bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new approach to elicit consumers' willingness to purchase genetically modified apples
Authors: Kassardjian Elsa , Gamble Joanna , Gunson Anne , Jaeger Sara R.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The goal of this research was to try a new methodology to elicit consumers' willingness to pay for genetically modified (GM) food.

Design/methodology/approach

Even though experimental auctions have been used for several years, they do not provide qualitative information on consumers' reasoning behind their purchase behaviours. To provide further illumination in this regard, a thought‐listing technique and a questionnaire were added.

Findings

A majority of the consumers involved in this study were ready to pay for the GM food offered. The benefit provided by the GM product did not seem to be the major purchase criterion and sensory assessment appeared to be important. The use of different methodologies on the same sample of participants revealed that there was a gap between purchasing intentions and behaviours, and that a key to efficiently assessing public perception and purchase behaviours is the precision of the context.

Research limitations implications

The absence of discrimination between the different benefits offered, might come from the limited size of the samples or from the nature of the benefits offered. Future research should consider larger samples and more diversified products.

Practical implications

This study has concrete methodology applications. If one would like to conduct a market study, for instance, on a specific GM product, a general survey on biotechnology will not provide relevant answers.

Originality/value

The implementation of experimental auctions with psychometric tools, created an original and suitable protocol for accessing consumers' willingness to pay as well as their justifications.
Consumer perceptions of meat production
Authors: McEachern Morven G. , Seaman Claire
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To identify factors that could influence consumer perceptions relating to meat production and areas where further development would be of assistance to British agriculture.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative semi‐structured interviews of a quota sample of Scottish meat purchasing consumers.

Findings

Results indicate that consumer views on meat production vary widely and that while there are some differences between rural and urban consumers the differences are rarely simple. Views were expressed on a variety of factors including livestock producers, agricultural production, certification and traceability. Relatively few consumers were routinely concerned with assurance labels. Consequently, knowledge of underpinning standards was limited. Primary sources of meat were the major supermarket groups with a distinct bias towards older consumers among those who preferred to shop in small butchers shops. Attitudes towards producers were mainly positive but some consumers remained sceptical about producer behaviour during hard times.

Research limitations/implications

While more research would clearly be required to consider a broader spectrum of UK consumers, these current data indicate that consumer understanding of food information and indeed their interest and credibility of the current systems is a subject that would benefit from much wider research. The practical implications for the development of Government policy and for the idividual producers are substantial and would benefit from considerable clarification.

Originality/value

Prior research concerning meat production and the views of consumers is limited. Theses findings have implications for future sector‐based communications to consumers, in that equal emphasis should be given to both rural and urban consumers. More collaborative communications measures must be implemented to ensure consumer awareness/understanding of underpinning assurance label standards and bring about loyal purchase preferences for British produce.
Development and empirical test of a grocery retail instore logistics model
Authors: Kotzab Herbert , Teller Christoph
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a model of instore logistics for retail stores.

Design/methodology/approach

The model attempted to give a picture of all logistics processes that are carried out within a retail outlet from an incoming dock to the check out. The model has afterwards been empirically validated by analyzing the instore logistics processes of dairy products in 200 stores in the Austrian grocery retail sector.

Findings

The findings of the survey show typical problem areas within store operations and identify the impact of instore logistics as a key factor impacting on the success of retail business.

Originality/value

The paper continues the work of Raman, DeHoratius and Ton in 2001, and Cachon, also in 2001 and the findings contribute to close the execution gap in retail operations.
Exploring the gap between attitudes and behaviour
Authors: Padel Susanne , Foster Carolyn
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to explore the values that underlie consumers purchasing decisions of organic food.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on data from focus groups and laddering interviews with a total of 181 regular and occasional consumers of organic food that were contrasted with survey results of other studies.

Findings

The results show that most consumers associate organic at first with vegetables and fruit and a healthy diet with organic products. Fruit and vegetables are also the first and in many cases only experience with buying organic product. The decision‐making process is complex and the importance of motives and barriers may vary between product categories.

Research limitations/implications

While further research would be required to facilitate full understanding of the consumer‐decision making process with regard to organic produce, this work indicates the complexity of the process and the likelihood of variation between different product categories. Future research should consider tradeoffs that consumers make between values and product as well as consumer segmentation.

Originality/value

Prior research concerning the consumer decision‐making process with regard to organically produced food is limited. Theses findings have implications for future sector‐based communications to consumers and, potentially, for product development and labelling.
The development of the European market for organic products: insights from a Delphi study
Authors: Padel Susanne , Midmore Peter
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is present experiences using a well‐established forecasting tool, the Delphi method, to explore the dynamics of, and prospects for the development of the market for organic food in Europe. Delphi, developed by the Rand co‐operation to improve military technology forecasting, uses expert feedback to refine an informed perspective on complex or uncertain issues.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used experts of the organic food market in 18 countries to explore factors influencing the development of the organic market, future market prospects, and the role of governments in future market development.

Findings

The results show that short supply chains and focus on regional organic shops may be an indication of an earlier stage of market development, likely to be followed by integration into mainstream outlets and involvement of multiple retailers.

Research limitations/implications

While more research would clearly be required, it is concluded that the mutual but mismatched interdependence of demand and supply acts as a constraint to the overall development. Policy intervention should not only take the specific local conditions, but also the stage of market development into account.

Originality/value

Prior research in this area is limited, as is work using the Delphi method.
Genetically modified crops and country image of food exporting countries
Authors: Knight John G. , Mather Damien W. , Holdsworth David K.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Many countries have held back from planting genetically modified (GM) food crops due to perceived negative reaction in export and domestic markets. Three lines of research have tested the reality of this fear.

Design/methodology/approach

In‐depth interviews were conducted in European countries with key companies and organisations in the European food sector. Supermarket intercepts were used to ascertain purchasing intent for products from countries that do or do not produce GM crops. A purchasing experiment was conducted, where cherries labelled as GM, organic or conventional were on sale in a roadside stall.

Findings

Food distribution channel members expressed concern about possibility of contamination or mix‐up between GM and non‐GM food. However, presence of GM crops in a country does not cause negative perception of food in general from that country. Approximately 30 per cent of consumers in the purchasing experiment proved willing to purchase GM cherries when there was a defined consumer benefit – either lower price or spray‐free.

Practical implications

Countries that have not yet planted GM food crops need to be cautious about possible negative impacts on channel member perceptions of non‐GM versions of the same crop from the same country. However, planting GM crops does not appear likely to damage the overall reputation of a food‐supplying country. GM applications in non‐food areas seem unlikely to damage perceptions of country image in relation to supply of food products from that country.

Originality/value

Provides useful information for those planning to plant GM food crops.
The multi‐faceted dimension of packaging
Authors: Rundh Bo
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The increasing internationalisation and globalisation of business has forced many firms to reconsider what contributes to their competitive advantage. Despite the importance of packaging it is rather anonymous and has received little or marginal research. The purpose of this paper is to study how packaging can contribute to competitive advantage.

Design/methodology/approach

Aspects of the packing industry and market are reviewed. Five case studies covering different packages in the supply chain are presented and analysed.

Findings

Structural changes within the European food industry are reinforcing a need for competitiveness where packaging can make the difference for many consumer products. The findings from the case studies and the literature review underscore the importance of packaging and packaging design for fulfilling multi‐functions in relation to logistics and marketing in the supply chain from filler to end consumer. New demands due to changes in consumption patterns and habits are requiring innovative packaging solutions in retail outlets.

Practical implications

The main implications for management is to understand and take advantage of packaging as a strategic weapon and marketing tool for the entire business, especially within a highly competitive food industry. This is important in every stage of the supply chain either for the transport packaging or as a consumer package in the supermarket.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils an identified need for recognising the importance of packaging in business strategy.
Exploring consumer differences in food demand: a stochastic frontier approach
Authors: Baltas George
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider a new application of stochastic frontier analysis, in which the method is applied to demand data for a food product category, in an attempt to benchmark category consumption and segment food consumers.

Design/methodology/approach

In a unified, two‐stage approach, a stochastic frontier model is first estimated and subsequently deviations from the demand frontier are regressed on customer characteristics. The method is illustrated in scanner panel data.

Findings

A frontier demand function estimated in scanner data of a frequently‐bought food category has significant and consistent parameters. Specific descriptor variables can explain excessive category demand and profile customers with considerable sales potential.

Research limitations/implications

More work is needed to generalise the usefulness of the proposed model in different food categories. Future research may employ alternative functional specifications and explanatory variables.

Practical implications

The empirical identification of salient characteristics improves consumer understanding and can assist in the design of data‐driven marketing action. Applied researchers can use marketing and demographic variables that are found in standard consumer panels to estimate frontier models.

Originality/value

The paper introduces stochastic frontier analysis as a means to determine consumer differences in food demand. This is an important area for retailers, producers and researchers.
Polyphenoloxidases in Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus L.)
Authors: Tchoné Michel , Bärwald G. , Meier C.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the polyphenoloxidases (PPO) activities in Jerusalem artichoke tubers as well as their inactivation. The following are important for the processing of this food: treatment and conversion used in preserving processes.

Design/methodology/approach

The PPO of whole tubers and the separated tuber skins as determined using a modified PPO essay with 0.01 M dopamine.HCl as reactant and photometry (ΔA470 plotted against reaction time up to 3 min). Nine varieties used in German tuber production were in the test.

Findings

The highest enzyme activity of PPO was in the skin, range from 1,274 up to 3,026 nkat. In the pulps of the tubers nearly traces of PPO could be detected (range: 2 up to 5 nkat). The inhibition of PPO activity in tuber homogenates was investigated in simulated processes which were used in the food industry: heat (drying, pasteurisation) and oxidase inhibitors such as lemon juice, ascorbic and/ or citric acid. The optimum temperature of PPO was 60°C and the inactivation occurred at 85°C. The range of the PPO activity was between pH 5 and 10, with the optimum at pH 7.0. Lemon juice is a natural inhibitor of the PPO activity in fruit and vegetable juices containing Jerusalem artichoke as well as in canning the tubers. Lemon juice combined with citric acid and ascorbic acid is recommended against enzymatic browning reaction.

Originality/value

The characterisation of the parameters which influence enzymatic browning of Jerusalem artichoke tubers during food processing: heat and pH, have not been described before.
Food industry case studies: a suitable medium for publication
Authors: Lyons Howard
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Case studies are a valuable, yet often undervalued vehicle for communicating applied industry‐related research data. The British Food Journal, along with other journals, regularly receives case study papers yet in general terms, instructions on how they are best written is lacking. The purpose of this article is to provide advice on writing case studies for publication in a food‐related journal.

Design/methodology/approach

Approaches to writing case studies in other subject disciplines were reviewed and adapted for reporting food related case studies.

Findings

Different forms of case studies are described and how they could be used to disseminate or communicate food related research/practitioner interventions is discussed. Suggestions for ensuring/maximising the quality of qualitative or quantitative case study submissions are presented. A template for writing case studies is provided and ethical considerations are discussed.

Originality/value

The article describes for the first time, advice and considerations on writing case studies for publication in a food‐related journal.
Development of methods for standardised HACCP assessment
Authors: Wallace Carol A. , Powell Susan C. , Holyoak Lynda
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Assessment of HACCP systems is a key element in assuring the effective management of food safety. However, there is no accepted approach or common methodology available to HACCP practitioners, auditors or regulatory bodies. This paper seeks to examine this situation

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reviews previous approaches to HACCP audit and describes developments in audit and audit methods based on a long‐term study of HACCP in a multinational organisation.

Findings

The proposed audit tools provide a useful method for collection of data on the effectiveness of HACCP plans and their implementation.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations of using this approach are identified and discussed.

Originality/value

New audit tools for validation and verification of HACCP effectiveness are proposed.
Critical issues in packaged food business
Authors: Ahmed Aziz , Ahmed Naser , Salman Ahmed
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to examine salient issues in the packaged food business with special focus on packaging and its crucial role covering food marketing, best practices in the food and drinks industry, product innovation, food safety and quality, food supply chain management and emerging trends.

Design/methodology/approach

Phenomenological research has raised awareness and increased insight into critical issues in the packaged food business. The approach is based on observation of the business environment, online research, a close watch on British food industry, analysis of papers in journals, and brainstorming with co‐researchers for four years.

Findings

The research has found that the key trends fostering growth in developed packaged food markets are convenience, functionality and indulgence. The real value of packaging is that the package is an integral part of the product today. Besides, food products frequently require the general marketing approaches and techniques applied to the marketing of other kinds of products and services. In addition, for the food industry to improve further, it needs to adopt the best practices shown in this research paper. Moreover, while going for product innovation, some critical success factors must be taken into account. Furthermore, the objective of all quality assurance systems exercised by food manufacturers and processors, is to produce safe products that comply with manufacturers' specifications, including the requirements established by governments. On top of that, the companies that are the most progressive in the management of the supply chain are expected to be the most successful and profitable. Last, but not least, companies should look forward to emerging trends for business success. All these critical issues must be observed in a packaged food business for superior performance.

Research limitations/implications

Company surveys have not been performed due to the limited access of the research to well‐developed Western food markets. Hence, company surveys may be the next step to further identify critical issues in the packaged food business from the perspective of existing corporations.

Originality/value

This paper offers a holistic view that would guide a reader to identify critical issues in packaged food in existing or new businesses.
Consumer influence on internet‐based corporate communication of environmental activities: the UK food sector
Authors: Haddock Janet
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Aims to demonstrate whether consumers influence provision of environmental communications by the UK food sector, challenging the view that such reporting is principally targeted at institutional stakeholders and shareholders.

Design/methodology/approach

Web site research was undertaken on a sample of 43 manufacturers and 16 retailers on provision of environmental information of a policy (intent) or reporting (action‐based) nature, analysed using chi‐square techniques assessing the significance of turnover, public listing, brand‐name companies, consumer‐goods companies and media allegations on the provision of environmental information.

Findings

Turnover, public listing, brand‐names, consumer‐focus and media allegations all affected provision of environmental information by UK food companies, suggesting that greater consumer‐focus leads to the perception that provision of such information into the public/consumer domain is important.

Research limitations/implications

The sample size selected was relatively small, and findings were based on the assumption that the internet is an accurate and appropriate means of conveying environmental information to the consumer. Further research could test such findings with a larger sample and a consumer survey to confirm interest in corporate environmental information provision.

Practical implications

There are important implications for UK food companies considering environmental actions and communications, particularly for brand‐name‐ or consumer‐focused companies. Reporting is seen as a necessary defence but may also offer opportunities for differentiated competitive advantage.

Originality/value

This paper is very valuable in challenging the traditional view that corporate environmental reporting is largely of interest to shareholders and other institutional stakeholders. It demonstrates the need for brand‐name‐ and consumer‐focused food companies to communicate their environmental performance, whether for competitive advantage or as a defensive strategy.
Food safety: building consumer trust in livestock farmers for potential purchase behaviour
Authors: Yee Wallace M.S. , Yeung Ruth M.W. , Morris Joe
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Food safety is an important issue facing consumers, the food industry and the government. Since consumers cannot themselves easily assess food safety risks, their perception of food safety is, in part, a matter of trust in the food chain. This study seeks to focus on livestock farmers and to investigate the causal relationship between the factors that determine consumer trust, regarding food safety and in turn their purchase likelihood.

Design/methodology/approach

By integrating theories developed in several disciplines, six factors, namely: providing information, competence, integrity, benevolence, credibility, and reliability were adopted for this study. The conceptual model was tested with a sample of 194 individuals in the form of a structural equation model using LISREL 8.30.

Findings

The research confirms that livestock farmers could draw benefit from strategies to increase their trustworthiness through provision of information, show their benevolence and integrity to consumers, and in turn positively influence consumers' purchasing decision.

Practical implications

Livestock farmers should understand more specifically what consumers want to know and provide accurate and reliable information.

Originality/value

This exploratory study provides a useful insight into the potential benefit from trust building that could be derived by livestock farmers, food safety regulators and the food supply chain as a whole, as well as the ways in which this might be achieved.
Australians' organic food beliefs, demographics and values
Authors: Lea Emma , Worsley Tony
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To examine consumers' beliefs about organic foods and their relationship with socio‐demographics and self‐transcendence (universal, benevolence) personal values.

Design/methodology/approach

A random questionnaire‐based mail survey of 500 Australian (Victorian) adults (58 per cent response) was used. The questionnaire included items on organic food beliefs, the importance of self‐transcendence values as guiding principles in life, and socio‐demographics. Statistical analyses included cross‐tabulations of organic food beliefs by socio‐demographics and multiple regression analyses of positive organic food beliefs with personal value and socio‐demographic items as the independent variables.

Findings

The majority of participants believed organic food to be healthier, tastier and better for the environment than conventional food. However, expense and lack of availability were strong barriers to the purchasing of organic foods. Generally, women were more positive about organic food than men (e.g. women were more likely to agree that organic food has more vitamins/minerals than conventional food). The personal value factor related to nature, environment and equality was the dominant predictor of positive organic food beliefs, followed by sex. These predictors accounted for 11 per cent of the variance.

Research limitations/implications

A survey response bias needs to be taken into account. However, the response rate was adequate for reporting and differences in age and education between participants and the Victorian population were taken into account in data presentation. Future understanding of consumers' use of organic foods will require the inclusion of a fairly extensive set of potential influences.

Practical implications

Communication appeals based on psychographics may be a more effective way to alter consumers' beliefs about organic foods than those based on demographic segmentation.

Originality/value

To the best of one's knowledge, this is the first study to examine the relationship between personal values, socio‐demographics and organic food beliefs in a random population sample. This study is relevant to producers, processors and retailers of organic food and those involved with food and agricultural policy.
A conjoint‐based approach to concept optimisation: probiotic beverages
Authors: Sorenson Douglas , Bogue Joe
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The objective of this study is to identify the optimal product design attributes for a range of chilled probiotic orange juice beverages, and to evaluate the contribution of market‐oriented research methodologies to the development and strategic marketing of innovative functional beverages.

Design/methodology/approach

A conjoint‐based survey was administered to 400 purchasers of chilled orange juice in both Dublin and Cork between May and September 2004.

Findings

New product development (NPD) opportunities exist for probiotic juice‐based beverages, although functionality should not be relied on solely to leverage a competitive advantage.

Research limitations/implications

The survey sample only included primary purchasers of chilled orange juice, owing to the increased importance of the chilled orange juice category in Ireland. Further research that would incorporate purchasers of ambient orange juice, and end‐users of both chilled and ambient orange juice in Ireland, as well as across European states for a cross‐cultural perspective, would prove beneficial to both manufacturers and retailers.

Practical implications

Advanced market‐oriented research methodologies during the concept stage of the NPD process can assist both food and beverage firms and retailers to develop and market functional foods and beverages that more closely meet consumers' needs and values.

Originality/value

This research can assist beverage manufacturers to optimally design a range of chilled probiotic orange juice beverages targeted at specific market segments, and provide guidance for effective positioning, communication and pricing strategies of innovative functional beverages.
Food safety: where from and where to?
Authors: Griffith Christopher J.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

For nearly 150 years the study of food safety has been dominated by a microbiological approach, however, in many countries cases of foodborne disease are at record levels. The purpose of this paper is to review the history of food safety and present a model for studying food safety.

Design/methodology/approach

The history of food safety is reviewed. Data from outbreak investigations and observational studies of food handling are analysed

Findings

Whilst micro‐organisms are a major factor in foodborne disease and microbiology an important research discipline, in order to reduce the incidence of foodborne disease additional research approaches should be used. Such strategies should include food handler behaviour and its links with food safety organisational culture, and food safety management systems.

Practical implications

The findings highlight the limitations of the present approach and the need for additional data, using a wider range of research techniques

Originality/value

A novel model for studying food safety is presented, which has practical implications for reducing the economic and social burden of foodborne disease.
Towards a South African model for food safety auditor registration
Authors: Jackson Linda
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The Southern African Auditor and Training Certification Association (SAATCA) needed to improve their food safety management systems auditor registration scheme and reviewed other food safety auditor registration schemes in operation internationally. This information was used during Advisory Committee forums as the basis for the development of a new scheme to meet the unique requirements of the South African food safety arena. The purpose of this paper is to present this process and its results.

Design/methodology/approach

Four schemes in use internationally were reviewed. Their relative merits were discussed and relevant principles adopted or modified to fit the objectives of the SAATCA Advisory Committee.

Findings

None of the schemes reviewed adequately addressed the developmental status of food safety management systems auditing in Southern Africa. Existing schemes assumed a well developed knowledge of good hygiene practices (GHP) and good manufacturing practices (GMP). Although this is obviously a requirement for effective food safety management systems, it could not be assumed that all auditors are competent in these principles. A new model is proposed to address the unique local requirements while taking cognisance of international good practice.

Originality/value

A new scheme which addressed the requirements of the South African food safety arena was developed. This information may benefit other auditor registration schemes internationally.
Vectors and conditions for preharvest contamination of fruits and vegetables with pathogens capable of causing enteric diseases
Authors: Beuchat Larry R.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Food and water safety is a major international concern. Among the food groups implicated with greater frequency in recent years as having caused or been associated with enteric diseases in humans are raw fruits and vegetables. Outbreaks of diseases caused by infectious and toxigenic bacteria as well as parasites and viruses have been documented to occur as a result of consumption of contaminated produce. This paper seeks to review the scientific literature reporting evidence to support the potential for preharvest contamination of fruits and vegetables intended to be eaten raw.

Design/methodology/approach

Sources of preharvest contamination of produce include manure, manure compost, sewage sludge, irrigation water, runoff water from livestock operations, and wild and domestic animals. Literature was reviewed to assess the conditions affecting survival of pathogenic microorganisms originating from these sources in preharvest environments and potential for contamination of produce before or at the time of harvest.

Findings

Prevention of preharvest contamination is essential to minimizing the risk of illness caused by consuming raw produce because postharvest treatment with sanitizers cannot be relied upon to eliminate pathogens.

Originality/value

A better understanding of the behaviour of pathogens in preharvest environments will enhance the prospect of developing effective strategies and interventions that will assure the delivery of safe produce to the consumer.
Design and management concepts for high care food processing
Authors: Smith Deryck
Published: January 2007

Purpose

Environmental conditions in a food manufacturing plant have a great impact on food safety and product quality. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the various components that make up the environment or contribute to the quality of the environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper examines the way in which the air quality in the factory environment is defined, and discusses the affect that staff flow, product flow and factory finishes has on the environmental conditions in the factory.

Findings

There is no clearly defined guideline which adequately covers the environmental control of food plants.

Originality/value

The concept of defining food plant environments by way of cleanroom classification is relatively new in the food industry.
Network governance in marketing channels
Authors: Guibert Nathalie
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This paper sets out to investigate the view that a firm's strategy in a marketing channel is contingent on the organization of its related upstream network of embeddedness.

Design/methodology/approach

An in‐depth documentary study of recent developments in marketing channels in the French Rhône Valley Appellation d'Origine Controlée wine industry combined with content analysis of qualitative data derived from interviews with local wine merchants and Inter‐Rhône wine experts.

Findings

The extended theoretical framework used in this case study enables researchers to more completely specify channel members' behavior. By taking into account not only general objectives but also legitimacy concerns of this type of organizations, it is possible to identify reputation and institutional commitment management in the upstream network as two governance mechanisms of equal importance to the mechanisms of vertical integration or management of relationships with suppliers.

Research limitations/implications

This study suggests the need for further research into external validity and measurement issues.

Practical implications

The study highlights the necessary governance mechanisms wine merchants have to deploy in their upper professional and supply networks in order to enhance their market performance. Successful positioning strategies seem to be more and more dependent on the wine merchants' ability to acquire a strong position and recognition in its upstream networks: only those who have taken into account the legitimacy issue and have deployed mechanisms to govern it effectively will survive the current internationalisation processes and avoid market decline.

Originality/value

This more nuanced channel approach offers a number of empirical illustrations to support the tri‐dimensional conceptualization of institutional environment suggested by Grewal and Ravi in 2002.
The Freedom of Information Act and hygiene inspection reports
Authors: Worsfold Denise
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this case study was to obtain information on the hygiene standards of food premises using the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act 2000.

Design/methodology/approach

Eight local authorities in South Wales were asked to provide the most recent food hygiene inspection of a named food premise in their area. The disclosed reports were assessed to determine whether they conformed to the Food Standards Agency (FSA) Food Law Code of Practice and how useful they would be to the consumer seeking information on the hygiene standards of a food premise.

Findings

Five of the eight authorities provided full information. Most authorities supplied a risk grading for the premises. Reports ranged from completed comprehensive inspection protocols with full post‐inspection letters to a hand written, barely legible report that failed to adequately differentiate between legal requirements and recommendations. Without some training in food law and food hygiene it would be difficult for most consumers to interpret some of the reports.

Research implications/limitations

The results of this case study have increased confidence that local authorities are now complying with the FOI Act. It raises concerns about the consistency, fairness and robustness of inspections.

Practical implications

If there is to be greater transparency about hygiene standards in food premises, regulators will have to take account of the public in their communications. The public will need to be educated about the inspection and enforcement process and any systems used to disclose inspection results.

Originality/value

The paper shows how FOI can be used to inform the public about food hygiene standards.
Australian consumers' antecedents of attitudes towards foods produced by novel technologies
Authors: Evans G. , Cox D.N.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify antecedents of attitudes towards foods produced by novel technologies, including high pressure processing (HPP) (orange juice); genetic modification for a “health benefit” (omega‐3 margarine); novel cereals with resistant starch for a “health benefit” where the traits were identified by genetic modification to understand selected gene function prior to utilising traditional breeding techniques to achieve desired novel traits (pasta); and infertility technologies (triploidy and irradiation) for farmed aquaculture (prawns).

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire based on adaptations of three validated food choice questionnaires was administered using an incomplete block design, with each respondent (n=142) assessing two products produced by three differing technologies (triads). Quantitative responses to food choice issues and the importance of those issues (belief evaluation constructs) were analysed using repeated measures analysis of variance, with three independent variables; gender, frequency of consumption (both only significant for margarine) and age (ns).

Findings

Significant differences between the various technologies were found for four of the five products (not orange juice) by technology. Belief evaluation constructs that differed for all technologies investigated were health, natural content, familiarity and political values. Furthermore, price, ecological welfare, and impression management underlie attitudes towards some technologies.

Originality/value

While based on a relatively small Australian convenience sample, these findings suggest that scientists and manufacturers would be well advised to test concept products produced by novel technologies to ensure that they are perceived positively; otherwise uptake and success in the marketplace will be impeded if information on the technology were, as is increasingly likely in an age of freely available information, to be revealed.
From hunters to farmers
Authors: Yin Tiechao
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to offer research on the changed time and space in the mind of the Oroqen people who used to be hunters and investigate the problems that arise in the transition phase for them by a case study of Oroqen people of northeast China.

Design/methodology/approach

Anthropological and linguistic field works were conducted and supported with theories from historical and human civilization studies. The field work is based on the changing time and space perspective towards Oroqen hunter‐gathers.

Findings

The paper finds that, although thought to be offered a good way of living, Oroqen people in northeast China are bewildered facing the new style of human existence. Most of them are still not well adapted after about a half century's change.

Research limitations/implications

The research was conducted mainly on the inner Mongolian villages and also mentions about people who live in the Heilongjiang province of China. Further research should target more diverse areas.

Practical implications

There are still some peoples today that are in near or close resemblance to the Oroqen people at the present stage. A report and study on the Oroqen may shed light on the commonality.

Originality/value

From field work done by the author, the paper attempts to reveal the universality of the Oroqen in the transition phase; for example, the present day Masai people in Kenya, the Ewinki and Hezhen peoples from northeast China. The study helps to record the fading civilizing stage in terms of psychological and life style adaptation.
The evolution of leadership development: challenges and best practice
Authors: Buus Inger
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the attitude of European organisations to leadership development initiatives and to identify best practice initiatives that organisations should employ to build skills and capabilities for the future.

Design/methodology/approach

The research, Leadership Development in European Organisations, conducted by DIEU, the Danish Leadership Institute. The study was completed in November 2004 and was conducted among 51 global organisations via face‐to‐face and telephone interviews. The respondents all operate at a senior level within their organisation – for example, they are senior development managers, directors or vice presidents. Over 70 per cent of the participating organisations employ over 20,000 people and 22 per cent have between 5,000 and 20,000 employees. Participating companies include Astra Zeneca, BMW, BP, Cadbury Schweppes, Dell Computers, HBOS, IBM Europe, Pearsons plc, Siemens, UBS and Vodafone.

Findings

The DIEU study has found that more than half (53 per cent) of key European business players have not increased their leadership training budget for the last four years and 46 per cent say they cannot see this level of investment changing in the next three years. Less than one‐quarter of boardrooms and under one‐third of senior management teams are fully committed to their companies’ goals for leadership development and nearly half (48 per cent) are not integrating their leadership development with business needs. The report cites organisational frictions and a general lack of awareness that leadership development matters as being among the reasons for this lack of support for leadership development.

Originality/value

This paper is valuable to organisations and HR and development professionals who are considering or reviewing their current leadership development activity. It makes a number of recommendations for organisations seeking to implement best practice leadership, as well as detailing the likely future nature of leadership development across the board.
The leader as coach
Authors: Ideus Ken
Published: January 2007

Purpose

While this paper proposes a methodology, its purpose is not simply to put forward a technique for addressing a problem. Its aim is also to press the question: Why does this “problem” exist? Without addressing this question, one is likely to address the wrong problem, and miss the deeper, long‐term solutions. The author proposes that, by developing these (coaching) skills through a one‐to‐one relationship with an experienced coach, deeper development issues can be addressed.

Design/methodology/approach

The article first poses a question, or set of questions, and follows these questions with propositional answers. The article then supports a particular methodology for working with leaders to build coaching capability and builds on a set of five assumptions to justify that methodology.

Findings

This article has significant implications for how development of leaders, in their coaching roles, is undertaken. The implications for organisation cultures is significant as well. If the presenting problem is not addressed in an in‐depth manner, the cultures which led to the problem will merely continue unchanged.

Originality/value

The tendency in addressing development issues, even with leaders, is to jump to competence solutions. The author's point of view argues that one needs to look deeper, while providing needed individual development. It also argues that, while there is a competence issue involved, it is first a cultural one.
Transforming the ROI of your graduate scheme
Authors: Bedingfield Carrie
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To encourage employers to challenge their current views on graduate recruitment and look at innovative ways of securing a return on investment in recruitment and training.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper critically reviews current models of graduate recruitment and development. It uses external research and the personal experience of the author to identify problems with current models and to suggest future improvements.

Findings

The paper finds that there are strong grounds for challenging employers’ investment in graduate‐training schemes, but that the schemes do have an important role to play for many organisations.

Practical implications

A series of suggestions is made which the author believes would lead to significant improvements in corporate return on investment in graduate schemes.

Originality/value

The concept of looking at graduate recruitment in the context of the business and talent needs of the employing organisation. This paper will be of value to HR professionals and other senior managers who currently have a graduate recruitment and development scheme or who are thinking of introducing one.
Theory wrapped in context: bridges between academic and industrial worlds
Authors: Halls Jonathan
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review two key academic‐commercial partnerships that BBC Training & Development has with two major universities. The learners are undergraduate students seeking training and ultimately a career in broadcasting. The review seeks to examine from the author's perspective the relative strengths each party brings to the partnership and to show how the learner benefits by bringing these together.

Design/methodology/approach

The article represents a viewpoint from the author's perspective as a broadcaster and educator. He analyses the relationship, asks what a university should bring to the partnership and draws on interviews with key people involved in the partnership.

Findings

Partnerships between the academic and commercial/industrial worlds do bring value to their clients in that they immerse students in the intensive reality of what they are learning, while giving them a context within which to understand theory and thereby develop a critical mindset.

Originality/value

This paper argues that such a partnership will enrich a learner's experience and produce a professional who is both practically grounded and intellectually critical.
E‐learner experiences: learning from the pioneers
Authors: Ettinger Andrew , Holton Viki , Blass Eddie
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To share the experiences of e‐learning pioneers with regard to the cultural change necessary for e‐learning to be successfully adopted in an organisation.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on 29 research case studies.

Findings

A cultural change needs to take place in organisations for e‐learners to engage in the process. Blending e‐learning with other forms of learning can be a useful introduction to the discipline, but enthusiasm soon wears off. Common resistances to the concept are explored including lack of time and the loneliness of e‐learning, and how the “any where, any time” element of the provision can be as much of a hindrance as of a help.

Practical implications

Suggestions given for ways of overcoming the difficulties encountered by the case study organisations.

Originality/value

Reflections of early adopters of e‐learning highlights areas of success and difficulty to help other organisations to avoid the same pitfalls.