Strategic Innovation and Emerging Markets: Trends, Issues and Future Directions

A special issue of Administrative Sciences (ISSN 2076-3387). This special issue belongs to the section "Strategic Management".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 March 2025 | Viewed by 19684

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Romanian Academy, Branch of Iași – “Gh. Zane” Institute for Economic and Social Research, 700050 Iași, Romania
Interests: sustainable development; international trade; human resources management; inequality; tourism; sustainable economic growth; economic policies
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

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Guest Editor
Department of Management, Marketing and Business Administration, Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iași, 700505 Iași, Romania
Interests: business administration in tourism; hospitality and tourism management
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

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Guest Editor
Romanian Academy, Branch of Iași – “Gh. Zane” Institute for Economic and Social Research, 700050 Iași, Romania
Interests: economics (international tourism; cultural tourism; development; business administration)

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The reality of today is, to a certain extent, the result of innovation processes, and the challenges facing all countries around the world, especially the developing ones, require innovation efforts. In an interconnected world, in the future of which a whole series of challenges, crises (economic, energy, environmental, food, etc.) and, implicitly, risks are to be expected, sustainable growth and development will depend on innovation processes. These make it possible to design revolutionary technologies and create the necessary framework for adaptation to change. Rethinking and updating development strategies is central to the concerns of economic policy makers and entrepreneurs, as evidenced by multi-directional approaches and combined effort, because the result of strategic innovations adds value to the economy of companies, countries, regions and, at the same time, globally. By optimizing the economic and social structure, strategic innovation supports the comparative and competitive advantages of developing countries that they need to correct systemic imbalances and ensure their sustainable growth and development.

Increasing the importance of markets in developing countries, connecting them to the global market, and improving their ability to adapt to rapid change all require investment efforts to ensure their optimal ability to compete with competitive entities in developed countries.

The approach to this category of countries should cover as wide a range of scientific fields as possible, some of which should be given priority, and should also cover as wide a time horizon as possible. Therefore, we invite you to participate in the study of strategic innovations in developing countries, by identifying trends, issues and future directions. We appreciate well-documented theoretical and empirical approaches, well anchored in the economic and social reality of developing markets. Multidisciplinary studies are also welcome.

Dr. Alina-Petronela Haller
Dr. Gina Ionela Butnaru
Dr. Georgia-Daniela Tacu Hârșan
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • strategic innovation 
  • developing markets 
  • economic growth 
  • development 
  • digitization 
  • economic policy 
  • crisis 
  • sustainability 
  • entrepreneurship 
  • tourism 
  • hospitality 
  • marketing 
  • management 
  • economic and social forecasting 
  • business administration

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Published Papers (8 papers)

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Research

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20 pages, 1237 KiB  
Article
No Interaction, No Problem? An Investigation of Organizational Issues in the University–Industry–Government Triad in a Transition Economy
by Matteo Landoni and Nijat Muradzada
Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(10), 246; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14100246 - 4 Oct 2024
Viewed by 36
Abstract
Transition economies, on the one hand, grapple with a communist legacy; on the other hand, they seek the optimal institutionalization for knowledge generation, dissemination, and commercialization to compete globally. However, the incumbent knowledge of certain aspects of their innovation systems remains very limited. [...] Read more.
Transition economies, on the one hand, grapple with a communist legacy; on the other hand, they seek the optimal institutionalization for knowledge generation, dissemination, and commercialization to compete globally. However, the incumbent knowledge of certain aspects of their innovation systems remains very limited. In particular, intra-organizational cultural relics of the past and their inter-organizational and, consequently, systemic implications require research. This study examines how interaction barriers among universities, industry, and government, stemming from intra-organizational cultures, impact structural change in the innovation system of Azerbaijan. Utilizing the TH model, interviews with 59 participants revealed that a “Statist” TH model in Azerbaijan hinders organic cultural development within organizations, leading to interaction issues among TH actors. Moreover, problems in inter-organizational communication pave the way for a systemic failure that necessitates government intervention, strengthening the “Statist” TH model. The findings increase the context sensitivity of the TH framework by exploring an understudied context and provide valuable insights relevant to other transition economies facing similar institutional legacies. Full article
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22 pages, 1190 KiB  
Article
Competing in Innovation-Intensive Environments: The Role of Soft Power, Learning, and CEO Heuristics
by Cristina O. Vlas, Bruno Barreto de Góes, Radu E. Vlas and Eugene See
Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(8), 169; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14080169 - 7 Aug 2024
Viewed by 519
Abstract
We start by exploring how the interplay of soft power and learning levers helps firms address competitive uncertainty in innovation-intensive environments (IIEs). We then theorize that firms’ motivation to pursue a specific combination of soft power and learning tactics in IIEs is shaped [...] Read more.
We start by exploring how the interplay of soft power and learning levers helps firms address competitive uncertainty in innovation-intensive environments (IIEs). We then theorize that firms’ motivation to pursue a specific combination of soft power and learning tactics in IIEs is shaped by CEO regulatory focus. The analysis of a panel of IIE firms supports our theorizing and reveals that accounting for CEO regulatory focus is elemental to the understanding of firms’ performance heterogeneity in such environments. We conclude that a perspective focused on a combination of soft power and learning tactics is better fitted to explain firms’ performance in environments plagued by extreme uncertainty compared to traditional theoretical lenses. Our main contribution is to the study of performance in innovation-intensive environments. Full article
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17 pages, 711 KiB  
Article
The Impact of CEO Retention on Post-Merger Integration: Insights from Chegg in the Ed-Tech Industry
by Chaewon Kim, Dakyung Jung, Jiwon Sung, Young Hae Hwang and Seungho Choi
Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(6), 130; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14060130 - 19 Jun 2024
Viewed by 645
Abstract
This study examines the crucial role of chief executive officers (CEOs) in post-acquisition integration, focusing on Chegg, a prominent ed-tech company in a rapidly evolving industry. Analyzing CEO actions post-acquisition through interviews and metrics, we find that a three-year CEO retention period significantly [...] Read more.
This study examines the crucial role of chief executive officers (CEOs) in post-acquisition integration, focusing on Chegg, a prominent ed-tech company in a rapidly evolving industry. Analyzing CEO actions post-acquisition through interviews and metrics, we find that a three-year CEO retention period significantly contributes to successful integration at Chegg. This research emphasizes the importance of understanding ideal CEO retention and their strategic actions, offering insights for more successful post-acquisition integration and long-term economic benefits. Full article
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27 pages, 946 KiB  
Article
Understanding the Role of Brand Attachment in the Automotive Luxury Brand Segment
by Abílio Bragança Milheiro, Bruno Barbosa Sousa, Vasco Ribeiro Santos, Catarina Bragança Milheiro and Estela Vilhena
Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(6), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14060119 - 5 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1078
Abstract
The automotive trade is one of the main drivers of world economies, contributing to the sustainability and competitiveness of countries at a global level. The luxury sub-segment is the one facing the most significant growth and the one which presents the greatest challenges [...] Read more.
The automotive trade is one of the main drivers of world economies, contributing to the sustainability and competitiveness of countries at a global level. The luxury sub-segment is the one facing the most significant growth and the one which presents the greatest challenges in the business-to-consumer (B2C) relationship. Brand Attachment refers to the cognitive and effective connection between consumers and “their” brands. The central objective of this research is to analyze, measure, and understand the impact of Brand Attachment on consumer behavior, in the specific context of the luxury segment of the automotive market. The conceptual model that is proposed seeks to highlight and study the possible connections and associations between Brand Attachment, satisfaction, commitment, trust, expectations, and loyalty with the brand selected for this study, the luxury automotive brand Porsche. The selected methodology was based on a case study based in the Portuguese market and the application of a questionnaire to customers of Porsche from Portugal. The results obtained through the empirical data allowed us to reach the conclusion that respondents who have a stronger affective and emotional connection with Porsche (intense level of Brand Attachment) tend to be those who are more satisfied and confident with the brand and are, consequently, more loyal. This study represents an important contribution to research on Brand Attachment in marketing and strategic management in the automotive sector, particularly in the Portuguese market, and supports the definition of the best marketing strategies to promote fruitful B2C relationships. Full article
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20 pages, 2209 KiB  
Article
Importance of CEO Attention in Influencing Incumbent Responses to Disruptive Innovation
by Heesun Gha, Min Young Kim, Hyeon Jin Ro and Seungho Choi
Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(6), 142; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13060142 - 29 May 2023
Viewed by 3239
Abstract
This study investigates incumbent firm responses to disruptive innovation in the rapidly evolving South Korean retail industry. The study explores the factors behind an incumbent firm’s decision-making processes when responding to disruptive innovation and examines the reasons behind varied incumbent responses. It investigates [...] Read more.
This study investigates incumbent firm responses to disruptive innovation in the rapidly evolving South Korean retail industry. The study explores the factors behind an incumbent firm’s decision-making processes when responding to disruptive innovation and examines the reasons behind varied incumbent responses. It investigates the agents that influence a firm’s decision by conducting the qualitative case study of a South Korean retail giant, Lotte. By collecting archival data from various sources, this paper was able to analyze different interviews and statements of the chief executive officer (CEO). From the analysis, it was determined that the firm’s overall actions were aligned with the CEO’s assertions. Thus, this paper asserts that Lotte’s response to disruptive innovation was directly influenced by the CEO’s attention. The results of this study further add to the discourse of disruptive innovation by highlighting the importance of CEO discretion in deciding a firm’s direction and by further emphasizing the relationship between managerial leadership and innovation. Full article
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17 pages, 1487 KiB  
Article
A Decision-Making Model for Selecting Product Suppliers in Crop Protection Retail Sector
by Byungok Ahn and Boyoung Kim
Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(4), 97; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13040097 - 25 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2135
Abstract
This study aims to determine the importance of factors affecting supplier selection in the pesticide distribution sector as a global emerging market and present a decision-making model for the corporate marketing strategy. Specifically, a comparative study between suppliers and retail distribution experts was [...] Read more.
This study aims to determine the importance of factors affecting supplier selection in the pesticide distribution sector as a global emerging market and present a decision-making model for the corporate marketing strategy. Specifically, a comparative study between suppliers and retail distribution experts was conducted to compare differences in the perception of supplier selection factors according to organizational characteristics. Based on previous studies, a decision-making model based on the AHP methodology was constructed with a total of 20 factors in five areas: product quality, price, flexibility, promotion support, and brand. Then, 42 Korean experts were surveyed to measure the importance of these factors. The results showed that product quality is the most critical factor in supplier selection, followed by price, brand, promotional support, and flexibility, in that order. Manufacturers consider product quality as the most important factor, while retailers consider price as the most important factor. Among the 20 factors, ‘quality excellence’, ‘expected return’, and ‘technological competitiveness’ were found to be the most important factors. In addition, while manufacturers considered factors such as ‘corporate reputation’ and ‘corporate trust’ as more important, retailers considered factors related to product characteristics, such as ‘product awareness’ and ‘brand reputation’ as more important. Full article
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10 pages, 367 KiB  
Article
The Effect of Social Media Activities on Brand Loyalty for Banks: The Role of Brand Trust
by Sulaiman Althuwaini
Adm. Sci. 2022, 12(4), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci12040148 - 27 Oct 2022
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 6885
Abstract
The aim of this research was to examine the impact of social media marketing activities on brand trust and brand loyalty in the banking sector. Based on an online survey of 252 users who follow banking services suppliers on social media located in [...] Read more.
The aim of this research was to examine the impact of social media marketing activities on brand trust and brand loyalty in the banking sector. Based on an online survey of 252 users who follow banking services suppliers on social media located in Saudi Arabia, data were gleaned and analyzed via Smart-PLS (3.0). The findings showed that social media marketing activities, namely customization, entertainment, and promotions, were reported to have the highest impact on trust and loyalty. This study emphasizes the role of trust as mediating brand loyalty in social media marketing. The implications for marketing managerial and future research are discussed. Full article
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Review

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19 pages, 1856 KiB  
Review
“The Dark Side of the Brand” and Brand Hate: A Review and Future Research Agenda
by Cícero Eduardo Walter, Vera Teixeira Vale, Manuel Au-Yong-Oliveira, Cláudia Miranda Veloso and Bruno Barbosa Sousa
Adm. Sci. 2023, 13(11), 234; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci13110234 - 1 Nov 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3346
Abstract
The present study aimed to analyze the current state of the art regarding brand hate with the main intention of identifying possible gaps to be explored in future studies. Brand hate can be described as a set of negative emotions on the part [...] Read more.
The present study aimed to analyze the current state of the art regarding brand hate with the main intention of identifying possible gaps to be explored in future studies. Brand hate can be described as a set of negative emotions on the part of consumers concerning a certain brand, whose implications involve a reduction in the profitability of companies, as well as of their market shares. From the research carried out in the Scopus and Web of Science databases, 90 publications related to the theme were identified, of which 25 were selected and read in full. The analyzed literature points out that research on the subject has focused almost exclusively on the development of the phenomenon and its consequences from the perspective of consumer behavior. Therefore, the emphasis has been on identifying its direct antecedents, on the effects of its mediators in a set of behaviors such as complaints, negative word of mouth, protests, sponsorship reduction and assignment, brand change, and wishes for revenge, among others. Few studies have been dedicated to understanding the direct effects of brand hate on consumer behavior, its evolution over time in different industries and contexts, who its mediators are, and how the phenomenon is perceived and managed from the perspective of the companies involved in this phenomenon, providing opportunities for future research. Full article
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