Apple

Question 1

Background info

Answer 1

-producer and retailer of computer technology and electronic devices
-US based, headquarters in California
-over 510 retail stores in 22 countries

Question 2

Spacial organisation and linkages

Answer 2

-products designed in Silicon Valley, made in China and sold all over the world
-most employees are based in HICs due to high-tech knowledge nature of business
-has its European, Middle Eastern and African headquarters in Ireland

Question 3

Production and linkages

Answer 3

-produced in China: able to outsource production on the basis of low production costs, large young skilled non-unionised workforce, work long hours for low pay
-issues in China: poor working conditions (62hrs a week for $300 a month), children and students working too much, health and safety (exposed to toxic chemicals)
-Ireland: employs 6000 workers, has generated 3000 jobs, attracted other high-tech firms, attracted highly skilled workforce, Apple can pay less tax in Ireland

Question 4

Environmental issues

Answer 4

-uses 100% renewable energy and established own energy company generating electricity from solar panels
-had removed all PVC plastics and toxic chemicals from products

Question 5

Trading and marketing

Answer 5

-revenue has increased from $13.5 bil in 2013 to $50 bil in 2020
-Apple have to pay heavy tariffs on Chinese imports to the US, due to trade war between US and China