Secondary stakeholder
A secondary stakeholder, in Clarkson’s classification, can affect or be affected by the organisation without its participation being essential to immediate organisational survival. The category can include some media or campaigning groups, depending on the relationship. Secondary does not mean unimportant: such groups can strongly influence reputation, regulation or other stakeholders. Legal and ethical responsibilities do not disappear because a group receives this label.
Worked example
A campaigning group is not an essential trading partner but can influence customers’ views of a business. Its potential influence remains relevant even if classified as secondary.
Common mistake
Do not automatically put suppliers or lenders in this category, or assume secondary means indirect harm can be ignored.
Where it appears in your exams
| Qualification | Exam | Relationship | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACCA | SBL | Supporting | September 2026–June 2027 |