The Meatpacking Factory

Authors: Wicks, Andrew C.; Mead, Jenny; Stewart, Nicholas
Source: Darden School of Business
Year: 2012
Company Name: JBS & Company
Number of pages: 2

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Abstract:

The manager of a large meatpacking factory has agreed to the request of his 100-plus Muslim workers who have asked to take breaks at sunset to properly observe the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Although such an exception is an irregularity, the manager believes it is an appropriate response to the religious needs of such a large percentage of his employee base. But the requested breaks-at very precise times-have begun to interfere with the overall operation of the plant, resulting in a loss of productivity. Other employees have become irritated, believing they are carrying the burden of the break times and resenting what they see as preferential treatment. Because of the productivity issues, the other employees' complaints, and concerns about the credibility of his management, the manager considers reneging on his agreement with the Muslim workers.