Emerald | International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management | Table of Contents

Evaluating operational efficiency of a bookstore chain in Turkey and identifying efficiency drivers

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose - This study aims at assessing operational efficiency of a bookstore chain in Turkey, and identifying efficiency drivers.Design/methodology/approach - The sample includes 79 bookstores within a bookstore chain. The study uses two-step procedure. In the first stage, data envelopment analysis (DEA) is utilized to evaluate the comparative efficiency of bookstores. The second stage attempts to determine what drives efficiency by using Tobit regression.Findings - The results revealed that store age has positive significant influence on bookstore efficiency, whereas manager experience, staff experience, and education level of manager do not.Research limitations/implications - The findings of the paper are based on a single bookstore chain. Thus, one should be cautious while interpreting results.Originality/value - The contribution of the paper to the literature is of great importance, since no prior Turkish study has dealt with the subject to this extent. Furthermore, although there are studies conducted on various subsectors of retail industry in other countries, there seems to be no study at all conducted on bookstore chains.

A conceptual model for Retail Productivity

literatinetwork@emeraldinsight.com (Ashis Mishra, Javeed Ansari) — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to develop framework for measuring retail productivity. It intends to identify all the constituents of retail productivity exhaustively along with their measures and integrate them with a comprehensive model.Design/methodology/approach - The paper summarizes the significant empirical works from the literature along with their study methods and identifies the gaps. The proposed methodology is a combination of various exploratory methods consisting of secondary data analysis, group interviews, depth interviews, observation and questionnaire survey. Findings - A regression based conceptual model including each of the output and input variables of retail productivity. It also provides conception logic and measurement method for each of the variables. It identifies the control parameters too and proposes to handle them in the model. The empirical validation provides the significance of various input parameters. Research limitations/implications - The empirical validation is restricted to one retail format and one vertical (medium sized stores and apparel - life style vertical). However, it provides significant input regarding the way to utilise retail productivity and the strategic directions to improve store level productivity .Practical implications - The most significant usage of the model is the standardization of retail productivity concept as a performance measurement tool and its applicability in individual retail stores (micro level). Hence, it is possible to determine the reasons for performance of retail stores and develop appropriate as well as effective strategies. The identification and elaboration of the various parameters of retail productivity would help retailers to redefine and focus on key decision areas.Originality/value - The paper presents the exhaustive framework for retail productivity with data from Indian retail sector that is applicable at micro level. It provides direct measure of value component (services) in retail output determination.

Internationalisation through Franchising: The Parfois Case Study

literatinetwork@emeraldinsight.com (Rosa Forte, João Carvalho) — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose - Both franchising and internationalisation are important subjects of study, but in the existent literature little attention has been given to these two topics combined. This paper attempts to analyse the internationalisation through franchising, using as a case study the internationalisation process of Parfois, a specialised retail brand based in Northern Portugal, and operating in the fashion accessories business.Design/methodology/approach - A case study approach was adopted based on information collected from various sources, including the company’s website, the World Bank database, some news reports about Parfois, and also from interviews with those responsible for the internationalisation of Parfois.Findings - We have identified a clear pattern in the internationalisation process: the firm is willing to open its own stores in the European market, where it feels comfortable, allowing franchisees to assume the investment risk in other world regions, with particular relevance for the Middle East and Eastern Europe. Originality/value - In the international competitive market, it is important for other retail brands to understand how a relatively small retail brand, based in a depressed European zone is able to expand worldwide. Furthermore, the lack of existing literature about internationalisation through franchising in specialised retailing companies adds value to this study.

Globally standardised versus locally adapted packaging – A case study at Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications AB

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Purpose - The aim of this paper is to provide insights into, and guidance on, how to balance packaging standardisation and adaptation strategies in different markets in the Fast Moving Consumer Electronic Goods (FMCEG) industry. Design/methodology/approach - The research was explorative in nature and was utilised in a case study format. The main data collection methods were a literature review, interviews, and field studies.Findings - The paper presents two models developed to: 1) classify markets according to product/packaging visibility at the retailer’s, 2) evaluate packaging portfolios. The use of these models provides insights and understanding for companies aiming to develop their packaging portfolios to increase their sales and make distribution more effective.Practical implications - The models developed were valuable in the analysis of the packaging strategy. Significantly, synergies emerged when the models were combined. Professionals can apply these models to other global companies in the FMCEG industry. Originality/value - This paper contributes to the debate on global standardisation vs. local adaptation by taking a packaging perspective. This paper also demonstrates the need for global companies in the FMCEG industry to understand the value of packaging in different markets.

Editorial

literatinetwork@emeraldinsight.com (Neil Towers) — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0100

Abstract

Not available.