Justify your answer.
Worked solution & mark scheme
This 20-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: “one identical product is sold to the whole market (everyone)” …