This reference book offers a comprehensive A-Z guide to essential business and economic concepts, making it perfect for middle and high school students, as well as community college learners. With over 400 entries, it breaks down complex topics like money, debt, and interest rates in an accessible manner. Engaging short features throughout the text enhance understanding and illustrate the relevance of economics in everyday life, catering to students who are new to the subject.
The book examines the dramatic increase in the American national debt over the years, highlighting its rise from just under $6 trillion at the turn of the century to over $14 trillion. It also addresses the substantial growth of the annual deficit, which is projected to reach $1.4 trillion in 2011. Through this analysis, the author explores the implications of these financial trends on the economy and national policy.
Follow the history of Starbucks on its journey from one local retail store in Seattle to a global chain of coffeehouses found in more than 47 countries around the world. Starbucks tells the story of how a single retail outlet opened in 1971 became the world's largest chain of coffeehouses, and for that matter, one of the largest franchises of any kind, with over $10 billion in sales in 2008. Starbucks offers readers the opportunity to get to know this extraordinary corporation's leaders, employees, guiding principles, corporate innovations, competitive strategies, setbacks, and future prospects. Along the way, it explores a number of fascinating issues, including the company's pivotal decision to use Arabica beans instead of mass-produced coffee and its efforts to support sustainable coffee farming worldwide. The book also looks at how Starbucks is coping with the global economic downturn, detailing its recent initiatives to reduce costs, offer healthier food, and re-embrace its coffee-centered, customer-based roots.