Special interest groups
Special interest groups are groups of people who attempt to influence or persuade a business to adopt particular policies or procedures
In the operating environment, there are 4 main types of special interest groups: Specific issue groups, business associations, unions and consumer groups.
Special interest group | Their interest | Effect on business planning | Example |
Specific issue groups | One specific area in the current society: youth employment, anti-globalisation... The environment is the most common area: 'environmental lobby group' promotes environmental issues to the public, government and businesses. | More businesses have to undertake environmental impact studies and implement sustainability strategies, such as using renewable resources, reduce levels of waste... | Australian Conservation Foundation (AFC): tackling climate change and preserving Australia's rich biodiversity. Cancer Council: enhances non-smoking workplaces to protect the health of employees. |
Business Association | Membership organisation engaged in supporting businesses via training programs and promoting the business interests of its members to the public and government. | Businesses should research which association best suits their needs and join that association. | Family Business Australia (FBA) represents and promotes family-owned Australian businesses, providing accredited advisers to assist businesses in planning and growing. |
Unions | Represent workers and act on their behalf to negotiate with businesses on worker-related issues (i.g. wages, working conditions...) | Business should define the prominent unions in its industry and consult with the relevant union to ensure that planning decisions of the business align with the union’s expectations | In construction industry, Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CFMEU) pushes building companies to provide adequate insurance, WorkCover and superannuation for construction workers. |
Consumer group | Monitor a business's performance regarding its product safety, packaging, pricing and advertising | Adjust its planning in product manufacturing to ensure high-quality products for consumption. | Choice: a common reference point for consumers wishing to purchase better, safer and fairer products. Choice's report directly impact the sales of businesses mentioned. |
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