Search Results (346)

This study investigates critical research gaps in procurement management challenges faced by Chinese contractors in international engineering–procurement–construction (EPC) projects under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), with a particular focus on sustainability-oriented outcomes. It examines the following: (1) prevalent procurement inefficiencies, such as communication delays and material shortages, encountered in international EPC projects; (2) the role of supply chain INTEGRATION in enhancing procurement performance; (3) the application of social network analysis (SNA) to reveal inter-organizational relationships in procurement systems; and (4) the influence of stakeholder collaboration on achieving efficient and sustainable procurement processes. The findings demonstrate that effective supply chain integration significantly improves procurement efficiency, reduces delays, and lowers costs, thereby contributing to more sustainable project delivery. Strong collaboration and transparent communication among key stakeholders—including contractors, suppliers, subcontractors, and designers—are shown to be essential for mitigating procurement risks and supporting resilient supply chain operations. SNA results highlight the critical roles of central stakeholders and their relational structures in optimizing resource allocation and enhancing risk management capabilities. Evidence from case studies further indicates that Chinese contractors increasingly adopt sustainability-oriented practices, such as just-in-time inventory management, strategic supplier relationship management, and digital procurement platforms, to reduce inefficiencies and environmental impacts. Overall, this study underscores that supply chain INTEGRATION, combined with robust stakeholder collaboration, is a key enabler of sustainable procurement and long-term competitiveness for Chinese contractors in the global EPC market. The purpose of this study is to identify critical procurement management challenges and propose evidence-based solutions for Chinese contractors. It further aims to develop a sustainability-oriented framework integrating supply chain integration and stakeholder collaboration to enhance competitiveness. Full article

In recent years, the application of augmented reality digital technology in brands has transformed the way consumers interact with brands. This study focuses on the impact of augmented reality (AR) technology on consumption behavior and brand communication related to intangible cultural heritage products, integrating the TAM and UTAUT2 theories to construct a research model. This study employed a time–location sampling method, utilizing SPSS and AMOS software for data analysis based on valid questionnaires completed by 305 AR-experiencing consumers in Changsha City, Hunan Province. Results indicate that the presence and novelty of AR technology significantly and positively influence consumers’ attitudes toward using AR technology, which in turn affects their purchase intent, social media sharing behavior, and brand attitudes. The study confirms that emotional factors and consumer perceptions play a guiding and decisive role in the new consumption reality enabled by AR technology. These research findings have practical significance and value for ICH brand building and AR marketing, demonstrating that AR is an effective means to enhance the visibility and influence of the ICH brand. They inject new vitality into promoting more sustainable ICH protection and popularization, as well as the development of the digital creative industry. Full article

Financialisation has an increasing influence on the functioning of non-financial enterprises. It is therefore important to examine whether and to what extent food sector enterprises are subject to the process of financialisation. The research objective was to determine the level of financialisation of food industry enterprises in Poland in relation to the whole industry sector. To achieve this objective, the following research hypothesis was formulated: the process of financialisation of food industry enterprises proceeds similarly to the analogous process undergoing in industrial enterprises but varies across different sectors of the food industry. The research was conducted on the basis of statistical data from Statistics Poland (SP) published in various statistical studies. Financial data from 2010 to 2023 were analysed. For this purpose, research tools used in the paper are referred to in the literature as measures of the level of financialisation, so-called balance sheet indicators. The main limitation of the research is that the results can only be applied to countries with similar economic conditions, especially post-communist countries, and that balance sheet indicators are used to measure financialisation, which, although widely used, are limited in their effectiveness because they focus only on balance sheet data. The results support the research hypothesis. The companies in the analysed industries are characterised by a low level of financialisation. The process of financialisation of food industry companies is similar to the one in industrial companies and is more intense in beverage production than in other food industry sectors. There is room for a sustainable financing policy. The results indicate that there is room for higher financing of food industry enterprises in Poland, but excessive financing may lead to excessive concentration and monopolisation of enterprises and even to speculation on agricultural markets. To maintain financial stability, it will be important to pursue a stable monetary policy, limit the risk of food price volatility, improve communication and coordination in international monetary policy, and increase national food self-sufficiency. This study fills a research gap in understanding the process of financialisation, assessing its degree of advancement and diversity in the main sectors of food processing enterprises. Full article

The electronic word of mouth (eWOM) has emerged as a communication tool that significantly influences consumers’ attitudes and purchasing behavior in the online market. Research indicates that the effect of eWOM sources, such as (strong ties, weak ties, and influencers) varies in terms of perceived value components (price, quality, emotional, and social value) and purchase intention, particularly with regard to gender. This study, which is based on the SOR framework; examines the role of eWOM as a stimulus affecting student responses and considers the mediating role of perceived value components and the moderate effect of gender. A sample of 901 students from Westbank universities was analyzed using Smart PLS software. The findings reveal that strong ties and influencer eWOM are positively associated with perceived value components and purchase intention, while weak tie eWOM does not directly correlate with purchase intention. Mediation analyses show that perceived quality and social value act as mediators of purchase intent towards eWOM sources, while emotional value specifically mediates strong relationships and influencers. Notably, price value exerts only a mediating effect on purchase intention when communicated through influencers, highlighting the unique role of the influencer in shaping price perceptions and its broad impact on all components of perceived value. Gender differences were observed in students’ responses to eWOM content; particularly in terms of price, quality, and emotional appeal but not in terms of social factors. The outcomes of this study underscore the significance of considering both the source of the message and the characteristics of the audience when formulating targeted marketing strategies. Full article

Grounded in Social Impact Theory, this study examines the effects of virtual experiences generated by Mere Virtual Presence (MVP), Mere Virtual Presence with Product Experience (MVPE), and pure brand websites on consumers’ brand attitudes and purchase intentions. Additionally, it explores the moderating roles of Consumers’ Need for Uniqueness (CNFU) and product type (search vs. experience products). This study adopts an experimental design with three brand website types (MVP brand communities, MVPE brand communities, and pure brand websites) and two product types to examine the hypothesis. Specifically, a 3 (brand website type) × 2 (product type) experimental design was implemented to examine the influence of brand website types across different scenarios of online marketing. The findings reveal significant insights into consumer brand marketing. Specifically, consumers with low CNFU exhibited higher brand attitudes and purchase intentions compared to those with high CNFU when engaging with search products in MVPE brand communities Furthermore, fan avatars within a virtual brand community can still influence consumer perceptions even without direct interaction. These insights contribute to the growing body of research on personalized marketing and offer practical strategies for leveraging eWOM to enhance consumer engagement and influence decision-making in the digital landscape. Full article

This study uses the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM), a quantitative approach, with interval regression and Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) models to assess the non-use values of the Zhongjieshan and Liuheng Marine Ranches. The aim of the study is to quantify the monetary value of non-market benefits, examine socioeconomic influences on stakeholders’ Willingness to Pay (WTP), and provide a basis for ecological compensation mechanisms. Zhongjieshan’s annual non-use value is estimated at 28.99–30.81 million CNY (Chinese Yuan) (median WTP 74.33–78.99 CNY per person), while Liuheng’s value is higher at 108–111 million CNY (median WTP 150.20–153.89 CNY per person), suggesting greater ecological and recreational potential at Liuheng. The results show robust model performance, with minimal WTP differences. WTP for Liuheng is primarily influenced by income and environmental awareness, while Zhongjieshan shows a distance-decay effect. Visitor profiles reveal that Zhongjieshan attracts younger, moderately educated visitors, while Liuheng draws more highly educated, economically diverse groups. These findings suggest that Zhongjieshan should prioritize community-based co-management, while Liuheng should focus on high-quality, technology-driven ecological leisure development. The study also emphasizes the need for targeted awareness campaigns and supports the creation of diversified ecological compensation mechanisms beyond government funding. Full article

Pacific Island communities have long navigated the challenges of climate change. Supporting adaptation options is critical for protecting livelihoods, especially given that these countries will continue to unfairly bear the brunt of global climate change impacts. Understanding and strengthening the capacity of individuals and communities to adapt is vital to ensure effective options are available. However, adaptive capacity is highly context-specific and explicit examples, particularly from the Pacific, remain limited. This study focuses on the experiences of women market vendors, for whom marketplaces are integral to food security, income generation, and cultural and social life. Building on existing global and regional frameworks, we assess the adaptive capacity of market vendors across Vanuatu through interviews with women market vendors (n = 69) and key informants (n = 18). The findings informed the development of a new, tailored adaptive capacity framework that identifies six key drivers: access to tangible resources, human assets, social assets, livelihood diversity and flexibility, systems of influence and mindsets, and decision-making capacity. This study presents a context-specific framework grounded in empirical evidence, offering insights for development and adaptation initiatives that aim to strengthen adaptive capacity. We encourage further research to apply and refine this framework across diverse Pacific contexts and sectors to deepen understanding of adaptive capacity and inform effective adaptation strategies. Full article

This study explores how digital and traditional marketing tools influence higher education students’ career decision-making, satisfaction, and career commitment during students’ educational trajectories in Iraq’s rapidly expanding university sector. Using an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design, a survey of 622 students was analysed with partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM), followed by 24 semi-structured interviews with marketing and recruitment professionals. The quantitative findings show that students’ first-choice preferences, demographic factors, and engagement with LinkedIn, WeChat, blogs, and university webpages significantly shaped their career choices and satisfaction levels. Qualitative insights reveal that authenticity, transparent communication, and alignment between institutional messaging and lived experiences were key to sustaining trust. Traditional channels such as brochures and fairs remained important for credibility, supporting a hybrid marketing approach. The study contributes to management theory and practice in universities by linking digital communication strategies to student engagement and institutional performance. It also highlights the need for inclusive, transparent, and culturally adaptive marketing that reflects local and global contexts. These findings provide actionable guidance for higher education administrators seeking to build sustainable student trust, enhance recruitment effectiveness, and strengthen institutional reputation in competitive and resource-constrained systems. Full article

This study investigates why Generation Z in Surabaya remains reluctant to live in vertical housing despite strong urbanization pressures and policy promotion. Using an explanatory sequential mixed-methods approach with 340 respondents aged 18–27, the research identifies five key factors influencing preferences: physical environment, psychological-social concerns, social status and stress, economic considerations, and cultural accommodation. Factor analysis explains 45.1% of total variance, while structural equation modeling reveals that physical environment preferences play a central mediating role. Economic factors affect psychological-social concerns both directly and indirectly, and cultural accommodation strongly shapes social status perceptions but does not directly influence physical preferences. Qualitative analysis of 411 statements shows consistently negative psychological themes, predominantly negative economic sentiments, and more balanced views of physical attributes. Subgroup analysis reveals stronger economic effects among early-career professionals than students. The findings challenge purely rational housing choice models, demonstrating that cultural and economic factors shape psychological acceptance through indirect pathways. Recommendations include culturally sensitive designs (flexible guest rooms, communal gathering spaces), innovative ownership schemes (rent-to-own, cooperative models), and reframed marketing emphasizing lifestyle enablement rather than amenity features. Full article

This paper examines the forecasting and modelling of consumer demand for organic agricultural products in the context of sustainable development and digital marketing. The study is based on an online survey of 423 consumers in Ukraine and Slovakia and applies factor analysis, regression modelling, and scenario forecasting. The results indicate that demand formation is driven by a combination of economic, social, and behavioural factors, with income level, price sensitivity, trust in certification, and awareness of organic benefits playing a central role. The findings further confirm that digital marketing tools significantly influence purchasing decisions by enhancing information transparency and strengthening consumer trust. From a theoretical perspective, the study contributes to the literature by integrating economic determinants of demand with digital marketing and sustainability-related factors within a unified analytical framework. From a managerial perspective, the results provide practical guidance for organic producers and marketers regarding the communication of environmental value and the effective use of digital channels to stimulate demand and build long-term consumer loyalty. The novelty of the study lies in the combined application of demand modelling and digital marketing analysis within a comparative cross-country context, offering an integrated approach to forecasting organic product demand and supporting the development of sustainable marketing strategies. Full article

Recent policy reports and state briefs continue to highlight the trend of out-migration from California. This outflow has been pronounced over the last three years, revealing a substantial net loss (i.e., net migration) of approximately 740,000 residents. However, there has been comparatively less emphasis on new residents moving to California. Over the past decade, California has attracted substantial in-migration from both domestic and international sources with annual inflows often exceeding 300,000 individuals. As such, studying in-migration is noteworthy as it shapes economic, political, and social landscapes. In-migration can alter the demographic profiles of regions, thereby impacting community dynamics, cultural diversity, and the provision of social services. Using pooled data from the American Community Survey (ACS) from 2021 to 2023 and employing a two-way fixed effects regression framework, I study how temporal changes in racial and ethnic composition, age structure, educational attainment, and economic indicators influence in-migration rates per 1000 residents at the public use microdata level (PUMA). The analysis reveals that higher proportions of Asian and Hispanic populations, as well as an increased share of college-educated residents, are positively associated with in-migration. Notably, higher supplemental poverty rates are also associated with greater in-migration, a counterintuitive finding that may reflect mobility toward affordable housing markets. These findings emphasize the importance of recognizing demographic and intra-regional variability, which can aid policymakers and planners in assessing and delivering public services. Full article

Bitcoin halving is a quadrennial event that halves mining rewards and is believed to influence cryptocurrency prices and cryptocurrency market dynamics. This study examines the effect of Bitcoin halving on Cryptocurrency Prices, with Government Regulations, Market Sentiment, and Cryptocurrency Performance as mediating variables. A quantitative research approach was employed, gathering original data via survey instruments from 294 participants within the cryptocurrency community in Bali, which were analyzed using PLS-SEM. The findings indicate that Bitcoin halving exerts a favorable and statistically meaningful influence on Government Regulations, Market Sentiment, Cryptocurrency Performance, and Cryptocurrency Prices. Market Sentiment fully mediates the influence of Government Regulations and Cryptocurrency Performance on Cryptocurrency Prices, while Government Regulations and Cryptocurrency Performance partially mediate the effect of Bitcoin halving. These findings highlight that Cryptocurrency Prices are shaped by the interplay of technical, policy, and psychological factors, with strategic implications for investors, regulators, and developers. Full article

Social media has become the core channel through which people communicate, and the important role of influencer marketing in creating a fan base for brands is widely recognized. Grounded in Source Credibility, Homophily Theory and Signaling Theory, the purpose of this study is to investigate how influencer efficacy affects the fan effect of green food brands under digital social media. This paper adopts a quantitative research method. A cross-sectional survey was conducted on the Wenjuanxing platform and collected 417 valid responses from consumers who had previously purchased green food based on an influencer’s recommendation. A conceptual model was tested through the structural equation modelling procedure. The results showed that professionalism (β = 0.166, p = 0.011), trustworthiness (β = 0.291, p < 0.001), and similarity (β = 0.267, p < 0.001) had positive effects on perceived quality. Furthermore, perceived quality (β = 0.333, p < 0.001) significantly promoted the formation of the brand fan effect and partially mediated the effects of these characteristics of influencers on the brand fan effect. This study provides new insight into the fan effect of green food brands and also provides a theoretical basis for green food companies to accurately match their brands with suitable influencers, enhance the brand fan effect, and rationally formulate operational strategies. Full article

Background/Objectives: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global health challenge, driven in part by how antibiotics are accessed, distributed, and used within complex value chains. In peri-urban India, these supply chains involve a range of formal and informal actors and practices, making them a critical yet underexamined focus for antimicrobial stewardship efforts. While much research has focused on the manufacturing and regulatory end, less is known about how antibiotics reach consumers in rural and peri-urban settings. This study aimed to map the human antibiotic value chain in West Bengal, India, and to analyse how formal and informal governance structures influence antibiotic use and stewardship. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted in two Gram Panchayats in South 24 Parganas district, West Bengal, India. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 31 key informants, including informal providers, medical representatives, wholesalers, pharmacists, and regulators. Interviews explored the structure of the antibiotic value chain, actor relationships, and regulatory mechanisms. Data were analysed thematically using a value chain governance framework and NVivo 12 for coding. Results: The antibiotic value chain in rural West Bengal is highly fragmented and governed by overlapping formal and informal rules. Multiple actors—many holding dual or unofficial roles—operate across four to five tiers of distribution. Informal providers play a central role in both prescription and dispensing, often without legal licences but with strong community trust. Informal norms, credit systems, and market incentives shape prescribing behaviour, while formal regulatory enforcement is inconsistent or absent. Conclusions: Efforts to promote antibiotic stewardship must move beyond binary formal–informal distinctions and target governance structures across the entire value chain. Greater attention should be paid to actors higher up the chain, including wholesalers and pharmaceutical marketing networks, to improve stewardship and access simultaneously. This study highlights how fragmented governance structures, overlapping actor roles, and uneven regulation within antibiotic value chains create critical gaps that must be addressed to design effective antimicrobial stewardship strategies. Full article

We show that financial integration in emerging Asia is state-dependent in the sense that cross-market linkages vary systematically across regimes of global uncertainty and market stress. Focusing on Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, this study combines a time-varying parameter VAR (TVP–VAR) with a GARCH–MIDAS volatility model to link short-run transmission to long-run behavioural effects. We construct a regional investor-sentiment (IS) index from Google search data on five macro-financial topics using principal component analysis and analyse it together with global benchmarks (MSCI EM, S&P 500), gold, clean-energy equities, and macro-uncertainty indicators. The TVP–VAR maps dynamic spillovers among the ASEAN-5 and external nodes, while the GARCH–MIDAS relates the slow component of variance to investor attention. The evidence indicates that connectedness tightens in stress regimes, with global benchmarks and policy uncertainty acting as transmitters and ASEAN equities absorbing incoming shocks. In the volatility block, the Google-based IS factor exerts a negative and economically meaningful influence on the long-run component over and above global uncertainty, supporting the view that attention and uncertainty function as complementary channels of risk propagation. The integrated framework is parsimonious and replicable, and it offers actionable insights for regime-aware risk management, policy communication, and the timing of green-finance issuance in emerging markets. Full article