Rural tourism in Serbia had its chance to shine with the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study was to determine to what extent the quality of rural service can contribute to improving rural tourism, and predictions for the continuation of the trend in terms of increasing the number of overnight stays in rural households. The obtained results show a small number of services in the sector could be improved, but that all elements except price value can influence the future development of rural tourism and that the number of overnight stays is expected to continue to grow. The importance and innovativeness of the research is reflected in the specific methodology that was applied, and the results complement those of previous research. It has been shown that villages in Serbia can create a barrier against COVID-19 through tourism.

Stockpiling and panic buying are significant components of crisis- and disaster-related consumption behaviors that have gained significant media coverage during the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper aims to analyze the features of stockpiling behavior during the second wave of COVID-19 in Serbia based on a structured online questionnaire. This study seeks to answer two questions. First, what factors triggered and affected stockpiling during the COVID-19 pandemic in Serbia? Second, how does stockpiling affect other food habits and diets? A total of 851 valid responses were received. The results highlight several features of the stockpiling behavior in Serbia. First, food stockpiling behavior is influenced by some sociodemographic variables such as gender and household composition. Second, stockpiling was fueled by several negative emotions such as fear, sadness, and depression. Third, the results confirm that stockpiling in Serbia was not triggered by supply shortages but rather by consumers’ concerns of obtaining enough food and rising food prices. Finally, food stockpiling was associated with some positive changes such as eating out less (e.g., restaurants/cafeteria), eating more with their family members, and cooking more food. Analyzing and comprehending consumer food stockpiling patterns during the COVID-19 pandemic may offer policymakers imperative information for adjusting supply and response strategies during future crises.

Promotion and sale of organic products require particular approach to introduce customers about the branding, packaging and advantages in comparison to conventional products. The aim of work is investigation which are sources of promotion of organic products use customers and effects of sources on trade improvement. In this study conducted interviews of 400 of customers through the mail. The results showed differences among customers according to: sources of their information about traits of products and market place, and their behavior and decision for use of organic product. Women more often use electronic media, professional literature, while man use magazine as a source of information. Both gender, male and female used internet equally. Customers old between 21 and 40 years more often bought in supermarkets and specialized stores, while customers of age between 41 and 60 years more often bought directly on market from producers. Customers who have more than 60 years buy on the market from producers and the supermarket. This differences depends of gender, age, education, as well as place of residence of customers.

In the modern economic context, the growing emphasis on sustainability and efficient management of resources is leading to comprehensive changes in business models. The circular economy, aimed at minimizing waste and maximizing resource utilization, is emerging as a crucial aspect of this transformation. It is a response to the uncontrolled exploitation of natural resources and energy sources, accelerated industrial development, as well as excessive consumption, which were the basis of economic growth and development in the 20th and early 21st centuries. In this context, innovative financial instruments play a significant role in supporting and financing circular practices. This paper explores the role of innovative financial instruments within the circular economy, analyzing how these instruments encourage sustainable practices, support innovation and contribute to efficient resource management.

This paper explores the role of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the context of unemployment, competitiveness, and challenges. SMEs play a crucial role in economies worldwide, particularly in creating employment opportunities and contributing to economic growth. However, they face significant challenges such as global competition, limited access to resources and technology, and regulatory burdens. This study aims to analyze how these factors impact SMEs, their ability to compete in domestic and international markets, and their role in mitigating unemployment. By examining case studies and empirical data, the research seeks to provide insights into strategies for enhancing SME competitiveness and addressing unemployment through supportive policies and innovation.

The results of the research presented in the paper are expected to confirm that all dimensions and aspects of the new model of corporate governance are present in the practice of companies in the Republic of Serbia, and that attributes of the board of directors, or the supervisory board of companies, considered in this paper, are present in accordance with the requirements of positive law and the practice of good corporate governance.