Business Operators Research Articles

Legal Awareness of Halal Products Certification among East Java Business Operators and Society

The number of business operators in East Java increases significantly each year but is unfortunately not accompanied by increased legal awareness. While many business operators are aware of the halal certification obligation, they need to actually comply to it. This research was conducted in East Java on 111 micro and small business operators and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) spread across several cities. A total of 450 respondents of various backgrounds who, at the time of research, had run their business for at least two years were involved in direct interviews and questionnaire surveys. This research focuses on discussing the awareness of business operators and the community in East Java based on Soerjono Soekanto's legal awareness (understanding, knowledge, obedience, and legal attitudes), and maqasid sharia. Efforts to increase knowledge and understanding of business owners of legal awareness still lacked due to non-existent sanctions and incomprehensive campaign. Meanwhile, in legal culture, there is a perception that food consumed by the community is not necessarily halal-certified. The government strategy to advocate legal awareness of halal product certification includes product acceleration through the halal product information (SIP Halal) system that is easily accessible to MSMEs.

Assessing Challenges to Solid Waste Management in Urban Local Authorities in Uganda: A Case Study of Arua Municipality

Purpose: Waste generation is associated with and comes with human activities and as such, waste management is an issue which should be shared by every individual, community, organisation or Country worldwide. Depending on climate, life style and behavioural differences, level of industrialisation, available waste management programmers and economic incentives, the problem of waste generation and its management continues to be a major environmental problem in urban centres worldwide. This Paper attempts to assess the Challenges to Solid Waste Management in Urban Local Authorities in Uganda with specific reference to Arua Municipality in North Western Uganda. A Case study design was used. Materials and Methods: A sample of 391 respondents was selected out of a Target population of 7,881 which included; Heads of Households, Business Operators, Elected leaders, Heads of Departments and Solid waste Collectors. The Methods for data collection adopted were Questionnaires, Interviews, Observation and Documentary Review. The Researcher used Regression Technique for data analysis. Findings: The study findings showed that, urban population growth had an inverse relationship with solid waste management while funding had a positive significant effect on solid waste management. The study further found out that, urban population behaviour had a negative relationship with solid waste management. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: From these findings the researcher concluded that lack of waste segregation; inadequate facilities and equipment, lack of legislation and bye-laws, and ineffective enforcement are among the major challenges to solid waste management in Arua Municipality. Based on the above findings, the researcher recommends the following; Solid waste segregation (separation), enforcement, legislations and bye-laws, provision of adequate solid waste management facilities and equipment and training/Capacity building programmes on solid waste management. The study findings will help policy makers in formulating sustainable solid waste management policies and designing appropriate methods of managing solid waste in urban Local Authorities. The study findings will help raise awareness on issues pertaining to solid waste management at community level. This awareness will help build initiatives to reduce the solid waste management problem in Arua Municipality. The study will further contribute to the body of knowledge on the studies already conducted on solid waste management in developing countries.

Kemajuan Teknologi Informasi dalam Perkembangan Bisnis Global

This study analyzes the impact of information technology advances in global business using a qualitative research approach. The introduction presents the background to the importance of information technology in company expansion, operational efficiency, and business innovation. The purpose of the study is to provide a deeper understanding of the role of information technology in business strategy and operations in the global market. The research method used is a review of various sources of information which is then compiled into a new study. Results and discussions show that information technology facilitates global expansion through digital communication tools, efficient cross-border collaboration, and integrated supply chain management. In addition, information technology improves operational efficiency through business process automation and advanced data analysis. Furthermore, information technology becomes a catalyst for innovation and business growth through easy access to data and information, collaboration among stakeholders, and adoption of new business models. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of integrating information technology in the company's business strategy to maintain competitiveness in an increasingly complex global market. By utilizing information technology optimally, companies can achieve operational efficiency, meaningful innovation, and sustainable business growth.

Information cues and fear as moderators of the predictors of compliance to Indigenous People of Biafra sit-at-home communication messages among small-scale business operators in South-East Nigeria

Limited literature exists to explain why the masses comply or do not comply with orders from separatist groups. In this study, the researchers used variables from frustration-aggression theory, cognitive dissonance theory, and theory of fear to suggest a model that explains why operators of micro, small and medium enterprises comply with messages from Indigenous People of Biafra. The researchers made use of a descriptive survey research design with a structured questionnaire as the instrument for data collection. A total of 470 participants who were sampled using respondent-driven sampling chain referrals took part in the study. Results from the structural equation model analysis showed that predictors of compliance to Indigenous People of Biafra sit-at-home order among micro, small and medium enterprises operators include perceived injustice, believe in government as well as believe in Biafra agitation. Additional results showed that fear and information cues moderate this relationship. Recommendations are made based on the outcome of the study. The result of this study could inform policies on how to communicate messages aimed at addressing issues that have the potential of fuelling separatist agitations.

Ensuring Legal Protection for Consumers of Halal-Certified Minang Cuisine in Padang City

This study aims to understand legal protection for consumers in Padang City to establish a model for consumer protection practices in Indonesia. The research employs a normative descriptive qualitative method, focusing on business operators and consumers of traditional Minang products, with data collected through interviews. The study reveals that legal protection for consumers concerning halal labels on Minang food is stipulated in Law No. 08 of 1999. Several reasons contribute to producers not including halal labels: high processing costs, lack of awareness about the importance of halal certification, and consumers' inherent trust in authentic Minang producers, even if the shop lacks halal certification. The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) asserts that Muslim-owned businesses should pursue halal certification regardless of the owner's religion.

Monophasic variant of Salmonella Typhimurium 4,[5],12:i:- outbreak: an investigation by the Competent Authority.

Foodborne diseases represent a significant public health issue, regarding both collective health and the economy, with implications for healthcare costs and agribusiness. This paper shows the description and results of the investigation of a Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica foodborne outbreak that occurred in the Marche Region (Italy) in 2022, which was linked to the consumption of a roasted pork product (porchetta). As part of the outbreak investigations discussed in this article, molecular analysis to evaluate the genomic correlation between clinical, food, and environmental origin strains was carried out. All Salmonella strains of different origins were serotyped as monophasic variant of Salmonella Typhimurium with an antibiotic-resistance pattern and an allelic profile such as to define the "cluster strain" allowing the correlation between clinical and food/environmental strains, definitively confirmed by whole genome sequencing analysis. Following the laboratory evidence, corrective measures at the porchetta processing plant and at the retail stores involved were carried out by the Local Animal Based Food Hygiene Service. The results of this study show that effective intervention is only possible if efficient data exchange, standardized procedures, and staff training are guaranteed. The latter aspect also concerns the food business operator, who must take appropriate measures to minimize the risk.

Operational resilience towards a global alignment

Operational resilience lies between operational risk and business continuity. This paper provides a view on the implementation of the operational resilience framework, and its relationship with operational risk and business continuity. It analyses the similarities and differences between these exercises and how management information from these exercises can be leveraged and aligned. The paper also provides answers to three important questions: (1) What pushed the international regulators to add additional oversight? (2) What benefits and challenges are brought by operational resilience? (3) Why is it important to harmonise operational resilience within the international regulatory landscape?

Prolonged multi‐country outbreak of Listeria monocytogenes ST173 linked to consumption of fish products

Abstract Between 2012 and 2024, a prolonged outbreak of 73 cases of L. monocytogenes ST173 infections (‘My2’ ‐cluster) has been ongoing in Belgium (5), Czechia (1), Germany (39), Finland (2), Italy (1), the Netherlands (20), and the United Kingdom (UK) (5). Fourteen deaths have been recorded as associated with this outbreak. Males aged over 60 years represent the most affected population group. Most patients with available information from case interviews report consuming various fish products before illness. Among 73 cases, an ongoing ‘My2’ sub‐cluster 1 was identified with 38 cases reported in six EU countries and the UK. The ‘My2’ sub‐cluster 1 includes 83 non‐human isolates, of which 48 are food isolates and six are environmental isolates with traceability data corresponding to 37 fish products (different typologies) and 12 fish manufacturers (located in six EU countries and one third country). The epidemiological and traceability information did not allow identification of a single common point or food business operator in the traceability of all products. Five countries reported the implementation of control measures. The whole genome analysis (WGS) analysis, the tracing evidence, and the detection in fish products between 2017 and 2024 suggest that the strain has been geographically spread in Europe for several years, most likely originated from a past single source high up in the production chain, and has been established in different fish processing plants. Overall, the evidence supports the hypothesis of fish products as the vehicle of infections. Given the detection of the outbreak strain in multiple types of fish products and its wide circulation in the EU/EEA fish production chain, new cases are likely to be reported. Corrective measures should be implemented in the plants where the contamination is detected, and further investigations should be carried out to identify the point of entry and prevent possible re‐contamination.

ANALYSIS OF LEGAL PROTECTION FOR CONSUMER LOSSES DUE TO BUSINESS PERFORMER'S BREACH OF CONCERT ORGANIZER

Currently, the music industry has become one of the most popular forms of entertainment among various segments of society. In this context, music concerts have become a significant source of revenue for promoters. However, it is not uncommon for promoters to neglect their responsibilities as business operators, resulting in losses for consumers who have purchased concert tickets. This research aims to examine the legal protection available to consumers who suffer losses due to the breach of contract by concert organizers. The research method used is a normative legal approach, analyzing legal issues through relevant legislation. The legal materials for this research are derived from primary and secondary legal sources, including legislation and related research findings on the subject matter. The research results indicate that consumer protection in Indonesia remains a serious concern, as business operators frequently fail to fulfill their obligations and violate consumer protection laws, leading to consumer losses. Therefore, this study provides an explanation of the protection available to consumers to seek legal remedies for their losses, including claims for compensation in accordance with Article 45 of Law Number 8 of 1999 concerning Consumer Protection.

5G Wireless Technology: Spectrum Sharing and Heterogeneous Networks

Abstract: This paper addresses the critical challenge of 5G network cell planning, emphasizing the essential role of estimating the number of cells or base stations required for a given area and user bandwidth. The proposed model explores four scenarios with varying network parameters to determine the optimal base station deployment. The increasing demand for 5G networks necessitates a focus on small cells or femtocells, offering advantages such as consistent coverage, power adjustment, energy efficiency, and higher data rates. However, deploying excessive femtocells may lead to unnecessary handovers, requiring optimization strategies. The study introduces an analytical model for heterogeneous cellular networks, integrating fourth and fifth-generation systems. The model, represented by a two dimensional Markov Chain, employs a novel decomposition approach for analyzing system performance measures. Validation is conducted through simulation and simultaneous equation systems. The proliferation of mobile devices and data traffic necessitates dense 5G network deployments, with small cells gaining traction due to their versatile coverage, power adaptability, energy efficiency, and higher data rates. However, an excessive deployment of small cells can lead to frequent handovers, prompting the need for enhanced handover strategies and coexistence with other technologies in the 5G landscape. The paper concludes by highlighting the impending need for practical implementation testing of 5G systems, emphasizing the significant role of small cell deployments. It discusses an initiative focusing on testing small cellenabled operator business models in real-world scenarios, anticipating the pivotal role of small cells in future 5G systems.

Measuring the Effects of an Anti-Food-Waste Digital Application from the Operators’ Perspective in Urban Contexts

This paper presents an empirical study focused on the use of TooGoodToGo smartphone applications by urban food retailers and HoReCa sector owners, evaluating their satisfaction levels with using this app and identifying the most relevant business levers that might convince other operators to adopt anti-waste programs and more sustainable behaviors. To this end, a survey questionnaire is administered to a sample of respondents. Data are statistically analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis test to consider the different perspectives of the identified subsamples. The results reveal that business operators claim to have a high level of satisfaction with exploiting the service provided by the app and that it is a lever for increasing the number of customers served, even if there is not a high positive effect on revenue. However, retailers with more years of operations, who can be considered more experienced, can better exploit the opportunities of the TGTG business. This study contributes to a better understanding of the benefits of using web application services to decrease waste from urban food retailers. Consequently, levers for convincing new operators to adopt the service and their role in increasing customer awareness are identified and discussed.

Inaugural Editorial

Welcome to the inaugural issue of the Journal of Comprehensive Business Administration Research (JCBAR). It is with great pride and enthusiasm that we launch this platform dedicated to advancing the field of business administration through high-quality, peer-reviewed research. The primary aim of JCBAR is to bridge the gap between theory and practice in business administration. Our objective is to provide a forum where researchers, practitioners, and policymakers can share insights, innovations, and methodologies that address the complex challenges faced by modern businesses. I strive to promote a deeper understanding of business practices and foster the development of strategies that can lead to improved organizational performance and economic growth. JCBAR is committed to publishing research that is both rigorous and relevant. I seek to highlight studies that not only advance academic knowledge but also offer practical implications for business leaders and policymakers. By doing so, I hope to facilitate a continuous dialogue between the academic and business communities, ensuring that research findings are translated into actionable strategies.

The Socio-Technical Dynamics of Agrivoltaics in Japan

Japan is a pioneer in agrivoltaics with over twenty years of practical experience and already 3,474 permitted projects by 2020. Agrivoltaics can potentially help to solve pressing societal challenges, such as decarbonization, rural revitalization, food and energy security, and disaster resiliency in a country with very limited suitable land. Nevertheless, agrivoltaics remains a niche technology even twenty years after its first implementation. This study analyzes the socio-technical dynamics to identify the barriers and opportunities for agrivoltaics in Japan. The analysis of governmental documents, statistical data, and academic publications in combination with expert interviews with farmers, a business operator, and governmental officials show that the lack of a clear vision for agrivoltaics by the government, persistent legal barriers, insufficient research, declining economic incentives, and cultural resistance hinder a faster diffusion of agrivoltaics in Japan.

Analysis of Consumer Condition Solvements through Consumer Condsolution Translators

This study aims to analyse the mechanisms of consumer dispute resolution through the Consumer Dispute Resolution Agency (BPSK) in Central Lampung and to measure the effectiveness of such dispute settlement. The research used is a normativeempirical approach. The results of the research show that the settlement of consumer disputes through BPSK can be done through mediation, conciliation, or arbitration according to the agreement of the parties. While a settlement by arbitration still stands aside for the dissatisfied parties to undertake legal action through litigation. The effectiveness of dispute resolution through BPSK can be measured through several factors such as the mechanism of resolution, the credibility of members of the BSPK, the means and facilities available, the complexity of the dispute, as well as success in enforcing the judgment. Stronger legal protection is needed to ensure compliance of business operators with BPSK decisions, with stronger sanctions and more effective law enforcement for violations as well as increased consumer awareness of their rights and the role of BSPK in dispute resolution is needed through more intensive warrened and educational campaigns.

European union reference laboratory for feed additives: experience from 11 years organising proficiency testing

Feed additives are individually authorised within the European Union (EU) specifying the conditions of their use under real-world conditions. These criteria often include minimum or maximum level of their content in compound feed. In addition, feed business operators are obliged to indicate on the feed the level of the added content of the feed additive. While it is the task of the EU Member States official laboratories to perform control analyses to establish compliance with these provisions, the European Union Reference Laboratory for Feed Additives (EURL-FA) is organising since 2012 annual proficiency tests (PTs) for Member States’ National Reference Laboratories (NRLs). PTs organised by the EURL-FA are based on the principles that compound feed samples are prepared containing a known content of the target feed additive. These PT samples are then sent to the NRLs for analysis and the results reported back to the EURL-FA are subjected to statistical assessment to establish the laboratory specific proficiency to correctly analyse compound feed samples for the respective feed additive. In the current study, we looked at the outcome of this assessment across different PTs. The topics addressed were (1) the evaluation of the overall measurement capability of NRLs in respect to coccidiostats, trace elements and vitamin D3, (2) the challenge related to the preparation of homogenous test materials with particle-based feed additives, (3) a possible connection between the modified composition of preparations containing vitamin A and analytical results and (4) the impact of a training course on the proficiency of laboratories regarding carotenoid analysis.

Effects of operators’ strategic approach to local content and in-country spending requirements on financial performance of upstream petroleum sector firms, Ghana

Local content requirements and in-country spending mandates have emerged as crucial tools in the upstream petroleum sector, aiming to distribute socio-economic benefits derived from resource production to the general citizenry within the host economies. However, understanding how operators' strategic responses to these requirements affect firm financial performance remains limited due to data constraints. Consequently, drawing on resource dependence, social exchange, and linkage and spill-over effect theories, this paper develops a conceptual framework to elucidate the relationships among local content requirements, in-country spending, local linkage factors, operators' strategic approaches & business practices, and financial performance, including their implications. To address data limitations, a mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining content analysis of financial reports from 11 global upstream petroleum operators in Ghana and key informant interviews, with survey primary data collected via online questionnaires. This methodological triangulation enabled a comprehensive examination of how operators' strategic responses affect financial performance in the Ghanaian upstream petroleum sector. Analytical techniques used included factor analysis and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) from SPSS and SmartPLS3, respectively. The study found that while local content requirements and in-country spending mandates do not significantly influence operator strategic approaches or financial performance, local linkage factors have a strong positive effect on strategic approaches, which in turn positively affect financial performance. Furthermore, local linkage factors partially mediate the relationship between local content requirements and strategic approaches, as well as financial performance. These findings underscored the importance of prioritizing investments in local linkage factors to stimulate industrialization and foster cross-sectorial outsourcing opportunities. The study contributes to resource dependence, social exchange, and linkage and spill-over effect theories by highlighting the role of strategic approaches and local linkages in promoting financial performance. It also offers insights for policymakers and industry practitioners, emphasizing the need to enhance competitiveness and capacity within the host economy. Additionally, the study confirms the predictive relevance of the model, indicating its robustness in explaining the dynamics of local content requirements and in-country spending mandates in the petroleum sector.

Food vloggers and their content: understanding pathways to consumer impact and purchase intentions

PurposeThis study aims to understand pathways to success for food video bloggers (food vloggers) by identifying the drivers of positive reception among audiences. It examines how entertainment, information and interaction values affect attitudes toward food videos and vloggers. Additionally, it investigates the potential for product placement by studying the effects of attitudes toward food videos and vloggers on consumers’ behavioral intention regarding purchasing featured food ingredients.Design/methodology/approachAn integrated model informed by theories (uses and gratification and stimulus-organism-response) was developed. An online survey was administered to 339 Vietnamese social media users. The data were analyzed using partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM).FindingsThe results show that food videos’ entertainment and information value positively impact the attitude toward food videos. However, the interaction value does not have a significant impact. All three values (entertainment value, information value and interaction) impact the attitude toward food vloggers. Both attitudes significantly influence purchase intention, showing that there is a pathway to product placement. The frequency of social media use can moderate these relationships, with a negative effect on the attitude toward food videos and a positive effect on the attitude toward food vloggers.Originality/valueThese findings provide insights into vlogger success pathways, not only in terms of audience reception but also in terms of product placement. This study offers comprehensive suggestions on pathways for success that are interesting for vloggers, food business operators, restaurant managers and audiences on how to design effective food videos and potentially encourage consumer purchases. These pathways can also be valuable for other behaviors, such as food safety advice and food waste reduction.

Exploring the Potential of ChatGPT Integration in HRM for SMEs: Enhancing Productivity, Stimulating Creativity, and Promoting Sustainable Business Innovation

Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) often face limitations in terms of quantity and quality of human resources. These limitations can hinder MSMEs' ability to innovate and compete in an increasingly complex market. The utilization of technology can assist MSMEs in enhancing operational efficiency. However, not all MSMEs are capable of adopting advanced technology due to resource constraints and limited technological understanding. The aim of this research is to investigate the potential and effectiveness of integrating ChatGPT into Human Resource Management Systems (HRMS) for MSMEs, with a focus on enhancing productivity, stimulating creativity, and fostering sustainable business innovation. The research method employed is a literature review with a qualitative approach and descriptive analysis. The literature review is utilized to explore relevant literature from Google Scholar for the period 2018-2024. The study findings indicate that in the continually evolving digital era, technology integration such as ChatGPT in HRMS for MSMEs holds significant potential for enhancing operational efficiency, productivity, creativity, and business innovation. Through the implementation of this strategy, MSMEs can optimize their human resource management, create significant added value, and strengthen their position in an increasingly competitive business environment.

Strategic alternatives for Muslim-friendly homestay in Sabah Malaysia: a SWOT/TOWS analysis

PurposeThis study aims to explore the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) of the Muslim-friendly homestay business in Malaysia to help identify and recommend practical strategies to capitalize on the strengths and potentials while overcoming the current shortcomings and threats.Design/methodology/approachThe Muslim-friendly business owner and operators in Sabah, Malaysia, were the subject of a series of focus groups and expert opinion interviews. The data was transcribed, and then the variables were categorized into the four SWOT categories using content and thematic analysis. Meanwhile, threats, opportunities, weaknesses and strengths (TOWS) analysis is used to identify the best strategy alternatives.FindingsThe SWOT analysis identifies several strengths (e.g. diverse and unique Islamic culture and heritage [S1], iconic Islamic landmarks [S2], rich natural beauty [S3], well-established halal tourism industry [S4]); weaknesses (e.g. limited awareness [W1], limited infrastructure and facilities [W2], limited human resources and trained personnel [W3], lack of Islamic tourism products and experiences [W4]); opportunities (e.g. growing demand for Islamic tourism [O1], increasing disposable income [O2], potential for collaborations [O3], potential for partnerships [O4], potential for expanding Sabah’s halal tourism offerings [O5]); and threats (e.g. competition [T1], political instability [T2], economic downturns [T3] and environmental and social challenges [T4]).Practical implicationsThis paper could serve as a guideline and supplementary information for stakeholders in the homestay industry to grasp their business environment better.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study of its type to blend SWOT and TOWS analysis with the sector of Muslim-friendly homestays. Hence, the findings might expand understanding of the Muslim-friendly homestays industry and aid businesses in penetrating this growing market.

Microbiological safety of dry-aged meat: a critical review of data gaps and research needs to define process hygiene and safety criteria.

Dry-aged meat is gaining popularity among food business operators and private consumers. The process is carried out in aerobic conditions by hanging beef carcasses or placing subprimal or primal cuts in a dedicated cabinet for several weeks or even months while controlling the environment through the management of process parameters such as temperature, relative humidity, and airflow. In this review, we present a critical evaluation of the literature to evaluate tools to manage the process to guarantee food safety and identify critical control points, as well as good hygiene and manufacturing practices. In controlled aging conditions, only Listeria monocytogenes and Yersinia enterocolitica can multiply, while a reduction in the number of Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli O157:H7 is generally reported. Enterobacteriaceae usually decrease on the surface of the meat during maturation; thus, for the purpose of the hygiene evaluation of the production process, a count no higher than that of unmatured meat is expected. Besides, various studies report that the total bacterial count and the spoilage microorganisms significantly increase on the surface of the meat, up to 5-6 Log10 CFU/g in the absence of visible spoilage. Bacteria of the Pseudomonas genus tend to progressively replace other microorganisms during maturation; thus, the total mesophilic or psychrophilic bacterial load is not a good indicator of process hygiene for matured meat. Critical parameters for the control of the process are temperature, relative humidity, and ventilation, which should be monitored during the process. For this reason, equipment designed and certified for dry-aging must be used, and the manufacturer must validate the process. Food business operators must apply general good manufacturing practices (GMP) and good hygiene practices (GHP) for meat processing and some GMP and GHP specific for dry-aging. Several research needs were identified, among them the evolution of the populations of L. monocytogenes and Y. enterocolitica and the microbiology of the inner parts of the dry-aged meat.