UNDERSTANDING THE MARKET FOR HOLSTEIN STEERS

A semi-structured interview process was combined with an econometric analysis to document the newly changed structure of the Holstein sector, to evaluate existing quality perceptions, and to assess the impact that recent changes in production practices have had on prices of Holstein steers. Results suggest that finished Holstein steer prices are driven by many of the same market factors as native steers, overturning some common quality misconceptions. The shift towards the calf-fed production model appears to have greatly affected the market for backgrounded Holstein steers, but had little impact on the prices for light Holstein feeder steers.Livestock Production/Industries, Marketing,

Understanding the Market for Holstein Steers

A semi-structured interview process was combined with an econometric analysis to document the newly changed structure of the Holstein sector, to evaluate existing quality perceptions, and to assess the impact that recent changes in production practices have had on prices of Holstein steers. Results suggest that finished Holstein steer prices are driven by many of the same market factors as native steers, overturning some common quality misconceptions. The shift towards the calf-fed production model appears to have greatly affected the market for backgrounded Holstein steers, but had little impact on the prices for light Holstein feeder steers.Marketing,

Market Potential for Locally Produced Meat Products

The goal of this research was to guide livestock producers in marketing, product design and pricing decisions. Tools included a focus group, a consumer taste-testing and willingness-to-pay survey, and a restaurant survey. Experience attributes of locally produced ground beef were especially competitive, and demand for credence attributes packaged under the "local" label appears consistent with a niche market that could justify verification programs. Restaurants are a potentially receptive outlet for local meats, allowing producers to avoid the barriers to entry in mainstream grocery outlets.Agribusiness,

From Dan To Danita: LGBT Based Discrimination And Issues Of Religious Freedom

In this two-part case study, Dan Flint faced a dilemma that was not of his own making.  He saw himself as a “…female imprisoned in a male’s body.”   In attempting to get a “grip” on his gender identity, he consults a renowned sex therapist and a barrage of emotions and feelings that make up his inner core nature are revealed. He faces the reality that “coming-out” is fraught with many issues and dilemmas.  Will his transgendered state be understood?  Will he undergo surgical procedures which will give him female anatomical parts?  How will he face his work environment, supervisors, and co-workers?  And finally, will he be accepted as a person with value and dignity?  The case shows the difficulties that Dan faced in transitioning to Danita in a workforce that reacted with confusion, uncertainty and skepticism.  The case presents in the first part, seven questions that bring up the interpersonal, ethical and managerial questions imbedded in the case study, and explore how a supervisor might prepare the organization for dramatic change. In the second part, President Obama’s Executive Order on prohibition of discrimination on LGBT workers, coupled with Employment Non-Discrimination Employment Act (ENDA), and the Supreme Court decision on religious freedom (Hobby Lobby) are woven into a series of important issues, concluding with a debate scenario