In a perfect world, where it was appropriate, you'd get credit for the things you do and for what you contribute. The credit would take the form of payment (as in a transaction), a simple acknowledgement (public or private) or some other form of accommodation that helps attribute a value to what you've contributed. Of course, there are times when you want nothing in return, your contribution is for peace of mind or totally philanthropic.
 
I had a conversation earlier this week with a colleague commenting on the number of times in the past few months he's been asked to contribute financially to support 'industry' activities. He's an ingredient supplier, and an active member of trade associations, so is supporting at that level as well as in contributions for other causes. He's also on the 'hit list' for all those seeking money - often for very worthwhile projects. His observation goes as follows:
 
"I give - in fact, in total, I give well over $100,000 a year towards various causes including my memberships. My competition, in many cases offshore, does not. So I take my money and voluntarily reinvest in the industry in the hopes that it contributes to a better industry, but also, we're supposed to be hoping that this creates better business for all of us right? Well, then I turn around to my colleagues within this group, and I say, I've contributed, I'm a supporter, doesn't this mean that you'd like to do business with other supporters, those that share the vision and are committed and have anted up? Doesn't this mean that I should get consideration when you're looking to buy, at least to get me in the door? Instead, all I get is the standard response - what's your price, oh, it's a couple cents too high. It strikes me that just maybe it might not be a couple cents too high if I didn't contribute as much to these things whenever I'm asked. It's a bit frustrating to say the least. You don't contribute just for the business, but there's got to be some sort of return."
 
In many cases, we want to 'do the right thing', and I'm proud to be a part of an industry where so many individuals and companies are committed 'just because'. My colleague, I think, does have a point though and it's really a win:win when doing the right thing and building your business are one and the same.

Placing this in a bit larger perspective, when ingredient decisions are made based on fractions of pennies, frequently despite known quality concerns, (and these horror stories abound), one would think that other 'commitments' would factor in to support the investments made by the higher quality suppliers. It's a comment on this industry when they don't.