I was particularly interested in Wegmans’ announcement today … No MORE CIGARETTE SALES … from an ethical point and because of the risk to the food chain’s profit.
A brief letter to employees from leaders Danny and Coleen Wegman … highlighted an ethical core in their decision:
We believe in a person’s right to smoke. But we believe there are few of us who would introduce our children to smoking.
Since Wegmans is valued in this city for its commitment to health … they decided to risk a loss of sales to further that commitment. In their usual fashion … Wegmans’ leaders values choice and respect their employees … who still take smoking breaks during their shifts.
Known for their encouragement and scholarships to help young workers … Wegmans again risked profits to promote people …
We employ a lot of young people, a lot of high school students. If it sends the right message to them, I think we will have accomplished something.
Since my own brain based work with leaders involves change with risk … the Wegmans’ team remains my hero on yet another front! No wonder they're listed at the top in Fortune's best companies to work for.
What will you risk in 2008 based on your beliefs … and what profit do you predict?
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