Competitive Industry Research Articles

Novel Techniques Tool in Cutting and Peeling Coconut: SWOT Analysis

Innovation is essential for small and medium-sized agricultural enterprises (SMEs) in Malaysia, as it improves productivity and competitiveness in the agricultural industry. It is essential to incorporate cutting-edge techniques and tools for processing coconuts, given the agriculture sector's objective of increasing productivity and sustainability. Since Malaysia aims to upgrade its agricultural methods, these advancements are relevant in Malaysia. The present study provides a thorough SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis of CoCoCut's cutting and peeling procedures and tools for coconuts. The analysis is based on a single-case study. Furthermore, it evaluates inherent advantages and disadvantages of these innovative approaches, together with potential advantages and risks in the market. This study offers a thorough analysis of the innovative tool, i.e., CoCoCut's areas of expertise, which can help in identifying numerous possibilities for expanding its business. Moreover, it offers a comprehensive comprehension of CoCoCut's vulnerabilities and discerns prospective hazards that pertinent stakeholders may encounter in future. Having this comprehension is crucial for effectively navigating the intricacies of the market and taking advantage of advancements. To conclude, this study emphasizes need for adopting creative methods in coconut processing and advancing a more competitive and sustainable coconut sector. The invention and utilization of this groundbreaking instrument have several substantial economic ramifications. This cutting-edge gadget enhances the efficiency of coconut peeling, resulting in boost in output. It is advisable to utilize this instrument to enhance distribution network by forming strategic alliances with industry and trade firms, thereby expanding its reach in the worldwide market.

Enhancing Supply Chain Management for Improved Performance: A Case Study of Mambilla Beverages Nig. Limited

In today's dynamic business environment, effective supply chain management (SCM) is crucial for organizations seeking to enhance performance and gain a competitive edge. This study investigates the impact of Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) and Transportation Efficiency (TE) on the performance of Mambilla Beverages Nig. Limited (MBNL). The research adopts a quantitative approach, utilizing survey data collected from 171 respondents within the organization. The findings reveal significant positive effect of SRM, TE, on MBNL's performance, as evidenced by regression analysis results. Specifically, the study finds that strong supplier relationships and efficient transportation logistics significantly contribute to MBNL's sales performance. Based on these findings, recommendations are provided for MBNL to strengthen supplier relationships, enhance transportation efficiency, embrace technology, and prioritize training and development initiatives. By implementing these recommendations, MBNL can optimize its supply chain operations, improve operational efficiency, and achieve sustainable growth in the competitive beverage industry.

Socio-Eco-Efficiency in Agroforestry Production Systems: A Systematic Review

Eco-efficiency has emerged to reduce environmental impacts and improve competitiveness in various industries, including agriculture. However, the application of eco-efficiency in agroforestry, incorporating social variables, is a relatively recent development. This study conducted a review of the scientific literature on eco-efficiency to address key questions. The analysis utilized the Web of Science Core Collection database, focusing on categories such as sustainable eco-efficiency, agricultural eco-efficiency, forestry eco-efficiency, and socio-eco-efficiency. The objective of this work is to offer a bibliometric analysis on socio-eco-efficiency in agroforestry production systems. The results revealed three stages in eco-efficiency research: an initial stage with low publication numbers, a second stage marked by significant growth and a focus on sustainable development, and a third stage characterized by rapid growth and increasing interest. In the field of agricultural eco-efficiency, there has been a recent increase in publications, reflecting the growing importance of agriculture in eco-efficiency analyses. China emerged as the leading country in terms of scientific advancements in eco-efficiency. The study also identified key research areas and institutions contributing to the literature on agricultural eco-efficiency. Overall, the findings highlight the expanding interest and future potential of socio-eco-efficiency in agroforestry research.

If You're So Successful, Why Are You Still Working 70 Hours a Week? Exploring the Costs and Benefits of an Always-On Work Culture

This article explores the costs and benefits of working excessively long hours through an analysis of academic research and real-world industry examples. It argues that while dedication and hard work have driven success initially for many professionals, an "always on" culture risks normalizing unsustainable practices that undermine well-being in the long run. extensive research documents the negative impacts of chronic overwork on physical health, mental health, job satisfaction, and productivity. However, evidence also suggests that balanced boundaries between work and personal life can yield individual rewards like reduced stress and organizational rewards like stronger engagement and innovation. The article provides strategies for professionals and leaders to strike a balance appropriate for their context, through mechanisms like clearly communicating expectations, measuring outcomes over hours, guarding time for learning and relationships, and role modeling boundaries. With care and intention, even competitive industries can promote sustainable success over the long term.

The Effect of Product Innovation and Customer Relationship Management on Satisfaction Mediated by Purchasing Decisions in the Coffee Shop Industry

The coffee shop industry faces increasingly fierce competition, where consumers have many choices. To retain and attract customers, coffee shops must continuously develop product innovation and improve customer relationships through Customer Relationship Management (CRM). This study aims to identify the effect of product innovation and CRM on customer satisfaction and understand the role of purchasing decisions as a mediator in this relationship. This research uses a survey method by collecting data from coffee shop customers through questionnaires. The research sample consisted of coffee shop visitors who were active during the research period. The collected data were analyzed using statistical techniques, including regression analysis. The results showed that product innovation has a significant positive impact on customer satisfaction. CRM also has a significant favorable influence on customer satisfaction. Furthermore, purchasing decisions were found to mediate the relationship between product innovation and customer satisfaction, as well as between CRM and customer satisfaction. These findings indicate that coffee shops focusing on developing innovative products and implementing effective CRM strategies can increase customer satisfaction. In addition, purchase decisions are an essential intermediary in linking product innovation, CRM, and customer satisfaction. Therefore, coffee shop management must consider better strategies for integrating product innovation, CRM, and purchase decisions to achieve long-term success in this competitive industry. This research contributes significantly to understanding the factors influencing customer behavior and the strategies coffee shop industry players can use.

Supporting the Increase in Productivity and Marketing of Chicken Floss to Enhance the Competitiveness of Dapur Hoki's Home Industry

Supporting the Increase in Productivity and Marketing of Chicken Floss to Enhance the Competitiveness of Dapur Hoki's Home Industry

PRODUCTIVITY IMPROVEMENT MODELS IN CONSTRUCTION PROJECT MANAGEMENT

The relevance of the research topic is due to the increasing complexity of construction projects, stricter requirements for deadlines, quality of work, as well as increased competition in the relevant industry. In the current conditions, traditional management methods often turn out to be ineffective, which leads to deadlines, budget overruns, and a significant decrease in the quality of construction. The purpose of the study is to analyze and systematize ideas about modern models of productivity improvement in construction project management, as well as to assess their potential impact on key performance indicators of projects. Special attention is paid to the formulation of the author's view of the advantages and limitations of specific models. The study revealed contradictions between the need to introduce innovative approaches to working with projects and the conservative practices that have developed in the industry. In addition, it is advisable to point out the discrepancy between the pace of development of digital technologies and the speed of their adaptation in the construction sector. It is concluded that integrated models combining elements of flexible methodologies, digital developments, and Lean approaches are the most effective. The role of digital twins, predictive analytics, and blockchain in improving productivity in this area is particularly emphasized.

Wettbewerbsfähigkeit der Industrie und Energiepreise

Abstract The rise in energy prices in 2021/22 put the competitiveness of Austrian manufacturing industry to the test. Model-based simulations and an enterprise survey were carried out to analyze the medium-term effects of high energy prices. The results show that the cost disadvantages in international competition induced by energy price increases will lead to a decline in industrial production and employment in the medium term and increase the risk of relocation of energy-intensive production.

New opportunities in produced water management: A market-based approach to produced water trading

Produced water (PW) is a byproduct of oil and gas (O&G) production. Obtained alongside the more valuable energy products, PW is usually characterized by high levels of salinity and often contains many contaminants (chemicals, soluble and insoluble oil, organics, etc.) making it unsuitable for release without substantial treatment. Couple this with the fact that PW is typically obtained at multiple times the rate of oil or gas, and the added transport, treatment, and disposal costs become a serious challenge for operators. These realities have led to ad-hoc practices including cooperation between industry competitors to recycle, share, or otherwise mitigate PW costs. The National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) in partnership with the Ground Water Protection Council (GWPC) is pursuing novel technology solutions to address PW issues that complement or improve ad-hoc practices adopted by operators. In this paper, we observe that well-established market management practices used in electrical power generation have natural analogues in the PW supply chain. These parallels open up a new line of research where we view PW management as a market equilibrium problem, and explore solutions that foster active and data-based collaboration among operators through market structures similar to power markets, with the ultimate objective of improving PW management costs and recycling rates. We make a case for our observations, present a PW market clearing optimization model that shows how such a market system could operate in the O&G space, and provide an illustrative case study for demonstration.

Supply chain network centrality and corporate greenwashing behavior

This paper examines the impact of supply chain network centrality on corporate greenwashing behavior. Using data from Chinese listed companies, we find that supply chain network centrality suppresses corporate greenwashing behavior, and the impact mechanism is that supply chain network centrality alleviates corporate financing constraints and inhibits managerial myopia. We also find that relationship between supply chain network centrality and corporate greenwashing behavior is more significant among corporations in heavily polluting industries, weaker industry competition, and higher transaction costs. This paper extends the governance factors of corporate greenwashing behavior to the level of supply chain network relationships.

Impact of CSR on stock return resilience during the 2020 public health emergency: Evidence from the Chinese financial market

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) can enhance firm value through non-profit channels, but it may also divert operational resources, potentially harming short-term financial performance. A key question in the literature is whether CSR can improve stock return resilience during negative shocks. Drawing on stakeholder theory, we hypothesize that CSR investment enhances stock resilience, though the effect may vary among firms. This paper analyzes financial data from 3153 Chinese listed companies alongside CSR ratings from the Hexun CSR database. Our findings indicate that firms with higher pre-event CSR ratings demonstrated stronger stock performance during the early stages of the public health emergency in 2020. These results remain robust across various checks and are supported by two instrumental variable approaches: local Confucian cultural influence and Lewbel's heteroskedasticity instrument. We further investigate the factors influencing the effectiveness of CSR in protecting firm value, revealing that CSR activities focused on shareholder responsibility are particularly effective. This protective effect is most pronounced in firms facing poorer financial conditions, lower proportions of institutional investors, heightened industrial competition, and those not operating in socially sensitive industries. Overall, our findings provide evidence that active engagement in CSR can enhance a company's resilience to negative shocks during global health crises.

Green supply chain management in the Southern Brazilian rice industry: A survey and structural analysis

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the influence of Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) dimensions on the performance of an agrifood supply chain, with a specific focus on the rice industry in southern Brazil. The region's rice industry produces a substantial amount of biomass, fostering circular economy practices that align with both economic and environmental objectives. Using Structural Equation Modeling with Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS), this research analyzes data from a survey of 92 companies. The measurement model incorporates 21 input and 11 output indicators, organized into six constructs. The input constructs—green strategy, green innovation, and green operations—are instrumental in shaping industry competitiveness, the fourth construct. The output constructs measure results and reputation. The findings indicate that green innovation and green operations significantly enhance competitiveness, whereas green strategy exerts minimal influence. The scope is limited to the rice industry in southern Brazil. Practical implications include offering a strategic framework for agrifood industry practitioners to improve competitiveness by optimizing green practices within their supply chains. Theoretical implications suggest that while green strategy alone may not be sufficient to drive competitiveness, the integration of green innovation and operations can enhance it. The originality of this research lies in the development of a comprehensive measurement model for assessing competitiveness in agrifood businesses, which evaluates both operational outcomes and reputational impact.

Regional development through innovation: a proposal for a technological hub framework

Brazil has made progress in innovation, although unevenly across its regions, with the state of Acre still facing challenges in this sector. The creation of an innovation and technology hub at Senai/AC aims to promote regional development by bringing together government, companies, and academia to stimulate local economic growth. This article proposes a strategic framework for the implementation of the Senai/AC Innovation and Technology Hub, with the goal of strengthening the regional economy and increasing industrial competitiveness. Based on a Systematic Literature Review, the best global and regional practices for the creation of innovation ecosystems were identified. The qualitative analysis of 40 articles resulted in strategic guidelines adapted to local needs, highlighting the importance of effective governance, resource mobilization, collaborative environments, human capital development, and a culture of innovation. The Senai/AC Hub has the potential to act as a catalyst for the state's socioeconomic development and strengthen local industries. Future studies can assess the effectiveness of the guidelines and the hub's impact on regional production chains, comparing it with other hubs to identify synergies and best practices.

Effect of ESG rating disagreement on stock price informativeness: Empirical evidence from China's capital market

We assess the level of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) rating disagreement among Chinese listed companies using ESG data from eight ESG rating providers and examine the impact of ESG rating disagreement on stock price informativeness. Our results indicate a significant and positive correlation between ESG rating disagreement and stock price synchronicity. This suggests that different ESG ratings impede the integration of company-specific details into stock prices, thereby reducing the stock price's informativeness. The opacity of corporate information and agency costs can both be used to interpret this result. We also explore the transmission channels through which ESG rating disagreement affects stock price informativeness. Our findings reveal that such disagreement lowers the quality of analysts' predictions and impedes investors' access to information, affecting the informativeness of stock prices. Furthermore, we observe that ESG rating disagreement has a greater impact on stock price synchronicity for companies with high ESG ratings and those operating in highly competitive industries. Increased media coverage would mitigate the effect of ESG rating disagreement on stock price synchronicity. Overall, our findings contribute to the literature on ESG rating disagreement and demonstrate the critical role of ESG rating disagreement in the informativeness of stock prices.

Does the issuance of green bonds promote green practices among peer companies? Evidence from China's listed companies

In China's green finance system, green bonds, which strive to achieve balanced development of ecological and economic goals, play a key role in promoting sustainable development. Using ESG data on Chinese listed companies from 2009 to 2022, this paper examines whether green bonds issued by companies encourage their peers to adopt green practices. And then, based on the multi-temporal Difference-in-Differences (DID) approach, this paper explores the underlying mechanisms and heterogeneous effects of this peer influence. The results show that green bond issuance has a significant positive impact on the green practices of peer companies, and its robustness has been confirmed through various tests. Peer effects are primarily driven by competition and access to information, which is particularly evident in highly competitive industries and companies with common institutional investors. In addition, the impact of green bonds issued by industry leaders or high-polluting enterprises will be greater. In order to promote sustainability in different business types and regions, specific policy implications are provided based on these insights: strengthening the green bond guarantee system, fostering market leadership, and implementing targeted regulations.

POLICY FRAMEWORK TO COVER ECO-INDUSTRIAL PARKS PILLARS

The concept of eco-industrial parks has gained significant global attention, particularly in the context of sustainable development goals, which emphasize the necessity of balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship. Industrial zones and industrial parks have traditionally contributed to economic output; however, their environmental footprints present challenges, necessitating a shift toward more sustainable industrial practices. In Ukraine, the need for eco-industrial transformation is further exacerbated by its unique socio-political and economic conditions, where resource efficiency and environmental sustainability are critical for long-term industrial competitiveness. This study aims to propose a comprehensive policy framework for the establishment and governance of eco-industrial parks in Ukraine, focusing on creating a balance between industrial growth and sustainable practices. By utilising mixed-method approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative research methods, this research integrates global experiences—particularly those from China, Italy, and Vietnam—into a model that can be adapted to Ukraine’s specific needs. Key pillars such as regulatory support, management commitment, environmental performance, and industrial symbiosis were identified as central to the successful implementation of eco-industrial parks. The findings demonstrate that structured policy interventions, supported by governmental commitment and cross-sector collaboration, can significantly enhance resource efficiency, reduce emissions, and promote sustainable development. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of aligning industrial and urban planning to foster a holistic approach to sustainable development. The practical implications of this research suggest that by adopting a robust policy framework, Ukraine can improve its environmental performance in industrial zones, enhance industrial competitiveness, and contribute to broader national sustainability goals. This framework can serve as a guide for policymakers and stakeholders, offering a clear roadmap for the transition toward eco-industrial parks that are aligned with both national objectives and international sustainability commitments.

Assessing competition in the Turkish cement industry: insights from the Boone indicator

Assessing competition in the Turkish cement industry: insights from the Boone indicator

Sustainable Management Strategies to Enhance Business Competitiveness in the Technology Sector

The increasing global demand for sustainable business practices has placed significant pressure on organizations, particularly within the technology sector, to adopt strategies that balance environmental, social, and economic goals. This study investigates the role of sustainable management strategies in enhancing business competitiveness in the technology industry. The research employs a mixed-method approach, integrating quantitative data from key performance indicators (KPIs) such as market share, operational efficiency, and innovation outcomes, with qualitative insights gathered from in-depth interviews with senior executives. The results demonstrate that companies adopting sustainability practices experience a measurable improvement in operational efficiency (10%) and market share (15%), confirming that sustainability serves as a critical enabler of competitive advantage. Qualitative findings further reveal that sustainability initiatives bolster brand differentiation, customer loyalty, and regulatory compliance, contributing to long-term success. These strategies not only help firms navigate evolving regulatory landscapes but also enhance their positioning as leaders in innovation and social responsibility. This study concludes that sustainable management strategies are essential not just for compliance, but for fostering long-term business resilience and market leadership in the fast-paced technology sector.

Innovation and Industry 4.0 in building the international competitiveness of food industry enterprises: The perspective of food industry representatives in Poland

The aim of the research is to determine the impact of innovations and Industry 4.0 solutions on the international competitiveness from the perspectives of representatives of food industry enterprises. The empirical layer used information collected on the basis of a survey using the CATI method conducted on a representative sample of representatives of food industry enterprises. Descriptive statistics, the Kruskal-Wallis test, Mann-Whitney test, multiple comparison test and box-plot plots were used to analyse the data. The study confirmed that implementing certain innovations and solutions, both intangible and tangible, is important for maintaining and improving competitiveness on the international market. This applies particularly innovative, modern ways of reaching the customer, developing innovative products, the use of IT systems and the use of innovative methods in advertising and promotion. The conclusions present direct implications for managers of food enterprises who formulate competitive strategies.

The Influence of Product Design and Beauty Vlogger Review on Serum Products Purchasing Decisions

In Indonesia, facial care has become a daily routine for women. The research was conducted in the city of Denpasar, the center of government, commerce, and culture in Bali, to understand the impact of product design and beauty vlogger review on serum purchase decisions amid increasing competition in the cosmetics industry. The problem formulation is, does product design influence product purchasing decisions? Does the beauty vlogger review affect the product purchase decision? Does product design and beauty vlogger review influence product purchasing decisions? The research method used was quantitatively descriptive, using surveys with research questionnaires, involving 100 respondents to collect data on serum purchase preferences. The research was analyzed using a double linear regression analysis method, then the data was processed using the help of SPSS software version 29. The results of the test on this study showed that the product design significance value is <0,001 < 0,05, the value of the beauty vlogger review significance is <0,001 < 0.05, so based on data analysis that product design and beauty vlogger review have a significant positive influence on the purchase decision of serum products in the City of Denpasar. In conclusion, attractive product design and positive reviews of beauty vloggers are important factors that influence serum purchase decisions, providing important insights for cosmetics companies in designing effective marketing strategies.