Cambridge A Level Business (for first examination in 2016) 9609 — 2025 May/June Paper 1 · Variant 3

This document has 4 pages. Any blank pages are indicated. [Turn over DC (JP) 346207/1 © UCLES 2025 * 4 1 1 7 8 9 6 3 1 7 * Cambridge International AS & A Level BUSINESS 9609/13 Paper 1 Business Concepts 1 May/June 2025 1 hour 15 minutes You must answer on the enclosed answer booklet. You will need: Answer booklet (enclosed) INSTRUCTIONS ● Answer five questions in total: Section A: answer all questions. Section B: answer one question. ● Follow the instructions on the front cover of the answer booklet. If you need additional answer paper, ask the invigilator for a continuation booklet. INFORMATION ● The total mark for this paper is 40. ● The number of marks for each question or part question is shown in brackets [ ].

2 9609/13/M/J/25 © UCLES 2025 Section A Answer all questions. 1 (a) Define the term motivation. [2] (b) Explain one benefit to a business of motivated employees. [3] 2 (a) Define the term incremental budgets. [2] (b) Explain one advantage to a business of using variance analysis. [3] 3 (a) Define the term Just in Time (JIT). [2] (b) Explain one disadvantage to a business of using Just in Time (JIT). [3] 4 Analyse one advantage to a business of using mass marketing. [5] Section B Answer one question only. EITHER 5 (a) Analyse two benefits to a business of using break-even analysis. [8] (b) Evaluate whether cash flow forecasting is the most important activity for the success of a fashion clothing manufacturer. [12] OR 6 (a) Analyse two advantages to a business of making ethical decisions. [8] (b) ‘Employees are the most important stakeholder group in a primary sector oil and gas business.’ Evaluate this view. [12]

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4 9609/13/M/J/25 © UCLES 2025 Permission to reproduce items where third-party owned material protected by copyright is included has been sought and cleared where possible. Every reasonable effort has been made by the publisher (UCLES) to trace copyright holders, but if any items requiring clearance have unwittingly been included, the publisher will be pleased to make amends at the earliest possible opportunity. To avoid the issue of disclosure of answer-related information to candidates, all copyright acknowledgements are reproduced online in the Cambridge Assessment International Education Copyright Acknowledgements Booklet. This is produced for each series of examinations and is freely available to download at www.cambridgeinternational.org after the live examination series. Cambridge Assessment International Education is part of Cambridge Assessment. Cambridge Assessment is the brand name of the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES), which is a department of the University of Cambridge. BLANK PAGE

This document consists of 32 printed pages. © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 [Turn over Cambridge International AS & A Level BUSINESS 9609/13 Paper 1 Business Concepts 1 May/June 2025 MARK SCHEME Maximum Mark: 40 Published This mark scheme is published as an aid to teachers and candidates, to indicate the requirements of the examination. It shows the basis on which Examiners were instructed to award marks. It does not indicate the details of the discussions that took place at an Examiners’ meeting before marking began, which would have considered the acceptability of alternative answers. Mark schemes should be read in conjunction with the question paper and the Principal Examiner Report for Teachers. Cambridge International will not enter into discussions about these mark schemes. Cambridge International is publishing the mark schemes for the May/June 2025 series for most Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International A and AS Level components, and some Cambridge O Level components.

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 2 of 32 Generic Marking Principles These general marking principles must be applied by all examiners when marking candidate answers. They should be applied alongside the specific content of the mark scheme or generic level descriptions for a question. Each question paper and mark scheme will also comply with these marking principles. GENERIC MARKING PRINCIPLE 1: Marks must be awarded in line with: • the specific content of the mark scheme or the generic level descriptors for the question • the specific skills defined in the mark scheme or in the generic level descriptors for the question • the standard of response required by a candidate as exemplified by the standardisation scripts. GENERIC MARKING PRINCIPLE 2: Marks awarded are always whole marks (not half marks, or other fractions). GENERIC MARKING PRINCIPLE 3: Marks must be awarded positively: • marks are awarded for correct/valid answers, as defined in the mark scheme. However, credit is given for valid answers which go beyond the scope of the syllabus and mark scheme, referring to your Team Leader as appropriate • marks are awarded when candidates clearly demonstrate what they know and can do • marks are not deducted for errors • marks are not deducted for omissions • answers should only be judged on the quality of spelling, punctuation and grammar when these features are specifically assessed by the question as indicated by the mark scheme. The meaning, however, should be unambiguous. GENERIC MARKING PRINCIPLE 4: Rules must be applied consistently, e.g. in situations where candidates have not followed instructions or in the application of generic level descriptors.

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 3 of 32 GENERIC MARKING PRINCIPLE 5: Marks should be awarded using the full range of marks defined in the mark scheme for the question (however; the use of the full mark range may be limited according to the quality of the candidate responses seen). GENERIC MARKING PRINCIPLE 6: Marks awarded are based solely on the requirements as defined in the mark scheme. Marks should not be awarded with grade thresholds or grade descriptors in mind.

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 4 of 32 Social Science-Specific Marking Principles (for point-based marking) 1 Components using point-based marking: • Point marking is often used to reward knowledge, understanding and application of skills. We give credit where the candidate’s answer shows relevant knowledge, understanding and application of skills in answering the question. We do not give credit where the answer shows confusion. From this it follows that we: a DO credit answers which are worded differently from the mark scheme if they clearly convey the same meaning (unless the mark scheme requires a specific term) b DO credit alternative answers/examples which are not written in the mark scheme if they are correct c DO credit answers where candidates give more than one correct answer in one prompt/numbered/scaffolded space where extended writing is required rather than list-type answers. For example, questions that require n reasons (e.g. State two reasons …). d DO NOT credit answers simply for using a ‘key term’ unless that is all that is required. (Check for evidence it is understood and not used wrongly.) e DO NOT credit answers which are obviously self-contradicting or trying to cover all possibilities f DO NOT give further credit for what is effectively repetition of a correct point already credited unless the language itself is being tested. This applies equally to ‘mirror statements’ (i.e. polluted/not polluted). g DO NOT require spellings to be correct, unless this is part of the test. However spellings of syllabus terms must allow for clear and unambiguous separation from other syllabus terms with which they may be confused (e.g. Corrasion/Corrosion) 2 Presentation of mark scheme: • Slashes (/) or the word ‘or’ separate alternative ways of making the same point. • Semi colons (;) bullet points (•) or figures in brackets (1) separate different points. • Content in the answer column in brackets is for examiner information/context to clarify the marking but is not required to earn the mark (except Accounting syllabuses where they indicate negative numbers).

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 5 of 32 3 Calculation questions: • The mark scheme will show the steps in the most likely correct method(s), the mark for each step, the correct answer(s) and the mark for each answer • If working/explanation is considered essential for full credit, this will be indicated in the question paper and in the mark scheme. In all other instances, the correct answer to a calculation should be given full credit, even if no supporting working is shown. • Where the candidate uses a valid method which is not covered by the mark scheme, award equivalent marks for reaching equivalent stages. • Where an answer makes use of a candidate’s own incorrect figure from previous working, the ‘own figure rule’ applies: full marks will be given if a correct and complete method is used. Further guidance will be included in the mark scheme where necessary and any exceptions to this general principle will be noted. 4 Annotation: • For point marking, ticks can be used to indicate correct answers and crosses can be used to indicate wrong answers. There is no direct relationship between ticks and marks. Ticks have no defined meaning for levels of response marking. • For levels of response marking, the level awarded should be annotated on the script. • Other annotations will be used by examiners as agreed during standardisation, and the meaning will be understood by all examiners who marked that paper.

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 6 of 32 Annotations guidance for centres Examiners use a system of annotations as a shorthand for communicating their marking decisions to one another. Examiners are trained during the standardisation process on how and when to use annotations. The purpose of annotations is to inform the standardisation and monitoring processes and guide the supervising examiners when they are checking the work of examiners within their team. The meaning of annotations and how they are used is specific to each component and is understood by all examiners who mark the component. We publish annotations in our mark schemes to help centres understand the annotations they may see on copies of scripts. Note that there may not be a direct correlation between the number of annotations on a script and the mark awarded. Similarly, the use of an annotation may not be an indication of the quality of the response. The annotations listed below were available to examiners marking this component in this series. Annotations Annotation Meaning Indicates a point which is relevant and rewardable. Indicates a point which is inaccurate/irrelevant and not rewardable. Indicates knowledge and understanding of the concepts and issues relating to the question. Indicates where application is made to an appropriate business context. Indicates where the answer has demonstrated analysis – questions 4, 5(a), 5(b), 6(a) and 6(b). Indicates where the answer has demonstrated evaluation – (Section B Part (b) questions only). Used when the benefit of the doubt is given in order to reward a response. Used when the answer or parts of the answer are not answering the question asked. Used when parts of the answer are considered to be too vague Indicates that content has been recognised but not rewarded.

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 7 of 32 Annotation Meaning Indicates where content has been repeated. Indicates a Level 1 point is made. Indicates a Level 2 point is made. Indicates a Level 3 point is made. Off page comment Used to view PE comments on practice scripts only – displayed at the bottom of the screen when clicking the comments button/toggle.

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 8 of 32 Guidance on using levels-based mark schemes Marking of work should be positive, rewarding achievement where possible, but clearly differentiating across the whole range of marks, where appropriate. The examiner should look at the work and then make a judgement about which level statement is the best fit. In practice, work does not always match one level statement precisely so a judgement may need to be made between two or more level statements. Once a best-fit level statement has been identified, use the following guidance to decide on a specific mark: • If the candidate’s work convincingly meets the level statement, award the highest mark. • If the candidate’s work adequately meets the level statement, award the most appropriate mark in the middle of the range. • If the candidate’s work just meets the level statement, award the lowest mark. • L1, L2 etc. must be clearly annotated on the response at the point where the level is achieved. Assessment objectives AO1 Knowledge and understanding Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of business concepts, terms and theories. AO2 Application Apply knowledge and understanding of business concepts, terms and theories to problems and issues in a variety of familiar and unfamiliar business situations and contexts. AO3 Analysis Analyse business problems, issues and situations by: • using appropriate methods and techniques to make sense of qualitative and quantitative business information • searching for causes, impact and consequences • distinguishing between factual evidence and opinion or value judgement • drawing valid inferences and making valid generalisations. AO4 Evaluation Evaluate evidence in order to make reasoned judgements, present substantiated conclusions and, where appropriate, make recommendations for action and implementation.

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 9 of 32 Mark Grids for Section A Used for Q1(a), Q2(a) and Q3(a) Two marks in total can be awarded for these questions. Ticks ( ) are used to show where the candidate has been given these marks. AO1 Knowledge and understanding Marks Knowledge of the term that demonstrates a clear understanding of the term. 2 Indicated by 2 where appropriate in the answer Knowledge of the term that demonstrates a partial understanding of the term. 1 Indicated by 1 where appropriate in the answer No creditable response. 0 Used for Q1(b), Q2(b) and Q3(b) Three marks in total can be awarded for these questions. Ticks ( ) are used to show where the candidate has been given these marks. AO1 Knowledge and understanding 1 mark AO2 Application 2 marks 2 marks Developed application of one relevant point to a business context. Indicated by a further where appropriate in the answer 1 mark Knowledge of one relevant point is used to answer the question. Indicated by 1 where appropriate in the answer 1 mark Limited application of one relevant point to a business context. Indicated by 1 where appropriate in the answer 0 marks No creditable response. 0 marks No creditable response.

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 10 of 32 Question Answer Marks 1(a) Define the term motivation. Indicative content AO1 Knowledge and understanding Clear understanding A clear definition that merits 2 marks should include reference to two out of the following three 1-mark responses (an acceptable definition will NOT use the word ‘motivate’ ) • The factors-such as stimulate, encourage, interest, leading to the desire of employees (1) providing a willingness to work, to work harder, to perform well, to achieve something, a goal/task or objective, become more efficient, more satisfied (1) with incentives such as money, promotion, job enrichment/rotation (1) Partial understanding • Why employees work hard (1) Accept all valid responses. 2

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 11 of 32 Question Answer Marks 1(b) Explain one benefit for a business of motivated employees. There are 3 marks for this question: 1 mark for 2 marks for Indicative content Responses may include: AO1 Knowledge and understanding 1 mark for identifying one BENEFIT for a business of motivated employees • Lower absenteeism • Better workplace culture • Employees work harder • Lower labour turnover • Employees more productive • Business objectives more likely to be achieved • Better customer service • Greater creativity/innovation ( motivated employees more likely to challenge, explore more creative options and collaborate with colleagues ) • Improved work relationships- more likely to accept change and less likely to take industrial action • Positive business reputation- motivated employees more likely to speak highly of the business • Higher sales- more profit 3

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 12 of 32 Question Answer Marks 1(b) AO2 Application 2 marks for developed of the benefit given 1 mark for limited of the benefit given • Disruption caused by absent employees is reduced • Positive work environment • Recruitment and training costs for the business are reduced • Better quality products or services due to more care being taken – a good standard of work – happier customers • Employees will match their personal objectives with those of the business. • Improved customer satisfaction leading to increase in repeat customers – less complaints – better reviews Accept all valid responses.

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 13 of 32 Question Answer Marks 2(a) Define the term incremental budgets. Indicative content AO1 Knowledge and understanding Clear understanding • Incremental budgeting is a budgeting process that involves developing a budget by making adjustments/changes to an existing or previous budget (2) Partial understanding • Setting this year`s budget based on last year`s budget (1) Accept all valid responses. 2

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 14 of 32 Question Answer Marks 2(b) Explain one advantage to a business of using variance analysis There are 3 marks for this question: 1 mark for 2 marks for Indicative content Responses may include: AO1 Knowledge and understanding 1 mark for identifying one advantage of using variance analysis • Gives a business more control • Clarifies accountability in a business • Improves accuracy of budgets • Improves financial decision making • Identifies areas for improvement. • Allows business to compare their estimated costs with their actual costs • Allows planning • Shows how to allocate resources • More effective strategy 3

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 15 of 32 Question Answer Marks 2(b) AO2 Application 2 marks for developed of the advantage given 1 mark for limited of the advantage given • Highlights areas of business needing attention • Helps in assessing management performance • Identifies potential problems early • Helps to monitor financial performance • Helps a business to budget more accurately in the future • Helps managers to respond to adverse or favourable variances • Identifies areas of over/under spending and spending not authorised • May lead to improved business efficiency • Helps to monitor success and failure • Helps to identify areas of underperformance • Helps strategic decisions/better planning • Provides fast financial information Accept all valid responses.

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 16 of 32 Question Answer Marks 3(a) Define the term Just in Time (JIT). Indicative content Responses may include: AO1 Knowledge and understanding Clear understanding NOTE: A clear definition that merits two marks should include reference to two out of the following three 1 mark responses: • The management of inventory (1) that ensures that new inventory arrives just when needed (1) removes the need for inventory to be held in storage until it is needed (1) Partial understanding • Where inventory is kept low (1) Accept all valid responses. 2

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 17 of 32 Question Answer Marks 3(b) Explain one disadvantage to a business of using Just in Time (JIT). There are 3 marks for this question: 1 mark for 2 marks for Indicative content Responses may include: AO1 Knowledge and understanding 1 mark for identifying one disadvantage of using JIT • Production process can be delayed when supplies do not arrive or are late • Frequent small deliveries needed • More planning ahead with suppliers required • Small orders need to be processed • Suppliers need to be reliable • Could be expensive • No discounts for bulk orders- no economies of scale • Unable to respond to unexpected customer demand • Can lead to stockouts 3

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 18 of 32 Question Answer Marks 3(b) AO2 Application 2 marks for developed of the disadvantage given 1 mark for limited of the disadvantage given • Any failure to receive supplies or components on time – could lead to production delays. • Frequent small deliveries – could lead to an increase in delivery costs. • Small orders need to be processed – administration costs may rise. • Each order is likely to be small – lose out on bulk discounts. • Suppliers need to be reliable – if not could affect reputation • Could be expensive to implement for small firms – increase costs • May require investment in new technology • Could lose sales/ revenue/profit Accept all valid responses.

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 19 of 32 Question Answer Marks 4 Analyse one advantage to a business of using mass marketing. There are 5 marks for this question: 1 mark for 2 marks for 2 marks for Indicative content Responses may include: AO1 Knowledge and understanding 1 mark for identifying one advantage to a business of using mass marketing • Business may secure economies of scale • Mass marketing may ensure cost effectiveness in business operations • Opportunity to secure significant sales • Opportunity to build and develop a brand • Opportunity to build and develop the business 5

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 20 of 32 Question Answer Marks 4 AO2 Application 2 marks for developed of the chosen advantage. 1 mark for limited of the chosen advantage. • Economies of scale – unlike niche marketing • Cost effective – when used to advertise products • Mass marketing campaigns can reach a large audience – via several channels. • Appeals to the total population – lead to more sales. • Can increase brand awareness – via several channels • Can save time with marketing campaigns – as don’t have to create new campaign for each different segment AO3 Analysis 2 marks for developed of the chosen advantage 1 mark for limited of the chosen advantage • Economies of scale can enable substantially lower average costs of production – increase profit margin. • The ability to target the whole market could lead to huge sales – and profits. • Brand awareness could become global – could lead to becoming market leader. • Time saved on marketing campaigns could be used in other ways to increase business efficiency. • Less prone to changing tastes – so a change in consumer buying habits may not impact sales. Accept all valid responses.

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 21 of 32 Question Answer Marks 5(a) Analyse two benefits to a business of using break-even analysis. There are 8 marks in total for Q5(a) 4 marks for each of the two benefits given. These 4 marks consist of 1 mark for 1 mark for 2 marks for Indicative content Responses may include: AO1 Knowledge and understanding 1 mark for identifying one benefit of using break-even analysis. • Provides crucial insights for business decisions • Provides information for a range of important business decisions • Shows whether a product is worth selling or too risky- such as new products, pricing, costs and production levels • Shows the amount of revenue a business will make at different levels of output • Assists in evaluating investment plans/decisions • Helps to analyse costs • Calculations are quick/easy • Helps set pricing strategy • Supports setting targets 8

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 22 of 32 Question Answer Marks 5(a) AO2 Application 1 mark for of a one benefit. • The use of break-even analysis in a business -indicates production volume required to cover costs/make profits • Allows informed decisions to be made on: Pricing • Cost management • Production levels • Overall business strategy • Relatively easy to calculate and understand – great for quick estimates. • Used to assist managers in decision making – location, equipment, projects. • The break-even analysis can be used in business plans to support loan applications • Really useful when launching new products or entering new markets AO3 Analysis 2 marks for developed of one benefit 1 mark for limited of one benefit • Break-even analysis can give a business an idea of whether the product is likely to be successful by analysing the costs involved and likely revenues. • The level of output for a desired level of profit can be determined • A break-even chart indicates the margin of safety. If the margin of safety is too low the business might reconsider its product(s) • Break even analysis can be used to assist managers when making important decisions such as location decisions, whether to buy new equipment, or invest in a project – so reduces the risk to the business. • A business might see that if a certain level of profit is to be achieved, costs might have to be reduced to make it possible • A change in price might also be indicated. If the desired profit is not achieved, then the price of the product might have to be increased. Accept all valid responses. The AN marks are recorded in the 5(a) AO3 box

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 23 of 32 Question Answer Marks 5(b) Evaluate whether cash flow forecasting is the most important activity for the success of a fashion clothing manufacturer There are 12 marks for Q5(b) 2 marks for 2 marks for 2 marks for 6 marks for Indicative content Responses may include: AO1 Knowledge and understanding 2 marks for developed knowledge and understanding 1 mark for limited knowledge and understanding • Cash flow forecasting-the process of obtaining an estimate/forecast of a business’s future cash position – anticipated payments and receivables in a given period of time • Clothing manufacturers convert raw materials into finished garments • Success may be measured in terms of quality of clothing, customer satisfaction, level of clothes purchased, reputation established, health of financial position, level of profit, amount of time in business. 12

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 24 of 32 Question Answer Marks 5(b) AO2 Application/Context 2 marks for developed application/context 1 mark for limited application/context • Success of a fashion clothing manufacturer very much concerned with following/creating the latest trends, fashions/fads in clothing, keeping pace with the latest fashion house changes in a range of different clothing items. • Fashion clothing manufacturers produce a variety of clothes such as trousers, skirts, dresses, jumpers, T-shirts. casual wear, evening wear, summer ware etc • Use different materials-cotton, wool, leather • Creativity/innovation in clothing design work AO3 Analysis 2 marks for developed analysis 1 mark for limited analysis • A CFF can provide an early warning system for a business – future shortfalls in cash balances – allows a business to take informed business decisions, such as overdraft provision or short-term loan • If a business runs out of cash, it may face insolvency. A CFF can indicate the correct time to take action. • CFF enables a business to track expected cash movements over a period of time in the future – provides a degree of certainty in possible turbulent times – allows well planned decisions to be made • CFF is a strategic tool for a new business – gives information for development of plans for survival and growth • A cash flow forecast may be useful for external stakeholders – such as banks, may want to look at CFF at regular intervals in order to support a business plan.

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 25 of 32 Question Answer Marks 5(b) AO4 Evaluation AO4 Evaluation: Up to 6 marks for evaluation: Developed/Supported judgement in context 6 marks Developed/Reasonable evaluative comments in context 5 marks Developed/Supported judgement without context 4 marks Developed/Reasonable evaluative comments without context 3 marks Limited supported judgement 2 marks An attempt to balance the arguments/Weak attempt at evaluative comments 1 mark A judgement/conclusion is made as to the importance of cash flow forecasting for the success of a new restaurant. Such judgements/conclusions may be made at any point in the essay, not only in a concluding section. • A judgement is made as to whether activities other than CFF could/should be considered as important or more important in affecting a new clothing manufacturer’s ability to succeed. • A judgement is made as to what is meant by success and when to take the measure • Alternative measures of success are judged to be – perception of the quality of the clothes – brand image – desirability of clothes – strength/weakness of the economy – ability to react to changes in trends – retailer/supplier relationships • A judgement is made regarding the significance of cash control and CFF for a new clothing manufacturer in relation to other factors. • Is CFF as important as market research or monitoring trends and fashions in clothing? Accept all valid responses. NOTE: The marks for 5(b) are recorded in the mark input column on the right-hand side of the screen. K marks are entered in the 5b AO1 box APP marks are entered in the 5b AO2 box AN marks are entered in the 5b AO3 box EVAL marks are entered in the 5b AO4 box

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 26 of 32 Question Answer Marks 6(a) Analyse two advantages to a business of making ethical decisions. There are 8 marks in total for Q6(a) 4 marks for each advantage given. These 4 marks consist of 1 mark for 1 mark for 2 marks for Indicative content Responses may include: AO1 Knowledge and understanding 1 mark for identifying one advantage • Enhanced business reputation • Increased employee morale • Improved customer trust/loyalty • Mitigate legal risks/pressure group criticism • Positive social impact • May give competitive advantage • Ensures long term sustainability • Ensures business success • Attracts more investors • Government support • Higher sales • Attracts employees • Reduce costs • Reduce conflict between employees 8

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 27 of 32 Question Answer Marks 6(a) AO2 Application 1 mark for of the chosen way. Repeat this for the chosen advantage • Paying fair/living wages – not employ child labour • Committing to sustainability – reduce carbon footprint, recycle, energy efficiency • Using Fairtrade suppliers – pay fair price for goods • Reducing workforce without layoffs – through consultation with unions • Reduce pollution – use more eco-friendly machines • Limit advertising to children/parents – ‘pester power’ • Not take bribes – written into code of conduct • Investors feel that their money is being used in a responsible way AO3 Analysis 2 marks for developed analysis of the chosen analysis 1 mark for limited analysis of the chosen analysis • Can lead to good publicity and brand image/usp – customers may become loyal • Attract ethical customers – a potentially increasing customer base in today’s market • Ethical businesses are more likely to be awarded government contracts – increase revenue • Well qualified staff may be attracted to work for businesses who are the most ethical – competitive advantage. • Fosters a culture of fairness and respect within the business – help reduce labour turnover and increase efficiency. • Improves the public image of the business – people want to work there, customers want to purchase goods, investment • Improves the bottom line of the business – loyal customers – increased profits • Appeals to shareholders as there is a growing number of ethical investors – greater investment Accept all valid responses.

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 28 of 32 Question Answer Marks 6(b) ‘Employees are the most important stakeholder group in a primary sector oil and gas business.’ Evaluate this view. There are 12 marks for Q6(b) 2 marks for 2 marks for 2 marks for 6 marks for Indicative content Responses may include: AO1 Knowledge and understanding 2 marks for developed knowledge and understanding 1 mark for limited knowledge and understanding • Stakeholders are persons who have an interest in/are affected by a business, such as owners, shareholders, customers, suppliers, employees, local communities, government, special interest groups • Primary sector oil and gas businesses exist in the energy sector and often span many countries with huge revenues and profits. • They engage in the exploration and extraction of oil and gas. 12

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 29 of 32 Question Answer Marks 6(b) AO2 Application 2 marks for developed application/context 1 mark for limited application/context • Employees are important as they provide skilled labour and without them the business would not be able to operate and make profits. • Employees ensure new sites are found, oil and gas is extracted efficiently and safely. • Primary sector oil and gas industries can be dangerous and risky- health and safety policies needed to protect employees • Oil and gas sector produce energy services to power vehicles, heat homes and manufacture steel • Sold to petrol/gas stations AO3 Analysis 2 marks for developed analysis 1 mark for limited analysis • If the workforce is unhappy about a change in work practices though it might reduce costs in the short run, it may be detrimental if a demotivated workforce affects the quality of production. • If there is strong trade union membership then strike action may occur if demands are not met – this would affect image, stop production, delay deliveries. • Good relationships with employees would improve morale and motivate – lead to improved productivity and lower staff turnover • Skilled employees ensure that the business is able to locate and extract the raw materials (oil) thus ensuring sales revenue and profits.

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 30 of 32 Question Answer Marks 6(b) AO4 Evaluation: Up to 6 marks for evaluation: Developed/Supported judgement in context 6 marks Developed/Reasonable evaluative comments in context 5 marks Developed/Supported judgement without context 4 marks Developed/Reasonable evaluative comments without context 3 marks Limited supported judgement 2 marks An attempt to balance the arguments/Weak attempt at evaluative comments 1 mark A judgement/conclusion is made as to the view that the main reason for new business failure is the pursuit of growth too quickly. Such judgements/conclusions may be made at any point in the essay, not just in a concluding section. • A judgement is made that there are a number of factors that impact on the importance of employees as stakeholders such as how strong trade unions are, how skilled they are and how easy it is to find new employees. • If employees are easy to recruit i.e. unemployment is high, then employee’s importance might not be too significant. • Business might place more importance on keeping shareholders happy with dividends. • A judgement is made that most businesses need to balance the needs of all stakeholders for a successful business especially a business as large and complex as those in the oil and gas primary sector. • A judgement is made that in the modern era local communities are more willing to protest if their local community will potentially be polluted and the resulting negative impact in the news. This however may depend on which country the business is operating in. • A judgement is made that pressure groups are becoming more visible and any business would be foolish not to take them seriously as the impact on brand image and the ability to operate can be significant especially in light of global warming. • A judgement is made to that very often compromises need to be made in business with negotiations occurring with all stakeholder groups. • How important are other stakeholders such as shareholders, local communities, suppliers, governments? Accept all valid responses.

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 31 of 32 Mark Grids for Section B Used for Q5(a) and Q6(a) Level AO1 Knowledge and understanding 2 marks AO2 Application 2 marks AO3 Analysis 4 marks 2 3–4 marks Developed analysis • Developed analysis that identifies connections between causes, impacts and/or consequences of two points. • Developed analysis that identifies connections between causes, impacts and/or consequences of one point. 1 1–2 marks • Knowledge of two relevant points is used to answer the question. • Knowledge of one relevant point is used to answer the question. 1–2 marks • Application of two relevant points to a business context. • Application of one relevant point to a business context. 1–2 marks Limited analysis • Limited analysis that identifies connections between causes, impacts and/or consequences of two points. • Limited analysis that identifies connections between causes, impacts and/or consequences of one point. 0 0 marks No creditable response. 0 marks No creditable response. 0 marks No creditable response.

9609/13 Cambridge International AS & A Level – Mark Scheme PUBLISHED May/June 2025 © Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025 Page 32 of 32 Mark Grids for Section B Used for Q5(b) and Q6(b) Level AO1 Knowledge and understanding 2 marks AO2 Application 2 marks AO3 Analysis 2 marks AO4 Evaluation 6 marks 3 5–6 marks Developed evaluation in context • A developed judgement/conclusion is made in the business context. • Developed evaluative comments which balance some key arguments in the business context. 2 2 marks Developed knowledge of relevant key term(s) and/or factor(s) is used to answer the question. 2 marks Developed application of relevant point(s) to the business context. 2 marks Developed analysis that identifies connections between causes, impacts and/or consequences. 3–4 marks Developed evaluation • A developed judgement/conclusion is made. • Developed evaluative comments which balance some key arguments. 1 1 mark Limited knowledge of relevant key term(s) and/or factor(s) is used to answer the question. 1 mark Limited application of relevant point(s) to the business context. 1 mark Limited analysis that identifies connections between causes, impacts and/or consequences. 1–2 marks Limited evaluation • A judgement/conclusion is made with limited supporting comment/evidence. • An attempt is made to balance the arguments. 0 0 marks No creditable response. 0 marks No creditable response. 0 marks No creditable response. 0 marks No creditable response.