Lease of Life’

Abstract

This case presents an ethical dilemma faced by the partners of a restaurant chain that prides itself on its stakeholder approach. The partners must decide whether to implement a health insurance policy for their employees despite the unfavourable financial condition of the company. The case explores the challenge of maintaining consistency in actions and values, especially during hard times. It also examines the issue of the rights of employees in this regard and the business case of providing health insurance. The case aims to help students understand the decisions that executive management faces frequently and the trade-offs between profitability and social responsibility.