Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to investigate marginal, localized and restricted (MLR) activities in pork processing on local food markets in Poland, and identify the value generated for individual links in the supply chain. Design/methodology/approach: The paper takes a case study approach to investigate the enterprises operating as MLRs. Data were collected during direct interviews with entrepreneurs in Siedlce county, in the Mazovian Region in Poland. The methodology of the basic Business Model Canvas (BMC) was applied to distinguish the two models they operate within direct and with an agent. Findings: The results of the research process led to identification of customer value generated by MLR activities. For example, directness, authenticity and high quality, which are the main features that differentiate MLR from conventional activities. Research limitations/implications: The case studies selected for the research were typical of their local food system (LFS). However, it can be expected that the processes described herein can also be found in the various different environments of other small and medium enterprises. Practical implications: The models worked out during the research process fit perfectly into the assumptions of sustainable rural development, and their implementation could be a source of competitive advantages in LFS. Originality/value: While MLR activities are usually characterized by the legal perspective, less is known about their operation in practice. This is the first academic study in Poland investigating MLR business models. With application of the BMC, this analysis could be used as a tool guide for building similar models on local food markets. Studies of business models for pork processing could provide inspiration for both academics and practitioners dealing in other food sectors.

Undoubtedly, the COVID-19 pandemic has left an indelible mark on every aspect of human life, and, perhaps most significantly, on the operation of the world’s economy. Restrictions and limitations on freedom of movement had a clear impact on the ways in which companies and households functioned, and consumer behaviors and purchasing habits were demonstrably influenced in turn. Thus, the aim of this article is to illustrate these changes in light of the pandemic and, moreover, to highlight the related challenges pertaining to purchasing practices and consumer concerns. The study sample focused on students from Poland and Turkey, with data gathered using an online survey method. The resulting data were subsequently analyzed with the SPSS 26 program. The application of Pearson Chi-Square methods, as well as the analysis of descriptive statistics such as percentage and frequency, revealed significant differences between the two countries. As a result of the comparative analysis, clear differences were demonstrated in the nature of changes in consumer behavior between respondents from Turkey and Poland, most strikingly, the fact that the purchasing habits of respondents in Turkey have changed to a greater extent. It has been observed that limitations imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic had a greater impact on consumer behavior, particularly for students in Turkey.

This study aims to investigate the determinants of green smartphone application adoption among users. The study employs content richness model and modified Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) as well as extrinsic constructs such as customisation and environmental concerns. A quantitative approach using a survey is utilised by collecting 700 responses. The data is analysed using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) and three machine learning techniques including Artificial Neural Networks (ANN), Classification Regression Tree (CRT) and Chi-Squared Automatic Interaction Detection (CHAID). The results indicate that UTAUT, customisation and environmental concerns positively impact the adoption of green applications. Further analysis revealed fitness of analytical methods and the importance of variables for the overall sample and the subsamples derived. The study provides theoretical and practical contributions to academics, marketers and software developers in understanding consumer behaviour in the field. The result assist developers and marketers to decipher consumer behaviour towards green applications for sustainable consumption. The research contributes to theory and practice by employing an integrative model to investigate the role of technology in sustainable consumption. Moreover, the findings revealed the fitness of three machine learning methods to analyse the data collected for green consumption and the importance of variables in the model. The data is collected by employing convenience sampling. Hence, the results cannot be generalised accurately. Furthermore, data collection is conducted using a cross-sectional approach. Future researchers can add to the findings using a probability sampling and/or longitudinal data collection to generalise the results and reveal the changes in consumer behaviour. DOI: https://doi.org/10.54663/2182-9306.2023.v11.n21.179-212

Entrepreneurship and Sustainability Issues is a peer-reviewed journal which publishes original research papers and case studies

This study examines the impact of career plateaus on job satisfaction, highlighting the moderating role ofremote work. Career plateau, characterized by limited career advancement opportunities, has been identified as a significant detractor of employee engagement and satisfaction. Leveraging the flexibility and autonomy of remote work, this research explores its potential to mitigate the adverse effects of career stagnation. A quantitative methodology was applied, analyzing survey data from public and private sector employees in Georgia using linear regression to test the hypotheses. The findings confirm a negative correlation between career plateau and job satisfaction, while greater autonomy in remote work significantly enhances job satisfaction levels. The study underscores the necessity of implementing job-design strategies that incorporate flexible employment forms as a means to counteract the effects of career stagnation and promote employee well-being.