Marijuana Position Paper - Pro Legalization free essay sample

Research Based Position Paper Marijuana Laws in a Rapidly Changing American Society The turbulent history of Marijuana prohibition in America is one filled with racial motives and propaganda, but surprisingly was not an issue before 80 years ago. In fact, when Ronald Reagan was a child, marijuana was still legal in his state (Guither). Many people assume that marijuana was made illegal through some kind of scientific or medical process which classified it as a dangerous drug, and though government hearings was in turn made illegal. The actual story of Marijuana prohibition in America had nothing to do with any of that. Those who voted on the legal fate of this plant never had the facts, but were dependent on information supplied by those who had agenda of their own to satisfy. The history of marijuanas criminalization is filled with racism, fear, yellow journalism and corrupt legislators. These laws were not only crafted on false premises but for the wrong reasons as well, and the time for change is ever drawing more near. We will write a custom essay sample on Marijuana Position Paper Pro Legalization or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Marijuana should be legalized in America because it has a positive history of industrial use around the world, the laws were crafted on false pretenses, prohibition is a waste of taxpayer money and Marijuana could also provide relief to patients with debilitating diseases. Cannabis is a species of flowering plants that includes three distinct species, Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis Janisch. The substance we know today as Marijuana are the buds off the Cannabis sativa plant, which contains a higher concentration of the active ingredient in Marijuana, THC or tetrahydrocannabinol. Hemp, on the other hand, is a common name for plants in the entire family of Cannabis, although the term usually only refers to Cannabis strains cultivated for industrial use. Hemp is cultivated virtually everywhere in the world except for the United States, for its wide range of uses and ease of cultivation makes for a very beneficial harvest (Pojman, 33-34) The history of Marijuana, or Cannabis Sativa, is crucial in investigating and understanding the laws regarding the plant today. Marijuana is actually one of the oldest cultivated plants in human history; its known uses go back further than 7,000 B. C. (Guither). Scientists believe cannabis sativa originated in Central Asia and was probably first cultivated for its fiber. The first woven fabric was apparently of hemp; its other uses included food, incense, cloth, rope, and much more. The first documented use of Marijuana was in the pharmacopoeia written by Shen Nung, hailed as one of the fathers of Chinese medicine (Christopher, Par. 1). Marijuana was used for many practical purposes throughout history, and has actually only been illegal for less than 1% of its time in use. Anicent civilizations used cannabis to aid in everyday life, and without its use our species would have struggled to advance rapidly. The Chinese first crafted paper out of Cannabis and Mulberry in 100B. C. (Christoper), and its many uses led the profit Mohammed to permit its use to Moslems, although he forbid the use of alcohol. Moslems began producing hashish from the Marijuana plant for medical and social use, and used the plant to open Europe’s first paper mill in 1150A. D. Most of the paper in Europe over the next 850-year period was printed on Cannabis paper, including Bibles (Christopher). The Europeans caught on to the usefulness and ease of cultivation that came with Cannabis, so they began farming the plant as well. In 1563, Queen Elizabeth the First decreed that landowners with 60 acres or more must grow Cannabis on their farms or face a ? 5 fine. Shortly after in 1564, King Philip of Spain followed Queen Elizabeth’s lead and orders Cannabis to be grown throughout his Empire, which in that time extended from modern-day Argentina to Oregon (Christopher, Par. 3). Cannabis served a great purpose in early America, for it allowed the colonists to slowly break their dependence on mother England.

buy custom The Effects of I-1183 essay

buy custom The Effects of I-1183 essay Initiative 1-1183 was designed to introduce privatization of Liquor sales in Washington. The state has for 78 years exercised monopoly power over liquor sales in Washington. The recent passing of initiative 1-1183 by voters in November 2011 by the voters therefore puts an end to the 78 year state monopoly on the sale of liquor. It is important to note that for a long time, the Washington Policy Center has recommended privatizing the liquor sales business to allow for competition under state regulation. Thus initiative 1-1183 was not the first attempt toward privatization. Before initiative 1-1183, there was the initiative 1100 introduced in 2010 that was not passed by the voters, (Mercier, Citizens Guide to Initiative 1183). This essay will outline the 1-1183 provisions and discuss the policy implications now that the initiative has been passed. Before the passing of initiative 1-1183, there have been 18 liquor monopoly states in the U.S, Washington being one of them. All the 18 states have had some level of monopoly over sale of liquor, with 12 of them (including Washington) imposing a government-only monopoly on wholesale and retail liquor sales. Passing initiative 1-1183 means therefore that the state will be forced to refocus on the enforcement of states liquor, public health and public safety laws as opposed to retail sales management that has been their regular activity. In the next section, this essay briefly highlights the provisions of initiative 1-1183 which reads as follows: The people of the state of Washington, in enacting this initiative measure, find that the state government monopoly on liquor distribution and liquor stores in Washington and the state government regulations that arbitrarily restrict the wholesale distribution and pricing of wine are outdated, inefficient, and costly to local taxpayers, consumers, distributors, and retailers. Therefore, the people wish to privatize and modernize both wholesale distribution and retail sales of liquor and remove outdated restrictions on the wholesale distribution of wine by enacting this initiative, (I-1183-Washington Secretary of States Office, 2). In order to achieve the goals outlined in the definition of initiative 1-1183, the sponsors have specific constitution based measures to be implemented. First, section 102 provides for privatization and modernization of the current wholesale distribution and retail monopoly of liquor. Following from section 102 therefore, states distribution warehouse liquor facilities and equipment will be auctioned. Sections 103 and 105 allows for introduction of a fee structure that would generate surplus revenues compared to the existing liquor monopoly revenues for government. By enforcing section 103, liquor sales outlets that can serve stores of 10000 and more square feet can be limited with limited exceptions. Another Measure would be to enhance state liquor safety enforcement and training as provided for under section 103. As a requirement for licensing, local leaders will be required to give their comments before license authorization. Liquor licenses will be issued only to those stores tha t demonstrate effective liquor sale prevention to minors, (Mercier, Citizens Guide to Initiative 1183). Initiative 1183 require the repeal of the recent SB 5942 legislation bill that was enacted in 2011. This is intended to allow for the leasing of the states liquor distribution warehouse to a private provider as a means to eliminate the current state monopoly. This means that there will be a private distribution monopoly instead. The intent section of SB 5942 partly reads as follows; The legislature finds that it is in the public interest to seek revenue opportunities through leasing and modernizing the states liquor warehousing and distribution facilities and related operations. The legislatre finds that it is also in the public interest to conduct a competitive process to select a private sector lessee for this purpose, (SB 5942 Liquor Warehouse Distribution, 3). The major aim for enacting SB5942 was to raise extra income for the state through leasing the state liquor warehouse to a private company. The effect of this would be to promote competition in both the wholesale and retail of liquor so that retailers will no longer have to purchase their liquor from one supplier. The disadvantage that accompanies this legislation however is that the state monopoly has simply been substituted with another monopoly- a private company monopoly. SB 5942 was enacted with an emergency clause that that bars instituting an amendment to 1-1183 initiative by way of a referendum. The emergency clause was opposed by a section of the legislators but still Governor Gregoire went ahead to sign the bill in its form. Among those who were against the emergency clause included Rep. Cary Condotta who wrote; I do have a major concern with Senate Bill 5942 and the strong arm tactics used to add an emergency clause. It is obvious this is an attempt to preempt the Costco Initiative this fall. Please consider vetoing the emergency clause to make this a legitimate bill. I am not supporting the Initiative one way or the other, but think it would be scandal (at best) to try and sign a contract before a vote of the people, (Mercier , Governor to decide if liquor contract is state emergency). Rep. Cary Condotta uses the phrase Costco initiative referring to the 1183 initiative. 1-1183 initiative stipulates that as a condition for licensing, that retail establishments must have space of more than 10000 square feet. It happens that Costco stores are among the few that meet these criteria. Costco had also supported the previous initiative 1100 that was not passed and had spent an estimated $22 million in support of this initiative. This is how the 1183 initiative earned itself the nickname Costco initiative. The sentiments and concerns of Rep. Cary Condotta were informed by the controversial intention of the office of Financial Management to announce private sector bidding recommendations in less than a week earlier than the November election yet according to the initiative provisions, the liquor distribution warehouse contract would not be signed before a vote by the people on the 1183 initiative. In the next section, comparison is made between the failed 1100 initiative an d initiative 1183, (Mercier, Governor to decide if liquor contract is state emergency). There are several differences between initiative 1100 and 1183. If initiative 1100 had passed, it would cause the state a loss of $76 to $85million and a loss of $180 to $192million to the local government within a five years duration. Initiative 1183 on the other hand is expected to generate a gain of $216 to $256million for state and a gain of $186 to $227million for local government within a six year duration. Whereas initiative 1100 would allow manufactures to offer quantity discounts to retailers for purchase of wine, beer and liquor, initiative 1183 allows this only on liquor and wine but not on beer. Regarding retail licensing, Initiative 1100 would attract an application fee of $1000 and annual fee of $1000. Initiative 1183 on the other hand will require license issuance fee equivalent to 17% of all liquor sales under the license, plus annual fee of $166. Initiative 1100 had no restrictions on authority of cities and counties to limit where liquor would be sold. Initiative 11 83 on the other hand limits liquor licenses to those stores that demonstrate effective sale prevention to minors and requires commends from the local government authorities before license approval. As a result, initiative 1183 has 1428 as the estimated number of retail liquor outlets compared with 3357 under the failed initiative 1100, (Mercier, Citizens Guide to Initiative 1183). The passing of initiativve 1183 has a number of policy implications. To begin with, initiative 1183 makes Washington to become the first state in which retailers of liquor will bypass the wholesaler and make their liquor purchases from producers and wine from vineyards. It is due to this reason that wholesalers of beer, wine and liquor were actively engaged in efforts to try and stop initiative1183. It is feared that other state may also duplicate the Washington precedent where retailers and producers are allowed to bypass the wholesalers. It is yet to be observed the impact of initiative 1183 to consumers in terms of how much savings can be made from allowing producers the freedom to choose whether to bypass the wholesalers or not. As a result, the wholesalers who will loose regional monopoly will only be able to compete using price and quality. The advantage is that consumers will be able to enjoy lower prices. At the same time, the producers and retailers who decide to continue us ing wholesalers will enjoy better quality services, (Minton, Liquor Privatization Would Edge Washington State Toward Freedom). From the face of it, it would appear as if initiative 1183 promotes free market operation since it encourages competition through price and quality. However, a closer look reveals that initiative1183 is far from the free market system. This is because the requirement that licenses be issued to stores with space of over 10000 square feet locks out many small liquor stores. More so, initiative 1183 has not provided any clear justification for the exception in which beer will remain captive to the mandatory three tier system. However, having been passed, initiative 1183 will go along way to avail the long awaited alcohol freedom by putting an end to the long standing states liquor wholesale monopoly. In conclusion, it is important to reiterate fact that the state had enjoyed monopoly power in control of liquor sales for 78 years. The passing of initiative 1183 therefore effectively ended this state monopoly. There were substantial differences between the failed initiative 1100 of 2010 a nd initiative 1183. For instance, the following major differences were observed: If initiative 1100 had passed, it would cause the state a loss of $76 to $85million and a loss of $180 to $192million to the local government within a five years duration. Initiative 1183 on the other hand is expected to generate a gain of $216 to $256million for state and a gain of $186 to $227million for local government within a six year duration. Whereas initiative 1100 would allow manufactures to offer quantity discounts to retailers for purchase of wine, beer and liquor, initiative 1183 allows this only on liquor and wine but not on beer. Regarding retail licensing, Initiative 1100 would attract an application fee of $1000 and annual fee of $1000. Initiative 1183 on the other hand will require license issuance fee equivalent to 17% of all liquor sales under the license, plus annual fee of $166. Initiative 1100 had no restrictions on authority of cities and counties to limit where liquor would be s old. Initiative 1183 on the other hand limits liquor licenses to those stores that demonstrate effective sale prevention to minors and requires commends from the local government authorities before license approval, (Mercier, Citizens Guide to Initiative 1183). With initiative three presenting more advantages and better policy issues compared to initiative 1100, it is clear why initiative 1100 was not approved by the voters. Since nothing can be completely perfect, initiative 1183 had its shortcomings as well. For instance, initiative 1183 only substituted state liquor monopoly with private company liquor monopoly. It is also true that initiative 1183 licensing requirements technically locks out majority of small retail outlets hence does not meet the free market expectations. However, initiative 1183 will promote more freedom in the alcohol business by allowing for competition hence enhance efficiency, service quality and better consumer prices, (Minton, Liquor Privatization Would Edge Washington State Toward Freedom). Buy custom The Effects of I-1183 essay

Marketing Plan Project Research Proposal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Marketing Plan Project - Research Proposal Example There is a huge need for this kind of product among the people. The following study will provide some information and will develop a marketing plan for this developed product. Economic Environment and Competitive Environment Analysis US are one of the strongest, leading and developed economies in the world. The recent global recession in the year 2007-08 and the European financial crisis in the year2008-09 have affected the economic situation of the country. Most importantly, this economic downturn has affected the social and economic life cycle of a country. The per capita income of people has gone down due to this recession. Moreover, this unfavorable economic situation of the country has impacted negatively on the economic growth of the country. Currently, it is feasible that, the disposable income of people has gone down comparing to the pre era of global recession. Now-a-days, people are trying to save more rather than consuming. Several economic policies such as high tax rate, limited government expenditure has affected the economic situation of the country very badly. Looking into these factors, it can be said that, the country is still suffering from the impact of economic downturn. In terms of competitive environment, the success of the product depends upon the product attribute, price range of the products and existing rivalry in the operating market place. Depending upon these things, it can be said that, the product has several competitive advantages. First of all, this type of business market is still uncovered and untapped. Therefore, there is a huge opportunity for the brand to capitalize on the potential market opportunity. On the other hand, it can be said that, this kind of product will be very effective in the daily life of people. In terms of pricing, it can be said that, this product is affordable for the people of all kind of income group, such as lower middle, middle, upper middle and upper class. The low price range of the products is ad dressing that; people can afford this product without any hesitation. Lastly, in terms of competitors, it can be said that lack of competitors and due to untapped market the product can achieve huge competitive advantage and market share. It will help them to increase the target customer base. Data on the Market The organization can target a huge area of market place, as it is discussed earlier that, the specific market segment is still untapped. Moreover, according to a survey, it has been found out that, more than 75% people, including all kind of market segment it is feasible that, there has been already a need for this product. According to the respondents, it is feasible that, major of them are unhappy as they could not able to use 100% of a beauty cosmetic product or a tooth paste. Therefore, it has evidenced that, there are huge demand for the product. In terms of age it is feasible that, there is a need for the product among the people aged between 12 and 65. Moreover, in te rms of income group, it has been feasible that, people whose household income is more than 15,000 US dollar are the major target group of this product. In terms of gender of people, the products are seemed to be popular among the household female respondents comparing to other male respondents. The median income of the maximum

Cooked Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Cooked - Essay Example For ten years, he learned cooking skills and he found that he could become productive in front of the stove. Certainly, there are downsides with being an inmate but the episode brought him focus and a goal, certainly a turning point in his life. After prison, life was difficult. Henderson had difficulty in getting a job. His dream was to become an executive chef and his lack of formal training and criminal record made it excruciatingly difficult to achieve his objective. He began his career as a dishwasher in Los Angeles. He had to exert extra effort and more hard work not just to prove his capability as a cook but also to prove that he is trustworthy. Even with achieving some semblance of success in Los Angeles, where he eventually became a sous chef, he encountered the same difficulty when he moved to Las Vegas. Everyone was impressed about his credentials but turned him down because he was a convicted felon. During this period, he was jobless for a longtime, which must be very frustrating especially when he has a family to support. For instance, he recalled a particularly heartbreaking experience: "At the Paris Hotel, they were introducing me to my staff before I told them about my criminal record. Then they told me to t ake a walk." It is really unfortunate what a criminal record can do to a persons prospect in life. A lesser man with no strength in character would probably took the easy way and go back to being a felon. Fortunately, Henderson is not such a

MacDonald Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

MacDonald - Essay Example India has been chosen as the host country. The project tries to bring out the impacts cultural differences existing between India and USA has on the decision making, communication, leadership, teamwork and human resources in organizations. The company is known for its respect for culture of the place where is operates. The company has even developed a menu especially for India. This has been done with special emphasis on Indian culture and tastes. Culture consciousness of the company reflects from the fact that India is the only first nation in the world where the company does not offer pork or beef items. In fact MacDonald even had to re-engineer its operations in order to serve the requirements of the vegetarians of the country. The company ensures that the vegetable items are prepared separately using separate utensils and equipments. Separate preparation of vegetarian and non vegetarian items is maintained throughout all stages of procuring, cooking and serving (MacDonalds India, 2009, p.1). This reflects company’s respect for local culture where it operates. This tradition can be attributed to its popularity and success. Apart from abiding by the local cultures and traditions, the company is also said to e nhance their corporate responsibities. It provides employment opportunities to the Indian people and also provides bright career growth for them (MacDonalds India, 2009, p.1). Hofstede’s analysis has revealed that national cultures differ along four different dimensions. Power distance is the first among these. Power distance refers to the fact that each one in society has unequal power. In cultures characterised with high power distance people accept hierarchical organisational structures readily. In such cultures, power disparities exist among people as well. In such countries power remains in the hands of a few people only. On the contrary, cultures with low power distance have greater equality of power among people. Uncertainty

Business plan for a fruit processing company

Business plan for a fruit processing company Our Business Plan will be about fruit processing. This will reduce fruits post harvesting loss through processing fruits in syrups and concentrates. This will help middle and low income eaners as we find there is high need of fresh fruits juice as many of fresh fruits juice are imported and sold in high price which normal Tanzania citizen cant afford. Our company will be situated in Korogwe Tanga where there are many firms. Company has three partners, Mildred, Sophia and Saja. ABRIVIATION ASDP Agricultural Sector Development Programme ASDS Agricultural Sector Development Strategy BIT Board of Internal Trade DACHE Dar Es Salaam College of Home Economics Ltd GDP Gross Domestic Product HKMU Hubert Kairuki Memorial University MAFC Ministry of agriculture Food Security and Cooperatives MITM Ministry of Industries Trade and Marketing NARS National Agricultural Research Institute PASS Private Agricultural Sector Support SIDO Small Scale Industries Development Organization SIDP Sustainable Industry Development Programme SUA Sokoine University of Tanzania TDV Tanzania Development Vision TFDA Tanzania Food Drugs and Cosmetics Agency UDSM University of Dar es Salaam BUSINESS PLAN 1.0 Executive summary The current agriculture potentiality contributes about 26.5% of GDP and it provides employment about 70% of total labour force. Tanzania grows a range of fruit including topical and temperate. The annual production of fruits is 678,515MT (this is 5% of potential area exploited) [tanserve n.d] Agro processing in the industrial sector is indeed one of the underdeveloped sub sectors and according to a report by Commonwealth Secretariat (1997) it was seen to consume about 1% of the horticultural raw materials produced in Tanzania as compared to 80% in Malaysia which also is in the category of developing country [practicalaction n.d] Agro processing and especially small -scale processing is becoming very important in the country as means to reduce crop losses and value addition at production and collection sites and a way of income generating activity.[practicalaction n.d] However, the sector experience losses during and after harvest. Post harvest losses of fruits and vegetables are estimated at 50 to 80%. These losses are more meaningful economically compared to the cost of compensating for losses through increased crop production. Losses are caused by among another factors, mechanical, physical and biochemical aspects. SOMIL intends with this financial and economical projection the idea will bring new concept in a market and good strategies which will enable the company to acquire a good market position initially the company may have up and downs of new start but with the partner potentiality gradual the sales may increase once SOMIL gets good eyes to watch over it operations. A daily production of between 2000 and 3000 kilograms of fruit product is estimated to be obtained from an input of between 2000 and 3000 kilograms of fruit pulp/product is estimated to be obtained from an input of 5000 kilograms. Production time per annum is estimated to be 240 days. And the project intends to employ 22 people and it is an investment of Tshs. 300,000,000.00 which will realize Tshs 144,000,000.00 in year five times. Total production costs are estimated at Tshs. 290,000,000.00 in year one gradually rising in years two and three then falls in year five onwards. Project cash flow is favourable, it will start making profits from the first year of the project and all loans be repaid by third year of operation. This will be showing clearly in financial. 2.0 THE BUSINESS 2.1 The opportunity According to government record and statistics show the annual production of fruits to be 678,515MT, but this is only 5% of the potential area exploited and this can be caused by lack of where to send the increased production. 2.2 Need to be filled This project so as to say will focuses on increasing fruits usability which experience enormous looses especially during the season and create new opportunities for industrial development in rural areas through processing of fruits for fresh juice. More so, the initiator of this idea is a professional expert in the field of post harvest processing, having a long term experience in offering knowledge to small scale food processors and food enterprises and managed to make them grow to a medium scale capacity. 2.2.1 How the proposed business will fills the need With the capacity of operation which business plan to operate in, the company will process fruits for juice which will be consumed by low and medium income earners who are not able to buy exported fresh fruit juice. 3.0 Company and Company history Initially idea was brought by one of the partner who is professional in a filed and she has long term experience in food processing later on the idea was joined by two other partners who contribute in capital invested. 3.1 Company mission statement To provide 100% satisfaction by offering fruit in syrup and fruit concentrates of the highest quality, impeccable services, guaranteeing accurate supply, fast delivery and developing strong relationships with farmers and medium to small scale fruits processing business and entrepreneurs. 3.2 Our vision SOMIL forecast to be competitive in service while taking on prior responsibilities that are pertinent to our clients needs through producing strict quality and safe products, for health and economical satisfaction. 3.3 Company objective The products to be made include quality and safe fruits of the season concentrates and fruits in syrup. Neutrality will govern the products made since raw materials will basically comprise of fresh, mature fruits of the season without non-fruit fortification. SOMIL products are intermediate since they form raw material to juice making, wine making and fruit salads to other small to medium scale industries. Availability regardless seasonality forms another niche value to SOMIL products. The main objective is to ensure sustainable economic, food and nutrition security by seasonal reduction of fruits post harvest loses by 10% through processing. 3.4 Specific objectives To ensure the establishment of fruit concentrate and fruits in syrup industry is in place by end of year one of the project inception To establish appropriate links with stakeholders who will daily deliver to the industry quality seasonal fruits for processing To continuously encourage and support value addition to seasonal fruits so that the farmers are economically empowered Together with farmers and other stakeholders of the project area, to reduce the post harvest losses by 50% through fruits processing by year 2013 To continuously support technology developments in the post-harvest system according to zonal conditions, climatically, and socio-culturally and according to the needs of the clients for effective and sustainable availability of the industrys raw material. 4.0 COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE Fruit concentrates and fruits in syrup are made from fresh fruits of the highest quality, maturity, and health from both temperate and tropical zones. The fruits have to be selected and graded through a rigorous quality control system so that all of our products have the best flavors and nutrient content that meet the national and international quality and safety parameters and standards. The products made by SOMIL will be raw material to other secondary fruit products that include among others; juices, wines, fruit salads and fruit based products. Bulk packaging will govern the products and minimum carriage weight will be 20 kilogram and maximum 200 kilogram drums. Literature review and a study visit to few industries in Dar es salaam indicates about 16medium scale and 300 small scale prospective competitors, however, paste, fruit concentrates and fruits in syrup are not their core activities to any of these companies. They specialize in finished products of this semi finished products. Similarly, the demand for SOMIL products especially during off seasons in which consumers shift to imported pastes and fruit concentrates is prospectively high. Furthermore, customers of secondary products (finished products) have become health conscious, which add to the unique selling point of the company products. The company is reputed of having competent employees both professionally and aggressiveness to deliver as per vision of the company. 4.1 Description of the business model The company will deliver its products in the first come first served basis. Since nature of business entail quality and safe semi finished products than enterprises of finished products will certainly find them highly convenient both as a time saver as well as all-seasons products. Despite the presence of few competitors the demand is rarely met, also they utilize mostly the imported concentrates that are generally fortified with non fruit material thus reducing the products nature and quality. Consumers of the finished products have become health conscious which adds to the unique selling point of SOMIL products as they are naturally made from whole fruits and vegetables with nothing added hence making the product whole, fresh and nutritional. The company is reputed of having competent employees both professionally and aggressiveness to deliver as per vision of the company. 4.2 How the business will create a sustainable competitive advantage Production cost govern to a large extent pricing strategy but also comparisons have to be made with competitors prices so a not to be very different for a product of similar or near similar. Other quality parameters such as health impact, intellectual property etc will also be considered in the setting. According to studies on food habits conducted by use of a case study of Dar es Salaam, consumers reported to be willing to pay a little more for a healthy product especially when they are ensured of its quality and safety (Mjawa, 2003) For this reason, if a small price difference is set (ceteris peribus), it will make the business sell few volumes of quality products yet with profits till it gains market reputation. 5.0 CURRENT STATUS AND REQUIREMENTS The location of the production area will be Korogwe town and marketing office will be Korogwe District Tanga region. The choice of a production location is strategically due to the place being the major centre of fruits growing with a horticultural hinterland. Besides Korogwe being centrally located it allows easy transportation of inputs and raw materials to the industry as well as products to the selling centre and consumers due to its proximity to most areas. The location will also tap the availability of labor that has been left redundant by many crop estates and industries that were closed and some are now affected by the world economic recession. Ample availability of steady services like ICT, electricity, and water are taken into consideration when selecting the location. Taking into consideration that this is a start up project, the following will form a production and operation processes. Table 2: Production process Step Process Description 1 Site acquisition, registration of business and other start up logistics Site us owned by one of the partner which will be transfer in the business under the law and legal contract. 2 Purchase of equipment Machineries equipment with the capacity of producing 500-800 kilograms per hour will be procured. Office equipment, a vehicle and furniture will also be procured. 3 Employees recruitment Director production and technical, manager administration and finance, manager production and technical will be the first people to be employee operators staff and hiring the security. 4 Purchases of production materials Identification of locations, suppliers of raw materials and other inputs; training on the quality to supply and later purchases to be done 5 Production process Receiving, grading, washing, desizing/pulping, packing packaging and storing 6 Marketing Market research, Transportation, advertisement, selling. 5.1 Description of where the business stands today SOMIL has 120 millions which contributed by three partners in equal shares also the company has plot in Korogwe which has own by one of the partners and transfer to a business through legal entities. 5.2 Description of what the business needs to move forward In order the company to operate successfully the business needs 300 millions. Where by 120millions has already contributed by three partners and remained 180 millions the company look for a loan which will be paid within five years. 6.0 MANAGEMENT The business is directed by three directors, who are partner and shareholder of the business. First partner is MILDRED MLAKI, who has two degree, one from Cape Town University of food and nutrition and the other is for commerce from university of Dar es salaam, Mildred will be overall in-charge of all processing operations. Second partner, SOPHIA MUSSA holder masters in human resource from makerere university of Kampala Uganda, she is working with reputable company in the country and she will be overall in-charge with human resource and public relation of the company. Third partner, SAJA JOHN is a holder of masters in strategies business from Greenwich University; she will be overall in-charge of market operation of the company. The company will employ other work 2 in finance and procurement 2 foreman, and production and technical will be hired and security on term for six month period to help initial stage of layout, installation and commissioning of the machines and equipment. 6.1 ORGANISATION STRUCTURE 6.2 Ownership The business is currently owner by 3 directors as mentioned above and the will contribute 60% of the initial investment and the rest may be sold to any interested investors or development partner. 6.3 Board of Directors/Board of Advisor A Board of Advisor will be selected to advice on matters regarding smooth running of the business based on qualification specific to the organization functions. Advisors will strictly come from research institutes like UDSM Process Engineering Department, SUA, NARS, and TBS etc since the business needs technical expertise and solutions from them for the benefit of making it outstanding in terms of quality and up to date with technological features. A political figure will be included for the health of the business; the main proposal is the Member of Parliament for Korogwe Constituency. 6.4 Key Professional Service Providers The services of a change agent like SIDO experts are vital for advising on entrepreneurship skills including business management and capital acquisition. The service of reputed audit personnel for legal advisor is required by the business, but company will higher advocate professional whenever needed. 7.0 INDUSTRY ANALYSIS The current agriculture contributes about 26.5% of GDP and it provides employment to about 70% of total labour force out of which 56% of them are women. (Human Development Index 2007). This is because of its subsistence nature of Tanzania Agriculture but its potentiality for agriculture growth is immerse taking into the focus of the government strategies. TDV (Tanzania development vision) and ASDS that envisage to transform the existing subsistence-dominated agriculture progressively into commercially profitable and viable production systems so as to make it modernized, commercial, highly productive and profitable by utilizing new technologies and available technologies and manpower in an overall sustainable manner. (www.tanzania.go.tz) Agro processing in the industrial sector is indeed one of the underdeveloped sub sectors and according to a report by Commonwealth Secretariat (1997) it was seen to consume about 1% of the horticultural raw materials produced in Tanzania as compare to (80%) in Malaysia which also is in the category of developing country. Also according to PASS (2002), 65% of the processed products are consumed within the country. This indicates the availability of investment opportunities in the fruits and vegetable processing (www.tanzania.go.tz) Most of the processing plants operate under capacity due to old technology used, irregular supply of raw materials and low technical skills. However, there is some investment in processing industry taking place and efforts are being made to promote more investment in this area. Small-scale processing in becoming very important in the country as means to reduce crop losses and value addition at production and collection sites, and a way of income generating activity. To date over 5,700 processors have been trained and at least 3000 jobs created (SIDO, 2007). The future discourse for industrial development in Tanzania is elaborated in the Sustainable Industrial Development Policy SIDP. The main purpose of SIDP (Sustainable Industry Development Programme) is to set out a path for industrializing Tanzania so that by the turn of the first quarter of the 21st Century is becomes a semi industrialized country. Recently, individuals and or groups of women entrepreneurs and youth have engaged themselves into processing of fruits and vegetables for niche markets. These groups have received basic training in food processing technology through research institutions such as TIRDO (Tanzania Industrial Research Development Organization, TFNC (Tanzania Food Nutrition Centre) SUA (Sokoine University of Agriculture), Agriculture Research Institute Uyole, Mbeya Horticulture Research Training Institute Tengeru, Small scale Industry Development Organization (SIDO) and non-government organizations supporting community, nutrition and health improvement programmes. Such groups are mainly engaged in drying of fruits like ripe bananas, pineapples and mangoes and traditional vegetables such as amaranths, cassava leaves, okra and cowpea leaves. Others are engaged in making products like juices, jams, marmalades, pickles, tomato sauce and wines. (www.tanzania.go.tz) SWOT ANALYSIS TO OUR STARTUP BUSINESS STREGHTHS Highly experienced technologically Willingness to deliver as per vision Strong team of management WEAKNESSES Limited capital to invest in large scale venture A less reputed venture not yet gained a name OPPORTUNITIES Niche markets that take advantage of seasonal shortages Consciousness of fresh and nutritional healthy products by consumers Availability of ample and variety of fruits in most time of the year Location is along the fruits and vegetable growing zone Location centrally located, feasible transport wise to both farmers and consumers Availability of many funding arrangements like loans and grants for investors and entrepreneurs. Recent economic recession will reduce competing imports to a large extent THREATS Importation of less quality but cheap concentrates Emerging large scale investors with similar project Weather calamities such as drought that may hamper production Inconsistent supply of raw materials due to seasonality Substitutes such as Soda and Mineral water especial Uhai, Kilimanjaro, Dasani, masafi and so on 7.1 Competitive position within target market 7.2 Competitors analysis Few medium to large scale industrial processing plants in Tanzania that are currently operational, are located in strategic areas of high production and/or consumption like Bakhresa Food products, Noble Foods beverages Ltd, A-One products and Bottlers Ltd and Redgold in Dar es Salaam region, Darsh Industries Ltd in Arusha region, Dabaga Fruit and Vegetable Caning Factory in Iringa region. These factories produce a range of products that include fruit juices of various kinds, tomato sauces, pickles, wine, ketchup, etc. Other factories are emerging in other potential areas like in Morogoro as more investors venture into this sub-sector. (www.tanzania.go.tz) Table 1. The following table indicates few of the prospective competitors. Name of competitors Product made Strengths Weaknesses Remarks that makes SMS to capture a market share Noble foods-fruits juices Mango juice Fresh mangoes during the season. Have good packages No production during off season, manufactures only one product -mango juice Potential customer during off season may purchase other fruit pulps for SMS Bakhresa Food Industries -|Azam fruits juices Juices: mango, guava, apple, pineapple oranges May not lack raw material due to utilizing imported concentrates, few fresh fruits. Utilizes all the raw material in his own industry Although a big competitor but not threatening because he cannot sell to others hence consumers of SMS are maintained Red Gold Tomato products Sauces and Chill Uses fresh tomatoes during the season, import during off season Do not stock enough for off season production Potential competitor and customer Small scale wineries, juice processors Tomato products, wines, juices and fruit blend recipes Uses fresh fruits of the season Normally do not stock enough for the year. Have little funds and small premises for keeping large amounts of raw materials May be competitors during the season but big customers during off season Other medium and small scale industries Tomato products, wines, juices and fruit blend recipes Uses fresh fruits and vegetables as raw materials to their secondary products Cannot stock due to capital, convenience, expertise and space Potential customer Talking about competitors also there is a threat of substitute such and Soda and mineral water. 7.3 Market size and Trends According to the Confederation of Tanzania Industries directory (2007), the total market is about 316 consumers for these products. The business estimates to capture 10% in the first year 20% in the second year and growing to 30% in year five onwards. This will be due to gaining faith regarding quality as compared to imported products. The business administration will take care of customer training building regarding confidence building. Regarding a study by Tanzania Food Drugs and cosmetic Agency (TFDA) on Inventory of Food industries (2006), medium and small scale industries that will utilize SOMIL products are concentrated in Arusha, Moshi, Dar es Salaam, and Tanga regions and most of these utilize the product as raw material for making secondary products such as sauces, wines and juices. Government efforts to strengthen the increased production of non traditional crops such as fruits and vegetables because they are of high value to both farmers and the country impact positively to the availability of raw materials for SMS products and hence ensure readily availability of raw material for SMS products and hence ensure readily availability of products to clients. The world economic trends may have a positive impact on customers products due to reduction of imported concentrates. 8.0 MARKETING PLAN 8.1 Market Summary SOMIL fruits product will possesses good information about the market and known a great deal about the common attributes of the most prized customer. This information will be leveraged to better understand who is served, what their specific needs are and how SOMIL can better communicate with them. [Kotler P Keller KL1956, P.61-67] 8.2 Marketing strategy The initial focus will be locally where small scale and medium fruits processing industries are located. Due to capacity of the industry at the moment, there are no plans to go beyond Tanzania and Zanzibar. The strategy will initially be identification using data from Board of Internal Trade (BIT), the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare-TFDA and Ministry of Industries Trade and Marketing (MITM) as well as Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) and other trade newsletters. The selected few will be visited for introduction and sample sending. Then a business may further advertise in public media newspapers, radio leaflets distributed to road users for know. In future we will advertise at Televisions also. 8.3 Concept testing Concept test system can improve the company chances of success in developing and introducing new products. Our organization will go door to door for the concept test in order to get the view of the public concerning with our types of product; this will be done in public area like schools, Hospital and churches. Design employs sequential public study in which up to 50 groups of 10 to 20 participants each test one product. These studies typically consist of three surveys of up to 30 questions each. The surveys are conducted among members of our Members. 8.4 Usability testing Usability testing is a technique used to evaluate a product by testing it on users. This can be seen as an irreplaceable usability practice, since it gives direct input on how real users use the system. This is in contrast with usability inspection methods where experts use different methods to evaluate a user interface without involving users. Usability testing focuses on measuring a human-made products capacity to meet its intended purpose. Examples of products that commonly benefit from usability testing are foods, consumer products, How ever in organization will used this test to improve our product in this areas efficiency, accuracy, recall, and emotional response. The results of the first test can be treated as a baseline or control measurement; all subsequent tests can then be compared to the baseline to indicate improvement. This test will assist the industries to know where we are going and what people says about our products, This test will be assist us to maintain our product and make it durable in all time for production, our organization will insure this test done before the product enter in the market. 8.5 Channel of distribution 8.5.1 Selecting a channel of distribution SOMIL when selecting a channel of distribution as Fruit product Industry will consider the follow: The consumer characteristics need and segment The company goals, resources expertise and experience The product value, complexity, perish ability and bulk The competition characteristics and tactics Distribution channels alternatives, characteristics and availability Legalities current law and pending laws. [Kotler PKeller KL1956, P.36-72] 8.5.2 Distribution standard SOMIL will have clear and measurable goals regarding service levels in physical distribution. In so doing there must be a clear distribution strategy for products to reach the target consumers, in this respect the clear distribution channel must be in place. 8.5.3 Customer Services SOMIL will understand the decisions involve delivery frequency, speed and consistency transportation and shipping to policies, whether to accept small customer orders; warehousing coordinating assortments; and so on. Poor performance in these areas may result in lost customers. [Kotler PKeller KL1956, P.36-72] 8.6 Production 8.6.1 Social responsibility. SOMIL we will consider the impact of companys action and operating in a way that balances short term profit needs with societies long-term need this ensuring the company survival in a health environment. 8.6.2 Natural resources SOMIL will make sure that the depletion of natural resources can be reduced if the consumption of scarce material is lessened and more efficient alternatives are chosen. 8.6.3 Environmental Pollution SOMIL will make sure that dangerous pollutants need to be eliminated from the environment and safe substitutes found. The environment protection is the major federal organization involved. [Ethical Partnership nd] 8.6.4 Child labour SOMIL we will make sure there is no possibility of child labour. Sometimes supervisors use this opportunity to pay this child less while they benefit against them. We will obey the law and perform as per given instructions. 8.6.5 Marketing SOMIL as a company which deal with products fall under the umbrella of the Marketing Mix (product, price, place and promotion) which describes the strategic position of a product in the market place. An enterprise involved in producing fruits products must have clear strategies of producing those products. Also the firm dealing with fruits production should have clear pricing strategies, promotion strategies and placing or distribution strategies. An enterprise we must be able to market what we produce and produce what we can market. Consumerism SOMIL fruits product manufacturer we agree that customer has right to be informed and protected against fraudulent, deceitful, and misleading statements, advertisement, labels Consumer safety SOMIL fruits product manufacturer we will make sure that, consumer are protected against dangerous and unsafe product. Consumer information and education SOMIL fruits product manufacturer we are aware that, consumer have right to be informed includes protection against fraudulent deceitful, or grossly misleading information advertising, labeling, pricing, packaging or other practices. Consumers choice SOMIL fruits product manufacturer we know that consumer has a right to choose means that consumers have available several products and brands for which select. Consumers right to be heard SOMIL fruits product industry, consumers has right to be heard means that consumers should be able to voice their opinions to business, government and other parties. This gives consumers input into the decisions that affect them. Advertisement/Promotion Promotion and advertisement our product should be an almost unconscious part of our everyday sales plan. We dont have to look far for an opportunity to market and merchandise juice. A great way to stand out from the competition is to produce our own juice, thereby offering customer juice beverages that cant be found elsewhere. SOMIL we have to understand our competitors, what they doing and we will take action against these competitors, especially as an entire generation or retail buyers is at stake. To reach the public, advertising is a necessity. We believe that advertising may reach non-juice drinkers and thus bring in additional customer to our business. Advertising deserves greater consideration as a part of the solution to certain

Technology †The Last Great Frontier :: Exploratory Essays Research Papers

Technology – The Last Great Frontier Introduction The technological frontier marks one of the last chapters in the development of American society. We have survived the cultivation of land, ranging from the first exploration of Christopher Columbus to the last expeditions of Buffalo Bill and the Wild West. Now, as there is no longer any land to explore, we must focus our attention on the rapidly increasing technological age. Without a doubt technology has blazed a pathway to a new and unmapped educational frontier. This frontier is pioneered by a completely new academic system: distance learning. The "distance learning" frontier features education of students from outside the traditional classroom setting through the use of technology. For example, quizzes are taken online, classes are taught over televisions, and degrees are earned on the Internet. Although this new and unexplored path has vastly expanded our academic horizons, just like the West expanded our country, we must not travel into the frontier without nurturing it first. In order to fully utilize technology we must cultivate the technology frontier in order to tame its communicational dangers. Background Just as the West promised to satisfy the needs and dreams of the American people in the nineteenth century, technology promises to satisfy our educational goals in the twenty-first century. The introduction of the Internet in the 1980’s served as the first pioneer to the technological frontier. Never before in history had academic information been so readily available at the click of a button. This new system of learning sparked excitement and interest in the minds of students and faculty members because it provided a potentially better way of learning. At first glance, the technological frontier creates an illusion of a quick and convenient educational system; however, this is not totally true. The technology frontier is still a new and unmapped territory, and there have not been an abundance of studies or writings that explain its possible benefits or dangers. Chris Piotrowski and Stephen Vodanovich, pioneers in the expansion of technological based learning, conducted a synthesis of the available research in the field. Their procedure for identifying relevant studies was to conduct a series of searches on educational databases. The results showed that "investigations about technological based instruction have not been supported by the extent of literature" (3). The conductors of this experiment claim that successful ways to incorporate technology into education have not been carefully examined or researched. Technology – The Last Great Frontier :: Exploratory Essays Research Papers Technology – The Last Great Frontier Introduction The technological frontier marks one of the last chapters in the development of American society. We have survived the cultivation of land, ranging from the first exploration of Christopher Columbus to the last expeditions of Buffalo Bill and the Wild West. Now, as there is no longer any land to explore, we must focus our attention on the rapidly increasing technological age. Without a doubt technology has blazed a pathway to a new and unmapped educational frontier. This frontier is pioneered by a completely new academic system: distance learning. The "distance learning" frontier features education of students from outside the traditional classroom setting through the use of technology. For example, quizzes are taken online, classes are taught over televisions, and degrees are earned on the Internet. Although this new and unexplored path has vastly expanded our academic horizons, just like the West expanded our country, we must not travel into the frontier without nurturing it first. In order to fully utilize technology we must cultivate the technology frontier in order to tame its communicational dangers. Background Just as the West promised to satisfy the needs and dreams of the American people in the nineteenth century, technology promises to satisfy our educational goals in the twenty-first century. The introduction of the Internet in the 1980’s served as the first pioneer to the technological frontier. Never before in history had academic information been so readily available at the click of a button. This new system of learning sparked excitement and interest in the minds of students and faculty members because it provided a potentially better way of learning. At first glance, the technological frontier creates an illusion of a quick and convenient educational system; however, this is not totally true. The technology frontier is still a new and unmapped territory, and there have not been an abundance of studies or writings that explain its possible benefits or dangers. Chris Piotrowski and Stephen Vodanovich, pioneers in the expansion of technological based learning, conducted a synthesis of the available research in the field. Their procedure for identifying relevant studies was to conduct a series of searches on educational databases. The results showed that "investigations about technological based instruction have not been supported by the extent of literature" (3). The conductors of this experiment claim that successful ways to incorporate technology into education have not been carefully examined or researched.