Case 25: New Belgium Brewery: Defining a Business on Sustainability
1. What are the ethical issues in this case?
What environmental and social responsibilities does a business have? How does a company
2. What keeps other companies from having the commitment to environmental sustainability that
NBB has evidenced?
As noted in the case, many of the environmental initiatives are costly for the company. NBB now
3. Are you more likely to purchase a product from a company with a strong commitment to
sustainability?
4. The benefits of cans over bottles are unclear. Has NBB done the right thing by focusing more
on canned beer? Should NBB continue to make a greater commitment to cans? What additional
options can NBB explore in the future?
5. core values and beliefs sustainable?
6. How do employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) align with the sustainability goals of NBB?
Case Discussion Q&A, Business & Society, Carroll 10e
7. Do you think that the sale of New Belgium Brewing Company would
sustainability focus if they lost their independence and were taken over by a large brewing
company?