Dynamic Energy Wares (DEW) has decided to change the manner in which it distributes its products to large companies. The change in the distribution system comes at a time when DEW’s profits are declining. The declining profits might not be the sole reason for the change, but it appears to be the primary impetus for the decision. It also appears that the new policy requiring DEW’s distributors to increase inventory levels before the end of the fiscal year will artificially inflate DEW’s sales for the current year. However, DEW’s new policy does not require the distributors to pay for any increased inventory until next year (six months), and any unsold inventory can be returned after nine months. So, if the demand for DEW’s products actually is decreasing, the impact will appear on next year’s financial statements. If the financial manager actually intends to artificially inflate DEW’s profits this year, she must realize that such actions eventually will “catch up” with her. Discussion questions: What is the ethical dilemma? Should DEW change its distribution system? What should DEW do? Would you go to the distributors’ meeting? What should you tell the distributors?
Dynamic Energy Wares (DEW) has decided to change the manner in which it distributes its products to large companies. The change in the distribution system comes at a time when DEW’s profits are declining. The declining profits might not be the sole reason for the change, but it appears to be the primary impetus for the decision. It also appears that the new policy requiring DEW’s distributors to increase inventory levels before the end of the fiscal year will artificially inflate DEW’s sales for the current year. However, DEW’s new policy does not require the distributors to pay for any increased inventory until next year (six months), and any unsold inventory can be returned after nine months. So, if the demand for DEW’s products actually is decreasing, the impact will appear on next year’s financial statements. If the financial manager actually intends to artificially inflate DEW’s profits this year, she must realize that such actions eventually will “catch up” with her.
Discussion questions:
- What is the ethical dilemma?
- Should DEW change its distribution system?
- What should DEW do?
- Would you go to the distributors’ meeting? What should you tell the distributors?

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