Abstract
The telecommunications sector faces a major challenge of high customer churn. Despite this, there is still a lack of research that explores the switching intention for telecommunication services, particularly with bundle services that currently dominate the market. This study aims to provide insight into consumer behaviour regarding bundle telecommunication services by examining the factors that impact satisfaction and switching intention, both directly and indirectly. Eighteen hypotheses were defined based on the literature, and were tested through a quantitative study with 910 bundle service customers using structural equation modelling with Smart-PLS. The results show that internet and television services have the strongest indirect impact on switching intention, mediated by overall satisfaction and loyalty. Additionally, the results indicate that switching costs and barriers do not significantly affect switching intention, and surprisingly, perceived contractual lock-in positively influences switching intention. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the customer experience with bundled telecommunications services and offers relevant insights for telecommunication managers to prevent customer loss to competitors.

Abstract
PurposeIn a society that encourages consumption, attributes such as exclusivity and social recognition are important in what is intended to be restricted to a certain exclusive segment. Luxury is something that is more desirable than necessary. This study develops and tests a model that analyses the brand loyalty-risk relationship in the luxury watch market.Design/methodology/approachTo test the proposed research model, a sample of 306 international consumers and enthusiasts of luxury brand watches was collected. The data were analysed using structural equation modelling.FindingsThe results show that perceived quality has a negative indirect influence on brand risk and brand trust has a strong direct negative effect on brand risk. However, the findings also show that in the luxury market, the greater the affection for the brand, the greater the risk perceived by consumers.Research limitations/implicationsThe study was conducted in a single market, luxury watches and the sample includes both enthusiasts and consumers of the luxury brands.Practical implicationsManagers should be aware of the double-edged role of brand affect on brand risk. The quality of a brand and the trust in its promise decrease the risk to the consumer.Originality/valueThis pioneering study is one of the first to approach an underexplored topic as is the case of the risk associated with a brand in the context of the luxury goods market. Moreover, it relies on an international sample composed of consumers from several countries.

Abstract
The implementation of lean principles in product development (PD) activities has been receiving increased attention lately. However, it is not clear how the application of these principles to PD activities enhances their effectiveness. Moreover, the implementation of lean principles is more difficult to achieve in PD activities than in the shop-floor context. The objective of this paper is to develop and implement a framework applying lean principles to the PD process. To that end, an action research project was conducted in the R&D department of an industrial company. This article presents and describes a six-step framework, its challenges, and main results. The implementation of the framework led to gains in the efficiency of the product development process through a 20% decrease in waste. Improvement measures such as standardisation, clear identification of roles, prioritisation of activities and improved efficiency of meetings were the main drivers for the gains in efficiency. Overall, three main contributions should be highlighted: the role a knowledgeable lean project leader can play; employee training focused on the implementation of lean-based product development activities; and team building and communication.

Abstract
This research examined factors that help microfinance achieve sustained poverty reduction based on a systematic literature review (SLR). A search was conducted on the SCOPUS database up to December 2023. After analyzing hundreds of documents, a subset of 30 articles was subject to in-depth analysis, exploring factors and corresponding measurement indicators for sustainable poverty reduction in microfinance contexts. This article emphasizes that sustained poverty reduction is a gradual process requiring ongoing efforts from both Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) and governments. Two key success factors are empowering borrowers and ensuring the microfinance programs themselves are profitable. When implemented in an integrated and coordinated manner, these factors can empower individuals to escape poverty by fostering self-employment and income generation, ultimately reducing dependence on external support. Additionally, the study highlights the role of personality traits in influencing long-term entrepreneurial success. The findings provide valuable tools for MFIs and policymakers. MFIs gain a practical framework to guide their interventions towards sustained poverty reduction. Policymakers can leverage the identified factors and indicators when designing and implementing microfinance policies with a long-term focus on poverty alleviation. This study breaks new ground by presenting an operational framework that categorizes and integrates two critical factor groups: empowerment and beneficiary profitability. Furthermore, it links these factors to corresponding measurement indicators within a unified framework, enabling a more holistic assessment of poverty reduction efforts. © 2024 by the authors.

Abstract
This chapter explores the internationalization path of ALPHA, a family-owned, medium-sized Portuguese company. The analysis reveals a two-stage process. Initially, ALPHA's gradual market entry aligns with the Uppsala model, prioritizing geographically close markets and leveraging accumulated experience. However, later stages demonstrate network-based theory influences. While lacking formal networks, ALPHA prioritizes strong B2B relationships with large international clients, mirroring network bridges for market access. The case highlights the importance of trust-based B2B relationships for success. ALPHA leverages these partnerships to gain market knowledge and access new opportunities. Exporting plays a vital role, keeping ALPHA updated on technological trends and fostering innovation through diverse client projects. The company prioritizes a pragmatic approach focused on strong client relationships and win-win partnerships, emphasizing trust as a key resource. While the RBV perspective highlights investment in internal resources, reliance on intermediaries introduces limitations.

Abstract
This paper explores the internationalisation of small and medium-sized firms (SMEs) in Africa and Latin America. A total of 97 papers covering the period between 1995 and 2017 were analysed, providing a unique comparative perspective of the internationalisation of SMEs. The analysis of the papers revealed the following six main topics: international networking; financing, export promotion; internationalisation strategies; resources and business environment/context; e-business, e-commerce; and barriers to internationalisation. The topic 'internationalisation strategies' is the most researched topic both regarding the internationalisation of both African and Latin American SMEs. However, while the studies on Latin American SMEs focus on rapid internationalisation, international entrepreneurship orientation and export performance, the studies on African SMEs focus on supply performance, international behaviour, internationalisation process, knowledge and key-selection of foreign markets. This provides a clear perspective on how SMEs of those two emerging continents deal with the intricacies of internationalisation.