Final answer:
Suppliers adopt ISO 9000 standards to meet manufacturers' requirements and to establish a reputable market presence, as it assures consistency in quality, which is critical for maintaining customer trust and securing repeat business. The WTO's stance on environmental issues does not directly influence the adoption of these standards.
Step-by-step explanation:
Many suppliers are adopting ISO 9000 standards because manufacturers are requiring them to do so. The adoption of these standards is not primarily due to retail customer preferences, a fad for adding perceived value, being perceived as eco-friendly, or specific expectations by the World Trade Organization (WTO). Rather, the importance of establishing a good reputation for quality and reliability in the marketplace is a driving factor. Manufacturers desire suppliers that can consistently meet quality standards, which can lead to repeat business and recommendations from satisfied customers.
The emphasis on reputation is significant because purchasers, aware of a firm's quality concerns, are less likely to worry about receiving a substandard product. Companies with strong reputations can often command higher prices, reflecting the trust in their product or service quality. Although the WTO is attentive to environmental issues, ISO 9000 focuses on quality management systems that help ensure supplies meet customer and regulatory requirements; it doesn't specifically address environmental standards.