This paper aims to identify and categorize the factors influencing consumer goods’ value into ecological and economic dimensions and subsequently compare them. The analysis employs the Allegro Reviews (AR) dataset, comprising post-purchase product reviews, with a focus on a sample of 1,400 randomly selected reviews from a pool of 10,615 comments. Through this examination, distinct influencing factors are identified, categorized as either ecological or economic, and their frequency of reference in online reviews was compared. The research findings show that consumers consistently address economic dimensions in their reviews. Notably, emphasis is placed on goods’ quality, pricing, and the price-quality relationship. On the other hand, ecological aspects receive limited attention in reviews, suggesting their lesser significance to consumers compared to economic considerations. This study’s implications for theory and practice indicate that companies should prioritize economic aspects in their value creation endeavors, relegating ecological factors to a secondary role. However, from a global standpoint, enterprises must incorporate ecological dimensions during the value creation process to avert environmental degradation, which could otherwise undermine overall societal quality of life. In terms of originality and value, this research diverges from typical consumer choice studies that rely on questionnaires. Instead, it analyzes actual post-purchase product reviews, providing insights into tangible elements contributing to goods’ value, thus bypassing reliance on mere declarations. JEL Classification: D11, D12, L25, L26.

Within the sustainable development (SD) paradigm, the European Green Deal (EGD) sets dynamic energy transition goals for the European Union (EU). However, diverse dynamics among member states, exacerbated by events like the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine, directly influence this progress. This paper aims to present the energy transition course in EU countries up against the implementation of the objectives of the EGD. This paper conducts a thematic (scoping) literature review and comparative analysis of energy transition progress in all EU countries, concentrating on Poland, which faces unique challenges, including a sluggish pace of energy transition and the effects of the Russian invasion on Ukraine in this regard. Recommendations for Poland include an intensified focus on investments in renewable energy sources (RES) and low-carbon installations. The results demonstrate that collective success in SD necessitates each EU member fulfilling national climate goals, emphasising the need for a unified commitment to navigate complexities and build a sustainable future.

Energy transition is a time- and capital-intensive process, particularly in the shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources (RES). Poland exemplifies this transition, navigating fluctuations in energy prices. The invasion of Ukraine by Russia has heightened the significance of energy transition challenges and opportunities in Poland. This work explores Poland’s situation, analyzing possibilities, problems, and future prospects for RES. Utilizing political, economic, social, and technological analysis, the research assesses the landscape and projects the future outlook for RES in Poland. Findings indicate favorable regulations and increasing support for RES development. Financial backing for RES investments is available, yet slow adoption persists due to historical coal usage habits and limited environmental awareness. Despite low current RES usage, the circumstances present an opportunity to boost energy transition, ensuring set targets are met and enhancing energy independence.

Purpose: The aim of this article is to present the role of subsidies as a factor of competitiveness for businesses in the renewable energy sources (RES) market. Design/methodology/approach: First, a review of available subsidies in Poland for individual customers was conducted. Next, based on the survey, the sources of financing for the purchase of RES by households in Poland were determined. Furthermore, an evaluation of various factors encouraging energy transformation was carried out, and the role of subsidies for the purchase of RES as a factor influencing the decision to transform a household was defined. Findings: Research showed that higher government subsidies are the most important factor encouraging individual customers to invest in RES. Most respondents financed their RES purchases with personal funds, while subsidies and grants were the second most common option. The range of subsidies for purchasing and installing RES infrastructure in Poland for individual customers is extensive. Companies offering support in the subsidy application process can boost their market appeal and contribute to the broader adoption of RES in Poland. Research limitations/implications: It is important to note that the sample size of individuals with installed RES was relatively small. Additionally, the considerations were limited to individual customers and they were excluding enterprises which are also important recipients in the RES market. Therefore, future research can expand on these considerations by focusing on the analysis of subsidies for enterprises to better understand how they influence firms' investment decisions. They could also conduct efficiency analyses of various subsidy programs to identify those that yield the best results and are most cost-effective. Originality/value: The paper explores the dual impact of RES subsidies on reducing costs for consumers and enhancing market attractiveness for companies. By analyzing consumer financing sources and preferences, the study highlights the critical role of financial incentives in promoting energy transformation and increasing the adoption of RES technologies. Keywords: competitiveness, renewable energy sources, subsidies, energy transition. Category of the paper: research paper.

Contemporary marketing theory and practice primarily focus on emerging markets, product expansion, and the creation of innovative value for customers. Meanwhile, the phenomenon of market decline − defined as the phase of sys- tematically decreasing demand for a particular good or service − is no less im- portant from both a strategic and operational perspective. Marketing manage- ment in a declining market poses a unique challenge: it requires not only a redefinition of business objectives but also flexibility, innovation, and the abil- ity to operate in a shrinking market environment. The inspiration for addressing this topic stemmed from observing the trans- formation of the hard coal sector in Poland − a market that exhibits characteris- tics typical of the decline phase. Changing regulations, increasing environmental pressure, shifting consumer attitudes, and long-term energy trends have forced market participants to undertake deep adjustments, often pushing the boundaries of what is feasible in market terms. Analyzing the marketing strategies of entities operating under such specific conditions allows for a better understanding of management in a declining market context, as well as the identification of mech- anisms for extending the product life cycle and rationalizing operations. The presented monograph is an extension and continuation of research con- ducted by the author for her doctoral dissertation, which focused on the effec- tiveness of distribution strategies in the hard coal mining sector. That earlier research project analyzed the role of mining enterprises and the functioning of Intermediary Coal Entities (ICEs), whose significance gradually diminished as a result of geopolitical changes and regulatory decisions − particularly following the outbreak of the full-scale war in Ukraine and the introduction of an embargo on coal imports from Russia. Transformations in the structure of distribution channels and the loss of authorized seller status by many intermediaries high- lighted the need to broaden the research perspective and focus on the commer- cial links closest to the end customer. This shift enabled a more in-depth analysis of the adaptive mechanisms within the marketing mix employed by fuel depots in conditions not only of declining demand but also of institutional and market uncertainty. As a result, the monograph contributes to a deeper understanding of business strategies in the declining phase of an industry. The first chapter of the monograph provides the theoretical foundations for un- derstanding declining markets. It begins with a discussion of the origins and evolu- tion of the product and industry life cycle concepts, referencing classical approaches developed by Schumpeter and Mickwitz, as well as the adaptations proposed by the Boston Consulting Group. Various life cycle models are presented, ranging from four-stage models with maturity and decline phases, through three-stage models, to five-stage models that include a “shakeout” phase. A key part of the chapter is the analysis of both endogenous factors (e.g., exit barriers, asset specificity, low levels of innovation) and exogenous factors (e.g., globalization, technological advance- ment, legal regulations, changing consumer preferences) that contribute to the onset and deepening of the decline phase. Furthermore, the chapter discusses four evolu- tionary industry paths − radical, progressive, creative, and intermediate − as well as the classic set of strategic management responses in this phase: from aggressive market dominance, through selective investment management (“harvesting”, “milk- ing”), to rapid market exit or niche market focus. The chapter also describes strate- gies of restructuring, consolidation, and leveraging intangible assets. The second chapter is devoted to the adaptation of the classic marketing mix to the conditions of declining markets. It begins with an overview of the evolution of marketing definitions − from the logistics-based approach of 1935, through the 4P model introduced in 1985, to contemporary concepts focused on value creation and stakeholder relationship management. Each element of the marketing mix is then discussed: product − portfolio reduction to the most essen- tial variants, packaging modifications, and the development of complementary products; price − strategies aimed at maximizing short-term margins, flexible discounting, and premium pricing for loyal customer segments; place (distribu- tion) − optimization of sales channels, reduction in the number of intermediaries, expansion of direct and hybrid sales models, and the use of digital platforms; promotion − a shift from mass information campaigns toward loyalty programs, product sampling, and industry partnerships that enhance brand image. The third chapter constitutes the methodological section and presents the results of an empirical study conducted among employees of fuel depots. It out- lines the research objective and questions, the sample selection (235 respond- ents), the research tool (an online questionnaire), and the statistical analysis methods used in SPSS. The results reveal relationships between customer pro- files, sales channels, promotional activities, pricing policies, and the perceived effectiveness of marketing strategies. The chapter also examines plans for prod- uct diversification, the introduction of alternative fuels, and declarations regard- ing market exit. This section provides empirical evidence supporting the effec- tiveness of the discussed strategies and identifies key determinants of marketing mix adaptation in the context of industrial decline. The structure of the monograph guides the Reader from general theoretical considerations to a specific case study of the hard coal market in Poland, allow- ing for a multifaceted analysis of both market mechanisms and...

Purpose: The aim of this article was to identify the key determinants of the effectiveness of distribution strategies in coal mines in Poland. The study was conducted through in-depth interviews with representatives of Polish coal mines, preceded by a literature review. Findings: (mandatory) The research identified several determinants influencing the effectiveness of distribution strategies in a declining market. These determinants include both internal factors, such as customization of the offer and managerial decision-making, and external factors, like geological conditions, legal environment, and information technologies. Offer customization was highlighted as essential for meeting the needs of both intermediaries and end-users, while effective decision-making and communication within the company were found to be crucial for maintaining strategic flexibility and profitability. Geological conditions and compliance with legal regulations were also deemed critical for maintaining a stable and continuous production process. Research limitations/implications: The study is limited to the specific context of mining enterprises operating in a declining market, which may not be generalizable to other industries or markets. Future research should explore these determinants in different sectors and contexts, and further investigate the dynamic interactions between internal and external factors affecting distribution strategies. Practical implications: The findings suggest that mining enterprises should adopt a holistic approach to formulating distribution strategies, taking into account all identified determinants. This includes focusing on product customization, enhancing managerial decision-making processes, and ensuring compliance with legal regulations. Companies should also leverage information technologies to optimize operational processes and improve customer satisfaction. Implementing these strategies can improve the overall efficiency of distribution strategies and enhance the competitive position of the enterprise in a declining market. Originality/value: This paper provides a novel contribution by identifying and analyzing a comprehensive set of determinants influencing the effectiveness of distribution strategies in the context of a declining market, particularly within the mining industry. The value of the paper lies in its holistic approach to understanding the interplay of these factors and its practical implications for enhancing strategic decision-making. The findings are particularly valuable for managers and decision-makers in the mining sector, policymakers involved in regulatory frameworks, and researchers exploring strategic management in challenging eco. Keywords: distribution strategies, mining industry, determinants of effectiveness. Category of the paper: research paper, case study.