- P-ISSN1738-3110
- E-ISSN2093-7717
- SCOPUS, ESCI
ISSN : 1738-3110
Vol.23 No.12
Abstract
Purpose: This study evaluates the impact of China’s Supply Chain Innovation and Application pilot policy on urban trade resilience in the context of global uncertainties and U.S. tariff shocks. Research design, data and methodology: Using a difference-in-differences (DID) model and panel data from 285 Chinese prefecture-level cities (2012–2022), we examine the policy’s net effect on trade resilience, measured by resistance, recovery, and transformation capacities. Results: (1) The supply chain innovation and application pilot policy significantly enhances the trade resilience of pilot cities, a conclusion that remains robust after undergoing a series of robustness tests, including altering the sample period, applying propensity score matching, and adding fixed effects. (2) Mechanism analysis indicates that the pilot policy improves urban trade resilience by enhancing industrial synergy, fostering new quality productive forces, and optimizing the business environment. (3) The policy’s effect on improving urban trade resilience varies across cities, showing more pronounced positive impacts in cities with digital economy policies, cities with stronger intellectual property protection, and non-resource-based cities. Conclusions: The study recommends expanding the pilot program, building multi-stakeholder empowerment mechanisms, and implementing regionally tailored policies to strengthen urban trade resilience. These insights offer practical guidance for enhancing supply chain innovation and trade sustainability in China and similar contexts.
Abstract
Purpose: This study investigates how personal financial situations influence the financial, logistical, and distribution-related decisions of microentrepreneurs in an emerging economy. It highlights personal finance knowledge as a strategic competency in managing supply chain flows, retail logistics, and channel coordination. By integrating financial literacy with distribution management, the study contributes to distribution science by demonstrating how micro-level financial competence enhances supply chain efficiency, retail logistics, and overall channel performance among small business owners. Research design, data, and methodology: A quantitative quasi-experimental design was applied to 197 microentrepreneurs in Huaraz, Peru, divided evenly into experimental and control groups. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire addressing operational, investment, financing, and distribution decision dimensions. The instrument showed strong reliability (Cronbach’s α = 0.948). The Mann–Whitney U test compared pre- and post-intervention results between groups. Results: Findings revealed significant improvements in both financial and distribution-related decision-making following personal finance training. Pretest and post-test U values of 4562.5 and 64.5 (p = 0.00) indicated a strong positive effect of financial education on decision quality, inventory control, and supplier coordination. Conclusions: Personal finance knowledge enhances microentrepreneurs’ ability to integrate financial discipline with distribution management, promoting efficient procurement, inventory turnover, and supplier payment planning, thus strengthening competitiveness and sustainability within local distribution networks.
Abstract
Purpose: This study investigates how internal firm resources influence the adoption of cross-border e-commerce (CBEC) among export-oriented SMEs in China. Guided by the Resource-Based View (RBV), the research focuses on how Digital Technology, Digital Capability, Export Manager Capability, and Employee Skills enable SMEs to implement CBEC effectively. Research design, data and methodology: A quantitative research approach employing a cross-sectional survey was adopted, gathering data from 188 SME export managers located in Southern Shaanxi Province, China. Structured questionnaires were distributed using both online and offline methods, and data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Results: The results indicate that Digital Technology, Digital Capability, Export Manager Capability, and Employee Skills each significantly enhance SMEs’ adoption of CBEC. Collectively, these resources account for 27.8% of the variation in CBEC adoption, with predictive analysis (PLSpredict) showing the model’s practical relevance to be small to moderate. Conclusions: Internal resources are critical for SMEs to adopt CBEC successfully and translate it into stronger distribution strategies and broader international market access. Enhancing digital infrastructure, managerial capabilities, and employee competencies allows SMEs to leverage CBEC to optimize export distribution and advance digital internationalization. These insights offer actionable guidance for managers and policymakers seeking to improve SMEs’ competitiveness in global markets.
Abstract
Purpose: The study develops an integrated digital distribution strategy framework for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). It explores how e-commerce platform adoption enables SMEs to leverage ecosystem benefits, such as logistics integration, distribution reach, cross-border trade, and supply chain finance to enhance firm performance. Research design, data, and methodology: Using the PRISMA 2020 protocol, 52 peer-reviewed studies were analyzed through a two-step approach. Bibliometric keyword co-occurrence mapping identified four dominant themes, while the TCM-ADO (Theory- Context- Method and Antecedents-Decisions- Outcomes) framework structured the synthesis of theoretical, contextual, methodological and causal insights across SME digitalization research. Results: Findings show that e-commerce functions as a central node linking digital marketing, logistics integration, supply chain finance, and cross-border trade. SMEs use e-commerce ecosystems to overcome resource constraints and improve distribution efficiency. Unlike existing supply chain or omnichannel models, this research develops an integrated digital distribution strategy framework with six propositions explaining how e-commerce, digital marketing, logistics, and financial technologies (Fintech) jointly strengthen SME performance. Conclusions: The review contributes to distribution science by positioning e-commerce as both a distribution channel and strategic enabler within SMEs distribution strategy. It highlights managerial, theoretical and practical implications for building resilient and technology-driven distribution strategy.
Abstract
Purpose: This study examines the combined effects of the service marketing mix (7Ps), digital transformation, and logistics service quality on customer satisfaction and competitive advantage within live streaming e-commerce, aiming to clarify the mechanisms and pathways through which firms convert service design and digital investments into distinctive market positions. Research design, data and methodology: A cross-sectional online survey generated 527 valid responses from active live-stream shoppers; a second-order reflective measurement model was specified and evaluated and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to assess measurement reliability and validity (including indicator loadings, composite reliability, and convergent/discriminant validity) and to estimate structural paths. Results: The three antecedents each exert statistically significant and practically meaningful positive effects on customer satisfaction, and customer satisfaction significantly mediates their impact on competitive advantage; robustness checks support the stability of the model. Conclusions: Managers should pursue integrated initiatives that align service marketing, digital capability building, and logistics performance improvements, prioritizing cross-functional coordination and resource allocation to enhance customer experience, invest in personalization and real-time interaction tools, and secure sustainable competitive advantage in live streaming e-commerce, and future studies should adopt longitudinal designs and examine platform heterogeneity and boundary conditions and practical constraints.
Abstract
Purpose: This study aims to examine how perceived distribution equity influences local economic participation and visitor satisfaction in tourist shopping zones, with a particular focus on the moderating role of ethical shopping awareness in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Research design, data and methodology: A quantitative survey was conducted with 400 domestic and international tourists using a seven-point Likert scale. SmartPLS 4 was employed to assess the structural relationships between perceived distribution equity, local economic participation, visitor satisfaction, and ethical shopping awareness. Qualitative data from stakeholder interviews were also integrated to support interpretation. Results: Perceived distribution equity significantly enhances both local economic participation and visitor satisfaction. Local participation also directly affects visitor satisfaction. Ethical shopping awareness moderates the relationship between perceived equity and visitor satisfaction, strengthening the positive association. Interviews with local vendors and tourism managers confirmed real-life challenges and reinforced the statistical findings. Conclusions: Fair and inclusive retail practices contribute to stronger local engagement and improved visitor experiences. Destination managers are encouraged to prioritize distribution equity and promote ethical shopping behavior to support sustainable tourism outcomes.
Abstract
Purpose: This study was conducted to identify and prioritize the distribution channel choices of pharmaceutical businesses in Vietnam. Research design, data, and methodology: To achieve the above objectives, the research team applied a combination of two analytical methods: Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Weighted Multiplier Model (WPM). First, the criteria for evaluating distribution channels were determined through group discussions with leading experts in the pharmaceutical distribution field. Next, AHP was used to calculate the relative weight of each criterion, helping to clarify the level of influence they exert when deciding to choose a distribution channel. Finally, the WPM model was applied to rank the options based on the determined weights, helping to provide a clear and reasonable order of priority. Results: The analysis results show that the priority ratio between distribution channel options has clear differences, specifically: P(A1/A2) = 1.0035; P(A2/A4) = 1.0160; P(A4/A5) = 1.0295; and P(A3/A5) = 0.7396. These numbers represent the relative priority between channels, thereby determining the optimal choice order for businesses. Conclusions: The study concluded that the ETC distribution channel is considered the top priority, followed by the OTC channel, then the social media channel, the television channel, and finally the website distribution channel. This result indicates that pharmaceutical companies are prioritizing modern channels that enable them to reach consumers more quickly and effectively.
Abstract
Purpose: This study seeks to identify the core digital skills that are indispensable for organizational success in the era of AI-driven digital transformation. By focusing on three pivotal sectors—construction, manufacturing, and information technology—it explores how firms can strategically leverage human capital to meet evolving technological demands. In doing so, the study highlights how these digital capabilities extend beyond internal organizational benefits to reinforce distribution efficiency and trade competitiveness across interconnected industries. Research design, data and methodology: Using the Delphi method, this study constructs a structured framework of digital skills tailored to employees across the three industries. Experts from each sector participated in two rounds of consensus-building to determine the most relevant digital skills. Results: The findings identify a portfolio of digital skills that are both cross-sectoral and sector-specific, highlighting the heterogeneous nature of skills demanded across distinct operational contexts. These results reaffirm the pivotal role of digital skills in sustaining competitiveness and efficiency across industries that collectively shape the value chain of economic distribution. Conclusions: These insights offer meaningful theoretical contributions to the digital skills literature and practical guidance for firms seeking to align training and recruitment strategies with digital demands. By clarifying essential skill priorities, the study supports more informed decision-making in workforce development amid the growing influence of AI in the digital economy.
Abstract
Purpose: This study aims to analyze the influence relationships among perceived value, satisfaction, trust, attitude, and loyalty regarding food delivery apps (FDAs), reflecting retail marketing paradigms and contemporary trends in a rapidly changing distribution market. The reason for the study is the growing consumer interest in purchasing reasonably priced and diverse food options through familiar mobile food delivery apps (MFDAs) as a distribution channel. Research design, data, and methodology: To empirically test the research model, a survey was conducted targeting online users with experience using the three major delivery apps in Korea’s distribution channel. Multiple regression analysis was employed as the statistical method for testing the study's hypotheses. Results: The analysis revealed that most perceived value dimensions significantly influenced satisfaction, trust, attitude, and loyalty, with one exception: the relationship between functional value (a dimension of perceived value) and trust was not statistically significant. Additionally, satisfaction and trust were shown to influence both attitude and loyalty. Finally, attitude was found to directly affect loyalty. Conclusions: This study identified the impact relationships among perceived value, satisfaction, trust, attitude, and loyalty in the context of FDAs. It also highlighted limitations not identified in the research and suggested directions for future research on FDAs.
Abstract
Purpose: This study analyzes the role of mental health social workers in promoting disaster recovery in South Korea by reframing recovery processes through a supply chain and distribution perspective. The study addresses knowledge gaps on how cultural values, family honor concerns, and mental-health stigma affect the distribution of psychosocial recovery resources. Research design, data and methodology: An integrated secondary analysis of data from 2010–2023 was conducted using a mixed-methods approach. The dataset includes responses from 1,247 mental health practitioners and 3,456 disaster victims. Quantitative and qualitative analyses were used to identify key predictors influencing recovery outcomes across the recovery-support supply chain. Results: Findings indicate that no social support (0.34, p<0.001), cultural adaptation (0.28, p<0.001), and community resilience (0.26, p<0.001) are the strongest predictors, explaining 78% of recovery-success variability. Major cultural obstacles—mental-health stigma (78.2% negative influence) and family-honor issues (61.4% negative influence)—function as distribution bottlenecks, limiting access to essential services despite strong counseling (87.3%) and psychiatric service availability (91.6%). Conclusions: Although South Korea maintains a well-developed mental-health service supply chain, a critical distribution gap exists in advocacy services (45.7%). Strengthening culturally responsive supply-chain integration is essential to ensure equitable distribution of disaster-recovery resources and improve long-term recovery outcomes.
Abstract
Purpose: The present study examines how supply chain integration enhances efficiency, accessibility, and quality distribution in long-term elderly care. As global aging intensifies operational pressures on care institutions, understanding supply chain functions beyond clinical factors has become essential for sustaining reliable elderly services. Research design, data and methodology: A systematic literature review was conducted based on PRISMA guidelines. Studies from healthcare supply chain management, elder care operations, and social welfare systems published over the past 15 years were screened. Inclusion criteria focused on supply chain integration practices, digital innovations, operational performance, and applicability to long-term care. Due to heterogeneous evidence, findings were synthesized narratively rather than through meta-analysis. Results: Integrated supply chains reduce redundancy, prevent stockouts, and optimize forecasting for chronic-demand items such as medications, hygiene products, and mobility aids. Accessibility improves through coordinated procurement, shared inventories, and digital tracking systems that support timely distribution across both facility-based and home-based care settings. Quality distribution strengthens through standardized procurement, improved traceability, and heightened supply reliability, contributing more consistent care. Conclusions: Supply chain integration provides a strong operational foundation for long-term elderly care by improving efficiency, equity, and service quality. Digital tools, coordinated governance, and resilient procurement systems are central to enhancing welfare outcomes for older adults.