Bringing together many business topics we have discussed in our Comm 101 class, such as social entrepreneurship and business ethics, this article describes a successful entrepreneur, Erin Fitzpatrick, who developed a company that makes customized jewelry and hair accessories for private girls schools and universities.

Fitzpatrick started her company in 2009 and currently employs two to four employees, depending on her workload. Social responsibility has always been an extremely important part of Fitzgerald’s business and “she ensures that her employees… are recognized for their accomplishments and allowed to express their creativity” (Smith).

But if Fitzgerald plans to continue growing her business, doing so may jeopardize her ability to continue ethical manufacturing as she will not be able to closely monitor the work environment. She realizes there are many ways to define ethical manufacturing, and she is not sure where to place her priorities or how to achieve her goals.

Three specialists weigh in on Fitzgerald’s problem and give her some expert advice, however, we Comm 101 students could easily do the same! As explained in the article, we know that ethical manufacturing can mean making sure that contractors are treating their employees well and paying them fairly, as well as using materials that are environmentally friendly and of good quality. The term can also involve giving back to the community by supporting charities or environmental causes.

Considering those varied definitions of ethical manufacturing, the three experts advised Fitzgerald to first look around for helpful information and advice from ethical business organizations as well as other companies who are already successful ethical manufacturers. They also advised her to visit the suppliers before picking one in order to experience the conditions first hand, and finally to consider potential ways to give back to the community.

For more details on this story, check out the Globe and Mail article here.

Erin Fitzpatrick’s company makes customized jewelry and hair accessories just like these headbands.