Distribution Channels Research Articles

The Digital Insurance Paradigm: A Theoretical Exploration

The advent of technology has significant impact on the economy as a whole. Technology is attributed to the transition such as from traditional mode to online mode. Financial services industries such as banking, insurance are also witnessed huge growth in their businesses. Several technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, internet of things, block chain technology etc are gaining momentum these days. Insurance companies are using electronic mode as a alternate channels for communication, sales and distribution. The study focuses on the acceptance of electronic channels for availing digitalized insurance services by policyholders. The main aim of the study is to develop conceptual model for explaining user’s behavior intention towards adoption of digital life insurance services. The study has used unified theory of acceptance and use of technology model while incorporating some external variables such as trust, self efficacy etc. Attitude has also been used as a mediator for explaining the relation between other constructs and behavior intention. Keywords: Online Insurance, Trust, Attitude, Technology, Financial Services, Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology.

Optimizing interleaved distributed streamline obstacle flow channels through genetic algorithm coupled with backpropagation neural network regression predictive surrogate model

The design of the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) channel has a significant impact on mass transfer and chemical reactions. In this study, an innovative channel design with streamlined obstacles arranged in an interleaved manner is proposed to achieve optimal performance for PEMFC. The design utilizes genetic algorithm optimization (GA) combined with backpropagation (BP) neural network as a predictive regression proxy model. The input variables include the radius, semi-axis, width, and average interleaved distribution interval of the streamlined obstacle, while the output variables are current density and cathode pressure drop. This approach aims to achieve the optimal design prediction of streamlined obstacle structures. The dataset is obtained from a three-dimensional two-phase model of PEMFC established in the COMSOL software. The results indicate that the GA-BP neural network regression predictive proxy model aligns well with the physical model and demonstrates high prediction speed and accuracy. The training time is approximately 15 min, and the prediction time is less than 3 s. The determination coefficients for current density and cathode pressure drop are 0.99977 and 0.99999, respectively. The physical model and proxy model are validated using an orthogonal table design of input variables. Additionally, using net output power as a comprehensive evaluation index, 9,720,000 operating conditions are predicted. The optimal geometric parameters for the streamlined obstacles are determined as follows: a radius (R) of 0.41 mm, a semi-axis (L) of 0.2 mm, a width (W) of 0.94 mm, and an average interleaved distribution interval (D) of 0 mm. These dimensions are validated in the physical model at an operating voltage of 0.4 V, resulting in a current density of 1.5901 A/cm2 and a pressure drop of 502 Pa, with relative errors of 0.18 % and 4.38 %, respectively, compared to predictions. The optimized channel, when compared to the basic straight channel, shows an increase of 3.25 % in current density and a 3.16 % increase in net power.

Startegic Decision Making to Enhance Film Distribution Channel and Minimize Lack of Cinema Screen Problem in Indonesia

Startegic Decision Making to Enhance Film Distribution Channel and Minimize Lack of Cinema Screen Problem in Indonesia

Partners in crime: Convenience case study of Norwegian publishing cartel

The theory of convenience addresses white-collar and corporate crime. The theory is applied in this article to a case study of Norwegian publishing houses having to pay infringement fees because of competition act violation. Cartel members agreed and coordinated a boycott of a distribution channel. This article reviews the research literature on cartels before presenting the convenience case study. Combatting cartels is a matter of reducing the attractiveness and convenience of joining cartels. Guardianship, oversight, and controls are at the core of reducing deviance convenience. Detection is an element of oversight. However, detection is rare, as this case illustrated by email sent by mistake. Combatting cartels is a matter of control at the top of organizations where typically each chief executive officer (CEO) is involved. Therefore, the corporate compliance officer should never report to the CEO but rather to the chairperson on the board and to the external auditor.

Consumers’ perception of distribution channel for the Malaysian microtakaful scheme: an exploratory study

Purpose This paper aims to investigate consumers’ preferences regarding the distribution channels for subscription, contribution payment and compensation claims of microtakaful scheme in Malaysia. Design/methodology/approach Consumers’ preferences were explored through questionnaires and focus group discussions (FGD) conducted among the bottom 40% income classification households (B40) in five zones: northern, central, eastern, southern and Sabah and Sarawak. Findings Empirical findings from cross-tabulation analysis revealed that takaful company is the preferred distribution channel for purchasing protection plans and making compensation claims. However, the online platform is the favoured channel to make contribution payments. Further investigation through FGD suggested that the selection of a channel for subscription, contribution payment and compensation claim is influenced by consumer trust, cost-effectiveness and simplicity of procedure. Research limitations/implications Limitation is pertaining to only cross-tabulation analysis used in explaining the choice of distribution channel for microtakaful among B40 group. Thus, advanced analysis is required to strengthen the findings. Practical implications Findings of this study would help marketers and practitioners to formulate strategies to promote their microtakaful protection to enhance subscription among the low-income population. Originality/value Empirical findings offer academic contributions to the existing body of knowledge on microtakaful area as the primary data collected will eventually allow future researchers to explicate the contribution of the current study to understand the important of distribution channel for microtakaful from the perspective of subscribers and potential subscribers.

EROI development and validation of a framework to assess the return on the environment of RFID deployment

This study is grounded in the growing significance of environmental sustainability and the widespread adoption of RFID technology across various industries and is aimed to explore the influence of RFID implementation in supply chains by developing a tool that calculates the net balance of CO2 annual emissions. The tool, known as “Return on the Environment” (EROI), is based on a widely accepted environmental assessment method and it calculates the Global Warming Potential (GWP100) incurred and avoided at various stages in the supply chain strictly related to RFID technology introduction. To validate the tool, two RFID deployments have been assessed: one involving a pharmaceutical product tagged on its secondary packaging to monitor the flow of products through the distribution channel, and another a medical device tagged on both primary and secondary packaging to oversee product flow from the supplier distribution center to the hospital operating theatres. In both cases, the results indicate that implementing RFID technology reduced GWP100 compared to the scenarios without RFID. This was primarily due to decreased product shrinkage, lower missing or expired products, and reduced additional transportation due to shipping errors. The tool is versatile and it could be applied to any type of product, serving as a source of inspiration for those who want to assess the sustainability of RFID technology not only from an economic perspective, i.e. ROI calculation, but also from an environmental view. Future work will address the third level of sustainability, RFID social sustainability, that is the impact RFID deployments may have on empowering people, improving staff and employees working conditions, and creating possibilities for high-value job opportunities.

Optimizing Supply Chain Integration: Exploring the Role of Distribution Channels in Enhancing Enterprise Performance

Abstract: Distribution channels, or basically paths, are how items are delivered from the maker to the consumer. This is the subject of the study. It examines the various varieties of these pathways and their mechanisms, emphasizing the function of intermediaries who facilitate this process. The growing significance of electronic channels for product sales is also mentioned. A supply chain can be thought of as a large network that consists of all the various companies, individuals, and tasks necessary to move an item from its point of manufacture to its point of purchase. This covers every step of the process, from obtaining the supplies needed to create something to carrying out the actual production to selling the completed good. Keywords: Distribution channels, Production, Manufacturer, A supply chain, Purchaser.

Cultural and Creative Industries in the Digital Environment: Opportunities and Prospects

The purpose of the article is to identify opportunities and prospects for the development of cultural and creative industries (CCI) in the digital environment. Research methods. The methods of analysis and synthesis, generalisation and abstraction were used, which made it possible to identify the opportunities and prospects for the development of the CCI in the digital environment. The scientific novelty lies in substantiating the relationship between CII and the digital economy, identifying areas of AI application in CII, and improving understanding of the possibilities and prospects of CII in the digital environment. Conclusions. Numerous advantages of CCI development, combined with the unprecedented potential provided by digitalisation, have opened up opportunities for transforming the sector from a low-profit and non-priority one into a key industry that supports the economic and, at the same time, cultural growth of the country as a whole. It is emphasised that the new functionality provided by digital technologies stimulates the development of new content formats, the emergence of alternative channels for its provision and distribution, and curation. By changing the nature of the mass distribution of creative products, enabling a fairly wide aggregation of content and diversifying its distribution channels, digital technologies contribute to the rethinking of consumer practices, which in turn opens up opportunities for new business models, network convergence, as well as the emergence of new forms of monetisation and consumer control. It is concluded that for the further development of CCI, it is necessary to comprehensively promote the digitalisation process, fully utilise the role of digital infrastructure in creating, integrating and facilitating the sharing of resources, optimise the environment for the development of CCI, achieve high-quality matching of creative products, creative talents and creative technologies, and expand the digital environment.

Analisis Biaya Transportasi dalam Pendistribusian Singkong Menggunakan Metode Northwest Corner dan Least Cost

Transportation plays an important role in supply chain management, where transportation is the process of determining how and when goods should be delivered to consumers. In the transportation method used, it is necessary to consider efficiency and speed in delivering goods. The object of this research is cassava plantations, which are in the Bogor district, especially in the Jonggol, Cariu and Sukamakmur sub-districts. The harvest from this plantation is allocated to 3 factory areas in the Bekasi district. The problem faced is the high transportation costs in allocating the harvest. So, the minimum distribution costs that will be incurred in allocating the harvest to various chip factories are not yet known, and the route and quantity of cassava that will be sent is not yet known. One method of transportation is the Northwest Corner (NWC) and Least Cost Method. The Northwest Corner and Least Cost methods are used in determining goods delivery routes, so that you can calculate the lowest transportation costs from one place to another. Based on the research results, the minimum distribution cost allocated for cassava is IDR 5,410,000.00 with distribution channels namely Cariu to Muktijaya as much as 90 tons, Sukamakmur to Cijengkol as much as 100 tons, Cariu to Ciledug as much as 10 tons, Jonggol to Ciledug as much as 140 tons, and Sukamakmur to Ciledug as much as 20 tons.

The Influence of COVID-19 on Online Sales in the Wine Sector: A Portuguese Case Study

COVID-19 reinforced the adoption of an online sales strategy, with e-commerce proven to be an asset in achieving positive results. Based on this premise, a case study was developed in the wine sector, to identify a strategic model for the implementation and management of a virtual store. The simultaneous presence of businesses in the largest number of distribution channels is the differentiating factor in the wine sector, as it currently has an extremely attractive market dynamics for its stakeholders. A qualitative methodological case study was developed analyzing the wine sector e-commerce in the context of a theoretical model. The conclusions highlight an increase of online sales in the wine sector in Portugal, and consequently, the importance of creating a virtual store. The growth of the B2C online sales channel indicates there is ‘divergence’ from the traditional offline B2B sales channel. There is resistance by the B2B sales model to adopt online B2C, but despite this, the wine sector favoring e-commerce has seen a boost in sales profits. Pandemic restrictions reduced consumer physical contact which is a limitation of this single case study.

Constraints and barriers on industrial customer performance in an omnichannel ecosystem

One of the business models in the digital field that has proliferated the most lately is the omnichannel model. Its objective is to provide services adapted to the specific demand of each particular client, regardless of the channel at any given time. To carry it out, the firm must have exact knowledge of the client. Manufacturing companies that have incorporated technology to learn more about their industrial customers and predict which proposal is the most appropriate for each customer-context have the basis to go further and get to know the final consumer. This knowledge of the consumer is a pillar for innovation in a company and especially for product innovation. Usually, the manufacturer does not want to bypass the traditional distribution channel, so it is proposed to create an ecosystem for the provision of services. That is, manufacturers enable digital communication channels with the final consumer, to collect information, while providing the service or supply through the traditional channel. In this way, omnichannel ecosystems arise. This article aims to clarify the barriers that hinder customer performance, either directly as an industrial buyer of a good, or as an intermediary, in an omnichannel ecosystem.

The Relationship between Sports Events and Branding; A Symbiosis of Sports and Brand Marketing

Sports events are witnessed with number of sponsors. The sponsorship of sporting events results in the promotion of a certain brand in exchange. Various sports events attract masses of crowd not only in ground but also on various media. It gives marketers the option to target such large masses of people and turn them into patrons who are devoted to their brand. This study focuses on the relationship between sports event and sponsoring brands. Sponsorship of sports is a great way for a company to become more visible. The brand is exposed to a large audience on athletic stages and in the media by associating with a sporting event or team. Making the most of distribution channels, including press appearances, social media, television broadcasts, and stadium advertising, is crucial to maximizing this visibility. The study is of qualitative nature using in depth interviews. Findings of the study suggest that there exists a mutually beneficial relationship “symbiosis” between sports and sponsoring brands. In the conclusion, this study highlights the dynamic relationship between sports and brand marketing, highlighting the continued significance of sporting events as crucial platforms for consumer interaction and brand promotion in modern international marketplaces.

Evaluation of Liver Markers, Kidney Markers, Electroyte Panel and Protein Profile in Pump Attendants Exposed to Petrol Fumes from Selected Filling Stations in Ihiala, State, Nigeria

Environmental hazard in a work place is an inevitable experience especially when it has to do with working in a filling stations where volatile and combustible substances like petrol, diesel and kerosene are dispensed via PMS and other channels of distribution or outlets and in the process pollute or saturate the air with hydrocarbons. Individuals working in a petrol station pose different risk of exposure to these xenobiotics that enter the body via different means (inhalation, ingestion and skin or eye contact) and could be detrimental to the body system resulting to death if not properly handled. This research was aimed at assessing some biochemical indicators of occupational hazard in fuel pump attendant from selected service stations in Ihiala, Anambra state. A total of eighty apparently healthy subjects (40 males and 40females) aged between 28-35 years volunteers participated in the study. Each gender was further categorized into two groups of 20 each for control (unexposed workers) and exposed pump attendants respectively. The pump attendants that volunteered for this study had spent an average of 5-6 years on the job. Blood samples were collected from the volunteers with their informed consent and selected biochemical parameters such as liver function test (ALP, AST ALT), kidney function test (urea, creatinine and uric acid), protein profile (total protein and albumin), and electrolyte levels were investigated using standard methods. The result of the investigations showed that urea and creatinine level of exposed female pump attendants (5.80±0.02 mg/dl and 82.50±2.15 mg/dl)were significantly higher (P<0.05) than unexposed female pump attendants (5.00±0.45mg/dl and 58.00±0.11 mg/dl respectively). Serum sodium (Na+ ) electrolyte levels of exposed male and female exposed pump attendant (143.00±1.05 and 141.00±1.25 mmol/L respectively) were significantly higher (P<0.05) compared to Na+ electrolyte levels in male and female unexposed workers (138.00±0.14 mmol/L and 139.50±2.11 mmol/L respectively) while the chloride ion level in male and female pump attendants were higher compared to male and female unexposed workers. Alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase (ALT and AST) levels of male and female exposed pump attendant were higher than that in male and female unexposed pump attendant. Petroleum fumes are therefore environmental pollutants that could have serious consequences on biochemical parameters in petroleum product exposed individuals. Therefore, health Safety and Environmental training is recommended for petrol station workers on regular basis to improve their safety and create awareness on the dangers inherent associated with filling station workers exposed to petrol fumes.

Examination of the effects of learning capabilities and market orientation of logistics companies on innovation and logistics performance

PurposeIn today’s economic conditions, businesses face great challenges related to competitiveness. The effort to respond flexibly to the changing business environment and customers’ demands constantly puts pressure on innovation. For this reason, research purpose to examine the effects of learning capabilities and market orientation in logistics companies during the pandemic.Design/methodology/approachIn this research, a quantitative method was adopted and partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was applied. The research is based on four variables. A conceptual research model was established through literature review and the model was tested. Within the scope of this research, A sample of 544 participants was taken to construct and test the model, and a 39-statement scale was presented to them. After presenting the reliability and validity values on the model, hypotheses were tested. Analyses were conducted using Smart-PLS 3.3 software.FindingsAs a result of the research conducted in logistics companies, the positive effects of learning orientation on performance outputs and the positive effects of market orientation as both a mediator and an independent variable show that these concepts are important for company management.Research limitations/implicationsConsidering the limitations of the research, it would be wrong to generalize the results of the analysis for different sectors because the data were collected from experts working in logistics companies. Therefore, it is necessary to make evaluations taking into account the limitations of the research. In future studies, it is recommended to make comparisons with research in different sectors, taking into account the limitations, and to enrich the literature with more research in this area.Practical implicationsBecause of the importance of logistics activities seen in all countries with the pandemic period, it can be explained as a result of the analyses that the performance outputs are positively affected by the learning orientation, the companies’ adaptation to continuous change and development and their emphasis on market orientation at the same time.Originality/valueThe research is an original study as it analyzes the effects of learning orientations of logistics companies on the problems and opportunities experienced in the supply and distribution channel along with the pandemic process.

GREEN SUPPLY CHAIN IMPLICATIONS FOR FOOD INDUSTRY

Purpose- This article has been carried out to determine the situation of green supply chain practices, which are of great importance worldwide, in Turkiye/Diyarbakır province food companies. Supply chain management starts with the procurement of raw materials. After the supply, the product is processed and delivered to customers through the distribution channel. After the consumption stage, the supply chain management process is completed with the return of the product that has completed its life cycle to the enterprise. The main objective of supply chain management is to make the best use of the factors in use. These factors are listed as technology, process management, personnel management, and performance measurement after completing the management process. With these parameters, it is aimed to be prepared for the expected changes in the market in supply chain management and to determine strategies against possible changes. Methodology- The survey method was used to obtain the study data. The questionnaire form, which was created following the scope of the study, was applied to the determined companies face-to-face and via email. In analysing the data obtained, the study data were analysed by frequency analysis through statistical programs. The results were presented in tables and interpreted. Findings- The survey data created within the scope of the study were analysed using statistical programmes. The data obtained were analysed by taking into account the strategic position and market share of Diyarbakır province in Turkiye. Conclusion- As a result of the research, it was determined that food companies operating in Diyarbakır province are aware of green supply chain management. In addition, it was determined that they pay attention to the use of environmentally friendly and recyclable products or activities from the raw material procurement stage to the production stage. In addition, it has been determined that they are sensitive to production, supply and distribution activities by international standards.

Development of Automatic Object Detection and IoT for Garbage Pickup Assignment Problem

Waste management remains a challenge in certain cities, particularly in allocating fleets responsible for collecting garbage from temporary disposal sites. Inadequate planning can lead to the accumulation of substantial waste piles. This study aims to enhance truck assignment by considering truck capacity and the collection route. The assignment process incorporates the fundamental concept of the transportation problem, precisely the northwest corner method. The volume of waste transported aligns with the resident or industrial population within the designated service area. The waste generation capacity determines the future fleet and quantity, forming a crucial element of the ensuing distribution channel. A monitoring system integrating object detection and the Internet of Things (IoT) has been devised to ensure effective garbage collection. Cameras strategically positioned at temporary disposal sites transmit real-time images. The system evaluates garbage collection capacity through object detection facilitated by neural network training. The research outcomes demonstrate the system's capability to identify waste pile levels and validate the garbage pickup process by the designated fleet. Future research should focus on assignment and scheduling in waste transportation, enabling fleet allocation within specific timeframes. Additionally, an object detection algorithm refinement is necessary for more precise identification of waste pile locations.

Foreign market network and internationalization of domestic firms: A systematic literature review

This study examined foreign market network and internationalization of domestic firms. It was carried out to identify the contemporary foreign-market networks available for domestic firms seeking internationalization; the ways in which foreign market network facilitates the internationalization of domestic firms; and the major barriers to the internationalization of domestic firms in contemporary extant literature. To that end, a systematic literature review methodology was adopted. Through a thorough search process supported by a set of stringent inclusion-exclusion criteria, 103 relevant articles were included in this review. The articles were analyzed using in-depth content analysis method augmented with descriptive statistics. The study found that the contemporary foreign-market networks for internationalization can be grouped into 18 categories. It was also found that foreign market network can enhance the internationalization agenda of domestic forms by providing access to distribution channels, risk mitigation, and enabling access to market knowledge and insights, among other key findings. Therefore, the study recommended the following, among others: Domestic firms seeking to internationalize should seek out foreign market networks using personal contacts, social media and the internet generally in order to gather substantial market intelligence about the countries to which they intend to expand their operations; and domestic firms can leverage foreign market networks by establishing strategic partnerships with local distributors, leveraging international trade associations, and utilizing cross-border collaborations to gain market insights, access distribution channels, and build relationships with key stakeholders, facilitating the successful execution of their internationalization strategy.

Re-imagining African millennials’ brand buying and distribution channel selection behaviour in a technologically disrupted world

Purpose This paper aims to investigate the factors that influence millennial purchase behaviour, brand choice and distribution channel selection in an evolving technology-driven environment. Design/methodology/approach The study was exploratory, using qualitative methods of personal interviews and some ethnographic observations to collect data from 585 millennials from ten cities in nine African countries. Findings Findings from the study confirm and support the critical role of e-commerce in facilitating millennials engagement with brands, highlighting how brand purchases are integral to their lifestyle choices. There is an overwhelming confirmation of the importance of influencer marketing and social media in shaping purchase decisions, with new insights into the role of local micro-influencers and social networks. The findings from the study highlight the pivotal role of a brand’s country of origin in influencing millennials’ brand preferences. The study supports and advances insights into the importance of online shopping and diverse factors influencing millennials’ selection of distribution channels. Practical implications There is an opportunity to leverage the growing mobile telephone penetration and social media usage to develop innovative integrated marketing communications strategies. There are opportunities for co-creating marketing communication campaigns with millennials in different settings. These are outlined in the practical implications section. Originality/value The paper is based on original empirical data collected from ten countries and explores the behaviour of a growing but under-researched segment of millennials in Africa.

Snapping the news: Dynamic gatekeeping in a public service media newsroom reaching young people with news on Snapchat

The relationship between news media and social media platforms is complex, involving dependencies and conflicts. Being present on these platforms offers benefits, such as increased visibility and engagement, particularly with younger audiences. However, platforms also function as gatekeepers through guidelines and algorithmic filtering, impacting the spreading of news media content. Snapchat, popular among young audiences, has been adopted by many traditional news outlets as a more playful distribution channel. Limited research exists on how newsrooms navigate Snapchat’s guidelines and the consequences of violating these, including practices like “flagging,” and the interplay between editorial decisions and algorithms. This study relies on an ethnographic fieldwork at the Norwegian Public Service Broadcaster’s (NRK) editorial group “NRK UNG” (NRK Youth) publishing news to young audiences on Snapchat. The study expands on gatekeeping theory, incorporating recent advancements, and illustrates how the journalists navigate Snapchat’s algorithmic gatekeeping. The study thus highlights the interplay between human news judgment and algorithmic news dissemination on Snapchat at various stages of the news production process.

Dos Hemisferios: putting high-quality Ecuadorian wines on the map

Learning outcomes The learning objectives include understanding the unique environment and challenges that business leaders face when developing new businesses in emerging markets, evaluating the firm’s internal and external environments, analyzing sales data and distribution channels and formulating new strategies. Case overview/synopsis Dos Hemisferios Winery, founded in 1999 as a hobby, grew into a family business. The Ecuadorian winery expanded production after winning an international award for its Paradoja blend in 2009. With a $10m investment in a new plant in 2017, the winery capacity increased to 500,000 bottles. President Robert Wright recognized the need to increase sales, aiming to sell at least 425,000 bottles annually at an average price of $8 per bottle to break even and become profitable in 2024. To tap into Ecuador’s top market in Quito, representing 46% of sales, Dos Hemisferios aimed to boost monthly revenues to $50,000 by addressing challenges such as low awareness and consumer reluctance. Initiatives under consideration included partnerships and events, winery tours, enhanced social media, new products and improved sales channel distribution. Complexity academic level The Dos Hemisferios case is appropriate for upper-division undergraduate and graduate students in global business and strategy courses. The learning objectives for the case study include: understanding the unique environment and challenges business leaders face when developing new businesses in emerging markets; evaluating the firm’s internal and external environments to determine its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats; analyzing sales data and distribution channels for the business; and providing students with the opportunity to formulate strategies to gain more share of the Ecuadorian wine market. Supplementary materials Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject code CSS 11: Strategy.