Business Perspective Review (BPR) [ISSN 2691-039X] is an international open-access scholarly journal published twice a year in looseleaf format. All manuscripts submitted to the journal pass through a double-blind peer-review process. BPR covers a wide range of topics under the general purview of business and management. Following are the indexing platforms of the Journal: Google Scholar: Each article will be visible in the Google Scholar account within 2-5 days of publication Crossref: Each article is assigned with a Doi from Crossref CORE [UK] PKP Index [Canada] WorldCat [USA] BASE [Denmark] Directory of Research Journals Indexing [DRJI] ResearchBib Please register/login and submit your article. If you face any issues with online submission, you may send your article to riieditor1971@gmail.com
Circular Economy and Corporate Sustainability in Bangladesh's Ready-Made Garment Industry
Purpose: The ready-made garments sector in Bangladesh contributes to 81.82% of national exports and employs well over four million workers. Nonetheless, this sector encounters substantial challenges in implementing circular economy principles to achieve corporate sustainability. This study identifies essential factors that can enhance corporate sustainability in the ready-made garments sector of emerging economies by addressing significant issues, challenges, and opportunities related to supply chain management, technology, government policies, and circular economy principles. The study presents a research paradigm for achieving corporate sustainability based on a rigorous evaluation of the literature. Methods: The study employs systematic reviews using the PRISMA strategy to retrieve comprehensive documentation. This methodology enables a comprehensive scoping of exploratory themes, adjusting search terms repeatedly to gather interdisciplinary perspectives on the integration of corporate sustainability into the circular economy. Results: The research highlights the importance of corporate sustainability within the Bangladeshi ready-made garments sector, focusing on technology, government involvement, supply chain dynamics, and the circular economy. Despite financial limitations, infrastructural challenges, and talent deficiencies, the industry has the potential for environmental, social, economic, and political sustainability. Originality: This study presents a novel framework that examines the interplay of technological capabilities, supply chain flexibility, governmental influence, and the circular economy within Bangladesh's ready-made garment sector, aiming to achieve corporate sustainability. Implications: The research offers industry practitioners valuable insights for enhancing technical training, implementing regulatory reforms, and advancing infrastructure development, thereby facilitating an effective transition to a circular economy. This understanding can help governmental entities and industry leaders craft policies that strike a balance between environmental, economic, political, and social responsibilities.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dr. Motafizur Rahman, Jannatun Nur Jui, Md. Nafis Sadiq Noor http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Firm-Level and Macroeconomic Influences on the Profitability of Textile Industries in Bangladesh
Purpose: The objective of this research is to investigate the firm-specific and macroeconomic factors that influence the profitability of textile industries in Bangladesh. Methods: In this study, the financial statements of thirty-eight textile firms from 2017 to 2023 were examined. The websites of the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, and the Bangladesh Bank were utilized to gather macroeconomic statistics. The panel data were analyzed using a random-effect regression model. Results: The results show that firm-specific characteristics such as liquidity, managerial efficiency, capital intensity, and earnings after tax (EAT)as a ratio of total assets improve the ROA of textile industries in Bangladesh. However, firm-specific characteristics such as firm size have a detrimental influence on the profitability of Bangladesh's textile industry. Additionally, macroeconomic variables such as real interest rates have a substantial impact on the ROA of Bangladesh's textile sector. Additionally, the study found that firm age, board size, GDP growth rate, and exchange rate had no significant impact on the profitability of textile firms in Bangladesh. Implications: The study makes a valuable contribution to understanding the issues affecting the profitability of textile industries in Bangladesh and offers insights into measures that can be taken to enhance their financial performance. Originality: This study is novel in its integration of firm-level and macroeconomic factors to evaluate profitability in Bangladesh's textile sector, utilizing recent panel data (2017–2023). It provides a comprehensive perspective through random-effects regression and emphasizes previously under-examined variables, such as the EAT ratio and real interest rates.
Copyright (c) 2025 Md. Amdadul Hoque http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Enhancing Consumer Purchases through Store Design
Purpose: This study explores the impact of store atmospherics—specifically music, aroma, lighting & color, and texture & feel—on consumer purchasing decisions in the shop setting. It aims to determine which sensory elements most significantly influence buying behavior, thereby guiding businesses in designing more effective in-store environments. Methods: The study employed SmartPLS 3.2.3 and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to conduct a two-step analysis process. First, the measurement model was checked to ensure the reliability and validity of the constructs. Then, the structural model was evaluated to test the hypothesized relationships among the variables. To conduct the survey, a self-administered questionnaire was distributed among the customers. A total of 350 responses were obtained from participants selected using convenience sampling. Results: All four atmospheric variables were found to have a statistically significant influence on purchasing decisions. Lighting and color emerged as the strongest predictors (β = 0.404, p < 0.001), followed by texture and feel (β = 0.341, p < 0.001), music (β = 0.140, p = 0.021), and aroma (β = 0.111, p = 0.037). Implications: The findings highlight the strategic value of sensory design in retail environments. Retailers and marketers can leverage these insights to craft immersive in-store experiences that enhance customer engagement and drive sales. Originality: This research contributes to the limited empirical literature on sensory marketing in developing countries, particularly by quantifying the comparative effects of different atmospheric cues in a single model. Limitations: The study is limited by its focus on only four sensory dimensions and a relatively small sample size, which may constrain the generalizability of the findings. Future research should consider broader sensory inputs and a more diverse consumer population.
Copyright (c) 2025 Tahmina Reza http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Does Corporate Governance Influence Auditor Choice in an Emerging Economy?
Purpose: This study examines how corporate governance mechanisms influence the selection of Big 4 auditors, with a particular focus on the moderating role of ownership structure. Specifically, it compares family and non-family firms to determine whether governance characteristics affect auditor choice differently across these two types of firms. Method: Using panel data from 109 manufacturing firms listed on the Dhaka Stock Exchange between 2013 and 2019 (681 firm-year observations), the study employs logistic regression analysis to investigate the determinants of Big4 auditor selection. Result: The findings reveal that board size is positively associated with the likelihood of engaging a Big4 auditor. In contrast, the frequency of board meetings shows a consistent negative association across both family and non-family firms. Sub-sample analyses reveal that in non-family firms, board size, audit committee size, and audit committee meeting frequency are positively associated with the choice of a Big 4 auditor. In contrast, for family firms, board gender diversity has a positive effect, whereas audit committee size and meeting frequency are negatively associated with the likelihood of selecting a Big 4 auditor. Implications: These results suggest that ownership structure significantly moderates the relationship between governance variables and auditor choice. The study provides novel evidence from an emerging economy, offering insights for policymakers, regulators, and corporate stakeholders aiming to enhance audit quality and corporate transparency through tailored governance reforms.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sadia Afrose, Mehedi Hasan, Tasneem Nova, Saimoon Hasan http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Implications of Brand Awareness on Repeat Purchases in the Refined Palm Oil Sector in Cameroon
Purpose: In highly competitive commodity markets like Cameroon’s refined palm oil industry, brand awareness is often assumed to drive customer retention. However, empirical evidence remains inconclusive. This study investigates whether brand awareness significantly influences repeat purchases in such homogeneous markets, addressing a critical gap in the literature while offering practical insights for marketers. Methods: Using a quantitative cross-sectional design, data were collected via an online survey from 423 consumers, selected through convenience sampling. Brand awareness was measured through recall, image, association, and trust, while repeat purchases were assessed via frequency, loyalty intention, switching resistance, and advocacy. Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression and Maximum Likelihood Structural Equation Modeling (ML-SEM) were employed to analyze the relationships, controlling for demographic variables like age, income, and education. Results: The study reveals a strong positive relationship (β = 0.649, p < 0.001) between brand awareness and repeat purchases, with brand association and image emerging as the most influential drivers. Price sensitivity also significantly impacted repeat purchase behavior, while demographic factors showed negligible effects. Implications: The findings validate the role of brand awareness in commoditized markets, suggesting that marketers should prioritize cognitive brand awareness, particularly through consistent messaging and trust-building, despite product homogeneity. Policymakers can leverage these insights to support local brands through quality certifications and consumer education. Limitations: The cross-sectional design limits causal inferences, and convenience sampling may affect generalizability. Future longitudinal or experimental studies could strengthen these findings.
Maximum Likelihood Structural Equation Modeling
Copyright (c) 2025 Akwo Kelvin Ndofor, Mbu Daniel Tambi, Neba Neola Buwah http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Effect of Celebrity Endorsement on Consumer Brand Loyalty
Purpose: This study seeks to investigate the relationship between celebrity endorsement (celebrity similarity, celebrity attractiveness, and celebrity popularity) and brand loyalty in the city of Bamenda, Cameroon. It also examined the comparative analysis between the telecommunication and brewery industries in Bamenda, Cameroon. Method: This study employed a quantitative research design, incorporating surveys and causal research approaches. A total of 450 questionnaires were administered for each industry, including subscribers of telecommunication companies and consumers of brewery products in Bamenda, both in-person and online. 429 questionnaires were retained for telecommunication companies and 424 for brewery products. The multiple correspondence analysis was used to construct indices of celebrity endorsement and brand loyalty. The ordinary least squares (OLS) were used to test hypotheses. Results: Data analysis indicates that all three indicators of celebrity endorsement have a significant positive effect on consumer brand loyalty. Results for both the telecommunication and brewery industries are statistically significant at the 1% level. However, the impact of celebrity endorsement on consumer brand loyalty is significantly more pronounced in the telecommunications sector than in the brewery sector. The study concluded that enhancing celebrity endorsement features will substantially increase brand loyalty among consumers. Implications: This study has significant practical and theoretical implications for consumer behavior in developing countries, particularly Cameroon.
Copyright (c) 2025 Blaise Yennika Tani, Urie Eleazar Jumbo, Neba Noela Buwah http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Exploring the Virtual Reality in Tourism Marketing for Improving Efficiency and Better Consumer Experience
Purpose: This study examines the transformative potential of Virtual Reality (VR) in tourism marketing, emphasizing its role in enhancing efficiency and sustainability. It aims to bridge the gap between theoretical advancements and practical applications of VR in tourism. Methods: A PRISMA-based systematic literature review was conducted, analyzing studies from 2021 onwards. The study explores various VR applications in tourism marketing, such as dynamic pricing, customer segmentation, and real-time personalization, while addressing challenges like data privacy and algorithmic bias. Results and Discussion: Findings indicate that VR enhances consumer engagement, improves travel decision-making, and fosters immersive destination branding. VR-driven marketing strategies, including virtual tours, interactive campaigns, and personalized experiences, have significantly influenced consumer behavior and increased booking conversion rates. However, challenges remain, such as accessibility barriers, high implementation costs, and potential discrepancies between virtual and real-world experiences. Implications: VR presents a strategic advantage for tourism marketers by offering immersive previews, enhancing customer trust, and supporting sustainability initiatives. Policymakers and industry leaders must address infrastructure and ethical concerns to maximize VR’s potential. Originality: This study provides a comprehensive overview of VR’s role in tourism marketing, integrating insights into its technological applications and market impact, which remain underexplored in current literature.
Copyright (c) 2025 Raghib Abid http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Performance of Domestic Airlines in Kenya
Purpose: The study sought to examine the effect of strategic management practices on the performance of domestic airlines in Kenya. This comes when the domestic airlines in Kenya face tremendous challenges orchestrated by dynamics in the operating environment and disruptions in the global markets. Domestic airlines have seen a surge in customer shuns rates due to low customer satisfaction. Moreover, most domestic airline players have faced a steady decline in sales revenues and overall market share. This raises the question of what could be the remedy to upscale organizational performance of domestic airlines. The study specifically addressed the effect of environmental scanning, strategy formulation, strategy implementation, and strategy evaluation on the performance of domestic airlines in Kenya. Methodology: The study employed a causal research approach and targeted 129 employees from 43 domestic Kenyan airlines. A questionnaire was used to collect primary data, which was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The findings revealed that strategic management practices (environmental scanning, strategy formulation, strategy implementation, and strategy evaluation) significantly influenced the performance of domestic airlines in Kenya. Implications: Domestic airlines should expand and continue performing in the competitive market. Managers have the duty to integrate strategic management practices through vigorous environmental scanning, formulation of strategies that respond to market demands, effective implementation of developed strategies, and evaluation of implemented strategies to ensure they align with the external operating market for enhanced performance.
Copyright (c) 2025 Georgina Shiboko Ichingwa, Sarah Kamau http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Utilizing Dispute Resolution Mechanisms (DRMs) for Conflict Settlement in Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Education Infrastructure Development
Purpose: This study explores the deployment of Dispute Resolution Mechanisms (DRMs) in addressing conflicts inherent in Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) for educational infrastructure, particularly in Nigerian universities. Methodology: Using purposive sampling, 126 questionnaires were administered to stakeholders, including private investors and university officials involved in PPP procurement. The study analyzed responses using descriptive statistics, including mean values, relative importance index (RII), and Henry Garrett ranking methods, to identify causes of dispute, prevention strategies, and DRM implementation frameworks. Results: The study identified 21 critical causes of dispute, ranging from excessive contract variations to inadequate risk allocation and trust deficits. Among 13 examined dispute prevention strategies, extensive stakeholder consultations and regular site meetings emerged as the most effective. Fast-track resolution processes were ranked as the most resourceful DRM, while litigation was the least preferred due to inefficiencies and costs. Implications: The findings emphasize integrating preventive measures and effective DRMs into PPP contracts to reduce disputes, ensure project sustainability, and align stakeholders. The study offers practical recommendations for incorporating DRMs into the PPP framework, enhancing project outcomes, and fostering investor confidence. Originality: This research provides a novel DRM framework tailored to the peculiarities of PPP conflicts in Nigerian universities, addressing the scarcity of focused studies on this topic. Limitations: The study is geographically limited to three universities in southwestern Nigeria, and findings may not fully represent other contexts or sectors.
Copyright (c) 2024 Stephen Femi OYEYOADE, Olutayo Isaac AYORINDE, Matthew Oluwole OYEWOLE http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Fintech for Sustainability in Business and Economics Research
Purpose: Fintech for sustainability is pivotal for business and economics as it harnesses technology to drive environmentally and socially responsible practices while enhancing economic efficiency and growth. This paper discusses the research trends and future research implications of fintech in sustainable economic operations. Methods: This study extracted scholarly articles from the Scopus database and adopted the PRISMA framework and bibliographic analysis to uncover publication trends, research, affiliation, geographical circumstances, keywords trends, thematic trends, and bibliographic coupling to assess current practices and pinpoint future research directions of fintech to adopt the wider sustainability practices in business and economy. Results: Steady progress has been made in developing fintech applications to achieve sustainability. There is notable research collaboration in both developing and developed economies. Recent keyword trends indicate a growing interest in sustainability and digital transformation. The thematic map demonstrates that the digital economy is a well-established topic. However, there is a need for new research in financial technology-based climate solutions to address significant sustainability gaps. This study identified the impact of emerging financial technologies on sustainability as a widely researched area. We suggested the connection between sustainability and the fintech ecosystem, sustainable financial inclusion, open fintech innovation, and fintech stability as potential areas for future research to expedite fintech adoption in sustainability goals. Implications: Researchers, regulators, and policymakers can utilize the conclusions drawn from the research questions to craft a distinctive framework outlining strategic approaches and actionable plans for developing fintech policies that facilitate faster adoption of sustainability practices.
Copyright (c) 2024 Ayesha Siddika Arshi, Saiful Islam, Afrina Yeasmin Tamanna, Shahrima Sultana, Saima Binte Ikram http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
The Effects of Family Culture and Marital Decisions of the Business Owners on Access to Financing of Very Small Businesses
Purpose: This study seeks to examine the effects of family culture (presence during family meetings, assistance in important family events, and strong family bonds) as well as marital decisions (mutual participation, joint savings decisions, and joint ventures) on access to financing of very small businesses in the North West Region of Cameroon. Methods: The study used a series of exogenous and control variables adapted from the model of Gikonyo, Agwata, & Anyango (2011) who proposed a strategic model for quantitative research. Primary data were collected through convenient sampling from 293 very small business owners in each divisional headquarters of the North West Region of Cameroon. We used the multiple correspondence analysis to construct indexes for family culture, marital decisions as well as access to financing of very small businesses. The hypotheses of the study were then tested using the ordinary least square estimation technique. Results: The results obtained showed in aggregate, a positive and significant effect of family culture and marital decisions on access to financing. More precisely, the coefficients of presence during family meetings, assistance in important family events as well as strong family bonds are positive. These results were statistically significant at 1% level. Implications: This study has significant practical implications on the financial health of very small businesses in the context of developing countries like Cameroon in general and the North West Region of Cameroon in particular plagued by the crisis and COVID-19. The study therefore concluded that if very small business owners can improve on the respect of family cultures and can jointly decide on their financial actions with their spouses, they will have better access to financing, especially in developing countries like Cameroon and more particularly in the North West Region of the country.
Copyright (c) 2024 Stanley Kongnyuy Wirkom, Prof. Urie Eleazar Jumbo , Dr. Berthelo Wamba Kueda http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Industry-4, Big Data, and Blockchain Research Prospects in Supply Chain Domain
Purpose: Utilizing technologies becomes a prerequisite in the operations of supply chain management. Research in digitalized supply chain management (SCM) is now trending as a new arena of research. This study investigates and summarizes the research that has been performed so far in this area, and also explains what the future research scopes in the integration of digitalization and supply chain management are. Method: To execute this study, we carry out a systematic literature review by using numerous software (i.e., BiBexcel, Gephi, and VOSviewer) for clustering existing literature in digitalized SCM from the Web of Science. Result: Our findings suggest that Industry 4.0, Big data, Blockchain, and supply chain resilience are the four key categories in the research on digitalized SCM. Implications: This study explains the reasons behind the research in these four categories. This literature review helps researchers to build a comprehensive knowledge of the research status of digitalized SCM and contributes to the direction of future research in digitalized SCM that helps researchers to explore their further investigations in the combination of SCM and Industry 4.0, Big data, Blockchain, and supply chain resilience.
Copyright (c) 2024 Jahedul Alam Bhuiyan, Rana Mazumder, Sadia Afrose, Mehedi Hasan http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Navigating the Bangladeshi Market: Unlocking Market Entry Opportunities for STARBUCKS
Purpose: This study aims to analyze Starbucks' potential entry into the Bangladeshi market, considering its potential for growth and alignment with the company's business model. It evaluates market characteristics and examines Starbucks' strategies for suitability. Method: The study utilizes market research, industry reports, demographic analysis, and comparative studies of Starbucks' success in similar markets. Key factors including market dynamics, consumer behavior, competition, and strategic partnerships inform the analysis. Results: Bangladesh presents a promising market for Starbucks, with a growing coffee consumer base, favorable economic conditions, and low labor costs. Millennials and Gen Zs, a significant demographic, show a strong affinity for coffee, offering a sizable target audience. Lower operating costs enable investment in promotional activities and market research, while government initiatives to boost coffee production provide additional opportunities. Implications: Entering the Bangladeshi market requires Starbucks to tailor its business model to align with local preferences and market dynamics. Strategic considerations include investing in automated systems, understanding local culture, developing customized products and marketing strategies, and fostering strategic alliances with local partners. Originality: This case study provides a comprehensive analysis of Starbucks' potential expansion into Bangladesh, considering both market potential and strategic implications. By addressing the unique challenges and opportunities in the Bangladeshi market, the study offers insights into Starbucks' ability to adapt its business model and sustain growth in diverse global markets.
Copyright (c) 2023 Proma Quadir, Tazrian Binte Ansar, Sardauna AbdulSobur Dembo, Tasfia Zaheen, Khadiza Afroz Raisa http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Talent Management and Organizational Performance
Purpose: This study was carried out to examine the empirical effect of talent management on organizational performance in two selected wire and cable firms operating in South-West Nigeria. Method: A questionnaire was used as a research instrument to source data from a population of 186 employees from the two selected firms. Multi-stage sampling procedure was deplored to arrive at a sample size of 127. Data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. Result: The study revealed that talent management has a significant positive effect on Organizational Performance. [Model R-square =.623 and P ˂ 0.05]. It indicates a predictive power of the outcome in the model as approximately 62% of variation in Organizational Performance is explained by talent management practices. Implication: The result implies that the firms should pay more attention to the selected talent management practices (talent attraction, talent retention, learning and development, and career management) in order to ensure a higher level of organizational performance.
Copyright (c) 2023 Olufemi Epebinu, Dolapo Oguntuase, Alhassan Oruma http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Nexus Between In-Store Design Cues and Impulse Purchasing Behavior at Supermarkets in Yaoundé, Cameroon
Purpose: This study seeks to assess the relationship between in-store design cues (store layout, product placement, signage, and point of sales display) and impulse purchase behavior at supermarkets in Yaoundé, Cameroon. It also explores the moderating effects of age and gender on this relationship. Methods: The study adopted a quantitative design with the help of a model with four exogenous variables, two moderating variables, and one endogenous variable adapted from the stimulus organism response (S-O-R) model of Zajonc (1980). The questionnaires were administered both physically and online to 429 shoppers from four selected supermarkets. The multiple correspondence analysis was used to construct indexes for store layout, product placement, signage, and point of sales display. The ordinary least square estimation technique was used to test the hypotheses of the study. The moderating effects of gender and age were done by interacting the two moderating variables with the components of in-store design cues. Results: Results revealed that layout quality and point of sales display exerted significantly positive effects on shoppers' impulse purchasing behavior while signage and product placement had a positive but insignificant effect on customers' impulse purchasing behavior. The results also revealed a negative but insignificant moderating effect of gender while the moderating effect of age was positive and significant. An overall significant effect of design cues implies that the in-store design cues were found to be attractive and stimulating by the customers. Implications: The study therefore concluded that an improvement in the store design features will act as a significant stimulus for customers' increased impulse purchases. This study has significant practical and theoretical implications in the area of consumer behavior in the context of developing countries, like Cameroon.
Copyright (c) 2023 Fidelis Vernyuy Sigimi, Urie Eleazar Jumbo, Elizabeth Ankiambom Chiatii http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Strategic Choices of Moroccan Agri-food SME Exporters
Purpose This study aims to ascertain whether or not there is an ultimate strategy for improving the export performance of Moroccan SMEs operating in the agri-food sector. Methods Performance is apprehended in this research by two variables (export performance and the evolution of export turnover). At the same time, strategic choices are split into six orientations: differentiation, cost leadership, focus, marketing diversification, innovation, and alliance. Data are collected from a sample of 25 SMEs. Chi-square (Chi) and FCA (Factorial correspondence analysis) determine the relationship between two variables in a population by plotting statistical maps of the contingency table. Results Based on the survey, the commercial performance of Moroccan SME exporters operating in the agri-food sector remains unaffected by the selection and implementation of a particular strategy. Implications The result implies that no single strategy can be deemed superior to another. Instead, hybrid strategies are adopted and integrated based on individual companies' unique requirements, objectives, and limitations.
Copyright (c) 2023 Benyetho Kaoutar, Dinedine Nihad, Missaoui Khadija, Benyetho Yousra, Elkhamlichi Bouchra http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Positive Affectivity and Employee Engagement
Purpose: Previous studies have found that employees’ positive affectivity personality contributes to positive organizational outcomes. However, little is known about the mechanisms by which positive affectivity is related to social support and employee engagement. Therefore, drawing on the conservation of resources theory, this study examined the role of social support as a mediator that links positive affectivity and employee engagement. Method: The study was conducted using a quantitative approach. It used a survey method to collect data from 260 professional registered nurses in public hospitals in Lagos, Nigeria, who were selected as research participants using a stratified random sampling technique. Result: The structural model analysis revealed that positive affectivity significantly affects social support and employee engagement. Also, social support significantly correlates with employee engagement and partially mediates the relationship between positive affectivity and employee engagement. Implications: The findings of this study contributed to the limited literature on positive affectivity, social support, and employee engagement. Practically, this study has implications for clinical practice and management. To enhance employee engagement among nurses, hospital administrators should develop intervention programs that can enhance the nurses' ability to maintain positive emotions in stressful situations.
Copyright (c) 2023 Glory Okojie, Ida Rosnita Ismail, Hjh. Ina Md Yasin http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Enhancing Agripreneurship and Agricultural Technology Adoption to Reduce Poverty
Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine how agripreneurship and agricultural technology adoption could be enhanced to reduce poverty in the Tubah Sub-Division, Cameroon. Methods: The study adopted a mixed research design. The study made use of survey data collected with the help of a structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Results revealed that agripreneurship intention exerts a positive insignificant effect on poverty reduction in the Tubah Sub-Division. Education and training have an indirect significant effect on poverty reduction while community development programs are found to exert a positive and significant effect on poverty reduction. Implications: From a policy perspective, the creation of community-run organizations provides a strong basis for the development process. Agricultural extension services need to be strengthened to provide farmers with up-to-date information on the latest technologies, best practices, and market trends. This study provides a unique perspective on poverty reduction in rural areas by focusing on the opinions of small venture holders in the Tubah Sub-Division.
Copyright (c) 2023 Paul Akumbom, Mary Juliet Bime Egwu, Peter Ngek Shillie http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Investigating Employee Green Behavior through Perceived Organizational Support for the Environment in the Hotel Industry
Purpose - This study investigates the role of perceived organizational support for the environment (POS-E) on employee green behavior (EGB). It also examines the mediating role of employee environmental commitment (EEC) and green work climate (GWC), as well as the moderating role of employee green awareness. Method - Data were collected from 247 hotel employees located at Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh applying convenient sampling. Data were analyzed using the structural equation modeling (SEM) technique and SPSS. Results - Findings reveal that POS-E positively influences EGB while EEC and GWC fully mediate the association between POS-E and EGB. Findings also show that POS-E on EEC and GWC is more significant when employees have greater ecological awareness. Implications - The findings imply that the hospitality firms’ ecological POS can improve employee green behavior. Empayees’ ecological awareness also plays an important role in such behavior. Originality – The study contributes to the existing literature in the context of the hospitality industry by filling up the gap in exploring the mechanism through which POS influences employee behavior.
Copyright (c) 2023 Dr. Rashid Ahmed Chowdhury, Dr. Robaka Shamsher http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Mobile Internet Service Preferences of Young Customers
Purpose: With the global wireless communication growth, the launching of commercial fourth-generation (4G) services in Bangladesh, including high transmission speed, the number of mobile internet subscribers has grown considerably during the last five years. During the same time, business models have become increasingly complex in the cellular industry because internet subscribers perceive value differently. This situation originates challenges among the mobile service operators in Bangladesh to create internet subscribers and retain the existing ones, especially the young mobile data users with more switching trends. Therefore, the objective of the study is to identify the determining factors that influence young customers to choose mobile internet services. Methods: This study is based on primary data collected from 440 young mobile internet users below 30 years old in Bangladesh. The study investigated ten factors of customer preferences for mobile internet, comparing male and female customers using the statistical tools: mean, standard deviation, and two-tailed t-test. Results: The study results indicate significant differences between female and male customers in mobile internet preference factors, including maximum coverage area, network quality and speed, security and privacy, and customer care. The female customers choose internet packages for security and privacy and a variety of packages, while the male customers choose mobile internet for maximum area of coverage and company image. Implications: The study findings have critical managerial implications for mobile internet providers to tailor their network and services to create new customers and gain customer retention resulting in significant growth and substantial earnings.
Copyright (c) 2022 Tania Karim, Md Bazlur Rahman http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Absorptive Capabilities as Determinants of Economic Sustainability of Small and Medium-Scale Enterprises
Purpose – Drawing from the Absorptive Capabilities theory, this paper examines the role played by dimensions of absorptive capabilities (i.e., knowledge acquisition, knowledge assimilation, knowledge transformation, and knowledge exploitation) on the economic sustainability of SMEs in Nigeria. Design/methodology/approach – This study uses a cross-sectional research design to collect quantitative data from 343 owners/managers of SMEs in Plateau State. Structural equation modeling through the use of the Analysis of Moments of Structures (AMOS) software, version 23 was employed to test the hypotheses. Findings – Research results indicate that all the dimensions of absorptive capabilities exert significant influence on the economic sustainability of SMEs. Thus the dimensions of absorptive capabilities serve as the antecedents of the economic sustainability of SMEs could be realized. Limitations- The focus of this study is on SMEs in Plateau State alone. The use of a cross-sectional design may also undermine the results of the study. Implications – This work adds to existing research on the subject of sustainability by revealing that dimensions of absorptive capabilities are necessary for the attainment of economic sustainability. Originality – Based on current literature, studies on the dimensions of absorptive capabilities as predictor variables are limited. No study has been conducted on the influence of absorptive capabilities using four dimensions, on the economic sustainability of SMEs. Thus it is a pioneering study in terms of both content and context.
Copyright (c) 2023 Adekunle Daniel Shodeinde, Theresa Mwuese Nmadu, Samuel O. Olutuase, Eleojo Anna Ijepe http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Influence of Advertisements on Consumer Behavior
Purpose: This research investigates the effect of advertisements in broadcast media (TV, radio), print media (newspaper, magazine), and online (internet) media on consumers' awareness (AWR), interest (INT), conviction (CON), purchase (PUR), and post-purchase (PPUR) behavior. Method: A quantitative research approach based on primary data was applied in this study. This study conducted surveys using a structured questionnaire in both electronic and paper formats among the graduate and post-graduate students located in Chattogram, Bangladesh. 404 usable responses were used for data analysis using Kruskal-Wallis (K-W) test. Results: The study reveals that advertising in broadcast, print, and online media has a statistically significant effect on customers' awareness (AWR), interest(INT), conviction(CON), and buying behavior(PUR). Implications: The research provides insights to marketers regarding the preference toward media selection and promotional efforts.
Copyright (c) 2022 Ummay Salma Khanam http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Organizational Culture and Organizational Sustainability in the Hotel Industry
Purpose – This study examines the relationship between organizational culture and organizational sustainability and the mediating role of organizational commitment in the hotel industry in Nigeria, with a focus on Plateau State. Design/methodology/approach – A quantitative approach was adopted with the use of structured questionnaires to elicit responses from 369 employees from 67 hotels. Data were analyzed with the use of SPSS software and the hypotheses were tested with the aid of the Analysis of Moment Structures (AMOS) software. Findings – The result reveals that organizational culture exerts a significant effect on organizational sustainability, and organizational culture also significantly exerts a positive effect on organizational commitment. Surprisingly, organizational commitment did not have a significant relationship with organizational sustainability, and organizational commitment did not mediate the relationship between organizational culture and organizational sustainability. Practical implications – This study’s findings will assist business owners and managers, especially in the hotel industry to pay more attention to building a robust culture in the workplace for their employees and also put in place the necessary ingredients needed to make employees more committed to the organization, as these factors are needed to build and maintain a sustainable business. Originality/value – This study is designed to fill some gaps as no study has been found in the literature which researched the existing relationships among the variables of organizational culture, organizational commitment, and organizational sustainability.
Copyright (c) 2022 Adekunle Daniel Shodeinde, Theresa Mwuese Nmadu, Samuel O. Olutuase, Ruth Agwom Panle, Gloria Benard Soepding http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Influence of Employee Soft Skills on Job Performance
Purpose: Due to COVID-19's global impact, work from remote has become the norm which led to the closure of offices throughout the globe. Workplace learning, communication skills, collaboration, and emotional intelligence are all examples of soft skills, and they are crucial in the workplace. They are likely to boost workers' efficiency and effectiveness on the job. This study is sought to examine the relationships between employee soft skills and job performance based on evidence from Small and Medium Size Enterprises in the Bamenda Metropolis of Cameroon. Methods: A mixed-method (quantitative and qualitative) research design was used in this paper. Data were collected from 241 SMEs using a structured questionnaire. Data analysis used both descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Results show that improving communication skills results in higher job performance. Further, it is found that the higher the capacity of employees to discern and manage their emotions the better the job performance. Teamwork is revealed to increase the level of job performance. Work ethics shows a minimal effect on work performance. Implications: SME management should focus on developing employees’ emotional intelligence as this will improve their job performance. SMEs that are yet to adopt effective teams as an approach to functioning should consider doing so following the established benefits of effective teamwork in the organization. Employers also should try to cultivate a culture of work ethic at their place of work.
Copyright (c) 2023 Peter Ngek Shillie, Nicoline Neba Nchang http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Investigating the Relationship between Stock Liquidity and Firm Value
Purpose: This paper aims to investigate the effect of stock liquidity on firm value (MV), operating income to price (OIP), market value of equity to market value of the asset (MVEA), and operating income to assets (OIA) ratios in Bangladesh. This paper also investigates whether firm size, leverage, or financial crisis have any moderating role to play on the liquidity-firm value relationship. Method: The study used panel data on 159 nonfinancial firms listed in the Dhaka Stock Exchange for the period of 2006 to 2019. Ordinary Least Squares, Fixed Effect, and Two-Stage least Squares estimation methods are used to determine the desired relationship. Results: The results show that stock liquidity has a positive and significant impact on firm value and the results are robust to alternative estimation techniques. The relationship is found more acute for small and less levered firms and more intense in the post-crisis (after the 2010 stock market crash) period in Bangladesh. Implications: The role of firm size, leverage, or financial crisis on the liquidity-firm value relationship will help corporate managers to adopt policies and strategies for improving the stock liquidity, changing investors' perceptions, and overall, increasing the depth and stability of the capital market in Bangladesh or elsewhere. Limitations: Due to the unavailability of data, for the robustness check, we couldn't use any alternative proxy of stock liquidity such as bid-ask spreads.
Copyright (c) 2022 Nahin Israt Shamsi, Dr. Syed Manzur Quader, Dr. Mohammad Nayeem Abdullah http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Impact of Transport Infrastructure on Living Standards: Evidence from the Chinese Provinces Directly Affected by the "One Belt, One Road" Initiative
Purpose: This paper discusses the impact of transport infrastructure on living standards in the Chinese provinces directly affected by the “One Belt, One Road” initiative. Methods: The impact of transport infrastructures such as railways and highways on people’s living standards, more specifically, the household consumption level in the Chinese provinces directly affected by the "One Belt, One Road" was analyzed based on data from 2008 to 2017 from National Bureau of Statistics of China and some databases related to the "One Belt, One Road". Descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression were applied for analysis. Results: a)The living standards are not improved in proportion to the development level of railways and highways due to influences of various factors on living standards, b) the development level of transport infrastructure does not have enough impact on reducing the gap in living standards between urban and rural areas in the Chinese provinces under study, c) the development level of transport infrastructure has a relatively more significant impact on living standards in coastal provinces than inland provinces under study, and d) in the future, the measures to develop the transport infrastructure may provably contribute to achieving targets for enhancing the living standards under the realization of the “One Belt, One Road” initiative. Implications: To enhance the living standard, the management of investment in transport infrastructure as well as other factors, such as employment, income distribution, supply of goods and services, price level, etc. affecting people’s living standard ought to be improved in line with the features of a given region.
Copyright (c) 2022 Gwang-Nam Rim, Chol-Ju An http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Impact of Emotional Intelligence on Sustainable Leadership
Purpose: The study aims to evaluate the impact of emotional intelligence (EI) on the sustainable leadership of managers in the context of Bangladesh. Emotional intelligence is made up of five components, viz. self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. Methods: This is a quantitative study based on survey data. Data were collected from the managers (n=262) working in different organizations located in Dhaka and Chittagong region by using the convenience sampling technique. EI was measured with 30 items adopted from the EQ Index (Rahim et al., 2002, 2006), while sustainable leadership was measured with 15 items adopted from the SLQ (McCann & Holt, 2010). PLS-SEM was applied to analyze the data and evaluate the measurement and structural models. Results: The findings suggest that managers’ emotional intelligence significantly influences sustainable leadership. Originality: This study is a pioneering study in the context of Bangladesh and it contributes to our understanding of the impact of emotional intelligence on sustainable leadership, which in turn, enhances managers' sustainable performance. Limitations: The use of the convenience sampling technique may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Copyright (c) 2022 Kazi Sirajum Munira, Dr. Md. Sahidur Rahman, Suchana Akhter http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Succession Planning and Women Inclusion in Family Businesses
Purpose: This study assesses succession planning and women's inclusion in family businesses in Nigeria. It shows the extent of the challenges of succession planning and women's inclusion and the advantages that follow if the problem is corrected. Methodology: A survey research design was employed. Using a close-ended questionnaire data were collected from owners of businesses, company directors of family businesses, management employees of family businesses, consultants, civil servants, faculty members, and legal practitioners. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics using the SPSS Statistics 26. Result: The study found that the exclusion of women in succession planning was a common reason for the unsustainability of the family businesses. Challenges and factors such as cultural and religious bias, patriarchal system, the absence of proper and inadequate implementation of governance structures, etc. lead to the exclusion of women. Implications: Family businesses must focus on including women in succession planning as this would lead to an increase in their sustainability, productivity, and profitability, and it would also impact the Nigerian economy positively.
Copyright (c) 2022 Sophia Abiri-Franklin, Dr. Olubukola Olugasa http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Credit Risk Management Practices and Loan Performance of Commercial Banks in Uganda
Purpose: The study examined the relationship between Credit Risk Management Practices and Loan Performance of Commercial Banks in Mbarara City. The study covered 19 commercial banks. Method: A correlational design was used to establish the relationship between different credit risk management practices and Loan Performance in selected commercial banks in the city. The study used a structured questionnaire to collect numerical data from the credit staff and management of 19 commercial banks. Correlation and regression tests to analyze the relationships and effects of Credit risk management and Loan Performance of commercial banks in Mbarara city Findings: The study found a significant relationship between credit risk identification and loan performance; credit risk assessment and loan performance; credit risk monitoring and loan performance; and credit risk control and loan performance. The study also found that some commercial banks did not have experts to accurately predict credit risks nor evaluate the consequences of the decisions taken by loan officers. Implication: Banks should source experts who can analyze and predict risks and evaluate their consequences on the bank. The bank should adopt the tool of 5cs of credit management, with this it will develop a good loan book that shall lead to good loan performance. Limitations: We still don't know clients' perceptions of the different credit risk management practices. Therefore, a qualitative study to assess clients' perception of the credit management practices in commercial banks should be conducted.
Copyright (c) 2022 Francis Agaba, Caleb Tamwesigire, Marus Eton http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Modeling Integible Organizational Capital and Value Creation
Purpose: Aim of this study is to investigate the relationships between the components of intangible organizational capital and value creation for unlisted Moroccan firms. Methods: A conceptual model was used to establish the relationship between the components of organizational capital and value creation for large Moroccan firms. The study used a structured questionnaire to collect data from managers of 176 large firms. We used structural equation modeling through AMOS software to test the relationships between the different variables in our model. Results: The study shows that organizational capital has a non-significant positive effect on value creation. This demonstrates that the efforts of the large firm have not been able to codify tacit knowledge and further improve organizational capital. Implications: The lack of organizational influence on value creation may signal that many firms prefer to invest heavily in physical capital without providing an adequate organizational structure. As a result, organizational capital deteriorates and leads to a lowering of the overall performance of intangible capital in addition to the value created for the company. The development of strong organizational capital can help to build an organizational culture to ensure that employees are able to innovate and deploy their know-how and experience for the benefit of the organization. Limitations: We still do not know how organizational capital changes over time. Therefore, a qualitative longitudinal study is recommended or a content analysis of companies' annual reports.
Copyright (c) 2022 Faissal Allouch, Mohammed Amine Hafiane http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0