Ethics and sustainability in today's business environments

Purpose – Reviews the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoints practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies Design/methodology/approach – This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context Findings – What images does the term “big business” evoke? The 1929 Laurel and Hardy silent movie entitled “Big Business” depicts Stan and Ollie trying to sell Christmas trees out of the back of their car to a very reluctant customer. The film provides a comedic interpretation of business where salesmen and customers are engaged in a never‐ending battle, with both sides ending up as losers. Mayhem and much laughter is the outcome. The 1988 Bette Midler and Lily Tomlin film is another light comedy that nevertheless manages to make some serious points about business ethics. A big city corporation plans to sell off a small town firm with no consideration of how this will affect the townspeople and their way of life. While these fictional accounts are purely for entertainment, many people find it difficult to be amused by some of the business practices they have observed. Practical implications – The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy‐to‐digest format. Originality/value – Provides insights and practical thinking about the role of ethical values and sustainability in today's business environments