Competitive Position Research Articles

Effective use of high-strength S690 steel in construction

With advances in metallurgy and steel-making technology, structural steel with yield strengths up to 690N/mm2 is produced regularly in many modern steel mills in different countries, such as China, France, Germany, India and Japan. The yield strength of S690 steel is almost twice that of the commonly used structural S355 steel. High-strength steels are used in a wide range of structures, such as heavy-duty lifting equipment in mines and ports, frames and members in wind turbines, as well as container trailers and passenger trains. Use of high-strength steels is highly advantageous for these moving structures because they can carry increased payloads and hence use less energy during operation. For civil engineering and building structures, the use of S690 steel allows a significant reduction in the self-weight of a structure and also a reduction in the loads to be imposed on supporting structures and foundations. In recent years, the cost per tonne of S690 steel in many parts of the world has decreased steadily, which has improved its competitive position with respect to S355 steel. In China, the unit cost of S690 steel has varied typically from 1.25 to 1.35 times that of S355 steel over the past five years. It may be argued that owing to the increased strength of S690 steel, only half of the steel tonnages are needed, compared with S355 steel. Hence, the steel material cost becomes roughly 1.3 times 0.5, or 0.65, of that of S355 steel, leading to a significant saving in material costs. Research work on mechanical properties and structural behaviour of welded sections made from S690 steel conducted at the Chinese National Engineering Research Centre for Steel Construction (Hong Kong Branch) has shown that provided the welding processes are properly controlled, it is possible to minimise or even eliminate any reduction in strength and ductility which might occur due to microstructural change. Extensive research and development work have also been conducted to promote application of high-strength steel for construction. A steel bridge with two arches using 4400 tonnes of S690 steel in Hong Kong, and a steel bridge with mega trusses using 1625 tonnes of Q690 steel in Macau are briefly described. In addition, the initiative of the Development Bureau of the Government of Hong Kong SAR in promoting the use of high-strength S690 steel is highlighted.

Impact of Product Market Competition on the Likelihood of Cross-Border Business Expansion

The effects of product market competition on a firm’s financial policy and business strategy are evident in extant literature. As a firm’s internationalization is a function of financial policy and business strategy, the firm’s decision is impacted by product market competition. However, prior studies lack empirical evidence supporting the relationship between product market competition and firm internationalization. We tested our hypotheses using a panel data set ( n = 64,147 firm-year observations) of publicly traded U.S. firms from 1990 to 2021 employing a panel data econometric model [i.e., partial least squared-ordinary least squares (OLS), fixed effect model]. The study results supported our hypothesis that product market competition reduces the likelihood of a firm’s internationalization. The study results enhance managerial understanding of internationalization decisions and suggest that businesses should consider the product market’s competitive position while making internationalization decisions. Policymakers should support those firms in overcoming the negative impact of product market threats to support internationalization.

Digital transformation in hospitality: the role of AI in enhancing business through gastronomic offerings

The impact of AI on the hospitality industry is increasingly significant. This paper explores the influence of digital transformation on the hospitality sector, with a particular focus on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing business operations through gastronomic offerings. Digital technology is transforming the way hospitality establishments operate, offering new opportunities for optimizing operations, personalizing customer experiences, and efficiently managing resources. By analyzing the application of AI technologies, such as predictive analytics, personalized marketing, and automated ordering systems, the paper addresses how hospitality businesses can improve their competitive position and guest satisfaction. The study employs both qualitative and quantitative research methods to present successful examples of AI integration into business models, highlighting the benefits, challenges, and prospects for future development. Managers from 64 restaurants across the Republic of Serbia participated in the research, and the findings demonstrate the clear potential of artificial intelligence to transform hospitality, creating sustainable and innovative business practices.

DMO and TTPs' Perspectives: Exploring Promotional Strategies and Challenges in Marketing Cape Coast as a Tourist Destination

The focus of this investigation is on the promotional strategies and obstacles encountered by Tourism Trade Practitioners (TTPs) and Destination Marketing Organisations (DMOs) in their efforts to promote Cape Coast as a tourism destination. Using qualitative research methods, it identifies critical promotional activities, including festival promotion, social media use, and digital platforms. It also emphasises problems such as low community engagement, insufficient resources, and bureaucratic constraints. To strengthen Cape Coast's competitive position, recommendations emphasise the adoption of digital marketing tools, the promotion of local participation, and the enhancement of stakeholder collaboration. For practitioners seeking to increase tourist arrivals in Ghana, this research provides actionable insights and contributes to the destination marketing literature.

Effect of runoff water supply on vegetation and soil response to increasing aridity in Mediterranean drylands

Drylands are characterised by spatially discontinuous vegetation coverage. Consequently, during most rainfalls, runoff is generated in open areas and redistributed to vegetation. This transfer of water and nutrients from source to sink areas has been identified as a key ecohydrological process modulating drylands functioning. However, there are only a few experimental studies assessing the role of runoff redistribution on vegetation, and none of them evaluate its effect on determining the response of vegetation patches to aridification. In this study, we conducted a 3-year runoff exclusion experiment on 8 study sites consisting of Macrochloa tenacissima steppes distributed along two aridity gradients with contrasting lithologies in SE Spain. The aim was to assess the effect of runoff redistribution on vegetation and underlying soil communities as aridity increases, and to determine the influence of lithology on this response. For that, we compared a set of plants (photosynthetic activity, leaf chlorophyll content and green biomass production) and soil (microbial activity and composition) traits measured during different field campaigns on plants receiving run-on with the same variables measured on plants where run-on was excluded. Our findings demonstrate that run-on increases plant green biomass during wet periods with control plants showing a gain of the green biomass fraction higher than run-on excluded plants (difference between control and excluded plants is about ∼10 % of the total AGB in both gradients). By altering green biomass accumulation, run-on exclusion also shapes soil microbial communities (∼20 % of the aridity dependent ASVs are affected by run-on exclusion) and ameliorates the negative effects of drought on the activity and biomass of soil microorganisms (the decrease of SIR values between time 1 and 2 is 17 % lower in control than on run-on excluded plants), but it does not affect photosynthetic rate and chlorophyll concentration. This is due to the poikilohydric behaviour of M. tenacissima and the contrasting timing in the response of the measured variables to water pulses. Vegetation photosynthetic rates respond to short-term water availability, while green biomass and its indirect effect on the soil microbial communities results from a delayed response to the different rainfalls during the growing season. The effects of run-on were lower than expected and did not vary along aridity gradients, probably due to the unusual drought conditions and the atypical rainfalls during the studied period. During the last years, only a few large rainfalls were registered, causing soil moisture saturation under both excluded and control plants. Under these conditions, resources provided by runoff to control plants is diminished, thus lessening their competitive position compared to excluded plots. Long-term monitoring is necessary to evaluate the response of vegetation and the underlying soil to resource supply through runoff water with increasing aridity.

Impact of green marketing on competitive capabilities and business performance of tourism enterprises in Vietnam

This study aims to explore and analyze how green marketing affects the business performance of travel enterprises in Vietnam. Combining qualitative and quantitative methods, data were gathered from 380 middle-to-senior-level business managers. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) using SMARTPLS 4 software was employed to assess the model’s validity and reliability. The analysis demonstrates that green marketing positively impacts business performance, with competitive capabilities and their components serving as mediating variables. Additionally, Multi-Group Analysis (MGA) reveals statistically significant differences in these relationships based on the operational durations of enterprises. The findings highlight the critical role of green marketing in enhancing competitive capabilities, which, in turn, drive improved performance in the travel sector. These insights underscore the importance of sustainable practices in aligning business strategies with environmental objectives. For tourism stakeholders, this study offers actionable guidance for promoting green marketing strategies that contribute to both environmental sustainability and long-term business success. By integrating green marketing principles, travel enterprises can strengthen their competitive positioning while supporting Vietnam’s sustainable tourism development. These results emphasize the need for industry-wide adoption of green practices, fostering a collaborative approach to achieving environmental and economic goals in Vietnam's travel and tourism sector. This study contributes to the growing body of research on sustainable marketing and its implications for emerging markets like Vietnam.

Unlocking market share growth: The role of service facilities and financial performance in Islamic Banks

Indonesia, as the country with the largest Muslim population in the world, reaching 237.6 million people or 86.7% of its total population, presents a unique potential for Islamic banking. However, the market share of Islamic banks remains surprisingly low at only 7.09%. This study aims to analyze the impact of service facilities and financial performance on the market share of Islamic banks in Indonesia. Employing panel data regression analysis with Stata software at a 5% significance level, this research reveals that the number of service offices positively and significantly influences the market share, while the Operating Cost to Operating Income (BOPO) ratio has a significant negative effect. Conversely, variables such as the number of ATMs, Return on Assets (ROA), Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR), Non-Performing Financing (NPF), and Finance to Deposit Ratio (FDR) show no significant impact. These findings provide valuable insights into the factors shaping the market share of Islamic banks and underline the importance of optimizing service facilities and financial efficiency to enhance their competitive position.

Competitive Strategy in Managing Café Djayataruna Business, Natar District, South Lampung Regency

As people increasingly seek spaces that offer both food and relaxation, cafes and recreational venues are gaining popularity. This study examines the marketing strategies employed by Café Djayataruna, focusing on its marketing mix. Through a qualitative case study, the research involved interviews with the owner, employees, and customers, alongside observations of the café’s operations. The findings reveal the café’s strengths, such as its diverse menu, unique experience, and strong social media presence. A SWOT analysis shows promising opportunities for growth, including food delivery services and local collaborations. However, challenges like operational inefficiencies and limited market reach need attention. The study concludes that by focusing on innovation and customer satisfaction, Café Djayataruna can strengthen its competitive position and ensure long-term success.

Reciprocal Value of SMES Products in Strengthening Sustainable Green Competitiveness for Economic Growth in Indonesia

Objective: This study aims to examine the variables of Green Consumerism, Green Brand Image, Green Competitive Position, and Sustainable Competitive Advantage. As well as investigating the Reciprocal of Value Product (RVP) in strengthening the competitive position of green products of Indonesian SMEs. Theoretical Framework: This research is developed from theories of sustainable business models, green marketing, and competitive advantage. The novelty of 'Reciprocal of Value Product' (RVP) integrates company value creation with socio-environmental values, emphasizing sustainable reciprocity. Method: Primary data were collected using interviews, surveys, and field studies of 315 SMEs producing environmentally friendly products in Indonesia using purposive non-random sampling techniques using Structural Equation Modeling analysis. Results and Discussion: The findings reveal that Environmental Sustainability positively and significantly affects RVP. RVP has a significant positive impact on Green Consumerism and Green Competitive Position. Also, Green Consumerism shows a positive and significant influence on Green Brand Image. These relationships highlight the interconnected nature between sustainable business practices and market competitiveness. Research Implications: This study shows that Indonesian SMEs can adopt RVP into their strategic framework. The research findings show that sustainable practices increase the perceived value of products, which in turn affects green consumer behaviour and competitive positioning. Originality: The main contribution of this research is the RVP to integrate corporate and socio-environmental value creation. Novelty offers valuable insights for SMEs seeking to enhance their competitive advantage through sustainable practices in the global marketplace.

Sino-Us Competitive Cooperation Relationship: AIIB’S Projects in the Middle East and Practical Application of SDGs

Introduction: This essay examines the Sino-US competitive cooperation relationship in the Middle East, with a focus on infrastructure development facilitated through the AIIB and DFC. It explores the strategic roles, operational approaches, and impacts of these institutions on Middle Eastern development, highlighting the geopolitical implications of Sino-US rivalry in the region and the distinct paths taken by both nations. Furthermore, the essay evaluates the broader implications of Sino-US hegemonic competition, employing Realism and Neo-Realism theories as analytical frameworks to dissect this complex relationship. The essay also delves into the relationship between AIIB and DFC investments in the Middle East and their alignment with the United Nations SDGs. Particular attention is given to how these investments influence the achievement of SDGs in the Middle East, contributing to sustainable development in the region. The methodology adopted is qualitative in nature, involving interviews with experts specializing in Middle Eastern investment and SDGs development to gather and analyse relevant data. The research findings address critical issues such as development goals, geopolitical dynamics, and the future prospects for Africa and the Middle East. This article provides valuable insights into the Sino-US competitive cooperation relationship in both regions, demonstrating how their investments contribute to achieving development objectives and advancing SDGs. For instance, the AIIB’s investment in solar energy initiatives, such as the Benban Solar Park in Egypt, the project can help Egypt’s city build a sustainable development environment, and make people and some other lives live in a safe environment, help the Middle East achieve No.11 SDGs. Objective: This article aims to analyze the contributions of the AIIB and DFC to infrastructure development in the Middle East. It seeks to explore the strategic roles played by these institutions in advancing the competitive positions of the United States and China within the global market. Furthermore, the study examines the broader geopolitical implications of the Sino-US competitive cooperation relationship in the Middle East, focusing on how the activities of the AIIB and DFC both reflect and influence the geopolitical dynamics between these two global powers. Lastly, the article investigates the role of AIIB and DFC investments in supporting the Middle East’s progress toward achieving the SDGs. Theoretical Framework: This chapter presents the fundamental concepts and theoretical frameworks underpinning the research, with a particular focus on Realism and Neo-Realism. These theories provide a robust foundation for understanding the context and background of the study. Method: This research adopted a qualitative approach to gather and analyze data. The qualitative methodology is utilized to explore the opinions, experiences, and perspectives of participants. Data collection will be conducted through interviews, either online or in person. Additionally, a focus group will be selected to facilitate the comparison of various research components, identify relationships among these elements, and examine how they influence one another within the study. Results and Discussion: The findings highlight the significant contributions of both institutions to the development of the Middle East, as well as the intricate processes shaping their interactions and influence in the region. Additionally, the analysis underscores the competitive dynamics between the United States and China in Africa’s infrastructure development. The discussion is organized into distinct sections to examine the impact of these institutions on the Middle East and to analyze the Sino-US competition across different time periods. Research Implications: This article examines the practical and theoretical implications of its findings, offering insights into their potential application and influence within the field of Sino-US competitive cooperation relations. It also explores how AIIB and DFC investments can contribute to the Middle East’s progress toward achieving the SDGs. These implications extend to various dimensions, including the evolution of Sino-US relations, the Middle East’s development trajectory, and broader geopolitical dynamics. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the existing body of literature by analyzing the role of AIIB and DFC investments in advancing the Middle East’s progress toward SDGs while identifying a pathway for Sino-US competitive cooperation. The significance and value of this research lie in its examination of how these investments shape the Middle East’s SDG development and influence the evolution of Sino-US relation.

MODERN PROBLEMS OF STRATEGIC ANALYSIS AND THEIR IMPACT ON THE EFFECTIVE ACTIVITY AND MANAGEMENT OF ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT

Introduction. For the identification the current problems of strategic analysis of an enterprise, as well as their impact on the development and management of its activities in the context of rapid changes in the environment, it is necessary to form an effective system of their management. The purpose of the article. The purpose of the study is to identify the problems of modern strategic analysis and their impact on the activities of an enterprise. Methods. The article uses classical research methods, such as analysis, synthesis, comparison, which allowed to more effectively consider the current problems of strategic analysis development and propose measures for their systematic solution. Results. The main approaches to defining the concept of «strategic analysis» are considered and it is determined that strategic analysis involves identifying opportunities and threats of the external environment, strengths and weaknesses of the enterprise, determining competitive advantages and market position. It is investigated that, according to the direction of strategic analysis, the collected data is accumulated and the enterprise can make informed decisions, adapt to changes in the external environment. Conclusions. It is determined that the integration of new approaches to the implementation of strategic analysis with the help of modern analytical systems makes it possible to identify potential threats and respond to them promptly for the long-term and effective management of the enterprise in the future.

The human factor in contemporary organisations and changes in modern technology

The development of technology, the increasingly widespread use of its achievements prompt reflection on the role and importance of the human factor in contemporary organisations. The question arises: Will machines replace humans, or are humans more important than the products of modern technology? Therefore purposes of the paper are: 1) to identify the role and importance of the human factor in selected organisational models in relation to its other subsystems, including the technical subsystem; 2) to identify challenges to the human factor related to technological change in contemporary organisations. The study is theoretical in nature. A critical analysis of the literature on the subject was used as the research method. The methodologies of traditional and systematic literature review of the Scopus and WoS databases were used to collect data. The human factor plays a special role in organizational models. Without it, the other subsystems of the organisation, including the technical subsystem, would not be able to interact with each other, achieve the organisation's goals, create added value and the organisation's competitive position. The development of modern ICT technology, and Industry 4.0, poses challenges and threats to the human factor. It requires the development of the technical, digital and social competencies of employees. These competencies are essential for the integration and effective collaboration of humans and ICT. Researchers should look for comprehensive solutions leading to the integration of ICT technology with the human factor in the organization, so that modern technology supports people in their work, rather than replacing them. This requires research on HRM instruments that will facilitate employees' proper use of ICT, avoiding mistakes and risks associated with its incompetent use. Employers should introduce training and other HRM tools that develop employees' technical, digital and social competencies; develop and integrate technical and social subsystems with equal commitment and care.

Innovative GIS techniques for identifying optimal service center locations in Islamabad a PTCL case study

In the ever-competitive telecommunications landscape, acquiring new customers hinges on identifying their precise locations. This study investigates how Pakistan's leading telecommunications provider, PTCL, employed an innovative geo-marketing approach to pinpoint optimal locations for new customer service centers in Islamabad. The study integrates advanced GIS-based spatial analysis with statistical techniques, such as geographically weighted regression (GWR), achieving an adjusted R2 of over 0.75 in predicting potential customer density. Unique to this work is the incorporation of multidimensional datasets, including demographic, economic, and competitive factors, coupled with tailored site selection criteria to optimize accessibility, visibility, and resource allocation. By leveraging this novel approach, PTCL enhanced targeting efficiency and strategic decision-making, gaining a stronger competitive market position. This study highlights the transformative potential of data-driven geo-marketing in emerging markets, providing actionable insights for telecommunications companies aiming to optimize customer acquisition strategies.

Transactive memory systems in supply chain teams: role of lone wolf tendencies, technology ease of use and team collaboration

Purpose This study aims to understand the influence of lone wolf tendencies, technology ease of use and team collaboration on the development of transactive memory systems (TMSs) and, consequently, their impact on the performance of supply chain and operations teams. Design/methodology/approach By using a comprehensive operations management simulation involving 160 business student teams, this research tests five hypothesized relationships using structural equation modeling. Findings Lone wolf tendencies, technology ease of use and team collaboration contribute positively to an efficient TMS. This group cognitive system, in turn, strengthens a team’s competitive position and operational efficiency. This study highlights the need to reevaluate traditional management practices that discourage candidates with lone wolf characteristics. In addition, it shows that technology ease of use not only affects individual productivity as highlighted by the technology acceptance model but also influences the team knowledge system. Originality/value This study deepens understanding of the antecedents and consequences of TMSs in supply chain management. Lone wolf tendencies, characterized by independent work proclivity, are common in supply chain teams due to task complexities. Prior research on the impact of lone wolf behavior has yielded mixed results. Furthermore, although Industry 4.0 technologies are widely adopted in supply chain operations, it remains unclear how ease of using these complex technologies affects TMSs and team performance. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is among the first to investigate the influence of lone wolf tendencies and technology ease of use on group cognitive systems.

The Effect of Marketing Capability and Brand Reputation on Brand Loyalty of Tomoro Coffee through Competitive Advantage as a Meditation Variable

The purpose of this research is to analyze the influence of marketing capabilities and brand reputation on competitive advantage and brand loyalty among Tomoro Coffee customers in Surabaya. This study employs a quantitative research design using a cross-sectional method. The sample used in this research consisted of 100 respondents who are Tomoro Coffee customers residing in Surabaya. Sampling was conducted randomly through an online questionnaire using a Likert scale. Data analysis was carried out using the Structural Equation Modeling ( SEM ) approach with the Partial Least Squares ( PLS ) methodology. The results of this research indicate that marketing capability and brand reputation have a positive and significant effect on competitive advantage. Competitive advantage, in turn, has a positive and significant effect on brand loyalty. Marketing capability has a negative and insignificant effect on brand loyalty, whereas brand reputation exerts a positive and significant effect on brand loyalty. Furthermore, brand reputation has a significant influence on brand loyalty through competitive advantage as a mediating variable, while marketing capability demonstrates an insignificant effect on brand loyalty through competitive advantage as a mediating variable. The implications of this research suggest that Starbucks and other business actors can enhance their performance measurement systems related to marketing capability, brand reputation, competitive advantage, and brand loyalty. These improvements are essential for maintaining and strengthening their competitive position in the market. Keywords : Marketing Capability, Brand Reputation, Competitive Advantage, Brand Loyalty, Tomoro Coffee

Empowering Local Brands Through Strategic Branding: Case of MFD Studio

The rapid growth of Indonesia’s fashion sector contributes significantly to the creative economy. This is influenced by the post-pandemic shift in consumer behavior, making the Indonesian fashion market more competitive. Indonesia’s local brands face challenges in competing in this Red Ocean market. One of the local brands facing this challenge is MFD Studio, a local fashion brand from Bandung. MFD Studio faces a challenge in building a strong brand identity and differentiating itself from competitors. This research was conducted using a qualitative approach with semi-structured interviews to explore internal and external perceptions of the brand. Moreover, secondary data analysis was conducted in journals, social media, and e-commerce. The data analysis was developed using brand audit analysis and value proposition canvas in terms of thematic analysis. The results identified that MFD Studio was experiencing challenges in terms of brand awareness and a mismatch between the visual elements and the values it wanted to deliver. According to the analysis results, a comprehensive improvement branding strategy is proposed, focusing on improving a more consistent brand visual identity, strengthening more precise values, and optimizing the use of digital channels to increase interaction with consumers. This strategy is expected to increase brand awareness, strengthen customer loyalty, and drived increased conversion, ultimately strengthening MFD Sttudio’s competitive position in the Indonesian fashion market.

Optimizing Supply Chain Management with Real-Time Data Integration Platform

Real-time data integration platforms have emerged as transformative solutions in modern supply chain management, revolutionizing how organizations process, analyze, and act on critical business information. These platforms enable seamless connectivity between suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and customers, providing end-to-end visibility and enhanced decision-making capabilities. The evolution from traditional batch processing to real-time integration represents a fundamental shift in supply chain operations, addressing challenges such as data latency, system fragmentation, and operational inefficiencies. Through advanced technological components including sophisticated data ingestion layers, powerful processing engines, and efficient distribution systems, organizations can achieve substantial improvements in inventory management, order fulfillment, and customer satisfaction. The integration of artificial intelligence, edge computing, and blockchain technologies further enhances these capabilities, enabling predictive analytics, automated decision-making, and enhanced security measures. The implementation of these platforms, while challenging, offers significant strategic advantages including improved operational efficiency, reduced costs, and strengthened competitive positioning in the global marketplace.

The relationship between market structure, investment in innovation and competitive position: an empirical analysis in the U.S. supermarket industry

Purpose This study aims to examine the impact of investment in innovation, market structure and competitive position on the supermarket value chain in the USA. Design/methodology/approach This paper used secondary data from Economatica® for the period 2010–2020, encompassing 83 firms within the US supermarket value chain, resulting in 913 observations for each model covariate. The data were analyzed through structural equation modeling, using the partial least squares (PLS) approach, using SMARTPLS® software. Findings The results indicate that both market structure and investment in innovation have a significant impact on a firm’s competitive position. Specifically, a more concentrated market structure is associated with a weaker competitive position, whereas higher levels of investment in innovation correspond to a stronger competitive position. However, no significant relationship was found between investment in innovation and market structure. Research limitations/implications This study is limited to the Economatica® database, from which this paper selected a sample of firms within the US supermarket value chain. This paper recommend future research to compare data from other countries or sectors. For the three-dimensional model, this paper used constructs with indicators of investment, performance and market concentration; however, this paper suggests incorporating additional variables to enhance the model’s robustness. Practical implications An analysis of market structure and its impact on competitive positioning offers valuable insights for managers regarding the strategic dimensions of the supermarket industry. Integrating the effects of investment in innovation into business strategies can enhance long-term economic benefits. Adopting a value chain perspective further facilitates the examination of market equilibrium and competitive positioning within the supermarket industry. Social implications The findings of this study can help prevent the adoption of misguided strategies that fail to foster business growth. By highlighting the significant impact of innovation on performance, while considering the competitive dynamics within the supermarket industry, the study provides a deeper understanding of the risks faced by various firms across the value chain and the dual nature of competition within the sector. Moreover, it reinforces the relevance of research on economic sustainability and supports the development of effective growth strategies for firms. Originality/value While most studies focus on hypotheses examining the relationships between innovation and competitive positioning or between innovation and market structure, this study introduces a three-dimensional model that uses structural equation modeling to test these interconnections simultaneously. Furthermore, it extends the analysis by incorporating the value chain as a central component, using a diverse sample of firms directly linked to the core operations of the supermarket industry.

Mental model of tourism entrepreneurs as social value creators: research based on Q methodology

Purpose Despite the essential role of entrepreneurs in creating social value, there is limited understanding of their mindsets concerning this value. This study aims to investigate the mental models of tourism entrepreneurs regarding the social value they create. We hypothesize that their perspectives on tourism influence the type of value they generate Design/methodology/approach Q methodology was employed. Initially, a concourse was established in this area, followed by selecting a representative sample of 36 statements. The Q questionnaire was administered to 30 tourism entrepreneurs, and the data were analyzed post-collection. Findings Three distinct mental patterns emerged from the data: Destination Fans, Host Fans, and Tourist Fans. Among these, Destination Fans were the most prominent, indicating that most entrepreneurs perceive the destination as a critical factor in attracting tourists and developing their businesses. Originality/value Given the high competition within the tourism sector, many entrepreneurs seek to enhance their competitive positions by creating unique destination identities and tourism services. Consequently, they view the destination as pivotal for attracting tourists. This study illustrates that entrepreneurs leverage various methods to create value in the tourism sector, with differences stemming from their perspectives on the role of entrepreneurship in value creation.

Recent Advances in the Mechanisms of Quality Degradation and Control Technologies for Peanut Butter: A Literature Review.

As the quality of life continues to improve globally, there is an increasing demand for nutritious and high-quality food products. Peanut butter, a widely consumed and nutritionally valuable product, must meet stringent quality standards and exhibit excellent stability to satisfy consumer expectations and maintain its competitive position in the market. However, its high fat content, particularly unsaturated fatty acids, makes it highly susceptible to quality deterioration during storage. Key issues such as fat separation, lipid oxidation, and rancidity can significantly compromise its texture, flavor, and aroma, while also reducing its shelf life. Understanding the underlying mechanisms that drive these processes is essential for developing effective preservation strategies. This understanding not only aids food scientists and industry professionals in improving product quality but also enables health-conscious consumers to make informed decisions regarding the selection and storage of peanut butter. Recent research has focused on elucidating the mechanisms responsible for the quality deterioration of peanut butter, with particular attention to the intermolecular interactions among its key components. Current regulatory techniques aimed at improving peanut butter quality encompass raw material selection, advancements in processing technologies, and the incorporation of food additives. Among these innovations, plant protein nanoparticles have garnered significant attention as a promising class of green emulsifiers. These nanoparticles have demonstrated potential for stabilizing peanut butter emulsions, thereby mitigating fat separation and oxidation while aligning with the growing demand for environmentally friendly food production. Despite these advances, challenges remain in optimizing the stability and emulsifying efficiency of plant protein nanoparticles to ensure the long-term quality and stability of peanut butter. Future research should focus on improving the structural properties and functional performance of these nanoparticles to enhance their practical application as emulsifiers. Such efforts could provide valuable theoretical and practical insights into the development of stable, high-quality peanut butter, ultimately advancing the field of food science and technology.