Apple 2003 Annual Report Download - page 158

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Competitors. Apple must be especially careful when dealing with competitors. For example, agreements with competitors that affect product
or service pricing or output, or allocate customers or sales territories, are prohibited, because they are counter to the principle of free
competition, and often illegal under applicable law. Apple employees must not discuss these topics with competitors, because there is no way
to legally justify any understanding that might be reached that limits our competition with such companies. Also, Apple employees must not
discuss terms of sale, costs, inventories, product plans, or any other confidential or proprietary information with a competitor. In some cases,
the law may also view our resellers as our competitors when we are actually competing for the same types of customers in the marketplace.
Role of Apple Law Department.
Whether they are termed antitrust, competition, or free trade laws, the rules are designed to keep the
marketplace thriving and competitive. The foregoing is merely a brief overview of the many laws applicable to our business activities in the
marketplace. Understanding and applying these laws to our business activities requires the involvement of Apple’s lawyers. Apple is
committed to compliance, and the consequences of violations—or even the appearance of violations—can be severe for the company and
individuals. If you have any questions or issues about these rules as they apply to Apple business activities, contact the Apple Law Department
for assistance.
5. Compliance and Consequences
A.
Being vigilant
It is essential that all employees be sensitive to possible violations of Apple’s business ethics—whether these violations occur in dealings with
the government or the private sector, and whether they occur because of oversight or intention. Any Apple employee who has knowledge of
possible violations must notify his or her manager or the Human Resources Department, as appropriate, and the Apple Law Department.
To assist employees in the day-to-day protection of Apple’
s business, below is a list of some areas where violations of ethics policies, practices,
and principles could occur.
Danger areas
• Improper or excessive payments of any of the following:
Consulting fees
Public relations fees
Advertising fees
Legal fees
Agents’ fees
Commissions
Insurance premiums
Other professional fees
Expense reports
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