Publication database

This brief summarises the experience of the Spier Hotel in South Africa which implemented strategies to bring local entrepreneurs into its supply chain. It demonstrates the substantial development impact that can be generated by localising procurement, and it provides practical tips on how to bring local micro and small enterprises into corporate supply chains.

This tool comes in the form of a PowerPoint pack and aims to help companies and stakeholders identify and implement models that profitably engage low-income populations across value chains, as well as develop affordable products and services that meet the needs of low-income populations. It presents good practice examples and includes a simulation activity that is best used in an interactive workshop setting, to identify risks and opportunities in building inclusive business.

This report examines the critical role of supply and distribution chains in harnessing the power of business for development impact. It highlights successful case examples, outlining the different approaches to responsible supply chain management; and it concludes with four issues that will need further exploration on the topic.

This report explores the Manual Distribution Centers (MDC) model implemented by Coca-Cola Sabco, one of the Coca-Cola Company’s bottling partners, in Tanzania and Ethiopia. It examines two elements, how the MDC business model is structured and implemented and how the business model is contributing to expand economic opportunity and human capital development in the two countries.

This report documents discussions and findings from a three-day workshop in Jaipur which focused on opportunities to enable access to markets at the base of the pyramid. It examines challenges in forming business linkages across three areas: 'operational', 'reputation and relationship management', and 'systemic challenges, examples and solutions' and summarises patterns of solutions for successful linkages.

This paper discusses the role of the private sector in poverty reduction by offering ideas and insights into topical poverty issues and what they mean for business. It outlines the ways in which businesses can engage with Oxfam, and how developing a stronger understanding of development issues can help businesses.

This report focuses on inclusive business models along the food value chain from agricultural production to food processing, retailing and consumption; it outlines innovative strategies that companies are using to do business in poor regions while improving incomes and food supplies in partnership with local communities. It details the design principles that companies and partners can use to guide new initiatives, and it recommends actions that all stakeholders can take to scale up effective models.

El libro presnta una dimensión conceptual en la que contrasta los enfoques de Stuart Hart y C.K Prahalad, revisa el trabajo del Laboratorio de la Base de la Pirámide de Argentina, y analiza el caso del Grupo Nueva en su desarrollo de negocios con la base de la pirámide.

This article argues that an economic downturn could offer opportunities for companies that invest in responsible business practices. It suggests that firms who can maintain their commitments and market position on responsible practices, can differentiate themselves even more effectively in the market and ultimately positively affect company returns.

This report aims to present the business case for sustainability for consumer industries. It provides findings from workshops with consumer industry executives and experts in sustainability, business strategy and product design.