Local Consumers Research Articles

Developing Shona-physics Diction for Possible Use in the Teaching of Forces at Ordinary Level Physics in Shona

Several local researchers advocate for indigenous languages to be used as media of instruction in different subject areas to prevent misconceptions and ambiguities. Justifiably, Zimbabwe has sixteen indigenous languages but physics is still being taught in English. Local craftsman and innovators are still writing their instruction manuals for their products in the English language even for the local consumers. This paper was aimed at developing a Shona-Physics text that will be used in the teaching and learning of Forces at Ordinary level physics. The corollary of this aim was to promote deeper understanding of Forces while developing an indigenous language diction that would help in the industrialization of products. Focus group interviews were conducted in two high schools in the Chiweshe area under Mazoe District, in Mashonaland Central province of Zimbabwe to obtain Shona-Physics diction necessary to write a text that could be used in teaching and learning of forces at ordinary level. Twenty-five learners, three physics teachers, two language specialists and a retired head teacher purposively drawn from the local community participated in the research. The obtained diction was cleaned through gleaning of pertinent literature and consultation with Shona speakers who are physics teachers. A Physics text in Shona for ordinary level Forces was developed after a qualitative document analysis of the Ordinary level Physics syllabus. The findings indicate that content on Forces is sequenced from simpler skill to higher order skill and the evaluation of the text made indicates that it is now easier for the physics educators to explain physics concepts using the current text. We recommend that more studies be done to cover all physics topics at Ordinary level. This would make it easier for the nation to offer physics at junior primary school level.

Drivers of consumers’ intention to adopt sustainable healthy dietary patterns: evidence from China

IntroductionIn line with the shift towards sustainable consumption, sustainable healthy dietary patterns (SHDP) have received considerable attention, but no study has examined Chinese consumers’ intention to adopt SHDP.MethodsBased on the theory of planned behaviour (TPB), this study integrated health consciousness, environmental concerns, and past eating behaviour to construct an expanded TPB framework for analyzing the factors influencing Chinese consumers’ intention to adopt SHDP. The mediating role of attitude between perceived value and consumers’ intention to adopt SHDP was also analyzed. The study empirically tested the research model using structural equation modelling estimation, based on the data collected from 402 local consumers in Wuxi, China.Results and discussionThe results showed that attitude, perceived behavioural control, health consciousness, and past eating behaviuor positively and significantly influenced consumers’ intention to adopt SHDP, whereas perceived value indirectly influenced adoption intention through attitude. Subjective norms and environmental concerns had no significant influence on adoption intention. Based on these findings, interventions through dietary education and information campaigns are recommended to enhance consumers’ value awareness and attitudes towards SHDP. Interventions, such as nudging, should be designed to enhance consumers’ perceived behavioural control and dietary practises. The findings of this study provide important insights for the development of dietary change intervention strategies.

Influencing Smartphone Choices: The Interplay of Social Media Marketing and Brand Image on Purchase Intentions

This research study endeavors to shed light on intricate dynamics between Social Media Marketing, Brand Image, and Purchase Intention within unique socio-cultural landscape of Saudi Arabia. The primary aim of this investigation is to explore and analyze how social media marketing strategies deployed by businesses operating in Saudi Arabia impact brand image and, in turn, influence consumers' purchase intentions. While extensive research has explored these relationships in various global settings, a significant research gap exists regarding their specific manifestation in the Saudi Arabian context. In order to address this gap, we conducted a quantitative study employing PLS-SEM Smart PLS software as our data processing tool. We focused on Millennial Smartphone Consumers in Saudi Arabia, a crucial demographic known for its active engagement on social media platforms. Data were collected through online questionnaires distributed to 234 Millennial Smartphone Consumers in Saudi Arabia. The research design addresses several key objectives: first, the exploration of direct relationship between SMM and BRI; second, the examination of the relationship between SMM and PIN; third, the analysis of the relationship between BRI and PIN; and fourth, the assessment of the relationship between SMM and PRI, with BRI serving as a mediator. However, it is vital to recognize certain limitations in our research. This study's focus on a specific demographic, namely Millennial Smartphone Consumers, may not fully represent the broader consumer population. The implications of our findings are significant for businesses operating in Saudi Arabia. By tailoring social media marketing strategies to resonate with local consumer base and considering influence of culture and societal norms, marketers can enhance brand image and influence purchase intentions effectively. Our study has practical implications for businesses and provides a valuable reference for future research and the development of targeted marketing strategies in this region.

Design and evaluation of architectural framework for a secured local energy market model based on distributed ledger technologies

AbstractBlockchain‐based local energy markets have been proposed in recent years to provide a market platform for local prosumers and consumers to exchange their energy in a secured, transparent and tamper‐proof manner. However, there are still some challenges regarding the scalability of blockchain to handle high computational models/algorithms/contracts as this may result in the extension of the block size of the blockchain network and very high gas costs. Also, there is still the problem of transparency as regards General Data Protection Regulation because the full visibility of data in the blockchain may collide with privacy in some settings. A framework is presented that combines the on‐chain features of blockchain with trusted execution environments to develop a transparent, tamper‐resistant, low operation cost, scalable and resilient hybrid model architecture for local electricity trading. The model architecture was simulated in German community case scenarios for a varying number of prosumers and consumers to show its applicability. The simulation results show that the model was able to solve the scalability problem of blockchain for the local energy market application as the market model is run in a trusted environment where the integrity of the model can be verified by the participants.

A toast to emerging terroir: exploring consumer attitudes toward local wine in Ukraine

PurposeThis paper aims to explore the emerging wine market of Ukraine. Specifically, the study examines Ukrainian consumer attitudes toward local wines and provides profiles of various groups of local wine consumers.Design/methodology/approachData were collected via an online survey of Ukrainian wine consumers (N = 325). Factor and cluster analyses were performed to assess general attitudes toward local wine. Descriptive statistics and analyses of differences (t-tests and chi-square tests) were also used for further data exploration.FindingsThe findings indicate that quality perceptions, price sensitivity and reputation play a vital role in shaping local consumers’ attitudes toward Ukrainian wine. Three distinct consumer segments were identified. Local Skeptics exhibit reserved opinions about local wine. Local ambassadors show the highest level of enthusiasm and support for local wines. Local non-connoisseurs are the least involved and knowledgeable about wine; thus, their opinions about the local wine industry are not formed yet. This is the group that merits the utmost attention from wine marketers.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is the first research attempt to identify different types of wine consumers based on their attitudes and perceptions toward local wines in Ukraine.

MANAGING NEGATIVE ALCOHOL-RELATED CONCERNS: A QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH CONCERNING CONSUMERS FROM BOTH ABRAHAMIC AND ENDOGENOUS RELIGIOUS FAITH

The relationship between alcohol consumption and conflicts is explored in several contexts. Little research has been conducted on the subject in Wa. This research explores the relationship between alcohol consumption and conflicts where alcohol consumption is on the increase. This exploratory research is focused on the post-positivist posture. A quantitative research design is used to collect data from both primary and secondary sources for analysis using sphinx IQ software. Some self-administered questionnaires are used for data collection. Results show that alcohol consumption is strongly associated to household conflicts. In addition, the results also show that alcohol consumption is associated to street conflicts. It is found that alcohol consumption is associated to religious conflicts. The findings imply that there should be a rigorous segmentation and hyperpersonalisation of the alcohol beverage market in order to meet the local consumers’core needs and real expectations. To the best of authors knowledge, this is an exploratory research in the Ghanaian Upper West context that shows the relationship between excessive alcohol consumption and conflicts with some particular psychosocial and cultural factors.
 Keywords: Alcohol Consumption, Household Conflicts, Street Conflicts, Religious Conflicts, Wa.

Pengaruh Price Discount, Bonus Pack, Instore Display, Brand Image Dan Keragaman Produk Batikterhadap Impluse Buying Pada Konsumen Batik UD. Al-Barokah Sumenep

UD. AL- Barokah Sumenep. As shopping center of batik at regency Sumenep that straightforward show batik product result it to consumer. Shopping cester batiks that standing early year 2015 advance expenditure startup concepts local society consumers, by treats various design and heterogeneous pattern beginning of traditional design (Madura), Msdura’s conjugate and java and modern batik. To the effect research aims 1) to Menganalisis is influence price discount to impluse buying on consumer batiks UD. Al Barokah Sumenep. 2. Menganalisis is influence pack's bonus to impluse buying on consumer batiks UD. Al Barokah Sumenep. 3. Menganalisis is influence instore is display to impluse buying on consumer batiks UD. Al Barokah Sumenep. 4. Menganalisis is influence brand is image to impluse buying on consumer batiks UD. Al Barokah Sumenep. 5 Menganalisis is product diversity influence to impluse buying on consumer batiks UD. Al Barokah Sumenep.Approachings observational method quantitative, with SPSS For’s application purpose windows 25 population and sample as much 60 respondents with tech analisis bifilar linear regression data. Result observationaling to point out that Price discount, pack's bonus, instore is display, brand is image and product diversity have influence that signifikan to impulse buying , on UD. Al Barokah Sumenep has to increase signifikan's influence

Analysis of Western Apparel Brands Localization in China

With China's reform and opening up, this market with huge consumer potential has attracted the attention of thousands of capital brands from other parts of the world over the past four decades, and more and more international brands are facing the same problem when entering the Chinese market - how to make their brands take root in China. This paper examines the localization of international brands in China from the perspectives of the international apparel market and the local Chinese culture. Through questionnaire analysis, this paper concludes that in the Chinese market, the more closely Chinese traditional culture is adhered to, the more it will win the favor of local consumers and so on. This study provides a reference value for the present and future survival of apparel brands in China in terms of profit growth, as well as a reference value for the future entry of international brands into other emerging markets.

Golden Arches Across Cultures: Understanding McDonalds Global and Local Consumer Behavior

Amidst globalization, the fast-food industry, notably brands like McDonald's, has attracted significant interest. McDonald's dominates in the U.S. and has seen remarkable success in markets like China. Yet, despite its global image, differences in marketing and consumer behavior exist between these nations. This study aims to dissect the distinctions between McDonald's in China and the U.S., focusing on product adaptability, advertising, and consumer behavior. The intent is to grasp how global brands localize in varied cultural environments. Historically, McDonald's transitioned from a U.S. local brand to a global powerhouse. The U.S. formed its foundational market, while China presents both vast opportunities and challenges. Key questions addressed include McDonald's product adjustments for diverse cultures and whether advertising should be country-specific. To answer these queries, this paper mixes qualitative and quantitative research. Data will be sourced from consumer surveys and interviews, and a thorough analysis of McDonald's advertising in both nations. Secondary data will also be examined for a holistic view. This approach aims to pinpoint McDonald's strategic adaptations and potentially guide other global brands in localization endeavors.

Collective Asset Sharing Mechanisms for PV and BESS in Renewable Energy Communities

The energy sector transition to more decentralized and renewable structures requires greater participation by local consumers, which may be enabled by innovative models such as the setup of renewable energy communities (RECs). To maximize the self-consumption of local renewable energy generated by assets normally connected to the low voltage distribution grid, these RECs typically involve jointly owned assets such as collective photovoltaic solar panels (CPVs) and collective energy storage systems (CESS). This work proposes a novel mathematical model for a REC, accounting for three distinct economic approaches to the redistribution of collective benefits among community members. The main objective of this study is to understand how the participation of community members in collective assets (CAs) can help increase the fairness and equity of RECs. An illustrative REC case comprising members with individual and collective ownership of the assets is used to assess the proposed economic approaches. Extracting several answers, among them that the most advantageous configuration comes from agents with quotas in the CESS and CPV. An important conclusion is that depending on the selected economic approach, the social welfare and agent’s revenue vary significantly. In any case, CESSs increase equity among REC members.

Are You Sure About Your Purchase? Consumer Preferences For Local Beef Purchase Among Malaysians: A Case Study In Johor, Malaysia

Every corner of the world loves beef for its juicy and tender texture. As the demand for beef products grows in the Malaysian market, understanding consumer preferences for beef, especially those related to its quality, is essential. The question normally asked is, what are the main factors that influence the customers when buying local beef. Therefore, to unravel the question, this study investigates consumer preferences for purchasing local beef among Malaysians in Johor. We use a quantitative method to report a descriptive statistic based on pilot data collected from 65 respondents working and living in Johor. The results indicate that consumers in Johor prioritize freshness (68.75%) and taste (50%) over halal status (81.25%) when purchasing local beef. The findings obtained will help in providing insightful information to local beef suppliers and the Johor State Department of Veterinary Services, about local beef consumers in Johor.

СЕРВІСНІСТЬ УКРАЇНСЬКИХ КОМПАНІЙ ЯК КОНЦЕПЦІЯ ЗБІЛЬШЕННЯ ПРИБУТКІВ У СФЕРІ ГОСПОДАРСЬКОЇ ДІЯЛЬНОСТІ

This article examines the methods of increasing the profit of companies due to the improvement of the quality of services provided, using the example of agricultural companies. In the context of scientific research, serviceability refers to issues of efficiency, quality of service, interaction with customers in various areas of business. Research into aspects of serviceability allows you to determine the strategic direction of the company's development for scaling, increasing profits, attracting new and retaining existing customers. Methods of increasing customer loyalty were considered and a comparison of approaches to service of Ukrainian companies with international practices of other countries was made. Considered methods of assessing serviceability. The main aspects of serviceability, scientific approaches to the provision of administrative services from international practitioners have been studied. The scheme of indicators that affect the long-term perspective is shown, and what place customer loyalty occupies in it. It is important to take into account changes in the conditions of market competition and consumer preferences when researching aspects of serviceability. The development of technologies also plays a significant role in the formation of the service strategy of companies. New innovations, such as artificial intelligence, data analysis and others, allow us to automate service processes, providing faster, more efficient and personalized service for customers. Along with this, it is important to take into account cultural and geographical differences in the perception of the service. What may be a successful approach in one country or region may not work in another. Therefore, adapting service strategies to local conditions and consumer needs is a key aspect of companies' development. Another important direction is the constant monitoring and updating of service standards of companies. The world is changing rapidly, and what was effective yesterday may no longer meet today's market needs. Therefore, it is important to have mechanisms to constantly collect feedback from customers and quickly respond to their changing needs and expectations. In light of these factors, companies should consider service as a strategic component of their business. Investing in improving service quality and meeting customer needs can be critical to increasing competitiveness and profitability in the long run.

INNOVATIVE MARKETING STRATEGIES FOR AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS IN BELAGAVI RURAL.

This research explores and evaluates innovative marketing strategies tailored for the unique context of Belagavi Rural's agricultural sector. The study investigates the challenges and opportunities in marketing agricultural products in this specific region, considering factors such as local traditions, consumer preferences, and distribution challenges. By analyzing successful case studies and incorporating insights from key stakeholders, the research aims to identify effective strategies that can enhance the market presence and profitability of agricultural products in Belagavi Rural. The findings of this study contribute valuable insights to marketers, policymakers, and businesses seeking to optimize their approach in rural agricultural markets. Key words: Agricultural products, Belagavi Rural, Marketing strategies, Rural marketing, Innovation

To Buy Or Not To Buy: Consumers’ Perception And Purchasing Behaviour On Local Meat In Segamat, Johor

Malaysia has experienced significant economic growth in recent decades, and this has accounted for an increase in meat consumption. In Malaysia, the low supply of local meat creates a shortage in the market, encouraging consumers to purchase imported meat. Factors such as regional growth differences, seasonality changes, food safety and quality, personal tastes and habits, product prices, and health concerns, influence the demand for meat. So, it is important to find out how people in Segamat, Johor, think about and buy local meat. A total of 100 questionnaires were distributed through an online platform as a pilot study resulting in 60 meat consumers participation. Results identified that the key drivers that influenced meat purchases were price of meat and consumers’ perception on food safety. Besides, consumer perception towards local meat is focusing on freshness of the meat (slaughtered on the day it is sold, not frozen) (91.67%), and the origin of the meat (not imported meat) (96.67%). The findings obtained will help in providing insightful information to local meat suppliers and the Johor State Department of Veterinary Services, about the concerns of local meat consumers in Segamat everytime they purchase the item.

Концентрация на региональных рынках кредитования населения России в условиях роста цифровизации банковских услуг

Due to the dominance of the largest banks, the issue of increasing concentration and monopolisation of the Russian banking sector is discussed in regards to the competition in the industry. The Bank of Russia set the task to increase competition and reduce concentration in the financial sector, including at the regional level. This task can potentially be solved using new financial technologies, digital banking services and remote access technologies. The paper aims to assess the dynamics of concentration in local consumer loan markets in 2015–2021, as well as to answer how new financial technologies and digitalisation can increase competition in the banking sector at the regional level. The study calculated concentration indices and number of banks in consumer loan markets of Russian regions and the country as a whole. To this end, data from the website of the Bank of Russia, both for the retail loan market and the housing loan market, were analysed. The findings show that concentration indices did not decrease during this period. Simultaneously, the regional average number of banks issuing consumer loans decreased less than the total number of banks due to the entry of some banks into new regional markets. This means that the expansion of remaining banks to more regions, including through digitalisation and remote methods, has the potential to increase competition in the industry. However, at this point, only few consumer loans and deposits were provided by banks that do not have branches in a given region. Therefore, there is little evidence to suggest that new financial technologies are already increasing competition in the banking sector of Russian regions.

Determinants of Consumer Food Waste Behaviour in Malaysia Based on the Theory of Planned Behaviour

Food waste is a critical issue affecting environmental sustainability and food security globally. This study aims to investigate the determinants of consumer food waste behaviour among households in Malaysia, adopting the Ajzen’s Theory of Planned Behaviour as the conceptual framework. A quantitative approach was adopted, with data collected from a survey of 300 Malaysian households. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the survey data, which measured constructs such as attitudes towards food waste, subjective norms, perceived behavioural control, and food related routines. Results indicate that perceived behavioural control, shopping routines, and the reuse of leftovers are significant predictors of food waste behaviour in Malaysian households. Planning routines contribute indirectly to reducing food waste. Sociodemographic variables, including household size, income, and age, were found to have significant correlations with food waste behaviour. These findings offer valuable insights for designing targeted interventions to reduce food waste in Malaysia by enhancing household capabilities and routines related to food management. The study highlights the importance of understanding local consumer behaviour to effectively address food waste and support global sustainability efforts.

Respostas ecofisiológicas de plantas de abacaxi ´Turiaçu´ em estágios vegetativos e reprodutivos à adubação do solo e localização da cultura

ABSTRACT: Pineapple is a tropical fruit with high demand by the fruit market in Brazil. Fruits of the cultivar ´Turiaçu` stans out in local consumer markets due to its excellent quality. The objective of this work was to evaluate ecophysiological responses of ´Turiaçu` pineapple plants at the vegetative and reproductive stages to soil fertilization and crop location, and their effects in fruit yield. The study was conducted in the cities of São Luís and Turiaçu, MA, Brazil. Plants under mineral and organic fertilization in two locations, São Luís and Turiaçu, and in two seasons, dry and rainy season, were evaluated during dry and rainy seasons. Chlorophyll index, photochemical efficiency, gas exchange, and fruit yield were evaluated. The pineapple plants presented decrease in the photosynthetic activity, at both developmental stages and in both seasons, when grown in São Luís. The CO2 photosynthetic assimilation decreased. The PSI and PSII activity, according with photosynthetic index, was more sensitive at the reproductive than at the vegetative stage. The organic fertilization was not appropriate for the ´Turiaçu` pineapple crops, regardless of the crop location. The fruit yields were 54.4% and 57.9% lower in São Luís, under mineral and organic fertilization, respectively. Thus, the ecophysiology of ´Turiaçu` pineapple was more affected by water availability than by soil fertility in the municipality of Turiaçu.

유형별 한류 문화콘텐츠와 한국제품 브랜드 구매의도 관계에서 한류 친숙도의 조절효과 분석

The purpose of this study is to analyze the influence and moderating effect of tangible and intangible Korean Wave content experiences on the purchase intention of Korean product brands among local consumers in the Philippines. As a result of analyzing 300 copies of survey data collected from local consumers in the Philippines, the types of Korean Wave content (Korean video, K-Pop, K-Food) had a significant positive influence on the intention to purchase Korean product brands. It was found that As a result of verifying the moderating effect of Korean Wave familiarity, it was found that the positive influence of Philippine consumers' tangible and intangible Korean Wave content experience on Korean product brand purchase intention was strengthened by Korean Wave familiarity. These results suggest practical and theoretical implications by suggesting that Philippine consumers' familiarity with the Korean Wave can strengthen their influence on their intention to purchase Korean brand products.

Sharing economy business models (SEBMs): a study of global archetypes and from local industries in Georgia

This paper discusses the mapping model tools for Sharing Economy Business Models (SEBMs) and summarises the arguments and counterarguments within the scientific discourse. The main purpose of the research is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the SEBMs of local companies, contrasting them with global archetypes as defined by Curtis and Mont (2020). Systematisation of the literary sources and approaches for solving the problem indicates that local companies exhibit unique attributes in their SEBMs when compared to their global counterparts. The relevance of this scientific problem decision is that understanding these differences provides valuable insights into how local contexts and conditions shape SEBMs. Investigation of the SEBMs in the paper is carried out through detailed comparisons with global models. Methodological tools of the research methods were studying the companies’ models by exploring all available information on the web during the year of observation, 2023. The research object is the local companies because they offer insights into how local contexts and conditions shape SEBMs. The paper presents the results of an empirical analysis which reveals differences in areas such as governance model, price mechanism, and revenue streams. The research empirically confirms and theoretically proves that these variations could be attributed to local market conditions, consumer preferences, or strategic choices made by the companies. The research results can be useful for practitioners and academic researchers in the sharing economy, offering insights into local variations in SEBMs and their potential impact on business strategy.

Dissonance and self-reflections: Decentering assumptions to foster learners’ cognitive flexibility

The process of developing intercultural competence requires students to decenter from their existing frames of interpretation. Dissonance creates opportunities to question assumptions by challenging the primacy of perspectives, fostering skills to grapple with new knowledge and the ability to think more dialectically about the world. The present study examines how reflecting on dissonance engages skills and dispositions that support the development of cognitive flexibility, the ability to switch between emic and etic perspectives. In an advanced French course focused on marketing and communication, embodiments of economic patriotism in advertising and marketing practices in France aimed to disrupt and destabilize assumptions about the impact and role of globalization on local product consumption and consumer behavior. The analysis of students’ self-reflections collected in two sections of the course shows that dissonance acted as a sensitizing device, signaling to students the limits of their own perspectives. The juxtaposition of multiple perspectives through the angle of marketing prompted reinterpretation, questioning, and awareness of the subjectivities of interpretation, fostering dialectical thinking skills. Imagination, interest, and curiosity were key in sustaining the decentering process and developing a readiness for cognitive flexibility.