Devika Agarwal

This case investigates LaCroix sparkling water and its connection to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), as a study of chemical compounds in carbonated beverages has captured the public’s attention. At the time of this case, PFAS were not heavily regulated, but the media coverage and body of research surrounding this class of chemicals suggested state and federal rules were on the horizon. The protagonist is Josephine Hudson, a fictional character with the title of president… Show more

This case investigates LaCroix sparkling water and its connection to perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), as a study of chemical compounds in carbonated beverages has captured the public’s attention. At the time of this case, PFAS were not heavily regulated, but the media coverage and body of research surrounding this class of chemicals suggested state and federal rules were on the horizon. The protagonist is Josephine Hudson, a fictional character with the title of president of customer satisfaction for National Beverage, LaCroix’s parent company. She must address many questions including: Was there anything that could be done to remove the PFAS in LaCroix? If so, would this increase costs for production as well as the price for the end-customer? Was the company at risk of any legal challenges? Show less

Social sustainability isn't as discussed as environmental sustainability, but it's incredibly important to our world today. So, what does it mean?

COVID-19 may offer an opportunity to address long-standing issues in the global apparel value chains. The challenges are well-documented: Global brands continue to hold an inordinate amount of power over suppliers; the product planning cycle is intrinsically slow; batch-oriented production and distribution are efficient but create large inventories whose velocity depends entirely on consumer spending.

This case provides students the opportunity to analyze and resolve relevant, practical, and complex business issues related to DEI. Across three parts, each focused on a different function of the retail value chain, students must consider bias, representation, productive criticism, psychological safety and the role of learning and development. Each team will be able to engage with areas of opportunity to evaluate short term and long term strategic change.

Most people still find the concept of corporate sustainability unclear. We explain what it means and why it’s important.