Journal Description
Businesses
Businesses
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on business published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within RePEc, and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 23.8 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 5.5 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
Latest Articles
Conference Tourism: Exploring Economic Prospects in the Post-COVID-19 Era—Qualitative Research on Greek Hotel Executives
Businesses 2023, 3(4), 606-625; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3040037 - 28 Nov 2023
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As is widely known, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected tourism and related activities globally. Due to the restrictive measures implemented for gatherings and movements in order to limit the spread of the virus, conferences and conference tourism received a strong shock since the
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As is widely known, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected tourism and related activities globally. Due to the restrictive measures implemented for gatherings and movements in order to limit the spread of the virus, conferences and conference tourism received a strong shock since the majority of them were canceled or postponed. At the end of the first quarter year, many countries, like Greece, started organizing digital and hybrid conferences. Therefore, there was a reset in the conference industry as the time when travel was limited allowed the organizers, as well as others involved, to work remotely. The present study aims to investigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on conference tourism and, more specifically, how hotels and their conference facilities were affected. In addition, the pursuit of potential opportunities through the ‘New technologies’ adopted, as well as the shaping of the industry in the post-COVID-19 era, are studied. This is achieved through a qualitative methodology using semi-structured interviews with 27 executives of hotels that offer conference facilities in Athens, Thessaloniki, Heraklion and Rhodes in order to examine whether this specific sector has adapted to the new reality. The analysis of data in this form of research revealed that the pandemic had benefited conferences to some extent, but only under certain circumstances.
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Open AccessReview
Business Renaissance: Opportunities and Challenges at the Dawn of the Quantum Computing Era
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Businesses 2023, 3(4), 585-605; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3040036 - 09 Nov 2023
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Quantum computing is emerging as a groundbreaking force, promising to redefine the boundaries of technology and business. This paper provides an in-depth examination of the quantum realm, beginning with its fundamental principles and extending to its implications for today’s industries. We discuss how
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Quantum computing is emerging as a groundbreaking force, promising to redefine the boundaries of technology and business. This paper provides an in-depth examination of the quantum realm, beginning with its fundamental principles and extending to its implications for today’s industries. We discuss how quantum algorithms threaten existing cryptographic measures while also uncovering vast opportunities in sectors like finance, healthcare, and logistics. The narrative then shifts to the evolution of new business models, exemplified by Quantum-as-a-Service (QaaS) and enhanced AI capabilities. Alongside the myriad opportunities, we address the challenges and ethical concerns surrounding the swift rise of quantum technologies. By emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts among businesses, policymakers, and technologists, the article advocates for a balanced and responsible approach to quantum adoption. Through this analytical lens, the article paints a comprehensive picture of the impending quantum era, presenting both its transformative potential and the complexities it brings to our interconnected world.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Global Perspectives on the Opportunities and Future Directions of Businesses)
Open AccessArticle
The Effects of Entrepreneurship Leadership on Youth Entrepreneurial Intentions Post-COVID-19: The Case of Gauteng
Businesses 2023, 3(4), 569-584; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3040035 - 31 Oct 2023
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The purpose of this research was to assess the effects of entrepreneurship leadership on youth’s entrepreneurial intentions in Gauteng province, South Africa. To test this relationship and attempt to answer the research question, “To what extent does entrepreneurship leadership influence youth entrepreneurial intentions
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The purpose of this research was to assess the effects of entrepreneurship leadership on youth’s entrepreneurial intentions in Gauteng province, South Africa. To test this relationship and attempt to answer the research question, “To what extent does entrepreneurship leadership influence youth entrepreneurial intentions post-COVID-19?” a conceptual model supported by the theory of Planned Behaviour was adopted. Data were collected from 825 youths in Gauteng province, South Africa, through a self-administered questionnaire. The Likert scale was applied to the questionnaire. Entrepreneurship leadership was observed to directly relate to attitude towards entrepreneurship and perceived environmental support and entrepreneurial intentions and entrepreneurial action. Furthermore, the results provide evidence that the three antecedents of entrepreneurial intention: attitude towards entrepreneurship, perceived entrepreneurial abilities and perceived COVID-19 environment influence entrepreneurial intention. Participation in entrepreneurship leadership was observed to positively influence youth intentions to become entrepreneurs. Furthermore, policymakers are encouraged to ensure the implementation of regulations that are conducive to business operations and stimulate youth participation in entrepreneurial activities. The obtained results suggest that attitude towards entrepreneurship and perceived environmental support are observed to completely and partially mediate (respectively) the relationship between three independent variables (entrepreneurship leadership, perceived post-COVID-19 environment and entrepreneurship education) and entrepreneurship intention. Leadership in entrepreneurship is crucial as it creates direction for the business in the post-COVID-19 era. This study attempts to address the gap in the literature concerning the effects of entrepreneurial factors on entrepreneurial intentions through the use of Ajzen’s Theory of Planned Behaviour.
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Open AccessArticle
Challenges in the Digital Transformation of Ports
Businesses 2023, 3(4), 548-568; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3040034 - 31 Oct 2023
Cited by 1
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Digital transformation plays a significant role in modernizing and improving the efficiency of ports around the world. However, digitalization also brings a set of challenges that ports must face. They have to respond to several unique challenges because of the complexity of their
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Digital transformation plays a significant role in modernizing and improving the efficiency of ports around the world. However, digitalization also brings a set of challenges that ports must face. They have to respond to several unique challenges because of the complexity of their operations and the varying demands of stakeholders. This study seeks to identify and summarize the challenges of digital transformation processes in ports. For this purpose, the World Ports Sustainability Program database was used. The findings revealed 74 digitalization initiatives carried out by ports, which makes it possible to recognize 7 dimensions and 32 sub-dimensions of challenges to the digital transformation process. Among the identified dimensions are port infrastructure, the interconnection between various systems, the port organization model, regulation, security and privacy, market evolution, and the establishment of partnerships to implement these projects. The results of this study are relevant to mitigate the risks of the digitalization process in ports and respond to market needs that demand greater transparency and visibility of their operations.
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Open AccessArticle
A Model of Trust in Ethereum Token ‘Ether’ Payments, TRUSTEP
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Businesses 2023, 3(4), 534-547; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3040033 - 03 Oct 2023
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Ethereum is being utilized in various ways, including smart contracts and payments. Research in cryptocurrency payments has either been general, about all cryptocurrencies or focused primarily on Bitcoin. Despite some similarities with Bitcoin, Ethereum is a different technology with different governance and support.
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Ethereum is being utilized in various ways, including smart contracts and payments. Research in cryptocurrency payments has either been general, about all cryptocurrencies or focused primarily on Bitcoin. Despite some similarities with Bitcoin, Ethereum is a different technology with different governance and support. This research focuses on payments with the Ethereum token, Ether, and puts forward a model of trust in Ethereum payments. Survey data analyzed using structural equation modeling supports the model. Firstly, the model has three variables from the person’s individual characteristics: The user’s predisposition to using innovations in (a) finance and (b) technology, influence (c) their predisposition to trust in this payment process. There are then five variables from the context: (d) Adoption and reputation, (e) stable value and low transaction fees, (f) effective regulation, (g) trust in the payment intermediaries, and (h) trust in the seller. The personal and contextual factors together influence (i) trust in the Ethereum payment process, and this leads to (j) making a payment with Ethereum.
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Open AccessPerspective
Challenges Faced in Dental Care Delivery Amid Financial Crisis in Sri Lanka: An Evidence-Based Analysis from the Perspective of Health Professionals
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Businesses 2023, 3(4), 524-533; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3040032 - 22 Sep 2023
Cited by 1
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Over the years, Sri Lanka achieved excellent scores in health indicators relative to the national expenditure on health. However, due to several challenging situations such as the 2019 Easter bombings, COVID-19 pandemic and economic crisis, there was a depletion of the GDP as
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Over the years, Sri Lanka achieved excellent scores in health indicators relative to the national expenditure on health. However, due to several challenging situations such as the 2019 Easter bombings, COVID-19 pandemic and economic crisis, there was a depletion of the GDP as well as rising inflation. This created a humanitarian crisis for all socioeconomic groups. Among them, the health sector was widely affected, including healthcare providers and healthcare recipients. The objective of this study was to elaborate on the challenges faced in dental care delivery by private general dental practitioners and the impact on dental education for undergraduate and postgraduate dental students during the economic crisis. A descriptive cross-sectional survey-based questionnaire (n = 28) was conducted and assessed among the dental surgeons of various districts in Sri Lanka. An interviewer-based questionnaire was carried out via telephone conversation by the principal investigator of dental surgeons for those who managed and owned the respective dental clinic. Data from the computed questionnaires were analyzed using the SPSS Statistical Software Package (SPSS, Version 21). Descriptive statistics were expressed as frequency distributions and percentages. Based on the results, a significant decrease was observed in the number of patients requesting restorative dental procedures including implant crowns (36.29%), implant over dentures (35.63%), crowns (39.03%), bridges (49.12%), amalgam restorations (47.38%), composite restorations (42.11%) and dentures (49.69%). In surgical dental treatment, the extractions and surgical removal of teeth were reduced by 2.11% and 43.71%, respectively. The availability of dental materials such as light care composite (LCC) bonding, silver amalgam, impression materials and surgical consumables was reduced in the post-economic crisis situation compared to the pre-economic crisis status. Furthermore, dental laboratory charges per item, fees per procedure, salaries to support staff, utility bills including electricity and water, payments to government bodies, travelling costs to the clinic (for the doctor) and other expenses have increased in the post-economic period.
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Open AccessArticle
Evaluation of a Multipart Implicit Bias Educational Program Designed for a Non-Profit Organization
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Businesses 2023, 3(3), 507-523; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3030031 - 20 Sep 2023
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Children’s access and opportunities to play sports are influenced by categories of difference, such as gender, race, and socioeconomic status. In order to provide an inclusive community and facilitate the recruitment and retention of diverse youth, athletic organizations should be aware of implicit
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Children’s access and opportunities to play sports are influenced by categories of difference, such as gender, race, and socioeconomic status. In order to provide an inclusive community and facilitate the recruitment and retention of diverse youth, athletic organizations should be aware of implicit bias and how this can affect the relationship between volunteers and the children they serve. This paper presents a formative process evaluation of a diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training program for a non-profit athletic organization. Training was implemented in person in a group setting with multiple opportunities for group discussion. Mixed methods were used to monitor (1) the implementation of training, (2) its effects on attitudes throughout training, and (3) impact one month after training. Findings demonstrate that the program increased participants’ ability to identify DEI initiatives and sense of belonging to the organization, but these effects had declined by the end of the first month after training. However, participants’ self-beliefs regarding DEI and overall willingness to engage in DEI activities remained enhanced one month after training. Qualitative data were helpful in providing insight into how training impacted participants and their interactions within and outside of the organization. Through this mixed methods approach, we can conclude that DEI training did in fact have a positive impact on the organization, but further evaluation and training may be necessary to address the decline in some effects seen one month after training.
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Open AccessArticle
Accounting for Climate When Determining the Impact of Weather on Retail Sales
Businesses 2023, 3(3), 489-506; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3030030 - 11 Sep 2023
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In this paper, we explore the importance of accounting for climate when determining the impact of weather on product sales. Using a France-wide scanner panel dataset provided by our industry partner, we show that if climate is not accounted for, product categories may
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In this paper, we explore the importance of accounting for climate when determining the impact of weather on product sales. Using a France-wide scanner panel dataset provided by our industry partner, we show that if climate is not accounted for, product categories may be misclassified as being weather sensitive when they are not, and vice versa. This is motivated by previous research and industry reports that suggest a relationship between weather and retail sales. However, these studies often fail to distinguish between weather and climate, leading to inaccurate conclusions. Our results highlight the need to control for climate in order to accurately assess the effects of weather on retail sales. We use ordinary least squares regression to estimate the relationship between temperature and sales for 29 different product categories. The regression models control for various factors, including shelf space allocation, week of observation, quantity purchased, promotion, store brand, store surface area, store competition, and consumer behavior measures. We find that when accounting for climate, only a subset of the product categories is sensitive to weather. Additionally, we show that climate can be approximated using a week index, eliminating the need for additional data collection and approximation efforts. Our findings have implications for both researchers and practitioners. Researchers should be aware of the importance of accounting for climate when studying the impact of weather on retail sales, as failing to do so may lead to erroneous conclusions. Practitioners can use our results to inform their marketing and sales strategies, taking into account the weather sensitivity of different product categories and the role of climate in shaping consumer behavior. Overall, our study emphasizes the need to consider climate when determining the impact of weather on retail sales, and provides practical insights for retailers and economists.
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Open AccessArticle
Unraveling Interconnections: Analyzing the Impact of a Founder’s Characteristics on Business Growth Strategy
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Businesses 2023, 3(3), 475-488; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3030029 - 08 Sep 2023
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This study examines the influence of founder characteristics on the selection of business growth strategies in companies undergoing an initial public offering (IPO). The research is based upon quantitative analysis of data from entrepreneur-led IPOs on the London Stock Exchange. The study investigates
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This study examines the influence of founder characteristics on the selection of business growth strategies in companies undergoing an initial public offering (IPO). The research is based upon quantitative analysis of data from entrepreneur-led IPOs on the London Stock Exchange. The study investigates the impact of founder’s work experience, external directorships, education, age, ownership, and the presence of a founder–CEO, on the choice between mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and research and development (R&D) as growth strategies. The results show that founders with a throughput functional background and extensive external directorships are more likely to adopt M&A as a growth strategy. Moreover, founders with higher education levels and a PhD are more inclined towards R&D investment. The findings also suggest that older founders are more likely to invest in R&D, whilst higher levels of ownership tends to deter R&D expenditure. Interestingly, the presence of a founder–CEO is associated with a lower likelihood of investing in R&D and a higher propensity for M&A, although these correlations are not statistically significant. These results shed light on the influence of founder characteristics on strategic decision-making during the IPO stage and provide implications for understanding the dynamics of business growth strategies in transitioning companies.
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Open AccessArticle
Cultural Intelligence, Firm Capabilities, and Performance: The Case of German Subsidiaries in Malaysia
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Businesses 2023, 3(3), 460-474; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3030028 - 07 Sep 2023
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The extant literature shows that firm capabilities such as knowledge transfer and innovation are highly related to firm performance. How these relationships express themselves for foreign-based firms operating in global environments is less understood. The objectives of this study are as follows: (1)
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The extant literature shows that firm capabilities such as knowledge transfer and innovation are highly related to firm performance. How these relationships express themselves for foreign-based firms operating in global environments is less understood. The objectives of this study are as follows: (1) to examine the differential effects of knowledge transfer and innovation on the performance of German-based companies operating in Malaysia; (2) to determine if these relationships and effects operate via an “intervening variable” or mediator, in this case, competitive advantage; and (3) to determine if another latent variable (cultural intelligence) has an altering or “moderating” influence on the effects of innovation and knowledge transfer on competitive advantage. Analyses of the causal relationships are tested using a sample of 475 respondents working in German subsidiaries in Malaysia and applying a structural equation model. The empirical findings indicate that innovation and knowledge transfer are positively and significantly related to German companies’ overall performance, that these effects are mediated by competitive advantage, and that cultural intelligence interacts with innovation and knowledge transfer to affect the strength of the relationships between innovation (knowledge transfer) and competitive advantage.
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Open AccessArticle
Sustainable Development and Business Strategies: An Exploratory Study of Greek Businesses
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Businesses 2023, 3(3), 441-459; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3030027 - 11 Aug 2023
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The purpose of the present study is threefold: (a) it examines how Greek businesses perceive the concept of sustainability, (b) it investigates the implementation of sustainable development practices in Greek businesses, and (c) it examines if there is a correlation between sustainable development
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The purpose of the present study is threefold: (a) it examines how Greek businesses perceive the concept of sustainability, (b) it investigates the implementation of sustainable development practices in Greek businesses, and (c) it examines if there is a correlation between sustainable development practices adopted by businesses and the competitive advantage of businesses. Furthermore, reference is made to concepts like sustainability, the Triple Bottom Line (TBL), and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In addition, the TBL for sustainable business practices and the viability of measurement systems are examined. For this study, a survey was conducted using a questionnaire composed of five sections, which was addressed to Greek companies operating in various sectors. A total of 150 questionnaires were sent out and responses were received from 34 enterprises. An analysis of the data from field research confirms that Greek companies perceive sustainability as a transformation catalyst for businesses and have adopted sustainability practices. Furthermore, there is a moderate correlation between the economic and social pillar of sustainability and the competitive advantage of organisations. The study aims to provide a deeper understanding of factors that influence the adoption of sustainable practices in Greek enterprises.
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Open AccessArticle
A Sectorial Validation and Application of a Conceptual Framework for Creating a Brand Management Strategy
Businesses 2023, 3(3), 424-440; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3030026 - 17 Jul 2023
Cited by 1
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Brands can be one of a company’s most valuable intangible assets and a lever to generate value. As a source of added value, a brand should be strategically built and managed. To fully take advantage of the benefits that the brand provides, it
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Brands can be one of a company’s most valuable intangible assets and a lever to generate value. As a source of added value, a brand should be strategically built and managed. To fully take advantage of the benefits that the brand provides, it is necessary to propose a brand management strategy. A conceptual framework was developed by the authors as an alternative to propose a brand management strategy according to a specific business scenario. The objective of this study is to validate this conceptual framework and apply it to propose a brand management strategy in a specific business scenario. For this purpose, a sectorial cross-validation was developed by triangulating the application of the framework to two data collection methods: (1) interviews and (2) a literature review. The results suggested that decomposing a complex business scenario into single-dimensioned business scenarios can help to propose, enhance, or reframe a brand strategy. The results also suggested that some brand dimensions can be used to lever other brand dimensions, such as brand relationship, which is at the top of CEO/CMO priorities in this field. This work contributes to theory by cross-validating the conceptual framework for creating brand management strategies through triangulation.
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Open AccessReview
Bibliometric Analysis on the Application of Fuzzy Logic into Marketing Strategy
Businesses 2023, 3(3), 402-423; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3030025 - 05 Jul 2023
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Fuzzy marketing considers the degree to which a customer belongs to specific segments and subsequently allows them to be targeted with messages that engage them emotionally. To better understand the application and importance of fuzzy logic in marketing strategy, we developed a systematic
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Fuzzy marketing considers the degree to which a customer belongs to specific segments and subsequently allows them to be targeted with messages that engage them emotionally. To better understand the application and importance of fuzzy logic in marketing strategy, we developed a systematic literature review with bibliometric analysis to examine a sample of 96 studies from the SCOPUS database to identify research activity on this topic until December 2022. It was possible to create a connection between these concepts, marketing and fuzzy logic, to increase the efforts of marketing professionals. For instance, the results show that adopting approaches such as fuzzy marketing or the fuzzy marketing mix model enhances the company’s capability to build stronger customer relationships, enhance profitability, and improve marketing performance.
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Open AccessArticle
How to Support Expanding Sales Channels of Agri-Food Products in New Markets: Healthiness and New Experiences of Tunisian Olive Oil
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Businesses 2023, 3(3), 382-401; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3030024 - 30 Jun 2023
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This study addresses the empirical problem of improving sales channels in countries like Tunisia, with a specific focus on the sales channels of Tunisian olive oil. The authors aim to explore this problem within the theoretical framework of sales channels and emphasize the
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This study addresses the empirical problem of improving sales channels in countries like Tunisia, with a specific focus on the sales channels of Tunisian olive oil. The authors aim to explore this problem within the theoretical framework of sales channels and emphasize the contribution of their research to enhancing sales channels and accessing new markets for Tunisian olive oil. To achieve these goals, the authors conducted a study with a specific research objective: to examine the factors influencing consumer behavior and perceptions towards olive oil. By doing so, this research contributes to a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities of expanding sales channels and supports the development of sustainable agribusiness. Additionally, the authors highlight the importance of advertising healthy food with good quality based on an ethical production process that emphasizes accountability and transparency. They argue that these ethical practices can serve as competitive strengths for agri-food producers in emerging markets as they explore new market opportunities. Overall, this research not only addresses the need for improving sales channels in Tunisia but also provides insights into consumer behavior, highlights the significance of ethical production processes, and supports the competitiveness of agri-food producers in emerging markets.
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Open AccessArticle
Designing Dynamic Sustainable Business Models to Assess the Feasibility of an Industrial Symbiosis: The Case of the Retro-Port Area of Trieste
Businesses 2023, 3(2), 368-381; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3020023 - 14 Jun 2023
Cited by 1
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This study evaluates the managerial sustainability of implementing a decision support system for industrial symbiosis through a recent business modeling methodology. The decision support system is intended to facilitate the identification of implementable industrial symbiosis good practices in a pilot project located in
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This study evaluates the managerial sustainability of implementing a decision support system for industrial symbiosis through a recent business modeling methodology. The decision support system is intended to facilitate the identification of implementable industrial symbiosis good practices in a pilot project located in the industrial retro-port area of Trieste. To evaluate the feasibility of this project, a qualitative “Dynamic business model canvas for sustainability” was designed and supported by a system dynamics approach using causal loop diagrams. The study analyzed various governance scenarios for managing the decision support system (public, private, or public–private partnership) and the financing system. The analysis concludes by discussing the research limitations of this study and future opportunities, emphasizing the importance of a resilient system that can handle operational and regulatory shocks, given the project’s public relevance. Further study opportunities could be provided through quantitative simulations and potential numerical validations with stakeholders in the local area, considering potential regulatory constraints.
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Open AccessArticle
Examining the Impact of Gender Discriminatory Practices on Women’s Development and Progression at Work
Businesses 2023, 3(2), 347-367; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3020022 - 12 Jun 2023
Cited by 2
Abstract
Although there has been a worldwide cry for gender equity within organizations, gender discriminatory practices continue to be a challenge. Many women still suffer from gender discrimination and remain at the bottom of organizational structures despite their efforts to ascend. This paper seeks
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Although there has been a worldwide cry for gender equity within organizations, gender discriminatory practices continue to be a challenge. Many women still suffer from gender discrimination and remain at the bottom of organizational structures despite their efforts to ascend. This paper seeks to examine the link between gender discriminatory practices and women’s skill development and progression within the workplace. The study espoused a quantitative approach. A questionnaire survey was self-administered online to 412 women through a convenient non-probability sampling method. Descriptive tendencies, test normality, validity, reliability, and regression analysis were performed using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS), AMOS 27. The results reveal that women’s skill development is impacted by workplace gender discriminatory practices, and the career progression of women is linked to their skill development. Yet it rejects the claim that workplace gender discriminatory practices impact women’s career progression. While having a gender-friendly work environment is applaudable, developing women’s skills and promoting their advancement at work will require more effort from companies. Organizations need to be deliberate about the skills development and career progression of women and institutionalize initiatives that directly encourage women to engage in developmental activities as well as initiatives geared towards promoting women’s career advancement.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women’s Special Issue Series: Business)
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Innovation Pattern Heterogeneity and Crisis Resilience
Businesses 2023, 3(2), 323-346; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3020021 - 31 May 2023
Abstract
We use the new taxonomy for innovative firms developed based on microlevel data from the Community Innovation Survey (CIS2018) on a sample of 6360 Norwegian firms, and information on users of COVID-19-related compensation schemes for firms with significant loss of turnover and furloughed
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We use the new taxonomy for innovative firms developed based on microlevel data from the Community Innovation Survey (CIS2018) on a sample of 6360 Norwegian firms, and information on users of COVID-19-related compensation schemes for firms with significant loss of turnover and furloughed employees to analyse how resilient different innovative firms have been to the crisis (in both the short and the long run). By using different probabilistic regression models, we study the probability of firms being affected negatively during the pandemic period between March 2020 and February 2022 covering three waves of societal restrictions in Norway. Our main assumption is that all firms were hit by a shock at an early stage due to a complete lockdown in March 2020, but that firms were more resilient if they either did not use the compensation schemes or used them for a briefer period than the less resilient firms. We find “active R&D doers” to be most resilient, while “strategic adapters” (firms with a main strategy of producing high-quality products for a specific group of customers) are found to be least resilient. These results imply that pre-existing innovation capabilities are important for meeting the crisis.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Crisis Management and Innovations Challenges)
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The Relationship between the Service Quality of IPTV Home Training and Consumers’ Exercise Satisfaction and Continuous Use during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Businesses 2023, 3(2), 310-322; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3020020 - 30 May 2023
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This study aims to provide operators with measures for successful IPTV utilisation by identifying the quality of IPTV services for home training and analysing the relationship between consumers’ exercise satisfaction and continuous use to respond to the COVID-19 era. To achieve the research
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This study aims to provide operators with measures for successful IPTV utilisation by identifying the quality of IPTV services for home training and analysing the relationship between consumers’ exercise satisfaction and continuous use to respond to the COVID-19 era. To achieve the research purpose, people who exercise at home using IPTV home training pro-grams were selected as the sample population. The relationship between efficiency, availability, security, and practicability, which are sub-factors of the service quality of IPTV home training, was analysed for exercise satisfaction and continuous use. The analysis methods include frequency analysis and Cronbach’s α using SPSS 20.0 and AMOS 20.0. Validation was conducted through correlation analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation model analysis. In addition, Harman’s one-factor verification was conducted to determine the common method bias. All statistically significant levels were set at the p < 0.05 level. The results show that efficiency, availability, security, and practicability have a positive effect on exercise satisfaction, and exercise satisfaction has a positive effect on continuous use. First, during COVID-19, IPTV plays an important role in helping consumers exercise at home and indoors. Second, the subjects of this study showed that individuals 40 years old and older are exercising the most. Therefore, it is assumed that consumers will continue to participate if they provide programs that young people can do. Third, since various human disasters, natural disasters, and other un-predictable phenomena such as COVID-19 are occurring worldwide, policymakers should try to activate programs such as IPTV’s home training that can be done indoors.
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Effects of Corporate Social Responsibility on Online Recruitment Processes in the Vietnamese Food and Beverage Industry
Businesses 2023, 3(2), 293-309; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3020019 - 19 May 2023
Abstract
This paper examines the effect of CSR perceptions on online recruitment practices and outcomes in the Vietnamese food and beverage sector. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seventeen participants, including CEOs, HR (human resource) staff and store managers. The results show that CSR perception
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This paper examines the effect of CSR perceptions on online recruitment practices and outcomes in the Vietnamese food and beverage sector. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seventeen participants, including CEOs, HR (human resource) staff and store managers. The results show that CSR perception varies and is exemplified through employee-related activities, ethical products, environment, philanthropy, and international standards. The study is novel in establishing that, despite high unemployment in developing economies, CSR communication in online recruitment sites impacts job applicants’ choice of company. While the strategic potency of CSR has been established, this study brings to light its critical significance for human resources processes, particularly online recruitment, in an emerging economy context. The study has considerable implications for practitioners and researchers, suggesting the necessity to strategically manage the interface between CSR and online recruitment.
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Open AccessArticle
The Role of Digital Marketing in Tourism Businesses: An Empirical Investigation in Greece
Businesses 2023, 3(2), 272-292; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3020018 - 19 Apr 2023
Cited by 3
Abstract
For the tourism industry, the COVID-19 pandemic has acted as an accelerator towards the 4th industrial revolution by creating new and innovative solutions, which have transformed management, finance, planning and opened new avenues for the introduction of innovative sales and marketing technologies. As
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For the tourism industry, the COVID-19 pandemic has acted as an accelerator towards the 4th industrial revolution by creating new and innovative solutions, which have transformed management, finance, planning and opened new avenues for the introduction of innovative sales and marketing technologies. As the tourism industry in Greece faces significant challenges and opportunities posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, additional needs have arisen for tourism businesses, as confirmed in this research, to adapt faster to digital operations and strengthen digital marketing through multi-channel distribution and use of digital assistants. This study aims to investigate the use of digital marketing tools by tourism companies as well as the overall satisfaction of the companies with its use and the areas of impact of digital marketing from the COVID-19 pandemic, and then to highlight all those features that stand out from those of their competitors, as well as the creation of an appropriate marketing strategy that will ensure the flow of new customers and increased revenue. To meet this purpose, an empirical survey was conducted in tourism companies in order to provide answers to research questions. As tourism businesses have not yet made sufficient use of digital media as a strategic marketing tool, this research is the basis for further research into the use of technology and digital tools to reach customers and create a more personalized experience for them.
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Online User Behavior in the Context of Big Data
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Sustainability Efforts and Importance of Change Management
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Risk Management in Public Sector
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Consumer Behaviour and Healthy Food Consumption
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Global Perspectives on the Opportunities and Future Directions of Businesses
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