Laura Marie is a purchasing agent for a small restaurant chain. For the past two weeks, one fo her meat suppliers has been late on deliveries. She has discussed this with the salesperson, and he assures her that the problem will be resolved.

In an effort to rectify the issue, the sales person delivers two free cases of hot dogs to her office for "sampling." Laura plans to have a back yard barbecue this weekend for her neighbors. The free hot dogs would considerably lower her cost of holding this event at her home. From an ethical viewpoint, how should she handle this situation? Explain your decision-making process and defend your answer.

Use the five ethical guidelines in this chapter as a basis for your answer to explain what should be done with the hot dogs.

a. Is it legal?

b. Does it hurt anyone?

c. Am I being honest?

d. Would I care if it happened to me?

e. Would I publicize my action?

f. What should be done with the two cases of hot dogs?