Traditional Retail Research Articles

Examining Gender Disparities in Traditional Retailers' Intentions to Embrace Digital Technology in Saudi Arabia

This study aims to examine the factors influencing digital technology adoption among retail businesses in Saudi Arabia, with a focus on understanding gender-specific differences. Employing a cross-sectional design, data were collected from 291 owners and managers using an online survey. A convenience sampling technique was utilized to gather responses. The study investigated four primary constructs: intention to use digital technology, attitude toward digital technology, perceived ease of use, and perceived usefulness. Data analysis was conducted using structural equation modeling with SmartPLS software version 4. The findings reveal significant relationships among the constructs. Perceived ease of use was found to significantly influence perceived usefulness, which in turn positively affected both attitudes toward digital technology and intentions to use it. The study also highlighted that perceived usefulness has a substantial impact on intention to use digital technology, with attitudes toward technology playing a critical mediating role. Notably, gender-specific differences were observed in the impact of perceived ease of use on attitudes toward digital technology, which was significant for males but not for females. Tailored marketing and training strategies that address these differences are essential for enhancing digital technology adoption in the retail sector. These insights contribute to a deeper understanding of technology adoption behaviors and offer practical implications for improving technology integration. Received: 10 September 2024 / Accepted: 27 October 2024 / Published: 05 November 2024

Market Landscape and Digital Presence of Cacao-based Products in Bicol Region, Philippines

The Philippines stands as one of the world's emerging players in the cacao industry with its potential to contribute substantial impact in the global cacao market. A research study was conducted to determine the market landscape and marketing strategies conducted by cacao farmers and processors in Bicol region, Philippines. Surveys and interviews were conducted to capture diverse perspectives and insights of 70 cacao farmers, processors, traders and retailers. Result of the study showed that demographic characteristics of the group shows the predominance of traditional farming activities combined with a significant involvement in processing and trading which highlights a diversified approach to agriculture. Majority are directly involved in selling goods to consumers, either through retail or a combination of wholesale and retail activities. There is a strong inclination towards digital marketing and direct consumer engagement, alongside traditional wholesale and retail strategies. Market outlet for cacao products in the province suggests that most market activities are locally or provincially focused, with some engagement in regional and international markets. In terms of pricing information, there is a reliance on formal and market-based sources. Likewise, most businesses recognize the value of social media in reaching customers and promoting products. Recommendations include developing targeted marketing campaigns to specific consumer segments within the province, harnessing and further strengthening the power of digital marketing channels, including social media, e-commerce platforms, and influencer partnerships, strengthening collaboration with other stakeholders across the cacao value chain to improve market linkages and promotion and continue conducting market research and consumer preferences and monitor market trends.

Candida species covered from Traditional Cheeses: Characterization of C. albicans Regarding Virulence Factors, Biofilm Formation, Caseinase Activity, Antifungal Resistance and Phylogeny

This study has provided characterization data (carriage of virulence, antifungal resistance, caseinase activity, biofilm-forming ability and genotyping) of Candida albicans isolates and the occurrence of Candida species in traditional cheeses collected from Kayseri, Türkiye. Phenotypic (E-test, Congo red agar and microtiter plate tests) and molecular tests (identification, virulence factors, biofilm-formation, antifungal susceptibility) were carried out. The phylogenetic relatedness of C. albicans isolates was obtained by constructing the PCA dendrogram from the mass spectra data. Of 102 samples, 13 (12.7%) were found to be contaminated with C. albicans, 15 (14.7%), 10 (9.8%) and five (4.9%) were found to be contaminated with C. krusei, C. lusitane and C. paraplosis, respectively. While seven (16.2%) of 43 Candida spp. isolates were obtained from cheese collected from villages, 36 (83.7%) belonged to cheeses collected from traditional retail stores. The carriage rate of C. albicans isolates belonging to virulence factors HSP90 and PLB1 genes was 30.7%. ALST1, ALST3, BCR, ECE, and HWP (virulence and biofilm-associated) genes were harbored by 30.7%, 23%, 38.4%, 53.8%, and 38.4% of the 13 isolates. According to the microplate test, eight (61.5%) of 13 isolates had strong biofilm production. ERG11 and FKS1 (antifungal resistance genes) were found in 46.1% and 23% of 13 isolates, respectively. Due to missense mutations, K128T, E266D and V488I amino acid changes were detected for some isolates regarding azole resistance. As a result of the E-test, of the 13 isolates, one (7.6%) was resistant to flucytosine, four (30.7%) were resistant to caspofungin, and nine (69.2%) were resistant to fluconazole. The PCA analysis clustered the studied isolates into two major clades. C. albicans isolates of traditional cheese collected from villages were grouped in the same cluster. Among the C. albicans isolates from village cheese, there were those obtained from the same dairy milk at different times. Samples from the same sales points produced at different dairy farms were also contaminated with C. albicans. Concerning food safety standards applied from farm to fork, in order to prevent these pathogenic agents from contaminating cheeses, attention to the hygiene conditions of the sale points, conscious personnel, prevention of cross contamination will greatly reduce public health threats in addition to the application of animal health control, milking hygiene, pasteurization parameters in traditional cheese production.

The Influence of Consumer Behavior on Purchasing Decisions

Retail trade is a very strategic trade in Indonesia because it is able to absorb labor after the agricultural sector. There are two types of retail trade, namely traditional retail which is directly represented by small traders or grocery traders in traditional markets and in housing and modern retail which is represented by supermarkets and minimarkets such as Alfamart and Indomaret. This proves that there is quite high economic growth and creates investment, but on the other hand, this can cause lethargy for traditional kiosk traders, even killing their businesses. Yuki Mart is one of the modern shops (minimarkets) in Gunungsitoli City. This research aims to find out how much influence consumer behavior has on purchasing decisions at Yuki Mart, Gunungsitoli City. This research uses quantitative methods. Respondents were 57 consumers who shopped at Yuki Mart, Gunungsitoli City in July, where researchers collected data using a questionnaire, then carried out data validity tests, data reliability tests, classical assumption tests (normality tests), coefficient of determination, and hypothesis tests (t tests). The results of the research show that the influence of consumer behavior on purchasing decisions at Yuki Mart, Gunungsitoli City, is 16.3% and the other 83.7% is influenced by other variables not included in this research.

A comprehensive outline towards conciliation in the contemporary world of E-commerce

Since the start of the millennial era, technical advancements have led to exponential growth in electronic commerce, or e-commerce. According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), e-commerce sales reached about US$25 trillion globally in 2021 [1] and are expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 9% through 2027, which is twice as fast as the 4% annual growth rate predicted for traditional in-person retail [2]. Online dispute resolution (ODR) techniques that aim to settle disagreements and lower the likelihood of expensive lawsuits are becoming more and more necessary as both individuals and corporations use online shopping platforms. Due of its legally binding nature, arbitration is the most formal method, as was briefly discussed [3]. Online arbitration is carried out using electronic methods, like email and digital tools designed to make the duties of arbitrators and parties to a dispute easier. It adheres to the same rules and processes as traditional arbitration. On the plus side of e-arbitration, advancements in technology allow for time and cost savings without sacrificing the ease of remote filing. The conclusion of e-arbitration agreements raises several negative issues, including privacy and data protection issues for the consumer signing the agreements and power imbalances between corporate entities and the consumer. The degree to which artificial intelligence (AI) is effectively and sufficiently analysing a dispute between parties is up for debate because it's unclear how new this adjudication process is.

Digital Transformation Strategies for Enterprises - An Case Study of the Traditional Retail Industry

Against the background of rapid changes in science and technology and the rapid development of the digital economy, the market landscape is going through unprecedented and profound changes, consumer preferences becoming more and more personalized and diversified, while the e-commerce sector has shown a vigorous development trend. More and more traditional retail companies realize that digital transformation has become an unavoidable trend under competitive pressure. How traditional retail companies can establish a competitive and adaptable business model through digital technology is an urgent problem that needs to be solved nowadays, but many companies have no clear idea about it and lack systematic digital transformation plans. This paper analyses the current situation of traditional retail enterprises and the dilemma of digital transformation. It puts forward suggestions for digital transformation strategies, hoping to help retail enterprises understand and cope with the challenges of digital transformation, enrich the ideas of digital transformation at the theoretical level, and provide references for traditional retail enterprises that are undergoing digital transformation.

Application and Impact of the “Third Place” Concept — Starbucks as an Example

This essay explores the concept of the “Third Place” as epitomized by Starbucks, analyzing its significance in fostering community and enhancing the customer experience. By positioning itself as a communal hub, Starbucks transcends traditional retail paradigms, offering a space where social interactions flourish. The study found that Starbucks, through its successful global localization strategy, has effectively created a “third space” in different cultural contexts, enhancing customers’ sense of belonging and loyalty. Despite the impact of cultural differences on the brand experience, Starbucks’ space design and branding have become an important medium for customers to demonstrate their identity and interact socially. As the coffee shop market becomes increasingly crowded, Starbucks will need to continue to innovate and differentiate itself to meet customers’ evolving needs. In the future, Starbucks will need to continue to adapt to cultural differences and innovate to meet the challenges of the marketplace to maintain its global competitiveness.

Reviving small-sized retail: emotional experience and ethical perspectives as keys to customer repurchase intent

ABSTRACT The paper aims to clarify the role of cognitive and emotional shopping experience in small-sized retailers and its impact on satisfaction and repurchase intention. Also, an ethical perspective of the shopping decision is analyzed. Based on prior studies, we develop a quantitative study (n = 390) in Spain, where small-sized retailers represent most of the retail industry. The advent of new retail formats -online and offline- puts pressure on the traditional ones to evolve. Accordingly, results demonstrate that consumers emotional experience and ethical perception have a very notable impact on repurchase intention. Many small-sized retailers base their strategy on experiential marketing, the goal is to enhance consumers positive in shop experience. The findings also reveal that traditional retailers purchase is linked to consumers’ ethical beliefs or perceptions. Facing a shopping decision, consumers ask themselves about the impact it has on society, environment, and nature. Small-sized traditional retailers are facing, consequently, a double challenge. On the one hand, to keep developing awareness of the paramount societal role of this type of retailer and, on the other hand, to provide consumers with shopping options that boost their needs.

Determinants of Electronic Customer Relationship Management (E-CRM) Systems in the Nepalese Insurance Sector

E-commerce has revolutionized the global shopping landscape, especially among younger generations, by providing unprecedented convenience and accessibility. This shift has transformed traditional retail, enabling consumers to easily find, compare, and purchase products online. The internet has created a centralized platform that brings together competitors and consumers, opening new avenues for product and service promotion. Customer relationships are crucial in customer focused marketing, with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) leveraging customer data to enhance promotions. The evolution from e-CRM to CRM highlights the growing emphasis on customer relationships to establish competitive power. This study investigates the impact of trust, privacy, reliability, responsiveness, and customer satisfaction on the success of electronic customer relationship management (E-CRM) systems in the Nepalese insurance sector. Based on primary data from 393 respondents in the Nepalese insurance sector, the study employs descriptive statistics, correlations, and regression analysis. Data are collected using Google Forms The results show that privacy, reliability, responsiveness, trust, and customer satisfaction are positively correlated with the success of E-CRM systems. Higher levels of these factors lead to greater success in E-CRM systems within the Nepalese insurance sector.

The Role of Digital Transformation in Enhancing Business Performance and Smart Economy Integration: A Case Study of Thailand’s Retail Industry

This research examines the relationship between digital transformation, business performance, and the smart economy. The study uses a purposive sampling method with a quota approach, targeting business owners or managers from traditional retail businesses in smart cities across Thailand. 389 usable responses were collected and analyzed in Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Digital transformation positively correlates with business performance. Moreover, both digital transformation and business performance positively impact the smart economy. The findings support that digital transformation enhances business performance and contributes to the smart economy in retail operations, improving customer experiences and fostering smart economies. This study advances the academic understanding of digital transformation in Thailand’s retail sector, confirming the relevance of the TOE framework. The findings provide practical insights for retail businesses seeking to enhance performance and integrate with the smart economy through digital transformation.

Navigating The Digital Shift: Challenges And Opportunities For Traditional Retailers In India's Evolving Marketplace

The retail industry in India is experiencing a monumental shift driven by the rapid adoption of digital technologies. As e-commerce platforms, digital payment systems, and data analytics become increasingly integrated into the retail landscape, traditional brick-and-mortar stores find themselves at a crossroads. This digital transformation is not merely a technological upgrade but a fundamental change that reshapes business models, consumer interactions, and market dynamics. India, with its burgeoning internet penetration and widespread smartphone usage, presents a unique environment where digital innovation meets a diverse consumer base. The proliferation of global and local e-commerce giants such as Amazon, Flipkart, and JioMart has set new standards for customer expectations and operational efficiency, compelling traditional retailers to reevaluate their strategies (Invest India). However, the transition to digital is fraught with challenges. High costs of technology adoption, lack of digital expertise, and resistance to change are significant barriers that traditional retailers must overcome to remain competitive in the digital age

Understanding Traditional Retail Dilemma and Identifying Possible Solutions Based on New Retail Model: A Case Study of Chinese Market and Fresh Hema

The COVID-19 pandemic and online shopping have hit traditional retail which is still struggling to transform, while academics lack an up-to-date and systematic summary of the traditional retail dilemma. In addition, the New Retail business model appears as a potential solution. However, it remains to be seen whether it can provide a more effective means for physical retailers to stay competitive. In this instance, this paper attempts to summarise the dilemma of traditional retail from the perspective of CPT theory and to identify potential solutions that emerged from the New Retail model. The author employs the case study approach to investigate the Chinese retail market and Fresh Hema. Also, the Data Analysis Spiral is used to analyse secondary data. The findings demonstrate that the retail dilemma reflects on the channel, individual, tangible, and tangible aspects and that the New Retail model can handle the majority of problems with the exception of corporate awareness and monetary issues.

Research on Business Model Transformation of Traditional Retail Enterprises under the Background of Digital Economy

With the rapid development of Internet technology, the global economy is gradually entering the digital era, and traditional industries are facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities. The retail industry, as an important part of it, is experiencing the change from traditional business a model to digital transformation to adapt to the changing market environment and consumer demand. This paper discusses the path of business model transformation of traditional retail enterprises in the context of digital economy, emphasizes the necessity and urgency of business model transformation, and points out that the only way for enterprises to maintain competitiveness and achieve sustainable development in the fierce market competition is through digital transformation. The path of transformation practice includes the dimensions of online-offline integration, digital supply chain management, data-driven precision marketing, and innovative payment and settlement methods. By combining specific cases in the Philippine market, practical transformation strategies and theoretical guidance are provided for traditional retail enterprises to help them realize a new round of growth in the era of digital economy.

From Barista to Bytes: How Starbucks Brewed a Digital Revolution

This study examines Starbucks' digital transformation journey, analyzing its strategies, implementation, and impact on performance and competitive positioning. Using a qualitative case study approach, the article explores how Starbucks leveraged an interconnected ecosystem of mobile applications, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and data analytics to enhance customer engagement and optimize operations. The research investigates how these technologies synergistically contribute to Starbucks' "Digital Flywheel" framework, driving personalization, streamlining operations, and creating a seamless omnichannel experience. Drawing on company reports, academic literature, and industry analyses, this study provides a comprehensive view of Starbucks' digital initiatives and their collective impact. Findings reveal that Starbucks' success stems from a holistic approach to digital transformation, encompassing technological implementation, organizational restructuring, and cultural change. The study critically examines the effectiveness of the "Digital Flywheel" framework, comparing it with similar models in digital transformation literature. While highlighting the significant impact of these initiatives on Starbucks' financial performance, customer engagement, and operational efficiency, the research also explores challenges in data privacy, technology investment costs, and potential risks associated with digital transformation. The study provides a nuanced analysis of how Starbucks navigated these challenges, offering valuable insights for practitioners. This research contributes to the growing literature on digital transformation in retail, offering a balanced perspective on both the opportunities and challenges of digital innovation. By examining Starbucks' journey, the study critically assesses how traditional retailers can adapt to the digital age, while acknowledging the variability in outcomes across different sectors.

Unveiling the Disruptive Force: Analyzing the Impact of Digital Shopping

The present research aims to analyze the influence of digital shopping on the traditional retail industry in Tamil Nadu. The present research executes a quantitative analysis utilizing the SPSS version 23 software package. A structured questionnaire survey technique is employed to gather the data from the traditional retailers in Tamil Nadu. A judgment sampling strategy has been adopted for analysis. The objective of the method is to collect data relating to conventional retailers' perceptions of the impact of online shopping applications. Descriptive statistics, ANOVA, regression, and Pearson correlation analysis were performed in the research. The study's outcomes revealed that digital shopping significantly impacts the growth and profitability of the offline retail industry. Furthermore, the study also evaluates the socio-economic and psychological factors prompting the purchasing behavior of consumers in Tamil Nadu. The study recommends that traditional retailers enhance their strategies to improve their business over online retail marketers.

Models for dual-channel remanufacturing supply chain with reference price effect under static and dynamic games

With the diversity of shopping styles, reference prices have become a consideration in consumers’ purchasing decisions. It is critical to understand how manufacturers and retailers make optimal decisions based on consumer behavior. To this end, we develop a manufacturer-led Stackelberg (M-Stackelberg) game model to investigate the impact of consumer proportion, reference price effect (RPE), and the channel preference coefficient on the decision of the remanufacturing supply chain (RSC) in dual-channel structures. Through comparing different game scenario models, we find that when the reference price coefficient is relatively small, the optimal decisions for the manufacturer and the retailer are the same regardless of whether the RPE is considered. The manufacturer and E-tailer always benefit from RPE, while the traditional retailer (T-retailer) is uncertain. The numerical analysis revealed that the profits of supply chain members are inversely proportional to the proportion of consumers. The smaller the proportion of primary consumers, the more favorable the supply chain. In particular, the higher the channel preference coefficient, the higher the profits of the manufacturer and E-tailer, while the lower the benefit of the T-retailer. Further, in the dynamic game, the total supply chain profit is highest when the T-retailer prices earlier than the E-tailer.

Courier delivery of antiretroviral therapy: a cohort study of a South African private-sector HIV programme.

Courier delivery has become a popular antiretroviral therapy (ART) distribution method in some HIV care settings, yet data on ART courier delivery and how it relates to ART outcomes are scarce. We studied the differences in viral suppression rates between individuals from a South African private sector HIV programme receiving ART by courier delivery and those receiving ART through traditional retail dispensing. Individuals aged 15 years or older who were actively enrolled in the Aid for AIDS programme between January 2011 and July 2022 were eligible for the analysis. The outcome of interest was viral suppression defined as a viral load (VL) <400 copies per ml. We calculated adjusted odds ratios (OR) for the association between the ART distribution method and viral suppression, comparing those receiving refills through courier pharmacies versus retail dispensing at the time of the VL testing. We used generalized estimating equations to account for repeated VL testing of the same individual. The models were adjusted for age, sex, calendar year, ART regimen, history of mental illness and medical insurance scheme. We computed adjusted ORs for the calendar periods 2011-2013, 2014-2016, 2017-2019, 2020-2022 and overall. We extracted 442,619 VL measurements from 68,720 eligible individuals, 39,406 (57.3%) were women. The median number of VL measurements per individual was 6 (IQR 3-10). VL suppression was detected in 398,901 (90.1%) tests, and 185,701 (42.0%) of the tests were taken while the individual was receiving ART by courier delivery. Overall, courier delivery was associated with 5% higher odds of viral suppression than retail dispensing (adjusted OR 1.05, 95% CI 1.02-1.08). The strength and direction of this association varied by calendar period, with an adjusted OR of 1.37 (95% CI 1.27-1.48) in 2011-2013 and 1.02 (95% CI 0.97-1.07) in 2020-2022. Courier delivery of ART is a viable alternative to retail dispensing in the South African private sector, as it was associated with higher viral suppression until 2016 and similar suppression rates in recent years. Further research is needed to investigate the potential benefits and drawbacks of courier delivery of ART in both private and public healthcare settings.

Analysis Of Traditional Retail Strategies In Facing Modern Retail In Malang City

This analysis aims to examine the strategies carried out by traditional retailers in Malang City in facing competition with modern retailers. This research uses qualitative methods with data collection techniques through interviews, observations, and literature studies. The results show that traditional retailers in Malang City face various challenges from modern retailers, such as lower prices, greater product variety, and better service. To face these challenges, traditional retailers implement various strategies, such as: Strengthening personal service and hospitality, Offering unique and distinctive products, Building local communities and networks, Improving management efficiency and effectiveness, Utilizing information and communication technology, The government also needs to play a role in helping traditional retailers to improve their competitiveness, such as by providing training, coaching, and access to capital.

Research on the Path of Low Carbon Transformation of Traditional Retail Enterprises Empowered by Digital Technology

The retail industry is an integral part of the service sector. In the context of the booming development of the service industry and digital technology, this paper explores the low-carbon transformation path for traditional retail enterprises empowered by digital technology. Initially, a literature review reveals that as the overall scale of the service industry continues to expand, its negative impact on the environment is also intensifying. Reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions has become a rigid constraint faced by the service industry; Meanwhile, digital technology is becoming an important means to empower traditional service enterprises in their low-carbon transformation. Subsequently, through case study analysis, it is pointed out that digital technology can empower the low-carbon transformation of traditional retail enterprises from three aspects: reducing energy consumption, decreasing emissions, and saving resources. Finally, in response to the existing obstacles in implementing low-carbon transitions such as insufficient motivation for transition, constraints on investment costs in low-carbon technologies, and difficulties in managing energy and carbon emissions, practical paths for digital technology to empower the low-carbon transformation of traditional retail enterprises are proposed. These include enhancing the motivation for enterprise low-carbon transition, overcoming constraints on capital and talent, and improving technical support capabilities for the transformation.

The Way of Tea Drinking Survival in the Internet Era----- Taking Heytea as an Example

The Internet model has promoted the development of commerce, not only the traditional retail industry has been developed, and the catering industry such as milk tea and coffee shops is booming. As the first generation to open the online operation model, although the Internet + model has begun to take shape, there are still gaps in the relevant tea drinking culture. Based on the literature research method and case analysis method, this paper analyzes the existing marketing model of Heytea and proposes relevant improvement policies, with the purpose of widening the gap with other related tea brands and improving the core competitiveness of its products. As the earliest generation of beverage stores to enter the Internet + model, Heytea has rich experience in marketing planning, online and offline marketing activities. This paper analyzes the marketing based on the Internet + model through researching the brand cross-border co-branding and innovative marketing activities of Heytea.