Description: In the wake of the recent tragedy at a factory in Bangladesh that killed more than 1000 workers, a new Bangladesh safety accord was set-up. While a large number of European retailers signed the accord, several large North American retailers, such as Wal-Mart and Gap Inc., abstained from signing the accord.

Source: The Huffington Post

Date: May 17 2013

Link: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/05/17/bangladesh-factory-safety-accord_n_3286430.html

Questions for Discussion:

1. Why do you think these large retailers have refused to sign the safety accord?
2. Why do you think European retailers are more keen to participate in the Bangladesh safety accord than North American retailers?
3. Do you foresee any public backlash against retailers such as Wal-Mart and Gap?
4. Do you think these safety accords will be sufficiently enforced?