Research Publications (Management Sciences)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/10321/217

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First choice or fallback option? The attractiveness of South Africa’s retail industry for Gen Y members
(LLC CPC Business Perspectives, 2017-6-8) Heidig, Wibke; Dobbelstein, Thomas; Mason, Roger Bruce; Jooste, Wayne
The wholesale and retail industry is the fourth largest contributor to South Africa’s Gross Domestic Product. However, it faces the major challenge of attracting highly skilled and motivated workers. Although South African universities launched programs in retail management, attracting young talents to a career in retailing remains a tough challenge. Drawing on previous findings from the field of graduate decision-making and industry image from other countries, this research examines the perceptions and expectations of Gen Y members with regard to their field of study and their prospective career. A nationwide survey with 1363 South African first year students, in their first week at university, shows significant differences between freshmen enrolled in retail business management and those enrolled in other business majors. While retail students, as compared to other participants, tend to hold stronger positive associations with their field of study and a retail career, majoring in retailing appears to be a fallback option. Over all participants, the analysis reveals that the perception of retailing careers primarily exceeds expectations on attributes that are only of minor importance. When it comes to important career attributes like payment, work-life balance and advancement issues, the retail image lags behind that of other industries. Comparing the field of study with the preferred industry, we identify four different segments of students that qualify to be targeted by companies and universities in different ways.
Socio-economic developmental strategies as retail performance indicators: a balanced scorecard approach
(Informa UK Limited, 2017) Sewell, William; Mason, Roger Bruce; Venter, Petrus
This research analyses the commitment to and use of ‘balanced scorecards’ by retailers in generating sustainable profitability, whilst contributing to socio-economic development in South Africa. An international literature review of scorecard frameworks, plans and reports by major retail companies and semi-structured dialogic interviews with a purposive sample of retail business stakeholders and government officials formed the methodology. By contrasting the literature and empirical insights, a summary of findings was generated, which conclude that most retailer scorecards (formal or informal) seek to balance financial with ‘cause-related marketing’ targets, but implementation differs according to factors such as company size, developmental maturity and managerial competence. Furthermore, collaboration between retailers and state institutions in scorecard management is not a reality, as has been achieved in other industries. It is therefore recommended that a Retail Charter scorecard framework be considered, to promote public/private-sector knowledge-sharing and socio-economic development.
The influence of store atmospherics on customers' satisfaction at selected South African retail outlets
(LLC CPC Business Perspectives, 2021) Ndengane, Richard Mfundi; Mason, Roger Bruce; Mutize, Misheck
In the retail environment, customers are stimulated by the look and feel of a store and how it is laid out. Certain store elements create an atmosphere that attracts customers to certain outlets as their preferred shopping destination. Therefore, retailers need to ensure the customers’ shopping experience is enjoyable. This study aimed to examine the influence of atmospheric store elements on the factors that influence customers` satisfaction. A quantitative, cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted in four retail outlets in Cape Town, South Africa, with data collected through a structured questionnaire distributed to the outlets’ customers. A systematic random sample of 388 responses was achieved. The information collected was analyzed using relevant descriptive and inferential statistics. Although small, positive correlations were found between the independent variables (cleanliness, lighting, music, floor adverts, employee efficient service, employee appearance) and the dependent variables (positive image of store, pleasant mood, time spent in store, intention to revisit store). As such, the study highlighted the importance of store atmospherics to the factors that encourage customers` satisfaction. Since little research has been done into store atmospherics in the South African context of grocery stores, this study has contributed new knowledge in this field.
Source document usage and the financial sustainability of South African small, medium and micro retailers
(2020-9-4) Petersen, Ashwin; Bruwer, Juan-Pierre; Mason, Roger Bruce
In South Africa, small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) add significant socio-economic value to the national economy and are regarded as the driving force for economic growth. Prior research shows that these business entities ' sustainability leaves much to be desired as approximately 80% of South African SMMEs fail after being in operation for only three years; believed to be caused mostly by unmanaged economic factors. Although unmanaged economic factors may culminate in risks which adversely affect the sustainability of South African SMMEs, internal control activities can be used to mitigate the probability and potential impact of such risks. One of the most cost-effective internal control activities is that of document usage and design (e.g. source documents and internal documents). For this study, the primary objective was to determine the influence of source document usage, as an internal control measure, on the sustainability of South African small, medium and micro retail enterprises. The study was empirical and quantitative in nature and survey research was conducted by means of disseminating and collecting questionnaires to 120 SMME owners and/or managers. Stemming from the results, it became apparent that the use of source documents by the responding SMMEs did not have any statistically significant influence on their sustainability.
A management model for the expansion of the wholesale and retail cooperative sector in South Africa
(2018-12-31) Mason, Roger Bruce; Raap, Peter John
It is well recognized internationally that cooperatives can provide a wellspring for the development of economies. The factors enhancing the establishment, resilience, and sustainability of cooperatives in the wholesale and retail sector in South Africa are examined in this paper with the purpose of proposing a management model that could support the development and sustainability of cooperatives in this sector. The paper identifies four themes necessary to be in place for the successful establishment and sustainability of cooperatives. The research approach was qualitative, cross-sectional and descriptive. Three groups of respondents were sampled, two groups were interviewed telephonically, the third as a focus group. These included retail cooperative owners or managers and experts in the field of cooperatives in the retail sector. A questionnaire was developed around the four themes and served as the basis of a discussion guide for the focus group. The first theme, Legislation, appears to be soundly in place, while the remaining three themes: Management and infrastructural issues; Training and skills issues and Marketing issues are found to be wanting. In order to overcome these weaknesses, a management model is proposed which can facilitate the development of cooperatives in the shorter term as well as being able to capacitate the emerging cooperatives for sustainability in the longer term. Further research into possible structures for emerging retail cooperatives is suggested.
Passenger vehicle brand meaning among generations X and Y in South Africa
(LLC CPC Business Perspectives, 2020) Mhlongo, Bongumusa Bright; Mason, Roger Bruce
This study investigated the meaning of passenger motor vehicle brands among Generations X and Y in South Africa, a developing country. The study was conducted in the form of a quantitative survey at four universities in KwaZulu-Natal to access a spread of Generations X and Y respondents. It aimed to generate insights into consumer perceptions and choices regarding these two generations’ preferred motor vehicle brands who account for the bulk of car buyers. The study investigated specific brand dimensions, namely, factors related to quality, value, personal and group identity, status, and family traditions. The main finding was that the personal or individualistic factors, namely quality, value, and personal identity, were more important than the group-oriented factors, namely status, group identity, and family tradition. The implication is that marketers should focus on the buyer’s individualistic perceptions, wants, and needs, rather than those that are influenced by others through group processes or perceptions. This research has added to current knowledge on consumer behavior regarding motor vehicle brands by investigating the factors that influence the Generations X and Y buyer decision-making process in a developing country.
Financial growth and sustainability in retail SMMes: study of work-integrated learning policy
(Virtus Interpress, 2017) Sewell, William; Mason, Roger Bruce; Venter, Petrus
This evaluation of Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) with Small, Medium and Micro Enterprise (SMME) retailers in South Africa arose from observations that vocational education goals required in this sector are not being achieved. Qualitative methodologies were used, including dialogic interviews and questionnaire surveys of purposive samples of SMME retailers, tertiary vocational educators and retail students, as well as insights from large retailers and skills development facilitators. Findings indicate lack of consensus on WIL strategies, and that for WIL within retail SMMEs to succeed, small business management capacity and entrepreneurial competence need to be supported by pre-WIL processes and mentorship strategies. To promote work-based learning within SMMEs, recommendations are made for policy review by W&RSETA management, vocational educators and small business development organisations.
Loyalty program benefits and their effect on relationship quality and loyalty to the retailer
(Center for Strategic Studies in Business and Finance SSBFNET) Corbishley, Karen Margaret; Meintjes, Corné; Mason, Roger Bruce
Loyalty Programs (LPs) aim to increase profit by rewarding, with various benefits, customers who patronize the retailer. This study investigated the benefits LPs provide in the South African Fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) marketplace and how these influence relationship quality and loyalty between retailer and customer. How the perceived benefits of LPs contribute to relationship quality (satisfaction, trust and commitment), and how they lead to loyalty are examined. To illustrate these relationships, a model showing three independent (perceived benefits, namely altruistic, consumeristic, and egoistic) and three dependent variables (relationship quality, namely trust, satisfaction, and commitment), plus customer loyalty, was developed. A quantitative survey was administered electronically over 11 days to a randomly selected sample of 5000 consumers per day from a commercial database, resulting in 1944 responses. After the deletion of incomplete or inappropriate responses, 479 usable replies remained. Since this sample was self-selected, it should be considered a convenience sample. Structural equation modelling (SEM) with confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was applied to test the hypotheses and develop the model. SEM indicated that respondents consider egoistic and consumeristic benefits as the same. Furthermore, trust and satisfaction manifest as a single construct. Both consumeristic and altruistic benefits had a significant positive relationship with this unified construct of trust/satisfaction, and the relationship between altruistic benefits and commitment was also positive and significant. Finally, although neither altruistic nor consumeristic benefits appeared to contribute directly to loyalty, a positive relationship existed between the new construct of trust/satisfaction and those of commitment and loyalty. The pathway to loyalty is indirect, and to reach this sought-after goal, relationship quality constructs must first be achieved.
Critical skills and knowledge to succeed in the township liquor retail industry
(2018-4-1) Mrasi, Andiswa P.; Mason, Robert Bruce; Jere, Albertina
The township market makes the largest contribution to liquor sales in South Africa, but growth, sustainability and success of this market is unsatisfactory. The sector needs assistance to improve their performance. This paper aims at identifying the critical skills and knowledge specific to township liquor retailing. Data was collected through qualitative semi-structured interviews; participants included representatives from provincial government, the top three liquor manufacturers and distributors, and forty liquor retail owners from Khayelitsha and Mitchell's Plain townships. The findings reveal that skills and knowledge (customised to suit township are the foundation for better management of these businesses). The critical skills and knowledge are Operating Capital, Operations Management and Human Resource. Township liquor retailers fail as a result of mistakes that could be avoided through acquiring the right skills and knowledge. The current government and supplier skills and knowledge programmes should be improved and tailored to suit the profile of these entrepreneurs.
Business environment’s influence on marketing tactics and their influence on business success.
(2016-12-31) Mason, Roger Bruce; Dobbelstein, Thomas
This paper proposes that the choice of marketing tactics is influenced by the company’s external environment. It aims to illustrate the marketing tactics suggested for a complex, turbulent environment, when marketing and the environment are viewed through a complexity lens. A quantitative, descriptive, cross sectional study was used, based on an e-mailed survey to a purchased mailing list, which resulted in a sample of 860 senior marketing or sales managers in medium to large profit oriented businesses in South Africa. The study found that the manager’s evaluation of the environment as complex/turbulent was important, and that there is a relationship between the use of destabilizing marketing tactics and complex/turbulent environments. Although there is only a limited relationship with ‘success’, the study generally stresses the importance of destabilizing tactics, and in fact, all marketing tactics, in a complex/turbulent environment. Most work on complexity in marketing has concentrated on strategy, with little emphasis on tactics and the marketing mix. Therefore, this paper is an important contribution to the understanding of marketing mix choices, of interest to both practicing marketers and marketing academics.
The unique role of the survivalist retail entrepreneur in job creation and poverty reduction: implications for active stakeholder participation
(2016-9-30) Gwija, Saphetha; Tengeh, Robertson; Cupido, Chris; Mason, Roger Bruce; Mason, Roger Bruce
This is an applied study endeavour with the aim of exploring the specific role of survivalist retail entrepreneurship in job creation and poverty reduction. Two hundred (200) subjects were sampled using snowballing technique. Structured questionnaires as well as semi-structured interviews were employed to collect data. 182 usable questionnaires were analysed with the help of SPSS version 23. The results indicate that retail entrepreneurship is evolving in Khayelitsha, especially when one does not only focus on spaza shops, but looks at the entire survivalist retail industry. This sector is capable of creating jobs, reducing poverty and aiding economic growth of the country even more, should measures to boost motivation levels and self-efficacy of the entrepreneurs emerge. These measures, among others could include support programmes for survivalist entrepreneurial ventures that present greater potential for growth and job creation. Part of the support programmes should include business skills training (such as simple bookkeeping practices and human resource management). Importantly, this study is the first of its kind in the community of Khayelitsha; an emerging black-populated township in South Africa, indicating a new vista for retail entrepreneurship research.
A model to operate an on-campus retail store for workplace experiential learning
(2017) Truman, Kiru; Mason, Roger Bruce; Venter, Petrus
Many retailers argue that university students do not have the practical experience and skills required in the workplace when graduating. This paper reports on research undertaken to address this issue and to identify a model to guide development and implementation of a retail store, on a university campus, to be used for work-integrated learning. A literature review was undertaken before a qualitative survey was conducted with 22 respondents, including retail lecturers, retail chain staff and other learning and retail experts. Data collection was via questionnaires, administered during semi-structured interviews. Lecturers provided details on activities and assessments used for practical assignments. Peer feedback via focus groups critiqued the findings once analysis was complete, increasing the trustworthiness of findings. A model was proposed that best suited the needs of retailers, learners and the university. Suggestions for further research are provided.
Corporate governance effectiveness and operational risk in banks: the role of firm size
(Adonis & Abbey Publishers, 2025-3-1) Fagbadebo, Omololu; Ofori, Benjamin Siaw
While previous research works have extensively examined the direct relationship between corporate governance mechanisms and operational risk, there is limited understanding of how firm size moderates this link. Using a sample of 14 commercial banks in Ghana from 2010 to 2022, we analyse key governance dimensions, including board size, board independence, board meeting frequency, and board financial expertise, to determine their impact on operational risk. Firm size, measured by the natural logarithm of total assets, is introduced as a moderating variable to explore how it influences the governance-risk link. Data was analysed using pooled panel, random, and fixed effects models in Stata. The results indicate that larger banks benefit more from robust governance mechanisms, which help to mitigate operational risk, while smaller banks may experience varying effects. The study confirms the reliability of these findings through tests for serial correlation and heteroscedasticity, both of which indicated no significant issues. These findings provide a better understanding of how firm size affects corporate governance practices in managing operational risk within the banking sector. The study's limitations involve its concentration on Ghanaian banks and potential endogeneity issues, indicating opportunities for future research to examine wider contexts and additional governance factors.
Rural entrepreneurship and transformation : the role of learnerships
(Emerald, 2017) Koyana, Siphokazi; Mason, Roger Bruce
Abstract Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate the lessons that could be learnt from the first year of implementing the Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority’s Rural Development Programme. Design/methodology/approach – This exploratory, qualitative study involved unemployed people from a rural location in Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. A focus group and in-depth interviews were held with the current learners, the programme manager, the skills training providers, and the royal custodian of the locality. Findings – While highlighting the factors that enhance success as well as those that impede development, the study found that the learnership contributed significantly to social transformation through rural entrepreneurship. It empowers disadvantaged women and youths to gain access and skills which, if the recommended measures to sustain the programme are implemented, could enable them to grow bigger businesses. Research limitations/implications – Since this was an exploratory, qualitative study, the limitations of a small, convenience sample need to be overcome by a larger, quantitative study, and a more complete collection of accurate secondary data. Originality/value – Despite the obvious limitations, this study has contributed to the literature on both rural entrepreneurship and transformation in South Africa. Both are under-researched topics, despite transformation being a socio-political imperative and entrepreneurship, especially in rural areas, being a key to overcoming South Africa’s high unemployment rate.
Employment equity in the South African retail sector: legal versus competence and the business imperatives
(2015-12-31) Mason, Roger Bruce; Roman, Leon J.
In 2013/14 a study entitled “Interventions to achieve employment equity objectives in the wholesale and retail sector” was conducted by the Wholesale and Retail Leadership Chair (WRLC) at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology on behalf of the W&RSETA (Sector Education and Training Authority). Objectives included assessing the impact of implementation of the Employment Equity Act (EEA) on retail organisations, and determining what supportive action regulatory authorities (the Department of Labour and the W&RSETA) and businesses could take to achieve employment equity (EE) goals. The study is therefore useful across the spectrum of the W&R industry, especially for employment relations practitioners and those tasked with EE implementation. The study followed a mixed-methods approach, using questionnaire surveys, in-depth interviews, case studies, focus groups and secondary data. Results indicated that EE tends to be numbers-driven at the expense of competence and talent management. Most respondents’ perceptions of EE implementation were negative, with the implication that a different approach is needed because the pace of change and transformation in the South African workplace is too slow. Although the small sample size limits generalisation of the findings, the study provides insight and direction for further research. This paper acknowledges that because EE is currently driven largely by meeting mandated targets for demographic change, the development of talent – in essence, competence – is lacking or inadequate. Thus, the recommendations propose a competency model linked to a performance management system, which could lead to an efficient EE talent management process. This process will enable organisations to develop, within the shortest possible period, competent individuals able to perform adequately in their positions, thereby maintaining or improving productivity; it also addresses effective succession planning.
E-business developments and skills requirements in the retail sector
(2015-7-7) Klaiber, Udo; Hermanus, Terence; Mason, Roger Bruce
The article summarises the findings of an international study among retailers as to the state of e- business in the international retail sector and the skills required by the sector to cope with the changing technologies. The research methodology consists of three steps. Firstly, a comprehensive literature review was done; secondly, qualitative interviewing of experts in e-business, information technology and management was conducted; and thirdly, in-depth interviews with retail experts took place. The future success of retailers depends heavily on their abilities to take advantage of the technological developments. Therefore these companies have an increasing demand for employees who combine quantitative technological and statistical skills with expertise in qualitative fields. Retailers already report difficulties in obtaining the workforce they need. The situation is expected to become more problematic in the near future. Companies need to prepare themselves. Increasing the qualifications of employees is strongly recommended.
Strategic alignment of the South African retail sector with the national development plan
(Virtus Interpress, 2014) Sewell, William; Mason, Roger Bruce; Venter, Petrus
This paper provides an evaluation of the strategy alignment of the South African retail sector with the National Development Plan (NDP) governance values and objectives. The paper considers the commercial realities which form the framework for retail decision-makers when they address the challenges in aligning their business growth strategies with the regulatory framework of a capable, developmental state. Within that context, the outcomes of a retail stakeholder alignment study of the NDP strategy themes are analysed. The method involved a policy survey of a purposive sample of retail business and governance stakeholders. The survey findings reflect retailer alignment with many NDP regulatory and ‘active citizenry’ strategies, but with strong beliefs that others are not the retail business sector’s governance responsibility.
Communication channels and interpersonal communication between South African and German business partners
(Virtus Interpress, 2013) Scheming, Oleg; Mason, Roger Bruce
Good communication skills are vital, especially in business. This study investigated the role of interpersonal communications in managing South African – German business relationships. The objective of the study was to identify which communication channels South African businesses use to communicate with their German business partners, and which are perceived to be the most effective. In order to accomplish the objective, a survey was conducted by means of self-administered e-mail based questionnaires. In addition, a few depth interviews were conducted to help interpret the quantitative results of the study. In both cases, the respondents were purposively selected. Based on the findings, recommendations were provided on how communication can be made more effective to improve South African and German business relationships.
An integrative review of the effect of organisational change management on employee performance
(2025-2-28) Bangura, Samuel
In the current business landscape, organizations face various challenges, with one of the most pressing being the necessity to improve performance. As organizations adapt to a rapidly changing environment, the ability to facilitate performance enhancements during periods of change is crucial for achieving long-term success. Additionally, the ongoing advancement of technology, evolving consumer behaviours, and introducing new regulatory frameworks require organizations to effectively manage the complexities arising from these swift transformations. Considering this, the objective of this study was to examine the impact of change management on employee performance. To accomplish this, an integrative review was conducted, which began by defining the concept of change and exploring the motivations behind it. Furthermore, the study discusses various perspectives on the organizational management concept of employee performance and assesses the effects of change management on employees. The findings reveal that change can harm employees, particularly regarding motivation and job satisfaction. Conversely, the results indicate that well-designed and effectively executed change management strategies can have a positive impact on employee performance and help reduce turnover.
Effects of HR analytics on HRM practices: an integrative review
(Eurasian Publications, 2024-11-20) Bangura, Samuel
The current study investigates the impact of HR analytics on human resource management (HRM) practices. Based on a review of HRM literature, it is clear that HR analytics is increasingly recognized as a valuable tool that influences HRM practices, particularly in supporting strategic decision-making. The primary motivation for this study stems from a noticeable gap in research regarding the impact and adoption of HR analytics within organizations, especially in South Africa. A comprehensive analysis of academic journal articles from reputable databases revealed that HR analytics positively influences human resource management practices and enhances HRM efficiency by integrating various functions and enabling managers to make informed decisions. It is recommended that organizations consider key factors that contribute to the effective implementation of HR analytics to maximize its advantages and achieve a competitive edge. This study underscores the importance of utilizing HR analytics for South African organizations aiming to harness data-driven insights to improve HR processes, increase employee satisfaction, and boost overall business performance. Consequently, both employees and the organization stand to benefit significantly from this strategic approach.

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