bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Special treatment regulation in China: potential unintended consequences
Authors: Green Wendy , Czernkowski Robert , Wang Yi 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to trace the behaviour of Chinese companies receiving a special treatment (ST) designation in order to determine the extent to which the application of this regulation may have led companies to engage in activities conducive to the removal of the ST designation. In particular, the paper examines evidence of opinion shopping or earnings manipulation by these companies.Design/methodology/approachEmpirical analysis of annual report databases for Chinese‐listed companies, including statistical significance testing relating to ST companies.FindingsMost ST companies have removed the ST status by the third year after the initial ST designation. Compared to non‐ST companies, ST companies losing the ST status are more likely to engage in practices indicating earnings manipulation. Also, compared to non‐ST companies, ST companies are more likely to change auditors after an initial or second year of ST designation. However, while this behaviour suggests opinion shopping, auditor switching for the ST companies is not associated with losses becoming profits nor with improved audit opinions.Research limitations/implicationsThe results reported in this paper must be considered in light of the limitations inherent in empirical analyses. That is, the relationships identified in this paper are indicative of potential earnings management or audit opinion shopping; however, the study cannot provide the actual reasons for these empirical results.Practical implicationsThe results suggest the ST regulation did not lead to unintended consequences in terms of auditor switching by ST companies to improve either their reported earnings or their audit opinion.Originality/valueThe ST status is unique to China and this paper is the first to report on potential reporting and audit quality implications of this regulation.
Cost‐system functionality and the performance of the Malaysian palm oil industry
Authors: Foong Soon‐Yau , Anak Teruki Neilson 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between cost‐system functionality and the performance of oil‐palm enterprises in Malaysia, as well as whether manager's perceived usefulness of cost information mediates the cost‐system functionality‐performance relationship.Design/methodology/approachA structured questionnaire is used to gather data from oil‐palm enterprises located in Sarawak.FindingsThe results indicate that the cost relevance/timeliness dimension of cost‐system functionality significantly enhances the performance of oil‐palm enterprises. However, manager's perceived usefulness of cost information only partially mediates the cost‐system functionality‐non‐financial performance relationship, and this is possibly due to the nature of control over the estate operations by the head office.Research limitations/implicationsOwing to the small‐sample size and because the oil‐palm enterprises are located only in Sarawak, the generalisability of the results may be limited. Besides, the findings are based on the estate setting whereby decisions made are relatively structured and therefore, they may not apply in less‐structured decision‐making settings.Originality/valuePast findings on the causal link between cost‐system functionality and performance are mixed. However, high‐functional cost systems are expected to be more cost beneficial when environment is highly uncertain. The palm oil industry operates in a highly turbulent economic environment due to serious external challenges and it is expected to benefit from high‐functional cost systems. Unlike previous studies based on firms from diverse industries, the operational homogeneity of the oil‐palm enterprises in this paper enables the effects of cost‐system functionality on performance to be examined in a more controlled setting. By analyzing the attributes of cost‐system functionality into two major dimensions, this paper shows that performance could be enhanced only through provision of relevant and timely cost information.
The impact of customer‐related strategies on shareholder value: evidence from Taiwan
Authors: Smith Malcolm , Chang Chen 
Published: December 2009

PurposeMuch empirical evidence is in conflict with the expectations of the service‐profit chain which suggests that increases in customer satisfaction will increase customer loyalty and earn additional profits from customers. Management focus on the achievement of customer satisfaction and customer loyalty, and associated investment, might, therefore, be misguided, if they believe that the available empirical evidence supports a link between these variables and firm performance. The purpose of this paper is to help firms understand the value of their intangible assets – most notably the important role played by customers in increasing a firm's value.Design/methodology/approachOn the basis of survey‐based research carried out in the Taiwanese credit card market, this paper generates a structural equation model facilitating the measurement and evaluation of the relative efficiencies of customer‐related strategies.FindingsThe findings help managers to understand the relationship between customer‐related strategies (customer acquisition, retention, and add‐on selling) and their impact on customer measures and ultimately firm performance. Customer lifetime value is shown to be the most important indicator of financial performance and the firm's shareholder value; the customer loyalty measure is shown to have no impact on shareholder value, and to be negatively related to the implementation of an acquisition strategy.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper is conducted within the Taiwanese credit card market, and the findings may not be generalisable to other locations or to other markets.Practical implicationsThese empirical findings suggest that marketing strategy has a central role in the formulation of financial policy, since such strategies can be shown to have an impact on the financial value of the business.Originality/valueThe paper provides further evidence linking customers with firm value, which will be important for management decision making and resource use.
Potential niche markets for luxury fashion goods in China
Authors: Gao Ling , Norton Marjorie J.T. , Zhang Zhi‐ming , Kin‐man To Chester 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate market segmentation of affluent Chinese consumers and develop profiles of identified segments for potential target markets for luxury fashion goods.Design/methodology/approachThe data are from the 2006 edition of an annual survey called the “China's New Rich Study”. The respondents form a representative sample of affluent consumers, 18 to 45 years old, residing in China's 12 largest cities. A psychographic segmentation approach is employed to classify these consumers.FindingsFive distinct market segments of affluent Chinese consumers are identified and profiled. Of these segments, three seem the most promising target markets for luxury fashion goods.Practical implicationsWhen companies understand the similarities and differences between consumer segments as well as the unique characteristics of segments, they have a meaningful basis for selecting receptive target markets and formulating and implementing effective marketing strategies. The findings of this study can be useful not only to companies that offer luxury fashion goods, but also to those targeting the upscale market with a plethora of products and services like yachts, luxury cars, high‐end electronics, resort vacations, and credit cards and other financial services.Originality/valueThis is the first study on segmentation of Chinese consumers for potential target markets for luxury fashion goods. Results reveal heterogeneity among affluent urban Chinese consumers. Strategies for marketing luxury fashion goods to promising target markets in China are outlined on the basis of segment profiles and culturally based motivations for purchasing such goods.
Information source usage in teen apparel purchases: China, Japan and the United States
Authors: Schaefer Allen D. , Stephen Parker R. , Hermans Charles M. 
Published: December 2009

PurposeChina, Japan, and the USA represent three of the world's most important teen apparel markets. The purpose of this study is to consider the sources of apparel brand information utilized by 14‐ to 17‐year olds in these three nations. Nine hypotheses are developed based on the interpersonal influence and the individualism/collectivism constructs.Design/methodology/approachRespondents include public high school students between 14 and 17 years of age from the nations of China, Japan and the USA.FindingsChinese teens report a greater likelihood to use their parents as apparel information sources than do the US and Japanese teens. Of the three groups, the US teens report the greatest likelihood of using marketer based information sources (i.e. advertising and salespersons).Practical implicationsThe findings suggest the need to develop specific apparel marketing strategies directed at teens targeted in these nations.Originality/valueFew, if any, studies have examined differences between Asian and US teens in their apparel information source usage.
Perception of appearance and use of appearance products among Chinese women
Authors: Kaigler‐Walker Karen , Gilbert Zelda L. 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to determine and assess generational differences in Chinese women's perception of appearance and appearance products that can be explained by the political, economic, and social policies of China over the past 40 years.Design/methodology/approachThis is an exploratory research using focus groups and a survey. Three age cohorts of Chinese women, those who came of age during the Cultural Revolution, those who came of age during the early and mid years of China's economic reforms, and those born after the implementation of China's one‐child policy and the market economy, are assessed as to their perception of appearance and use of appearance‐related products. Six cohort differences that could be attributable to these socio‐economic‐political events are found.FindingsSignificant differences between the age cohorts are found on four of six appearance‐related factors – sources of fashion information, happiness in purchasing new apparel, confidence in appearance, and preference for purchasing luxury goods.Research limitations/implicationsAlthough the study identifies cultural and generational constructs of Chinese women's perception of appearance and use of appearance products, due to its exploratory nature the findings are not generalizable to the larger Chinese community. In addition, to provide a more complete understanding of the generational differences, future research needs to take into account additional demographic information such as education and income.Originality/valueNo previous study has attempted to determine the impact of China's economic, social, and political policies on generational cohorts of Chinese women as to their perception of appearance and use of appearance products. Fashion marketers will benefit, as understanding these powerful determinants of purchasing behaviour are paramount to successfully planning, developing and marketing of apparel products.
Creating brand equity in the Chinese clothing market
Authors: Tong Xiao , Hawley Jana M. 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThis paper aims to explore the effectiveness of eight selected marketing activities in creating brand equity in the Chinese clothing market.Design/methodology/approachA shopping centre intercept survey is conducted to collect data in the two largest Chinese cities, Beijing and Shanghai. The empirical tests, using a structural equation model (SEM), support the research hypotheses.FindingsThe results indicate the positive effects of store image, celebrity endorsement, event sponsorship, web advertising, and non‐price promotions on brand equity in China as well as the detrimental impact of frequent price promotions.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is limited to consumers in Beijing and Shanghai.Practical implicationsThe findings answer the following questions: how do foreign clothing brand suppliers develop effective brand strategies for the China market? Should marketing activities designed to build brand equity be modified to accommodate different attitudes or behaviors in China?Originality/valueFew studies have investigated how to build brand equity in China. A structural model was used to examine the relationship between eight widely used marketing activities and the dimensions of brand equity for imported clothing brands in China. The study also examines the directional relationships between brand equity dimensions.
Integrated marketing communications
Authors: Navarro Angeles , Sicilia Maria , Delgado‐Ballester Elena 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyze the synergistic effects derived from an integrated marketing communication (IMC) strategy with a criterion of strategic consistency in the message between two different communication tools (advertising and sponsorship) compared to a non‐integrated strategy. Specifically, it focuses on the synergistic effects that IMC has on consumer information processing, attitude and recall of the communication campaign.Design/methodology/approachThe study uses the experimental methodology in order to compare two conditions (integrated campaign versus a non‐integrated campaign).FindingsThe results of this study show that a strategic consistency‐based integration has more positive effects on information processing, attitude and recall of the communication campaign compared to the non‐integration strategy.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper offers empirical evidence that might be useful for advertisers about the increased effectiveness of a strategic consistency‐based integration campaign. Research limitations in this paper provide avenues for future studies in order to validate the effectiveness of this strategic consistency‐based integration in others contexts.Originality/valueThe originality of this research resides in testing the synergistic effects of an IMC strategy by a new experimental methodology to operationalizing the strategic consistency in the message communicated between the two communication tools.
Building brand equity: the genetic coding of Mediterranean brands
Authors: Cuomo Maria Teresa , Metallo Gerardo , Tortora Debora , Testa Mario , Kitchen Philip J. 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to stimulate reflection on the concept of Mediterranean brands, to map and qualify their specific genetic make up and their influence on brand equity.Design/methodology/approachFrom an overview of the available literature and using the brand genetics model, conceptual dimensions inherent to the Mediterranean brand are identified, so as to evaluate their contribution in the building and transfer of brand value.FindingsThis paper shows how the properties of Mediterranean elements are reconciled with branding models and more in general, with sustainable business.Originality/valueThe paper highlights the generating drivers of value from a Mediterranean marketing perspective. Management has to govern these strategically in order to retain lasting competitive advantage.
Climate change: a social and commercial marketing communications challenge
Authors: Peattie Ken , Peattie Sue , Ponting Cerys 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore the relevance and implications of the issue of climate change to marketing communicators in both the private and public sectors, and some of the challenges involve in developing effective climate change communications.Design/methodology/approachThis paper uses a combination of findings from secondary sources combined with some specific key insights drawn from primary research.FindingsEffective communication on climate change which is capable of motivating changes in consumer behaviour (rather than simply raising awareness further) will depend upon: the relevance of climate change to consumers' lives and the relationship to their consumption behaviours being made clear; targeting strategies which take account of differences amongst key consumer segments; and developing a message which motivates rather than overwhelms consumers whilst avoiding any perceptions of “greenwashing”.Practical implicationsThis paper explores a number of practical aspects of the challenges faced by commercial marketers seeking to engage with consumers about climate change, and it illustrates the potential for the transfer of knowledge and insight with social marketers working in the public sector.Originality/valueThe paper is original in its analysis of the multi‐faceted challenge of climate change as an important but challenging subject for marketing communications efforts, and in exploring the potential for the transfer of knowledge and insight between marketers in the public and private sectors.
Men and women as public relation managers in Greece and Turkey
Authors: Panigyrakis G. George , Athanasios Poulis G. 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine and compare gender differences of Greek and Turkish public relations (PR) managers. In addition to that, the background variables, the job‐related factors and activities of the PR managers are examined.Design/methodology/approachIn the present paper, a cross cultural study between Greece and Turkey is undertaken. A mail survey is adopted as the most efficient data gathering technique and a total of 138 questionnaires are collected from companies of the service sector in both countries.FindingsThere are minor differences between male and female Greek and Turkish PR managers of the service sector, since there is a standardized type of scientific management. The role of PR managers is shown to be evolving, following a similar route internationally.Research limitations/implicationsDifficulties are encountered in specifying the firms that use PR managers in Turkey. A list of service companies known to use PR managers in Greece as well as in Turkey is provide by three major international advertising agencies.Originality/valueThe findings of this study provide an insight for the PR managers in Turkey. It is the first time that the PR managers in the Turkish service sector are under investigation.
Cypriot parental perceptions of children's internet usage
Authors: Liu Wen‐Ling , Kitchen Philip , Moskovos Argyris 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine parental perceptions of the impact of children's internet usage in the Republic of Cyprus.Design/methodology/approachThe measures for the survey are synthesized from the existing literature. The paper looks at how Cypriot parents' attitudes lead them to empower their children's use of the internet. It also explores whether parental attitudes act as an obstacle in restraining children's usage of the internet, and their rationales.FindingsThe research findings highlight the importance of children's internet protection in relation to the role of parents. Apart from virus concerns and governmental promotions strategies as main barriers to children's internet usage, the engaged family time is found as a unique barrier to retard internet adoption in Cyprus.Research limitations/implicationsOne of the limitations of this paper is that the data are limited by use of non‐probability quota sampling with only the views of parents, which may limit the generalization of the results.Originality/valueThe paper contributes to the marketing literature on children internet usage and the roles of parents and governmental promotion strategies related to internet adoption.
Vertical phasing as a corporate real estate strategy and development option
Authors: Guma Anthony , Pearson Jason , Wittels Kate , de Neufville Richard , Geltner David 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the potential value of significant vertical phasing – that is, the addition of five or more stories to an existing building – as a valuable real option in real estate development, in particular for corporate real estate strategy.Design/methodology/approachThe demonstration is done through in‐depth case studies of four major projects in North America: the 24 story, 880,000 square feet expansion of the Health Care Service Corporation building in Chicago; the Court Square Citicorp Campus in New York City; the Bentall Five project in Vancouver; and the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine building in Boston.FindingsVertical expansion appears to have significant organizational and logistical advantages for corporate developers, such as the ability to keep staff in one building, and the elimination of the need to relocate with its resulting inconvenience and potential to lose employees. Further, the financial analysis indicates that the option to expand vertically is a reasonable way for corporate developers to access convenient expansion space, while limiting their downside risk. Commercial developers on the other hand may find that the ability to scale back designs in the case of market downturns is particularly valuable. The case studies also confirm by example that the vertical expansion of buildings is technically possible. Although the process of erecting a major new building on top of a fully occupied building is clearly complex, it is not extraordinary difficult so long as the possibility of vertical expansion is built into the original design.Originality/valueVertical expansion of buildings has not been appreciated as an attractive feasible option for flexible development of real estate in a risky environment. These case studies and analysis bring this possibility to the attention of the real estate industry and corporate real estate managers.
Accommodating “accelerating” time: the use of timescapes in corporate real estate strategies
Authors: Too Linda , Harvey Michael 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to introduce the concept of timescape and examine its impact on corporate real estate strategy, i.e. the people, process, space and technology elements of strategy.Design/methodology/approachThis paper utilises a qualitative approach to analyse secondary data in order to develop a conceptual framework of timescape for corporate real estate strategies.FindingsTime is an integral part of strategic corporate real estate management. There are seven key elements that make up the timescape for corporate real estate strategies.Research limitations/implicationsThis is a conceptual paper and future empirical research should be conducted to validate the propositions made in this paper.Practical implicationsThe paper clearly identified the need to incorporate timescape into corporate real strategy formulation. The discussion on the impact of timescape on corporate real estate is useful in providing the impetus for managers who operate in a hyper‐competitive global business landscape to review their existing strategies.Originality/valueThis paper is high in originality as it pioneers the concept of timescape for application within corporate real estate management.