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1 – 10 of 14Jing Zhu, Xingchen Nan, Adrian Chen Yang Tan and Fen Wu
This study aims to examine manufacturers’ strategic responses to consumer migration from offline to online channels, focusing on how these shifts affect their channel selection…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to examine manufacturers’ strategic responses to consumer migration from offline to online channels, focusing on how these shifts affect their channel selection and business strategies.
Design/methodology/approach
This research uses a theoretical framework using a Stackelberg game model to analyze manufacturers’ decision-making processes amid evolving consumer behaviors. It intricately explores the strategic implications across three distinct channel structures: manufacturer direct sales (MD), retailer resale (RR) and retailer agency (RA), focusing on their economic outcomes and market dynamics. This approach is instrumental in decoding the multifaceted nature of channel migration and its impact on manufacturer–retailer relationships in the digital marketplace.
Findings
The research reveals that in MD and RA scenarios, as channel migration intensifies, manufacturers tend to lower both wholesale and online retail prices. Conversely, in the RR scenario, the set wholesale price is intricately linked to the market share, with higher prices set for smaller offline market shares. From a strategic standpoint, MD emerges as the optimal choice for maximizing manufacturer profits, while RA takes precedence when considering the entire supply chain’s profitability, particularly under high commission costs.
Originality/value
This research illuminates the impact of channel migration on manufacturers’ pricing strategies and channel selection. It not only advances the understanding of consumer behavior in multichannel retail environments but also offers practical insights for businesses in effectively managing online and offline channels.
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Qiqi Zhang, Weijun Zhen, Quansheng Ou, Yusufu Abulajiang and Gangshan Ma
The objective was to investigate the utility of cottonseed oil (CSO) as a raw material for the synthesis of CSO water-based alkyd resin. The synthesis involved the polymerization…
Abstract
Purpose
The objective was to investigate the utility of cottonseed oil (CSO) as a raw material for the synthesis of CSO water-based alkyd resin. The synthesis involved the polymerization of CSO, trimethylolpropane, phthalic anhydride (PA) and trimellitic anhydride (TMA). The prepared resin coating material was subsequently applied to the surface of steel structure material.
Design/methodology/approach
This study aimed to synthesize water-based alkyd resins using CSO. Therefore, the alkyd resin was introduced with TMA containing carboxyl groups and neutralized with triethylamine (TEA) to form a water-soluble salt. Then, the esterification kinetics of CSO water-based alkyd resin were investigated, and finally, the basic properties of CSO water-based alkyd resin coating were evaluated.
Findings
It was demonstrated that CSO water-based alkyd resin exhibited excellent water solubility and that the esterification kinetic of the synthesis reaction could be described by a second-order reaction. The coating properties of the material were investigated and found to have good basic properties, with 40% resin addition having the best corrosion resistance. Consequently, it could be effectively applied to the surface of steel structural materials.
Originality/value
This study not only met the requirement of environmentally friendly development but also expanded the application of CSO through the synthesis of CSO water-based alkyd resin via alcoholysis. Compared to fatty acid process, the alcoholysis reduced the need for fatty acid pre-extraction, simplifying the alkyd resin synthesis process. Thus, economic costs are effectively reduced.
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Zhaoyuan Ma, Xiaohong Wang and Yuan Zhang
Technology innovation in enterprises is a powerful driver of national competitiveness and sustainable corporate development. At the same time, the regional innovation policy mix…
Abstract
Purpose
Technology innovation in enterprises is a powerful driver of national competitiveness and sustainable corporate development. At the same time, the regional innovation policy mix serves as a core factor at the macro level, guiding and influencing enterprise technology innovation. Therefore, this paper addresses a critical question in innovation studies: the impact of the regional innovation policy mix complexity on enterprise technology innovation. Additionally, we also investigated the internal mechanisms and boundary conditions within this framework.
Design/methodology/approach
A dual-mode network model of local government-regional innovation policy is developed to capture the complexity of the regional innovation policy mix. The complexity index is calculated iteratively using the R language. The paper employs quantitative and empirical analysis, drawing on a sample of 622 regional innovation-related policy documents from 31 Chinese provinces (municipalities and autonomous regions).
Findings
The results reveal an inverted U-shaped relationship between policy mix complexity and enterprise technological innovation. The analysis further shows that university-industry cooperation intensity mediates this relationship, while regional knowledge absorptive capability moderates the impact of regional innovation policy mix complexity on enterprise technological innovation.
Originality/value
This paper highlights the influence of regional innovation policy mix complexity on enterprise technological innovation and underscores the role of university-industry cooperation intensity and regional knowledge absorptive capability. The findings offer valuable insights into the dynamics of enterprise innovation and inform effective government policy governance for fostering innovation.
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Peng Wang, Laurens Bujold Steed and Zhen Wang
Drawing upon the Conservation of Resources theory and Relational Demography Theory, we examine the crossover of supervisor family experiences to subordinates in the workplace. We…
Abstract
Purpose
Drawing upon the Conservation of Resources theory and Relational Demography Theory, we examine the crossover of supervisor family experiences to subordinates in the workplace. We posit that supervisor family-to-work enrichment and conflict influence subordinate perceptions of supervisor support for work–family, which, in turn, positively affects subordinate work engagement and job satisfaction and negatively affects subordinate turnover intentions. The effects of supervisor family-to-work enrichment and conflict on perceptions of supervisor support are respectively suggested to be strengthened and weakened by the demographic similarity between the supervisor and the subordinate.
Design/methodology/approach
Using a sample of 496 employees nested within 83 supervisors from China, we conducted a multilevel analysis.
Findings
Our results indicate that supervisor family-to-work conflict and supervisor family-to-work enrichment have negative and positive effects (respectively) on subordinates’ perceptions of supervisor work–family support, and this effect is moderated by low, rather than high, similarity in the supervisor–subordinate dyad. An overall indirect effect of supervisor family-to-work enrichment and family-to-work conflict on subordinate work engagement, job satisfaction and turnover intentions through the mediator of perceived supervisor work–family support is also confirmed.
Practical implications
From a practical standpoint, our research emphasizes the importance for organizations to support supervisors in achieving work–family balance in order to promote positive employee work-related outcomes.
Originality/value
Our study contributes to work–family literature by unraveling how and when resources may travel through supervisors to affect the generation of new resources (i.e. supervisor support for work–family) and ultimately affect subordinate outcomes in the workplace.
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Grégory De Boe, Valérie Swaen and Marie Lamensch
This study examines conditions under which taxes and subsidies designed to mitigate corporate environmental impact positively influence corporate pro-environmental behavior (CPEB…
Abstract
Purpose
This study examines conditions under which taxes and subsidies designed to mitigate corporate environmental impact positively influence corporate pro-environmental behavior (CPEB) adoption, considering unique dynamics within different industries.
Design/methodology/approach
A systematic literature review was conducted on 171 articles. Articles were coded using an inductive grid for comprehensive examination.
Findings
Taxes generally positively influence CPEB adoption, but reduced positive or even negative effects can arise. Subsidies, while often facilitating the achievement of environmental goals, variously impact CPEB. Explanations for variations include the level of taxation or subsidy, economic agent affected, subsidy source, nature of subsidy, factors external to tax or subsidy characteristics and conflicting environmental objectives. We suggest research avenues for each aspect, to enhance literature on the influence of tax policies on promoting CPEB.
Practical implications
Beyond general tax-policy considerations, we provide policymakers with recommendations for tax policies designed to promote CPEB.
Originality/value
We examine the distinctive effects of taxes and subsidies on CPEB adoption within diverse industries ((re)manufacturing, agriculture, shipping, automobile, freight transport and power generation). We compare specific effects across industries, and advocate detailed exploration of recurrent elements identified, emphasizing their potential significance in designing taxes and subsidies that promote CPEB.
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Yingya Jia, Ziqi Yin, Xiaoyu Wang and Manci Fang
This study aims to explore the impact of chief executive officers’ (CEOs) values on the socially responsible behaviors (SRBs) of top management teams. Drawing from the social…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to explore the impact of chief executive officers’ (CEOs) values on the socially responsible behaviors (SRBs) of top management teams. Drawing from the social learning framework, it examines the mechanisms through which CEOs’ values shape SRBs within organizational leadership.
Design/methodology/approach
Using the hierarchical regression model, this study assesses direct effects, while the Monte Carlo method is used to evaluate indirect effects. The analysis is based on time-lagged data collected from 122 CEOs and 287 corresponding top managers from small- and medium-sized enterprises in China.
Findings
The results indicate a positive correlation between CEOs’ self-transcendent values and their own SRBs (i.e. doing-good and avoiding harm behavior). This, in turn, promotes top managers’ SRBs.
Originality/value
By highlighting the micro-foundations of corporate social responsibility, this study enriches the understanding of SRBs enhancement in management teams. It reveals the significance of CEO self-transcendent values as a precursor to SRBs and elucidates the learning processes involved.
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Chinmaya Prasad Padhy, Suryakumar Simhambhatla and Debraj Bhattacharjee
This study aims to improve the mechanical properties of an object produced by fused deposition modelling with high-grade polymer.
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to improve the mechanical properties of an object produced by fused deposition modelling with high-grade polymer.
Design/methodology/approach
The study uses an ensembled surrogate-assisted evolutionary algorithm (SAEA) to optimize the process parameters for example, layer height, print speed, print direction and nozzle temperature for enhancing the mechanical properties of temperature-sensitive high-grade polymer poly-ether-ether-ketone (PEEK) in fused deposition modelling (FDM) 3D printing while considering print time as one of the important parameter. These models are integrated with an evolutionary algorithm to efficiently explore parameter space. The optimized parameters from the SAEA approach are compared with those obtained using the Gray Relational Analysis (GRA) Taguchi method serving as a benchmark. Later, the study also highlights the significant role of print direction in optimizing the mechanical properties of FDM 3D printed PEEK.
Findings
With the use of ensemble learning-based SAEA, one can successfully maximize the ultimate stress and percentage elongation with minimum print time. SAEA-based solution has 28.86% higher ultimate stress, 66.95% lower percentage of elongation and 7.14% lower print time in comparison to the benchmark result (GRA Taguchi method). Also, the results from the experimental investigation indicate that the print direction has a greater role in deciding the optimum value of mechanical properties for FDM 3D printed high-grade thermoplastic PEEK polymer.
Research limitations/implications
This study is valid for the parameter ranges, which are defined to conduct the experimentation.
Practical implications
This study has been conducted on the basis of taking only a few important process parameters as per the literatures and available scope of the study; however, there are many other parameters, e.g. wall thickness, road width, print orientation, fill pattern, roller speed, retraction, etc. which can be included to make a more comprehensive investigation and accuracy of the results for practical implementation.
Originality/value
This study deploys a novel meta-model-based optimization approach for enhancing the mechanical properties of high-grade thermoplastic polymers, which is rarely available in the published literature in the research domain.
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Yulin Zou, Wei Xu and Weiqing Yang
The imperative for sustainable energy systems is increasingly pressing as the world transitions toward renewable energy sources. Among these, triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs…
Abstract
Purpose
The imperative for sustainable energy systems is increasingly pressing as the world transitions toward renewable energy sources. Among these, triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have emerged as a viable option for wind energy harvesting. However, they face significant challenges, including material durability under varying wind conditions; the intricacy of material selection and performance; and the trade-off between wear resistance and triboelectric efficiency. This study aims to address the above issues.
Design/methodology/approach
Herein, a mode-switch TENG (MS-TENG) was designed to overcome these limitations and serve as a self-powered energy solution for Internet of Things (IoT) sensor networks. The MS-TENG incorporates a multi-stage functional layer and an automatic mode-switching mechanism between contact and non-contact operation, thereby enhancing both efficiency and durability.
Findings
It is demonstrated that the MS-TENG achieves a maximum instantaneous output power of 0.069 mW with minimal mechanical wear, effectively capturing wind energy. Its capability to charge capacitors and power a range of electronic devices, such as temperature and humidity sensors, electronic watches and water immersion guards, underscores its practical utility across diverse settings.
Originality/value
This research situates the MS-TENG as a pioneering technology in smart sensor applications for future energy-harvesting endeavors, optimizing energy acquisition under fluctuating wind conditions and reinforcing the sustainability of IoT networks.
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Muhammad Tasnim Khan and Sami Ullah
This study, grounded in ambidexterity theory, aims to investigate how paradoxical leadership (PXL) fosters team creativity in high-tech manufacturing companies, with team…
Abstract
Purpose
This study, grounded in ambidexterity theory, aims to investigate how paradoxical leadership (PXL) fosters team creativity in high-tech manufacturing companies, with team ambidexterity as a mediator and leader vision as a moderator. Given the fast-paced, innovation-driven demands of the high-tech sector, this research provides insights into how managers can effectively balance contradictory behaviors to drive team innovation.
Design/methodology/approach
Data was collected through a two-wave survey from team leaders and members across 169 teams in high-tech manufacturing companies. The time interval between data collection waves was two weeks. The data was aggregated at the team level using estimates for interrater reliability and interrater agreement. The structural equation modeling in R was used to test hypotheses.
Findings
The findings indicate that PXL positively impacts team creativity directly and through its influence on team ambidexterity. Team ambidexterity mediates the relationship between PXL and team creativity, while leader vision moderates the effects of PXL on team ambidexterity.
Practical implications
PXL benefits high-performance teams in technology sectors, such as software development, where rapid innovation and iterative processes are essential. In health care, PXL can optimize team dynamics, enabling medical research and patient care delivery breakthroughs. Regular training in ambidextrous thinking and feedback mechanisms makes this approach actionable for managers striving to cultivate creativity in high-stakes environments.
Originality/value
This study extends ambidexterity theory by linking PXL and team ambidexterity to team creativity. It provides high-tech manufacturing managers with concrete strategies to balance exploration and exploitation. These findings highlight actionable pathways for companies to sustain innovation in competitive, technology-driven industries.
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Xiulu Huang, Chuxiong Tang, Yichao Liu and Pengfei Ge
This paper aims to unveil the greenwashing intention of green bonds issuing in Chinese enterprises through the lens of stock pricing efficiency.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to unveil the greenwashing intention of green bonds issuing in Chinese enterprises through the lens of stock pricing efficiency.
Design/methodology/approach
Drawing on data of Chinese listed companies during 2012–2021, this study uses a difference-in-differences method to study how and through what mechanisms issuing green bonds impacts stock pricing efficiency.
Findings
Issuing green bonds lowers stock pricing efficiency, verifying the greenwashing intention of green bonds in China. Potential mechanisms underlie the increased investor attention and sentiment resulting from the information disclosures about corporate green and low-carbon development. This greenwashing issue is more pronounced in firms facing lower financing constraints, having stronger relations with the government, and located in highly marketized regions. In the context of uncertainty surrounding economic policies, especially trade policies, issuing green bonds can signal a weakening of the greenwashing effect.
Practical implications
The quality of information disclosure should be emphasized to ensure a substantive commitment to environmental responsibility signaled by green bond issuance, thereby mitigating greenwashing concerns.
Social implications
Regulators and standard-setters should improve the issuance system for green bonds and promote the sustainable development of the green bond market through formulating unified certification criteria for green bonds and implementing a stringently periodic reporting system.
Originality/value
First, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, it is the first study to draw on the quality of information disclosure and the perspective of stock pricing efficiency to identify whether firms issuing green bonds engage in greenwashing. Second, the study uncovers the black-box underlying this greenwashing issue through investor attention and sentiment and examines further the moderating role of economic policy uncertainties.
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