Authenticity is an ambiguous concept — what one might find authentic might be seen as elitist by others.
This article by Pierre-Yann Dolbec, Concordia University originally appeared on the Conversation and is published here with permission.
Craft work gives professionals the opportunity to create unique products that align with their personal visions. This helps the makers distinguish themselves and express their identity through their work. This rise in demand and popularity of a craft-oriented approach to a consumer good has shifted a large part of the market towards craft values and beliefs.Businesses conduct their activities based on key values and beliefs. Craft firms undertake theirs striving for esthetic engagement, creative expression and an aspiration to quality. In contrast, commercial firms such as McDonald’s McCafé and Tim Horton’s privilege the maximization of profits.
Commercial firms introduce products that have profit potential. The infamous Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Latte, the Nespresso Vertuo and Tim Horton’s recently launched line of espresso-based drinks are not concerned with the coffee experience or bringing out the distinctive flavors of a bean. Rather, they offer consumers fun, affordable or convenient products and services that help increase firms’ profit margins.
Craft companies esthetically engage with commercial innovation. They transform the Pumpkin Spice Latte by using artisan syrup and curated spices that ideally match the taste characteristics of a specific coffee bean. Some craft companies have also leveraged the convenience offered by pod machines and developed their own versions to provide consumers with the opportunity to experience high-end coffee at home.
Some have argued that craft offers more authentic products, perhaps because craft work creates a kind of one-to-one relationship between the producer and consumer that is different from the standardized mass market production that dominates so much of our economy. But while craftspeople’s creative expression might be found in their products and presentation, commercial firms have become skilled at mimicking the artistry of craft professionals, making it difficult to identify which is which.
Canada Latest News, Canada Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
BEYOND LOCAL: Disability doesn't have to clash with environmental responsibilitySturdy yet flexible, hygienic, disposable, readily available and cheap … the plastic straw is better than any eco-alternative for many disabled folks
Read more »
BEYOND LOCAL: Disability doesn't have to clash with environmental responsibilitySturdy yet flexible, hygienic, disposable, readily available and cheap … the plastic straw is better than any eco-alternative for many disabled folks
Read more »
What Cardano needs to sway beyond constraints of $0.5-levelCardano’s [ADA] drop from the $0.66-level pulled the alt toward its point of Control (POC, red). The EMA ribbons have constricted the buying efforts until recently. As a descending channel takes shape, the sellers would be keen on halting the ongoing rally in the coming times. But with the breach of the 38.2% Fibonacci level, […]
Read more »
B.C.’s energy minister visits Kitimat, meets with local leaders - Terrace StandardBruce Ralston toured LNG Canada facility with Haisla Chief Crystal Smith
Read more »
United Way of Thunder Bay reports over 50,000 local lives impactedRead the full story and comment on Tbnewswatch.com
Read more »
Caremongers Whitby offering prizes, as they raise donations for local food banksA local group is offering prizes to help out Whitby's food banks. Caremongers Whitby is inviting people to post photos of themselves donating to The Salvatio
Read more »