bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
From action to communication?
Authors: Martínez Lucio Miguel 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThe relative absence of worker occupations in recent years in a context of major restructuring and unemployment has raised issues in Spain as to the changing nature of specific forms of direct action. This paper seeks to argue that it is important, in the case of Spain, to discuss how worker occupations have been changing and developing over time if the changing pattern, character and impact of worker unrest and direct action is to be understood.Design/methodology/approachThe research materials for this paper are based on a series of meetings and interviews with union officers and activists that draw on various projects on union development in Spain during the years 1983‐1988, 2000‐2002 and 2009‐2010, and the study of a range of secondary texts.FindingsThe paper suggests that, as well as discussing questions of motives, whether economic or political, accounting for the socio‐economic context and the changing nature of the workforce in terms of its degree of concentration, the changing nature of labour market stability, and the relationship of workers to “stable” workplaces and work is required. Additionally, there is a need to account for how workers reference and recall (or not) previous modes of mobilising and actions.Practical implicationsDiscussing worker occupations should involve issues of political purpose, economic context, the changing nature of work and workers, and the role of memory and historical framing if an appreciation of their varying nature and presence within the landscape of labour relations is to be made. Hence, a multi‐dimensional understanding of the context of worker action is required.Social implicationsThe implications of the paper are that conflict of work needs to be understood in broader terms, and that worker related activities can be highly innovative.Originality/valueThe paper examines union and worker responses to the current recession in Spain and focuses on the role and context of unofficial approaches, especially worker occupations, to the changing workplace.
Worker resistance and response to the crisis of neo‐liberal capitalism
Authors: Gall Gregor 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this editorial is to introduce the special issue on “Collective worker responses to redundancy and restructuring”.Design/methodology/approachThe editorial provides an overview and introduces the papers which make up the special issue.FindingsThe six papers facilitate a deeper understanding of the issues and dynamics involved in worker resistance and response to the crisis of neo‐liberal capitalism.Originality/valueThe paper highlights how the papers in the special issue add new insights into the topics at hand.
Transportation oil demand, consumer preferences and asymmetric prices
Authors: Broadstock David C. , Collins Alan , Hunt Lester C. 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to establish the role of asymmetric price decompositions in UK road transportation fuel demand, make explicit the impact of the underlying energy demand trend, and disaggregate the estimation for gasoline and diesel demand as separate commodities.Design/methodology/approachDynamic UK transport oil demand functions are estimated using the Seemingly Unrelated Structural Time Series Model with decomposed prices to allow for asymmetric price responses.FindingsThe importance of starting with a flexible modelling approach that incorporates both an underlying demand trend and asymmetric price response function is highlighted. Furthermore, these features can lead to different insights and policy implications than might arise from a model without them. As an example, a zero elasticity for a price‐cut is found (for both gasoline and diesel), implying that price reductions do not induce demand for road transportation fuel in the UK.Originality/valueThe paper illustrates the importance of joint modelling of gasoline and diesel demand incorporating both asymmetric price responses and stochastic underlying energy demand trends.
The theoretical financial model of access pricing
Authors: Chen Chun‐Hung , Liu Ting‐Kun 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThis paper aims to explore the three basic roles that access price plays: the collection of opportunity cost; the redistribution of profit; and the tools of exploiting competitors.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses the efficient component pricing rule.FindingsAccording to the model constructed in this paper, it is found that, unless the basic commodities are the substitutes (independent) for combined goods, the opportunity cost arising from the access process is not necessarily positive. Besides, this analysis reveals that among the combined access prices there exist certain crowding‐out effects.Social implicationsThis paper finds that the access commodities' collusion equilibrium does not exist.Originality/valueThis paper adopts a more generalized set‐up to analyze the problem of access pricing. Besides, since the collection of opportunity cost is the most common and reasonable explanation for the existence of access pricing, this study conducts further analysis on this topic.
Fiscal policy and economic growth in South Africa
Authors: Kofi Ocran Matthew 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThis paper aims to examine the effects of fiscal policy associated with increases in government expenditures, tax revenue and budget deficit on the South African economy.Design/methodology/approachStructural VARs based on the Blanchard‐Quard decomposition identification scheme were used in the empirical analysis. With the aid of quarterly data covering the period 1990:1 to 2008:4, the identified true models are used to estimate various impulse‐response functions. The impulse‐response functions represent the responses of real output and interest rates to shocks from tax revenue, budget deficit and government consumption and investment expenditures.FindingsThe results suggest that the fiscal policy instruments have varied effects on output and interest rates. The effect of the fiscal policy on output appears to be quite modest but persistent; however, the response from interest rate is temporary and substantial most cases.Originality/valueThe debate on the efficacy of fiscal policy in stimulating growth seems to have assumed new prominence in the wake of the recent global financial crisis. This paper contributes to the discourse from a South African focused empirical effort. Other fiscal policy authorities may find the paper valuable.
Attitude toward the advertising music: an overlooked potential pitfall in commercials
Authors: Craton Lincoln G. , Lantos Geoffrey P. 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to identify the causes and implications of potential negative consumer response to music in broadcast commercials. It aims to accomplish this by introducing a new consumer response variable, attitude toward the advertising music (Aam) and relating Aam's components to advertising goals. It also aims to propose that Aamis a significant component of attitude toward the ad (Aad).Design/methodology/approachThe paper takes the form of an integrative review of the relevant literatures in the psychology of music, consumer marketing, and advertising to formulate Aam.FindingsFavorable Aamis a necessary but insufficient condition for favorable Aadin ads employing music. Furthermore, a negative Aammight cause a negative Aad. Given the numerous possible negative responses to music in a TV or radio commercial, achieving a favorable Aamamong most target audience members is very challenging, especially when music‐message fit is lacking.Practical implicationsThe paper offers cautionary advice for advertisers using music and directions for future research.Originality/valueThe paper provides a novel integration of literatures in psychology and marketing/advertising. Whereas most scholars and practitioners assume that music adds value to commercials, the authors demonstrate key ways in which music can cause adverse listener reactions.
Country‐of‐origin and brand redeployment impact after brand acquisition
Authors: Lee Hsiang‐Ming , Lee Ching‐Chi 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThis study aims to examine the country‐of‐origin's impact on consumer purchase behavior post‐acquisition, especially when the acquirer‐dominant business is afflicted by a low country‐of‐origin image and the acquired business enjoys a high country‐of‐origin image. This study also aims to examine brand redeployment strategy impacts on consumer purchase intentions.Design/methodology/approachData are collected from an online questionnaire in Taiwan. A total of 325 usable questionnaires are returned. Data analysis is conducted using regress analysis and ANOVA.FindingsThese results indicate that general country attributes and general product attributes have a positive effect on purchase intentions. In addition, general product attributes play a mediating role between general country attributes and purchase intentions. These results further show that target‐dominant redeployment strategy is the most powerful to purchase intentions. A company which wants to use M&A to increase market share must seriously consider general country attributes, general product attributes and brand redeployment strategy because these three constructs affect purchase intentions, and consequently maintain consumer loyalty and attract new customers.Originality/valueThere were seldom studies which investigated country‐of‐image effect and M&A from marketing perspective. The major contributions of the study were investigating consumers' perception of the effects on country‐of‐origin image and the redeployment strategy on an acquired brand.
Healthy brands: establishing brand credibility, commitment and connection among consumers
Authors: Kemp Elyria , Bui My˜ 
Published: October 2011

PurposeWith a segment of consumers growing more health conscious, food manufacturers are feeding consumers' desire for more healthy products by “reformulating” their products to create healthier versions as well as positioning complete product lines as “healthier alternatives.” The present research aims to examine variables crucial in the brand‐building process for brands that are perceived as “healthy.”Design/methodology/approachA conceptual model with a theoretical basis in the branding literature is developed and tested on consumers using structural equation modeling.FindingsResults indicate that brand credibility, commitment and connection are essential in developing branding strategies for “healthy brands.” A credible brand minimizes risk and increases consumer confidence. When consumers believe that a brand is credible and repeatedly purchase it, a commitment to the brand can develop. Finally, the brand can imbue such meaning that the consumer uses the brand to help construct and cultivate a desired self‐image or self‐concept.Original/valueThis research provides important implications for developing effective brand management systems for healthy brands.
Customer‐specific adaptation by providers and their perception of 3PL‐relationship success
Authors: Large Rudolf O. , Kramer Nikolai , Hartmann Rahel Katharina 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate whether there is an impact, from a provider's perspective, of customer‐specific adaptations by third‐party logistics (3PL) providers on the success of 3PL‐relationships.Design/methodology/approachA document analysis is presented and hypotheses are developed based on research in 3PL, relationship marketing and transaction cost theory. Structural equation modelling and causal analysis with partial least square were used to test the hypotheses.FindingsThis study provides evidence that customer‐specific adaptation by providers is an important prerequisite to 3PL‐performance. Furthermore, according to the transaction cost theory, the results express the importance of providers' adaptation to maintain 3PL‐relationships.Research limitations/implicationsFurther research should compare customers' perceptions of partner‐specific adaptations and 3PL‐relationship success with the results of this study.Originality/valueThe paper shows that 3PL‐providers should adapt their systems and procedures to customers' specific requirements, to ensure high‐relationship performance. Satisfied customers should promote the providers' adaptations, because these adaptations enhance the probability of contract renewal and reduce the risk of providers' unexpected termination of the contract.
Interpretive structural modeling of supply chain risks
Authors: Pfohl Hans‐Christian , Gallus Philipp , Thomas David 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThe aim of this paper is the structural analysis of potential supply chain risks. It will demonstrate how interpretive structural modeling (ISM) supports risk managers in identifying and understanding interdependencies among supply chain risks on different levels (e.g. 3PL, first‐tier supplier, focal company, etc.). Interdependencies among risks will be derived and structured into a hierarchy in order to derive subsystems of interdependent elements with corresponding driving power and dependency.Design/methodology/approachISM was used to identify inter‐relationships among supply chain risks and to classify the risks according to their driving and dependence power. The theoretical findings of the modeling and the applicability for practical use has been tested in two case studies with two German industry and trade companies.FindingsISM was proven as a useful methodology to structure supply chain risks in an easy and distributed approach that can also be carried out in a step‐by‐step process on several manufacturing stages. The input to the algorithm has to be well‐defined to give the user an exact understanding of all risks that have to be assessed, i.e. the better the input to ISM is prepared the better the outcome and representation will be. Finally, when applying the method, a moderated process proved to be more reliable than an assessment based on paper questionnaires only.Originality/valueThis model's insight would assist supply chain (risk) managers in the effective allocation of risk management resources in the subsequent risk management phases.
Collaboration as an anti‐crisis solution: the role of the procurement function
Authors: Allal‐Chérif Oihab , Maira Salvator 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThe length and sheer scale of the current economic crisis has surprised most managers, who were unprepared to deal with such a situation. Standing at the heart of their businesses, procurement managers need to limit the negative impact of the crisis. Restructuring and cost killing are usually the first responses. However, some buyers are pioneering a new kind of collaborative management that, instead of increasing the pressure on suppliers and reducing risk‐taking to a minimum, advocates taking new initiatives. The purpose of this paper is to present a new, “collaborative buyer” approach to the management of the procurement function.Design/methodology/approachThis qualitative research uses a constructivist methodology based on interviews of 12 buying experts. It develops scenarios and identifies the features of collaborative procurement. In order to map the future of the procurement function, this research looks at the expectations and forecasts of the players involved. The aim is a comprehensive, long, rational, ownership approach that is action oriented.FindingsThe paper offers an overview of new, foresight‐based procurement practices, based on the subtle but precise perception of the faint signs of coming change by people immersed in the procurement sector. The procurement professionals agreed to co‐construct a new buyer profile resulting from changes to the old buyer profile and the convergence of other occupations with new skills and expertise.Originality/valueThe aim is to carefully co‐construct a picture of the future of the procurement function. The paper presents new forms of internal and external collaboration, the roles and specific skills of this type of “buyer of the future,” and how the globalised economy is becoming an increasingly community based, collaborative virtual environment.
Japanese acquisition in India's Ranbaxy
Authors: Paul Justin , Bhawsar Pragya 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the rationale and synergies of a Japanese firm's acquisition of India's leading pharmaceutical firm, Ranbaxy, and to answer the following pertinent questions: could Ranbaxy have been able to survive and succeed, had the firm not gone for this strategic sale to a foreign firm? What is the rationale for this strategic sale immediately after undertaking many major acquisitions during the previous two‐year period? For what strategic reasons did a Japanese firm pay a premium price for this international acquisition?Design/methodology/approachAn exploratory method was used in this study to analyze the rationale and synergies of the acquisition. The method of case writing has been followed as a design (case situation first, then goes back to the past, then comes back to the current situation).FindingsThe findings confirm that Ranbaxy got a premium price for agreeing to be acquired for their share (much higher price than the market price). Japanese firm Dai‐Ichi got greater market access and control of Ranbaxy, which were driving factors for them to pay a higher share price for Ranbaxy.Originality/valueThis original study gives insight into the points to be taken into consideration while thinking about international acquisitions.
Key changes and challenges for brands in an uncertain environment
Authors: Iglesias Oriol , Singh Jatinder J. , Casabayó Mònica 
Published: October 2011

PurposeBrands are facing key changes and challenges that need to be addressed from both the academic as well as the managerial perspectives. This paper aims to discuss some of them and revises the research agenda of the field of brand management.Design/methodology/approachConceptual implications are drawn from the analysis and discussion of the papers of this special issue, as well as from previous literature.FindingsIn this global world in which brands are present in many different countries and operate in really diverse business sectors the classical brand management theories and many of their assumptions may need to be revised.Originality/valueThe paper discusses the key challenges that brands are facing and encourages academics to use the rich diversity of methodologies that they have at their disposal and that can be extremely helpful to address the future research agenda of this field.
The role of brand images in consumer practices: uncovering embedded brand strength
Authors: Rindell Anne , Korkman Oskar , Gummerus Johanna 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThe present paper seeks to analyse the role of brand images in consumer practices for uncovering brand strength.Design/methodology/approachBy employing a qualitative approach, data are analysed based on three elements that constitute the practices: objects (what tools or resources are required in the practice), images involved, and competences (what competences does the practice require).FindingsThe authors suggest practices as an additional unit of analysis for understanding brand strength based on image. Towards this end, the paper identifies and systematically categorises consumer practices and proposes that consumers develop novel and personal practices related to brands. The findings reveal embedded brand strength in mundane, routinised practices.Originality/valueThe paper presents a novel approach for understanding the past (image heritage) and current (image‐in‐use) dimensions of brand images and their embeddedness in consumer practices.
Operationalising brand heritage and cultural heritage
Authors: Hakala Ulla , Lätti Sonja , Sandberg Birgitta 
Published: October 2011

PurposeBrand heritage is acknowledged as one of the future priorities in branding research. Adopting it in an international context is challenging. In order to maximise its use it is necessary to know how strong it and the target country's cultural heritage are. Accordingly, the aim of the study is to construct a pioneering operationalisation of both brand and cultural heritage.Design/methodology/approachThe study begins with a discussion on the focal concepts. Definitions are proposed and suggestions for operationalisation put forward. Thereafter, the concepts are applied in an analysis of brand heritage in different countries.FindingsIt is suggested that brand heritage is a mixture of the history as well as the consistency and continuity of core values, product brands, and visual symbols. A country's cultural heritage could be conceived of as homogeneity and endurance.Research limitations/implicationsThe preliminary operationalisation of the concept needs to be further tested. Nevertheless, the clarification and suggestions offered here should open up opportunities for further research.Practical implicationsThe exploitation of brand heritage in international markets is likely to be further accentuated. The operationalisations generated are easy for practitioners to apply, enabling companies to better evaluate what brand heritage means for them and to effectively plan its use in an international setting.Originality/valueTo the authors' knowledge, this study is the first to suggest operationalisations of brand heritage and cultural heritage.
Antecedents of luxury brand purchase intention
Authors: Hung Kuang‐peng , Huiling Chen Annie , Peng Norman , Hackley Chris , Amy Tiwsakul Rungpaka , Chou Chun‐lun 
Published: October 2011

PurposeThere has been considerable research into the global phenomenon of luxury brand consumption, but relatively few studies have empirically explored key relationships influencing purchase intention. This research aims to consider the respective roles of social context, individual perception, and vanity, and to set these relationships within a broader theoretical context of the literature on possession and consumer identity.Design/methodology/approachThe empirical study consisted of a large‐scale survey conducted among Chinese luxury brand consumers in Taiwan. The data were analyzed using exploratory factor analysis and multiple regression.FindingsThe findings support the influence of the social context on purchase intention for luxury brands. There was weaker support for the role of perception. The experiential and functional aspects of luxury brand purchase were positively correlated with purchase intention, but symbolic value was not. Physical and achievement vanity had a positive impact on purchase intention while only achievement vanity had a moderating effect on perception.Practical implicationsThis study offers new empirical support for the proposition that vanity has a role in luxury brand purchase intention and thereby shades both theoretical and managerial understanding of luxury brand consumption. It also suggests that symbolic value, which is highly influential in western conceptualizations of luxury brand meaning, needs to be re‐evaluated in the context of Chinese consumers.Originality/valueThis study offers new empirical findings which contribute to a re‐conceptualization of the antecedents of purchase intention in the area of luxury brand consumption. In particular, the study provides evidence of the roles of social context, perception and vanity in a Chinese consumption context to inform the primarily western models of luxury brand purchase intention.