Halal B2B marketing in the metaverse: crafting a conceptual framework to pinpoint opportunities and challenges, outlining the agenda for future research

Abstract

Purpose The study aims to explore the theoretical framework of Halal B2B marketing in the metaverse, develop a conceptual framework for future research, identify challenges and opportunities, including technological, cultural and compliance aspects, and provide insights for the effective integration of the metaverse into Halal B2B marketing practices. Design/methodology/approach The research employs a comprehensive literature review, examining works on halal marketing, Islamic business ethics and technology adoption in Islamic markets. The study also identifies key stakeholders in Halal B2B marketing within the metaverse, such as Halal businesses, Muslim buyers, technology developers, regulatory bodies and others, and discusses their unique challenges and contributions. Findings The study presents a conceptual framework depicting the interaction among various stakeholders in Halal B2B marketing within the metaverse. It identifies opportunities such as enhanced customer engagement, global market expansion and innovative branding, and discusses challenges including technological disparities, cultural sensitivities and Halal compliance. Research limitations/implications The conceptual framework delineated in this paper succinctly outlines the potential challenges confronted by diverse stakeholders in building the digital Halal market ecosystem within the metaverse. These frameworks augment the understanding of the metaverse as an evolving digital technology for brands operating within this digital space. This contributes to both theoretical and practical insights into the integration of the metaverse into business operations. While the metaverse holds promise for immersive and interconnected digital experiences, it also comes with several limitations and challenges that need to be taken into account. Practical implications The research introduces a framework that elucidates the professional relationships among key entities: Halal B2B brands aiming to enter the metaverse for brand promotion, buyers seeking business opportunities within the metaverse, and technology developers responsible for establishing the required infrastructure. This framework offers a succinct portrayal of the stakeholders' positions, delves into potential opportunities within the metaverse, and scrutinises the inherent challenges associated with these possibilities. Social implications The metaverse empowers Halal enterprises to provide tailor-made experiences that resonate with the preferences of Muslim consumers. It offers scope for personalised marketing, emphasising its potential as a pivotal element in the triumph of Halal B2B marketing within the metaverse. In the realm of Halal marketing, cultural and ethical alignment holds paramount importance. The metaverse provides opportunities for devising marketing approaches that are attuned to Islamic cultural and ethical values. Originality/value The study results in several recommendations that could help Halal B2B brands effectively leverage the metaverse's potential and cater to Muslim consumers' needs innovatively. These are: (a) Invest in Metaverse Infrastructure by partnering with technology developers or invest in virtual spaces tailored to Halal products; (b) Tailor Marketing Experiences through creating immersive experiences aligned with Muslim consumers' preferences; (c) Ensure Cultural and Ethical Alignment by consulting religious scholars to ensure marketing respects Islamic values; (d) Foster Business Opportunities by facilitating virtual trade shows and marketplaces for Halal products; (e) Educate Stakeholders by organising workshops to introduce the metaverse's potential benefits; (f) Address Challenges Proactively by tackling privacy, accessibility and regulatory issues head-on; (g) Collaborate with Industry Partners and work with other Halal brands and tech partners to drive innovation.