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Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play a strategic role in driving local economic development, particularly in rural areas that rely on the utilization of local natural resources. However, many MSMEs still face challenges in marketing aspects, especially limited use of digital technology, weak branding, and unattractive product packaging. This community service activity aims to strengthen the marketing strategy of the “Nek Surati” cassava chips MSME located in Dolok Village, Nagori Boluk, Bosar Maligas District, Simalungun Regency. The methods employed include field observations, interviews with MSME actors, descriptive analysis of existing problems, and practice-based (hands-on) assistance through digital marketing training, improvement of packaging design, and strengthening of product branding. The results indicate an increase in the digital readiness of the MSME actor, as evidenced by the adoption of WhatsApp Business, the creation of digital product catalogs, and the utilization of social media as a promotional tool. In addition, improvements in packaging design and brand identity enhanced the visual appeal and product image in the eyes of consumers. This assistance activity had a positive impact on improving the marketing capacity of the MSME and opened opportunities for expanding market reach. With continuous assistance, the “Nek Surati” cassava chips MSME has the potential to increase its competitiveness and contribute more significantly to the local economy.

Development of digital media has driven significant changes in public relations practices, particularly through the implementation of Digital Public Relations (Digital PR) as an organizational communication strategy. Digital PR allows companies to build two-way relationships with the public and shape brand image in a more interactive and sustainable manner. This study aims to analyze the influence of Digital Public Relations on Dove's brand image in the #RealBeauty campaign. The study uses a quantitative approach with a survey method involving 100 social media users who are aware of the #RealBeauty campaign. Data were collected through a Likert-scale questionnaire and analyzed using simple linear regression. The results of the study show that Digital Public Relations has a significant effect on Dove's brand image. Digital PR elements such as the quality of digital content, interactivity, message credibility, and value consistency have been proven to contribute to shaping positive consumer perceptions. This study affirms the strategic role of Digital PR in building a brand image based on social values in the digital era.

Pricing is a critical factor determining the success of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the market. This study investigates the pricing strategy implemented by Kebab Ajo Lubeg, a culinary SME located near Universitas Putra Indonesia YPTK Padang. The research aims to analyze how pricing methods are applied, the factors considered in price determination, and their influence on consumer purchasing decisions and business strategy. A qualitative descriptive approach was employed, with data collected through semi-structured interviews with the owner and employees, direct observation, and documentation of product offerings and pricing. Findings indicate that Kebab Ajo applies a combination of cost-based pricing, competition-based pricing, and product-based price variation to balance production costs, consumer purchasing power, and market competition. The pricing strategy significantly affects consumer satisfaction, repeat purchases, perceived value, brand image, and business competitiveness. This study provides practical insights for other SMEs in setting appropriate prices while maintaining customer loyalty and profitability, and it contributes to the academic discourse on marketing management and pricing strategies in the culinary sector.

This study aims to analyze the influence of the @starbucksindonesia account's use of Instagram as a communication medium on brand image following the pro-Israel boycott. The boycott arose from Starbucks' alleged involvement in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which triggered a decline in its reputation and negative sentiment among Indonesians. In this situation, Instagram, as a visual-based social media platform, was utilized as a primary means of shaping public opinion and responding to the crisis. The study employed a quantitative approach using an online questionnaire survey. Respondents were 100 followers of the @starbucksindonesia Instagram account, aged 18–35, and former Starbucks customers. Data analysis was conducted using validity and reliability tests, simple linear regression, t-tests, and coefficients of determination using SPSS version 27. The results showed that all research instruments were valid and reliable. The main finding demonstrated that Instagram use had a statistically significant effect on Starbucks' brand image. The coefficient of determination value indicated a strong relationship, indicating that the majority of changes in respondents' perceptions were influenced by communication via Instagram. This research supports the Uses and Effects theory, which states that social media not only serves as an information provider but also has the ability to shape consumer perceptions and attitudes. Therefore, Instagram plays a strategic role in digital communications for crisis management and brand image restoration.

The transformation of public governance has encouraged a paradigm shift in public service delivery, from an administrative and procedure-oriented approach toward a citizen-centered and value-based model. In this context, public sector marketing has emerged as a strategic instrument to enhance service quality, institutional image, public participation, and trust. This study aims to examine the contemporary implementation of marketing strategies and planning in the public sector, with particular attention to their effectiveness and contextual relevance. The research adopts a qualitative descriptive approach through a systematic literature review of selected scholarly publications addressing public sector marketing, strategy implementation, digital governance, and public service management. The findings indicate that public institutions increasingly apply marketing principles not as commercial activities, but as mechanisms for creating public value through strategic communication, digital engagement, institutional branding, and stakeholder collaboration. However, the effectiveness of implementation varies across organizations and is strongly influenced by leadership capacity, human resources competence, organizational culture, and technological support. The study also reveals that public sector marketing strategies must be adapted to social, cultural, and institutional contexts, as private-sector models cannot be directly transferred. Theoretically, this study strengthens the positioning of marketing as an integral component of public governance. Practically, it provides insights for public organizations to develop contextual, responsive, and sustainable marketing strategies to improve public service performance and trust.

This research aims to identify the personal branding strategy implemented by Nusaibah Jazuli, a PKS faction member of the South Tangerang City Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD), in building a positive image during the 2024 Election campaign. The advancement of social media has transformed how politicians build and manage their self-image, making a strong personal brand a crucial tool for young politicians to achieve credibility and differentiation amid fierce competition. Employing a qualitative descriptive method, the study analyzes Nusaibah's approach using the Personal Branding Pyramid framework (determine who you are, determine what you do, position yourself, and manage your brand). The findings indicate that this strategy successfully built her reputation and credibility. This success is underpinned by the "Determine Who You Are" commitment, exemplified by donating her entire salary to community welfare. The "Determine What You Do" strategy is reinforced by tangible actions, including distributing 1,000 basic necessity packages and advocating for school bus services. Furthermore, she applied "Position Yourself" as a humble, people-oriented leader who is highly responsive to citizens' concerns, presenting herself as an equal to the community. Finally, "Manage Your Brand" involves consistent and continuous image maintenance. Overall, Nusaibah's ability to engage in relatable political communication successfully won public support and enhanced her reputation.

The phenomenon of masculine men has become a new strategy in the modern beauty product marketing industry. Changing social and cultural values about gender identity have led to the emergence of male images with soft, stylish, and aesthetic characteristics in various promotional campaigns. This study aims to analyze how the phenomenon of masculine men is used as a marketing communication strategy, as well as its impact on consumer perception. The method used is a literature study with a descriptive qualitative approach, which examines contemporary communication theory, gender theory, and modern marketing concepts. The findings suggest that the use of masculine male figures in beauty product advertising can expand market segmentation, attract cross-gender audiences, and create an inclusive brand image that aligns with current social trends. However, this strategy also raises debates about the limitations of masculinity and the social construction of beauty. Therefore, the phenomenon of masculine men can be understood as a form of adaptation of marketing communication to changes in cultural and gender values in contemporary society In addition, the findings of this study are expected to make a theoretical contribution to the study of marketing communication and gender studies, as well as become a practical reference for beauty industry players in designing promotional strategies that are sensitive to social dynamics, cultural values, and the increasingly diverse preferences of modern consumers.

Competition in acquiring young talent is increasing, so employer branding strategies  are an important element for organizations in attracting the interest of generation Z. As digital natives, generation Z has different characteristics and expectations, including the need for career development, work-life balance, organizational reputation, and an inclusive work culture (Smith, 2022). In the midst of global competition and the increasingly dominant use of digital technology in the job search process, companies are required to build an authentic and relevant employer image in order to increase the attractiveness of their talents. Previous research has shown that employer branding has a significant effect on the interest in applying for jobs for generation Z, either directly or through mediating factors such as organizational reputation and person-organization fit (Backhaus & Tikoo, 2004; Jiang & Iles, 2024). Based on this phenomenon, this study aims to analyze the influence of employer branding on the interest in applying for jobs of Generation Z and examine the role of organizational reputation and person organization fit as a mediation variable. The study used a quantitative approach with a survey method of Generation Z respondents who were looking for a job, then analyzed using multiple regression and bootstrapping mediation test. The results of the study show that employer branding has a positive and significant effect on the interest in applying for jobs for generation Z, and this influence is stronger when the reputation of the organization and the person-organization fit plays the role of mediator. These findings affirm the importance for organizations to build a positive image, provide an inclusive work culture, and highlight the value match between companies and applicants in order to be able to compete in the fight for young talent in the digital era.

Customer satisfaction is a central issue in marketing management, as it plays a crucial role in determining customer loyalty amid increasingly intense business competition. A comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing customer satisfaction is essential not only for academics in strengthening marketing theory but also for practitioners in designing effective service and product strategies. This article aims to address two research questions: (1) what are the dominant factors influencing customer satisfaction, and (2) how does customer satisfaction relate to customer loyalty? The study employed a qualitative literature review method. The data consisted of scientific articles published between 2020 and 2025, accessed through Google Scholar and Publish or Perish (PoP) using the keyword “customer satisfaction.” From an initial selection of 30 articles, 27 were identified as relevant, and 5 core articles were further analyzed. The findings reveal three main themes: product and service quality as the dominant determinants of customer satisfaction; price, brand image, and promotion as supporting factors; and customer trust as an important mediating variable in building loyalty. This study concludes that customer satisfaction serves as a strategic link between service quality and customer loyalty. Future research is encouraged to explore the roles of digitalization, customer experience, and sustainability in shaping long-term customer satisfaction.

This study, titled “analysis of the influence of brand image and online promotion on generation z’s decision to purchase bsi product at bsi merr surabaya”, examines the effect of brand image (X1) and online promotion (X2) on the purchasing decisions (Y) of Generation Z consumers at the BSI Merr Surabaya branch. Using a quantitative research approach, data were collected from 100 respondents aged 20–27 years through purposive sampling. The data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with the assistance of WarpPLS 7.0 software. The results indicate that both brand image (X1) and online promotion (X2) have a significant and positive influence on Generation Z’s decision to purchase BSI products. Among the two variables, online promotion (X2) shows a stronger impact, highlighting its importance in engaging digitally savvy consumers. These findings emphasize the need for companies to strengthen digital marketing strategies while maintaining a solid brand image to effectively influence purchasing behavior. The study underscores the strategic relevance of optimizing both factors to enhance consumer engagement and drive purchase decisions among Generation Z.

The transformation of the retail industry in Indonesia is accelerating in line with increasing digital penetration and changes in consumer shopping behavior. This condition requires small-scale retail, including fresh marts, to be able to optimize effective marketing stimulus to maintain and increase consumer buying interest. This study aims to analyze the role of marketing stimulus consisting of price, product variety, and promotion as a predictor of consumer buying interest using the Stimulus Organism Response (SOR) theoretical approach. This study involved 105 consumer respondents of Rizky Fresh Mart Semarang, who were selected through accidental sampling techniques. Data were collected using a Likert scale questionnaire and analyzed through multiple linear regression. The results showed that product variations had a positive and significant effect on buying interest, while prices and promotions showed a positive but insignificant influence. Simultaneously, the three marketing stimuli have a significant effect on consumer buying interest. These findings confirm that in the context of small-scale retail in Indonesia, product variety is the most powerful stimulus in shaping consumer perception before generating a response in the form of buying interest, according to the SOR model. This research provides managerial implications for retailers to prioritize completeness and product diversity, in addition to more strategic price management and promotion.

This study aims to analyze the effect of product innovation, brand image, after-sales service, experiential marketing, and product quality on purchase intention and its impact on purchasing decisions of Toyota Avanza consumers in Semarang City. The research was conducted using a quantitative approach with primary data collected through questionnaires distributed to 120 respondents selected by purposive sampling. Data analysis employed the Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) technique using AMOS 18 software. The results indicate that all five independent variables—product innovation, brand image, after- sales service, experiential marketing, and product quality—have a positive and significant effect on purchase intention. Furthermore, purchase intention significantly affects purchasing decisions. Among the tested variables, product quality and product innovation were found to have the greatest influence on purchase intention, followed by brand image, experiential marketing, and after-sales service. These findings suggest that Toyota’s success in maintaining consumer interest and purchasing decisions largely depends on its ability to provide superior product quality, continuous innovation, and memorable customer experiences. The study contributes to marketing management literature by highlighting the integrated role of innovation and experiential marketing in shaping consumer behavior in the automotive sector.

The development of modern education demands that teachers play a broader role beyond merely delivering subject matter, including building professional reputation, credibility, and positive influence on students, colleagues, parents, and society. For Christian Religious Education teachers, personal branding has a deeper dimension because they also serve as role models and ambassadors of Christian values. This study aims to describe the formation of personal branding among Christian Religious Education teachers based on spiritual and theological values, as well as its impact on teaching and student character development. The method used is descriptive qualitative through a literature study of books, journals, notes, and relevant reports, with narrative analysis to illustrate the practices and values that shape teachers’ personal branding. The findings indicate that the personal branding of Christian Religious Education teachers is an integration of professional competence, personal integrity, and Christian values, encompassing authenticity, consistency, professionalism, spiritual and moral role modeling, inspirational and communicative abilities, adaptation to technology, and positive relationships with students and the community. Spiritual and theological values such as Christian love, integrity, humility, patience, justice, service, and commitment to God’s Word form the main foundation that strengthens teachers’ credibility, motivates students, and establishes them as living examples of Christian life. Personal branding for Christian Religious Education teachers is not merely an image or popularity, but a real reflection of faith, character, and daily behavior consistent with Christian teachings, thus supporting effective learning, student character formation, and the teacher’s reputation as an authentic, inspiring, and professional educator.  

 This study aims to analyze the social media engagement strategy of Instagram @kumocake.co in its efforts to maintain its product image as ‘Japanese Halal Cake for 25,000 Rupiah’ amid fierce competition in the culinary industry. The method used is descriptive qualitative, with data collection through in-depth interviews with social media specialists, observation, and documentation. The results show that the engagement strategy is implemented in a structured manner through a monthly content plan with weekly execution, as well as consistent uploads every two days in alternating Reels and feed formats. The most effective Instagram features are Stories for direct interaction and Reels for expanding audience reach, which consistently meet audience gratification needs in accordance with Uses and Gratifications Theory (UGT). The product image is maintained through eye-catching, neat, and minimalist visual highlights of the cake in each content, in line with the principles of Brand Image Theory. The highest level of engagement is achieved through endorsement and giveaway content, where save and share metrics are considered the most significant indicators of engagement. Despite facing challenges with the quality of non-preservative products, Kumocake.co manages them with a relaxed and fast response interaction strategy. This research contributes to the development of Digital Public Relations studies, particularly regarding the strategic role of social media engagement in the process of maintaining the image of contemporary culinary products.

This study aims to describe the implementation of the Segmenting, Targeting, and Positioning (STP) concept in Apple Inc.’s marketing strategy and to assess students’ perceptions as young consumers of Apple products. A descriptive qualitative approach was applied through a literature review supported by an online survey involving 30 students who use Apple products. Data were analyzed descriptively to relate Apple’s STP strategy to respondent preferences and satisfaction levels. The results indicate that Apple applies multidimensional market segmentation encompassing demographic, psychographic, and behavioral aspects, targeting premium consumers, creative professionals, and urban youth. The targeting strategy emphasizes product quality, design, and symbolic value, while positioning is established as a premium brand supported by an integrated product ecosystem. Survey findings show that ease of access is the most prioritized factor among respondents (40%), followed by information completeness (33%). The overall satisfaction level is categorized as moderate, with a mean score of 3.67. These findings suggest that Apple’s STP strategy has been effective in strengthening brand image among students; however, improvements are still needed, particularly in information delivery and service accessibility. This study is expected to provide practical insights for businesses and educational institutions in developing marketing strategies aligned with young consumer characteristics.

The transformation of marketing strategies from conventional methods to digital marketing has become an important factor in the development of the beauty industry, especially for Make Up Artists (MUAs) in Bandung. This study aims to analyze the impact of digital marketing through social media on increasing customer interest and the number of MUA service users, with a case study of Iwan Haadi, a professional MUA in Bandung who is active on Instagram (@iwanhaadimakeup) and TikTok (@iwanhaadi). This research employs a descriptive qualitative method with a case study approach, using interviews, observations of social media activities, and documentation of digital promotional content. The results show that before implementing digital marketing, MUAs generally relied on conventional promotions such as word of mouth and collaborations with wedding organizers. However, technological developments have encouraged many MUAs to shift to social media to expand their promotional reach. Based on observations of Iwan Haadi and 20 other MUAs in Bandung, around 85% have utilized social media particularly Instagram and TikTok to showcase their portfolios and client testimonials. The implementation of digital marketing strategies has proven to increase brand awareness and the number of customers by up to 65% over the past two years. In conclusion, digital marketing has a significant influence on increasing customers and competitiveness among MUAs in Bandung. Consistent and creative use of social media is the key to attracting customer interest and strengthening a professional image in the modern beauty industry.

This study is intended to investigate the impact of Digital Marketing and Electronic Word of Mouth (e-WOM) on Purchase Decisions, with Brand Image as a mediating variable in Fore Coffee consumers in Surabaya. This study applied a quantitative approach through causal methods, involving 100 respondents who had made transactions at Fore Coffee Sulawesi Street. The data was analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with the help of SmartPLS 4 software. The findings of the study show that Digital Marketing and e-WOM have a positive and significant effect on Brand Image and Purchase Decisions. Brand image also has a significant influence on Purchase Decisions. In addition, Brand Image has proven to be a partial mediator, so Digital Marketing and e-WOM continue to have a direct influence, but the effect increases when through Brand Image. The research model produced an R² value of 0.671, which indicates good explanatory ability of the model. Overall, this study emphasizes that strengthening digital marketing strategies, managing e-WOM, and building a consistent brand image is very important in improving consumer purchasing decisions of Fore Coffee.

In response to the escalating challenge of packaging waste in the beauty industry, The Body Shop Indonesia has implemented a Green Marketing Mix through its Bring Back Our Bottles (BBOB) and Refill Station programs. This study aims to analyze the strategic implementation of this approach, assess consumer perceptions and engagement, and explore the inherent challenges and opportunities for future development. Employing a qualitative case study approach, the research collected data from five respondents who are The Body Shop consumers with prior participation in either the BBOB or Refill Station programs. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews, observation, and a comprehensive literature review. Thematic analysis was subsequently performed, with findings validated through source and method triangulation. The results indicate that The Body Shop’s Green Marketing Mix has been effectively implemented, particularly in the elements of product (environmentally friendly packaging), promotion (campaigns via digital and print media), and physical evidence (store design that promotes a natural ambiance). Despite positive consumer responses and a strengthened brand image, persistent obstacles were identified, including limited access to program locations and insufficient information dissemination. The programs were found to be effective in enhancing customer loyalty and hold significant potential for expansion, particularly through targeted education and collaborative initiatives with youth communities. This study recommends expanding the programs’ geographical coverage, strengthening digital communication, and establishing strategic community partnerships. The findings are expected to make a meaningful contribution to the development of sustainable green marketing strategies within the beauty industry.

Pocari Sweat Run as an annual running event of PT. Amerta Indah Otsuka since 2013 has been the main platform to build the brand image of isotonic drinks through an inclusive offline and online hybrid experience. Instagram account @pocarisportid plays a strategic role with digital content such as race teasers, runner testimonials, and UGC content to strengthen the perception of the event as part of a healthy lifestyle. Pocari Sweat Run as one of the National running events utilizes the Instagram account @pocarisportid to convey information, value, and event experience to the audience on a regular basis. This research attempts to examine the role of digital content Instagram @pocarisportid in strengthening the image of the event Pocari Sweat Run. This research uses descriptive qualitative approach with content analysis method. Data analysis was conducted using Ardianto image theory and The Theory of Uses and Gratifications. The finding demostrated  @pocarisportid digital content was able to build a positive image of Pocari Sweat Run as a healthy, professional and inclusive running event. Promotional and educational content represents the expected image (wish image), while documentation of activities and participant testimonials reflect the mental image that emerged from the audience. In addition, digital content is able to meet the needs of information, entertainment, and social interaction of audiences. The implications of this study indicate that the management of digital content that is consistent and oriented to the needs of the audience can be an effective communication strategy in strengthening the image of sports events.

This study investigates how Lembaga Musik Pervagatus, a group that does not display Islamic identity, creates an Islamic musical image when performing at religious events in Islamic campuses.  This study investigates how visual elements, song selection, and stage interaction influence audience perception. It does so using qualitative methods through interviews and performance observations.  How the band's performative identity is influenced by attributes such as appearance, personality, cultural values, and audience relations is studied using Kapferer's Brand Identity Prism model.  Conversely, Stuart Hall's theory of representation helps explain how Islamic meaning emerges in the context of events. The results show that the image of Islamic music attached to Pervagatus does not originate from the band's original identity; rather, it is a construction of meaning influenced by the context of religious events and the audience's interpretation of the song ‘Maulana Ya Maulana’ that they performed.  This perception was further reinforced by their neat, polite, and enthusiastic appearance.  The results show that the relationship between performance, context, and audience interpretation shapes the image of Islamic music on campus.