3 ( c)
3 (c) Alan is not sure whether to buy:
the cheapest imported office furniture
the imported office furniture with the logo
the local, hand-made office furniture.
Which office furniture do you think he should buy? Give reasons for your answer.
(12 marks)
Possible arguments might include:
Cheapest imported office furniture – Alan can save money which is important as he is still
short of money and may need every penny to get his business set up. Office furniture is not that
important.
Buying cheap imports will provide employment and income for those possibly in poorer
countries.
But buying cheap imported furniture may encourage deforestation in the countries where the
timber is produced.
Imported office furniture with the logo – might be the best compromise – the timber may cost
more but the wood comes from managed forests. If he buys this furniture it will help to
encourage responsible management of forests abroad and help the environment.
But it is more expensive – Alan has to consider the higher costs for his business.
Local, hand-made office furniture
This is the most expensive – does Alan really need such well-made furniture at home?
However, it would support local business and provide employment.
There is a smaller carbon footprint as furniture is not being imported and the wood comes from
UK managed forests – which is good for the environment.
Marker’s note:
The Item assumes Alan is buying furniture just for his business. Some candidates may assume
that his business is buying/selling office furniture.
Either interpretation is acceptable.
To get full marks:
Candidate offers advice with clear justification.
Ideas are communicated using a logical structure, with
some appropriate use of technical terms. There are
occasional errors in accepted conventions of written
communication.
