Jackie Horner Started Glad Rags to Combine Fashion and Sustainability

question 29

Essay

Jackie Horner started Glad Rags to combine fashion and sustainability. The original production of sandals made from recycled plastic has expanded to a complete line of casual footwear. Current sales total over $2 million. Jackie hired the firm's first controller early this year, and has asked him to detail suggestions for ways to increase profits. Thomas Roberts, the new controller, has compiled a list of recommended changes that focus on quality improvements. Glad Rags' customers expect high quality at a low price, a "value" product. So, the company must simultaneously watch costs and quality. After receiving his list of suggestions, Jackie calls Thomas to her office and says, "I don't see how improving quality can increase productivity. In fact, it seems to me that efforts to improve quality will slow down production and decrease productivity."
Required:
Using specific examples, help Thomas explain to Jackie why efforts to improve quality can also boost productivity. How does productivity play a role in the firm's strategy and competitive environment?

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Definitions:

Contract Rate

The agreed-upon price or rate specified in a contract for services or goods, often locked in for the duration of the agreement.

Issue Price

The price at which securities, such as bonds or shares, are originally sold to the public or investors by the issuing entity.

Installment Note Payable

A debt instrument that requires a series of periodic payments to the lender over a specified period of time.

Interest Expense

The expenditure an entity incurs from borrowing funds during a certain period.