Tag: Business English

Shein EU Consumer Laws Breach

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

Shein is a very popular Chinese fast-fashion website. 

Recently, it is being investigated for several questionable business practices that include “misleading information, deceptive product labels, misleading sustainability claims, and hidden contact details”. 

They also make it look like they offer better deals by showing a reduced price that were not actually based on the previous original prices. In addition, they set fake deadlines for consumers to check-out in order to pressure them to buy the product.

Read the article about Shein’s practices that breach EU consumer laws. Be ready to answer the questions that follow. 

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c62vq1mnndno

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Explain “willful ignorance”. “That same month, Shein was accused of “willful ignorance” by MPs in the UK after its lawyer repeatedly refused to answer questions about where the retailer sources its cotton.” Use this term in a sentence. 
  2. What does “to come under fire” mean? “Shein has come under fire for its business practices before, with a January BBC report revealing some staff were working 75-hour weeks, in breach of Chinese labour laws.“ Use this phrase in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
  3. What does “to be in line with something” mean? “It’s now for Shein to step up, respect the rules and bring its practices fully in line with EU consumer standards.” Use this idiom in a sentence. Give a synonym.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What comes to your mind when you hear the term “fast-fashion”?
  2. From a consumer standpoint, share your reaction to and opinion about Shein’s consumer laws breaches.
  3. What are your thoughts on businesses like Shein?
  4. Share your opinion on EU justice commissioner Michael McGrath’s statement, “All companies reaching out to EU consumers must play by our rules. Today’s action sends a clear message: we will not shy away from holding e-commerce platforms to account, regardless of where they are based.”.
  5. Talk about another company you know of that has breached consumer laws.

The Start-ups Working on Cheap Innovation

B2 – Upper Intermediate 

Some start-ups are so focused on developing frugal innovations. The main idea behind this kind of grassroots entrepreneurship is to make affordable, accessible, and available solutions for real-world problems despite their founders not having big capitals not formal education or training. 

Read the article about start-ups that are working on cheap innovations. Be ready to answer the questions that follow. 

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c20xlqn0e5po

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “grassroots entrepreneurship” mean? “Mr Prajapati’s innovation is part of a growing wave of grassroots entrepreneurship in India, driven by necessity.“ Use this term in a sentence.
  2. What does “to scale up” mean? “Like many small business owners, she wants to scale-up and find new markets, perhaps overseas.” Use this phrase in a sentence. Give some synonyms.
  3. What does “to get stuck in one’s head” mean. “Clay pots keep water cool in the summer, so they are just like a fridge. The thought got stuck in my head. So, I decided to make a fridge out of clay that doesn’t need electricity.” Use this idiom in a sentence. Give some synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What comes to your mind when you hear the term “frugal innovation”?
  2. Share your opinion about grassroots entrepreneurship.
  3. What are the good things about this kind of start-ups?
  4. What challenges might these start-ups face?
  5. Talk about a similar innovation that you know of.

Branding and the Brain

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Brands shape our brains by tapping into deep, often subconscious parts of our mind. They go beyond just logos or slogans—they create emotional connections, trigger memories, and influence our instincts. Through consistent messaging and sensory cues, brands become familiar signals that our brain learns to recognize and trust. This “branding” of our brains affects how we make decisions, often guiding us toward certain products or experiences without us even realizing it. Essentially, brands embed themselves in our thoughts and feelings, shaping preferences and behaviors at a neurological level.

To understand more about this fascinating process and how it impacts your everyday choices, listen to the audio.

https://hackernoon.com/branding-and-the-brain-the-neuroscience-behind-consumer-decision-making-bd96d6cfcda8

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “brand salience” mean? “Brand salience is critical because it represents the extent to which a brand is thought about or noticed when a consumer is in a buying situation.” Use the phrase in a sentence.
  2. What does the term “emotional resonance? “Brands that create emotional resonance are more likely to build long-lasting relationships with consumers.” Incorporate the phrase into a sentence.
  3. What does the term “behavioral conditioning” mean? “Behavioral conditioning occurs when repeated exposure to a brand influences future purchasing behavior without conscious awareness.” Apply the phrase within a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. In what ways do you think your own purchasing decisions have been influenced by subconscious branding?
  2. Can you think of a brand that you feel particularly loyal to? What do you think causes that loyalty?
  3. Do you think it’s possible to “de-brand” our brains or resist the influence of marketing? How?

Restaurants Lie about Food Hygiene

B1 – Intermediate 

Food hygiene ratings ensure that the businesses in the food industry such as restaurants and supermarkets follow the food safety standards. In the UK, these ratings are given by the Food Standards Agency or FSA. 

A BBC undercover investigation discovered that there are many businesses in England and Wales that are not showing their real food hygiene ratings.

Listen to this audio and read the transcript about some businesses lying about their food hygiene ratings. Be ready to answer the questions that follow. 

https://www.newsinlevels.com/products/restaurants-lie-about-food-hygiene-level-3

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. Define “undercover”. “An undercover BBC investigation revealed that many businesses in England and Wales have displayed inaccurate food hygiene ratings.“ Use this word in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
  2. What does “rating” mean? “These food hygiene ratings, provided by the Food Standards Agency (FSA), are meant to ensure customers that food safety standards are met.” Use this word in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.
  3. What does “misleading” mean? “Food safety experts believe this is a widespread problem across the UK, with multiple places misleading the public about their hygiene standards.” Use this word in a sentence. Give a synonym or similar expression.

Discussion Questions:

  1. What comes to your mind when you hear “rating”?
  2. Share your reaction to and opinion about this news.
  3. Do you have a similar food hygiene rating system in your country? Do you care about this or not? Why?
  4. Why is it important for businesses to meet food safety standards?
  5. What should be the penalty for businesses who lie about their food hygiene ratings displayed outside their stores?

Getting Ripped Off by Hidden Inflation

B2 – Upper Intermediate

We all know prices are rising—but what if the true cost of living is climbing even faster than it appears? Hidden inflation is quietly draining our wallets, not just through sticker shock but through shrinking product sizes, sneaky fees, and downgraded quality. Companies are finding clever ways to give you less for more, without officially raising prices.

Watch the video to uncover the tactics behind hidden inflation—and how it’s reshaping our everyday spending without us even noticing.


Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the phrase “rip-off” mean? Hidden inflation is the ultimate rip-off—you’re paying more for less, and most people don’t even realize it’s happening. Make a sentence using this phrase.
  2. What does the word “recoup” mean? “Companies shrink product sizes but keep prices the same to quietly recoup rising costs—leaving consumers ripped off by hidden inflation.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does the phrase “rake in” mean?” While consumers struggle with shrinking product sizes and rising prices, big corporations continue to rake in record profits.” Use it in a sentence.


Discussion Questions:

  1. What are some common examples of hidden inflation that people encounter in everyday life?
  2. How do companies justify practices like shrinkflation or added fees without losing consumer trust?
  3. Should governments or consumer protection agencies do more to regulate or expose hidden inflation tactics? Why or why not?
  4. Do you think hidden inflation is more harmful than traditional price increases? Why or why not?
  5. Would you rather see a clear price increase or experience subtle cost-cutting measures like smaller portions or lower quality?
  6. Is it the consumer’s responsibility to stay informed, or should companies be more transparent about changes?

Airlines Betting Billions on First-Class Flights

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Airlines around the world are investing billions of dollars to expand and upgrade their first-class cabins, signaling a shift in strategy as they cater to growing demand for premium travel experiences. This trend reflects changing passenger expectations, the rise of luxury tourism, and increased profitability in the high-end travel segment. As competition intensifies, carriers are betting that enhanced comfort, privacy, and exclusivity will win over affluent travelers and boost long-term revenue.

Watch the video and be able to answer the questions that follow:


Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the phrase “to bet on someone or something” mean? “Airlines are betting on the idea that growing demand for comfort and exclusivity will make first-class cabins a major source of future profits.” Use it in a sentence. Give a synonym.
  2. What does the word “tailwind” mean in this sentence, “The airline industry is experiencing tailwinds from increased demand for luxury travel.” Use the word in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
  3. What is the meaning of “overhead cost“? “The global aviation industry has about $900 billion in annual expenses, largely fuel, labor, equipment and various overhead costs.” Make a sentence using the word.


Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you think investing in first-class cabins is the best way for airlines to increase profits? Explain.
  2. Would you personally pay more for a first-class experience if given the option? Why or why not?
  3. Is it fair for airlines to focus more on luxury travel rather than improving economy class? Share your thoughts.
  4. Do you believe the rise in first-class spending reflects growing inequality in air travel? What is your opinion?
  5. What factors are driving airlines to invest more in first-class rather than economy or business class?

Consumer Spending Up in Anticipation of Tariffs

B2 – Upper Intermediate

In early April 2025, consumer spending in the U.S. surged as Americans rushed to make purchases ahead of President Donald Trump’s planned tariffs, according to data from JPMorgan. While discretionary spending saw the biggest jump, economists warn this spike doesn’t signal long-term economic growth. Instead, it reflects a short-term reaction to anticipated price hikes, with many consumers and businesses accelerating purchases to avoid future costs. Experts, including Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee, suggest this “pull-forward” effect could lead to a spending drop-off later in the year, raising questions about the broader economic impact of the tariff strategy.

Read the article to know more about how Trump’s tariff plans are influencing consumer behavior and be prepared to answer the questions below.

https://www.nbcnews.com/business/consumer/consumer-spending-big-early-april-people-buy-anticipation-tariffs-rcna202668

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “big-ticket item” mean? “April data may reflect a pull forward of discretionary spending on big-ticket items if consumers tried to lock in lower prices before tariffs went into effect.” Use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “discretionary spending” mean? “The analysts also pointed to sliding gasoline prices as a possible driver of increased discretionary spending.” Use it in a sentence.
  3. What does “stockpiling” in business mean? “Goolsbee also cited evidence of businesses stockpiling inventory to last two to three months and said so-called preemptive purchasing appeared more common among companies than consumers.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions

  1. What are your thoughts on the surge in consumer spending ahead of Trump’s tariff implementation?
  2. Have you ever rushed to buy something because you heard the price might go up soon? What made you act quickly, and how did it feel afterward? How might that experience relate to how people are reacting to the tariff news?
  3. How do consumer expectations about future economic policies, like tariffs, influence their current spending behaviors? Can you think of examples where fear or uncertainty has affected how people shop?
  4. If you knew your favorite items—like clothes, electronics, or snacks—were about to get more expensive, what would you do? Would you change your spending habits? Why or why not?
  5. If people and businesses are spending more now to avoid higher prices later, do you think this is a smart strategy or could it create bigger problems down the line Why do you think so?

Costco Went All in on Kirkland and It Paid Off

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Costco’s Kirkland brand is a strategic success, built on aligning low prices, quality control, and member loyalty. By consolidating its private labels under a single brand, Costco has strengthened its ability to negotiate with suppliers while consistently delivering high-quality products at competitive prices.

Despite the risk of using a single brand, this approach has boosted customer loyalty and now accounts for over a third of Costco’s sales. With limited product options and strict quality oversight, Kirkland thrives in Costco’s membership-based model, setting it apart from other retailers with multiple store brands.

Watch the video to learn more about the innovative approaches that have allowed Costco to thrive in a competitive market and be prepared to answer the questions below.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. .What does “profit margin” mean? “That opportunity came down to profit margins.“ Use this term in a sentence.
  2. What does “commodity input” mean? “Our buyers are very aware of the commodity inputs, the raw ingredients that go into something.” Use this term in a sentence.
  3. What does the idiom “hit someone right in the face” mean? “because everything that’s presented at Costco is presented pretty big, hitting you right in the face whenever you walk in there.” Give two (2) synonyms and use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

  1. As a buyer, which type of product do you prefer: name brands or private label brands? What influences your decision?
  2. What factors might influence shoppers to choose a private label product over a name brand?
  3. How does placing a private label product beside a name brand item shape perceptions of quality and value? Provide examples of how this tactic might backfire or succeed.
  4. How does the perceived risk associated with different product categories (e.g., low-risk staples vs. high-risk electronics) influence trust in private labels? What could retailers do to bridge this trust gap?
  5. Does a membership model inherently create a sense of exclusivity or loyalty that enhances trust in private labels? How might this differ from non-membership retailers?
  6. Can a single bad experience with a private label product damage a retailer’s reputation more than a similar experience with a well-known brand? Why do you think that is? What strategies can retailers use to reduce this risk?

Things Are Bad at Tesla

B2- Upper Intermediate 

Tesla, once the golden child of the electric vehicle (EV) revolution, is facing mounting challenges that threaten its dominant position in the market. From falling sales and aggressive price cuts to rising competition and internal turmoil, the cracks are starting to show. And if recent trends are any indication, things at Tesla aren’t just bad — they’re on the verge of getting much worse.

Watch the video and be able to answer the questions below.


Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does the verb “tank” mean here, “It’s stock has tanked, dropping 34% this year.“? Use the word in a sentence and give 2 synonyms.
  2. What does “on pace to leave someone/something in the dust” mean? “The Chinese EV and battery maker, for the first time, top Tesla in revenue in 2024 and is on pace to leave it in the dust as the global leader in electric vehicle sales this year.” Use the idiom in a sentence.
  3. What does the phrasal verb “flat out” mean in this sentence, “Robin Zang said in an interview that he would flat out tell Elon Musk that Tesla’s new battery cell is going to fail and never be successful.“? Use the phrase in a sentence and give 2 synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Do you believe Elon Musk’s leadership style is helping or hurting Tesla in the current climate? Share your point of view.
  2. In your opinion, is Tesla still the leader in innovation within the EV industry? Explain.
  3. Should Tesla focus more on new products or fixing its current business and production issues? Share your insights.
  4. What factors do you think are contributing most to Tesla’s recent struggles — internal decisions or external competition?
  5. What is your opinion about what China did allowing Tesla to have a fully owned factory in their country? Do you think they did that intentionally to take US brand’s technology and build theirs better?

Airlines Demand for First-Class Seats Delayed Production

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Airlines are enhancing their first and business class cabins with luxurious features, such as heated seats and privacy doors, to attract high-spending customers. However, the certification process for these new seats is delaying aircraft deliveries from Boeing and Airbus, contributing to ongoing supply chain issues. Despite these challenges, the increase in premium passenger revenues indicates a strong demand for improved travel experiences. Airlines are making significant investments in cabin upgrades, expecting continued growth in premium seating, but they are encountering hurdles in getting these innovations approved.

Watch the video to explore more about airline innovations and challenges, and be prepared to answer the questions below.

Vocabulary Questions:

  1. What does “bottlenecks” mean? “The bottlenecks are bad news, not just for airplane makers, but for airlines trying to grow profits.” Give two (2) synonyms and use it in a sentence.
  2. What does “outfit” mean here, “That means outfitting their planes with first and business class pods and suites that are more luxurious than ever.”? Give two (2) synonyms and use it in a sentence.
  3. What does the phrase “to skate to where the puck is going to be” mean? “For premium, we think that, that’s going to continue to grow, and we’re skating to where the puck is going to be.” Use this expression in a sentence. Give two (2) synonyms.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Have you ever flown in business class? What was it like? If you haven’t had the chance to experience it yet, what is your impression of flying in business class, and would you want to try it if given the opportunity? Why or why not?
  1. What do you think are the main reasons airlines are investing heavily in premium seating? Give specific examples of features that might attract big spenders.
  2. In what ways do you believe the pandemic has changed the airline industry’s approach to customer service and luxury? Can you provide examples of how airlines have adapted their services post-pandemic?
  3. What are your thoughts on the price differences between premium and economy class tickets? Do you believe these differences are justified, or do you think that practicality should take precedence in today’s travel market? Please explain.
  4. How do you envision the future of air travel in terms of luxury and technology? Can you elaborate on what advancements you think will be made in aircraft design and passenger experience?
  5. Do do you think it’s important for airlines to continue innovating premium seating and overall passenger experience? Why or why not? Explain.