Management Theory and Studies for Rural Business and Infrastructure Development
eISSN 2345–0355, DOI 10.15544/mts First Published: 1999– Frequency: Quartely Languages: English Subjects: Business and Economics, Business Management, Management, Organization, Corporate Governance, Business Development, Change Management, Cooperation, Industries, Agribusiness, Food Industry Metrics: WoS: JIF 0.7 (2024); Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI) Fees: The publication fee/ article processing charge (APC) depends on the length of the publication. More about the APC. Open Access: CC BY NC
Vytautas Magnus University Agriculture Academy
DOES SIZE MATTER? A COMPARATIVE STUDY ON AI’S INFLUENCE ON EMPLOYEE TRAINING, BUSINESS EFFICIENCY, AND COMPETITIVE PRESSURE
Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping work organisation, yet firms do not benefit equally because adoption depends on organisational scale, resources and workforce readiness. A key practical problem is that smaller enterprises often lack the resources, infrastructure and skills needed to adopt AI, while larger firms may be better positioned to convert AI into training and efficiency gains. This study therefore examines whether company size is associated with AI-related perceptions and outcomes among private-sector firms in Hungary and Slovakia. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire from 269 private-sector enterprises and classified according to European Union size categories. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson Chi-Square tests and Gamma coefficients. The results indicate that larger enterprises are more likely to implement AI, invest in employee upskilling, and achieve efficiency gains. Micro and small firms often face resource constraints, limiting adoption and benefits, while medium-sized firms occupy a middle position. No significant link was found between company size and perceptions of AI-related competitive disadvantage, suggesting that industry factors may play a stronger role. These findings highlight the need for targeted support for smaller firms and strategic workforce alignment in larger ones. The study’s limitations include its exploratory sample size and lack of industry-specific analysis, indicating the need for broader future research.
Copyright (c) 2026 Eniko Korcsmaros, Aranka Boros, Klaudia Balázs https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
DIGITALIZATION AND CRISIS ADAPTATION OF SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED ENTERPRISES: EVIDENCE FROM CZECH ENTERPRISES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
The COVID-19 pandemic created an urgent managerial problem for small and medium-sized enterprises, as firms had to maintain business continuity under operational restrictions, demand instability, supply-chain disruption and pressure to move activities online. The aim of this paper is to analyse how selected crisis-response strategies were associated with the adaptation of Czech SMEs during the pandemic, with particular attention to digitalization, online transition and firm market tenure. The study is based on a quantitative survey of 251 Czech enterprises collected in 2022-2023 within a research project focused on digitalization and business process management. Correlation analysis, logistic regression, Pearson's chi-square test and analysis of variance were applied. The results show that firms with longer market tenure achieved higher adaptation scores, although the categorical relationship between tenure and adaptation was not statistically significant. Analysis of variance provided stronger support for the role of accumulated experience, established processes and institutional memory. Logistic regression confirmed that moving activities online was the only statistically significant predictor of accelerated digitalization (OR = 2.827; p = 0.0071). The study interprets digitalization as a managerial and organizational adaptation mechanism. The practical output is a five-step framework for digital crisis adaptation in SMEs.
Copyright (c) 2026 Romana Kušnirová, Milan Talíř, Daniel Chamrada, Klaudia Ihnačáková, Ján Dobrovič https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
BARRIERS TO GREEN INNOVATION ADOPTION IN SMES AND LARGE COMPANIES: EVIDENCE FROM CENTRAL EUROPE
The transition towards a low-carbon and resource-efficient economy presents both opportunities and challenges for enterprises of different sizes. Green innovation can enhance environmental performance, improve resource efficiency, and strengthen long-term competitiveness; however, its adoption is often constrained by internal and external barriers. This paper examines barriers to green innovation adoption in manufacturing enterprises in Central Europe, with particular attention to differences among micro, small, medium-sized, and large enterprises. The study is based on a questionnaire survey conducted among 304 managers of manufacturing companies. The analysis covers fourteen perceived barriers related to finance, regulation, technology, human resources, market conditions, innovation priorities, access to knowledge, and cooperation with external partners. As the data were ordinal and did not meet the assumption of normality, the Kruskal–Wallis test was applied, followed by the Dwass–Steel–Critchlow–Fligner post-hoc test. The results reveal statistically significant differences among enterprise-size categories in three areas: lack of internal financial resources, the perception of material consumption reduction as a low innovation priority, and insufficient cooperation with research institutions and universities. The findings suggest that company size influences the perception of selected barriers to green innovation adoption. The paper highlights the need for differentiated support mechanisms, improved access to finance, stronger knowledge transfer, and closer collaboration between enterprises and research institutions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Maria Bartekova, Sabina Janikovicova, Michal Ruschak https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
VALIDATED INSTRUMENT FOR INSURANCE CHATBOT ACCEPTANCE
The rapid digital transformation of the insurance industry and the growing implementation of artificial intelligence have significantly increased the use of chatbots in customer communication. However, despite their expanding application, there is still a lack of validated instruments specifically designed to measure customer acceptance of insurance chatbots. Therefore, this study aimed to develop and content-validate a measurement instrument for assessing chatbot acceptance in the insurance sector. The instrument was developed based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) and included five dimensions: perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, privacy concern, trust, and behavioural intention. Content validity was evaluated by an expert panel using the Content Validity Index (CVI), Content Validity Ratio (CVR), modified kappa coefficient, Aiken’s V, and Kendall’s coefficient of concordance. The results confirmed high content validity across all dimensions and statistically significant agreement among experts. The proposed instrument fills an important methodological gap in insurance research by providing a theoretically grounded and content-validated tool suitable for subsequent psychometric validation and practical application in evaluating customer acceptance of AI-supported communication.
Copyright (c) 2026 Katarina Kralova, Dana Jašková https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
COMPARISON OF AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGIES BY ENVIRONMENTAL INDICATORS IN THE CONTEXT OF THE INTERNATIONAL SMART ECONOMY
Food security is at the highest level of existence of any civilized country. Analysis of agricultural technologies for the production of crop products implemented in Ukraine showed that due to the global specialization of our country in the world production of food products and relatively large areas of arable land, both well-known classical technologies and modern ones are used simultaneously, especially those aimed at biological agriculture. Among the analyzed technologies implemented in Ukraine, the best for preserving and increasing fertility are No-till (biological) and the technology implemented in the private enterprise “Agroekologiya” of Myrhorod district, Ukraine. In these agricultural technologies, the main role in obtaining a sustainable harvest is played by soil moisture supply and increasing its fertility using biological methods. The ecological technology implemented in the Agroecology PE does not involve the use of systems for feeding and protecting plants with preparations of artificial and synthetic origin, therefore, plant and animal products are in demand in the ecological food chain of most developed countries of the world. Analysis of the signs of the influence of factors on the biological indicators of products by technology showed that the proposed comprehensive general indicator for the ecological farming system implemented in the Agroecology PE is (+6), which corresponds to the high level of biological processes in agricultural production. Agrotechnologies focused on the production of ecological products with the support of soil fertility should take a leading place in Ukrainian agriculture to provide the population with high-quality biologically pure food products in the conditions of an international smart economy.
Copyright (c) 2026 Viacheslav Padalka, Maksym Kulyk, Ilona Rozhko, Oleksandr Kalinichenko, Nadiia Zaritska, Мykola Zos-Kior, Iryna Hnatenko, Oleksandr Gorbenko https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
ANALYSIS OF PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE ON ANTIBIOTIC USE AND ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE IN THE CONTEXT OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Inappropriate and excessive use of antibiotics remains a major public health concern contributing to antimicrobial resistance worldwide. The aim of this study is to examine the public’s knowledge of antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance in the context of sustainable development, highlighting the importance of health literacy and the rational use of antibiotics in reducing the spread of antimicrobial resistance and ensuring the availability of effective treatments for future generations. A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted in January 2025 using an online questionnaire platform. The study included 433 adults aged 18 years and older. Descriptive statistics, cross-tabulation, and K-means cluster analysis were applied to evaluate respondents’ knowledge and practices. The results demonstrated that although most respondents were familiar with antibiotics, misconceptions regarding their use persisted. Many participants reported storing leftover antibiotics for future use, and a considerable proportion incorrectly believed that antibiotics are effective against viral infections. The findings emphasize the importance of continuous public education and targeted health communication to promote rational antibiotic use and reduce antimicrobial resistance.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rasa Glinskienė, Dalia Urbonienė, Pjaras Purvinis https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
DEVELOPMENT OF SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE TO IMPROVE RESIDENTS’ QUALITY OF LIFE: THE CASE OF PAKRUOJIS DISTRICT
The development of social infrastructure (SI) determines the quality of life (QOL) of local residents. In rural municipalities too little attention is paid to the issue of SI in relation to the QOL of residents, it is inconsistent and fragmented. The development of SI in the Pakruojis district is insufficiently effective, fragmented, and lacks a comprehensive approach; consequently, the challenge arises of ensuring that the development of SI improves the QOL for local residents and reduces migration and emigration flows. The aim of the study is to analyse the links between SI and the QOL of residents from a theoretical perspective and to identify problem areas in the development of SI in the Pakruojis district. The methods used in the study include analysis and synthesis of scientific literature, comparison method and experts semi-structured interviews. The results show that the development of SI covers a wide range of services that need to be developed in order for the territorial unit to remain viable and to reduce migration and emigration flows. The development of SI in the Pakruojis district is not effective and there is a lack of a comprehensive approach to problem solving.
Copyright (c) 2026 Gintarė Vaznonienė, Brigita Nogobodė https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
CONCEPTUALIZING ORGANIZATIONAL RESILIENCE IN THE CONTEXT OF STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT THEORIES
Organizational resilience has become a significant concept in management and organizational studies; however, its conceptualization remains inconsistent and insufficiently defined. This study aims to conceptualize organizational resilience in the context of strategic management theories by developing a theoretically grounded conceptual model. A structured and comparative analysis of the scholarly literature was conducted using comparison, classification, systematization, generalization, and synthesis methods. The analysis shows that the resource-based view, the knowledge-based view, and the dynamic capabilities perspective provide complementary explanations of how resilience develops through internal strategic resources, knowledge capital, and capabilities. The proposed model explains organizational resilience as a cyclically developing outcome arising from the interaction between knowledge capital management and dynamic capabilities.
Copyright (c) 2026 Marius Zamkauskas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
WORK–LIFE BALANCE AS A DRIVER OF EMPLOYEE WELL-BEING AMONG GENERATION Z
The accelerating pace of technological, economic, and social change has increased the complexity of work environments and blurred the boundaries between professional and personal life, making work–life balance particularly important for Generation Z employees. Despite extensive research, prior studies have predominantly focused on narrow outcomes such as job satisfaction, leaving the multidimensional nature of well-being insufficiently explored. This study examines the relationship between work–life balance and multiple dimensions of well-being among Generation Z employees. A quantitative research design was applied using a structured questionnaire (N = 413). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis. The results reveal that work–life balance is a significant and multidimensional predictor of well-being, explaining between 36.1% and 56.7% of variance across outcomes. Work–life balance (compatibility) emerged as the strongest predictor across all dimensions, particularly for psychological and emotional well-being. In contrast, the impact of work on personal life showed weaker and less consistent effects. Generation Z reported consistently lower evaluations across all dimensions compared to older generations, indicating higher expectations and greater sensitivity to imbalance. This study contributes to the literature by providing empirical evidence on the multidimensional structure of well-being and demonstrating the central role of work–life balance as a key resource shaping employee outcomes. The findings highlight the importance of work-personal life compatibility as a primary driver of well-being among Generation Z employees.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rita Bendaravičienė, Eglė Dubietytė https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
STRATEGIES FOR PROFESSIONALIZATION OF PUBLIC SERVICE IN THE CONDITIONS OF DIGITALIZATION
In the contemporary context of intensive digital transformation of public governance in Ukraine, the professionalization of the public service acquires strategic importance as a systemic process of adapting human capital to a reality in which most public functions, management processes, communications, and service delivery take place within a digital environment. The rapid implementation of the Diia platform, electronic registers, the Trembita system, HRMIS, artificial intelligence tools, and e-governance principles generates new competency requirements for public servants, while simultaneously creating risks of professional culture lagging behind the pace of technological development. However, the fragmentation of professional development programs, weak integration of digital competencies into HR processes, and insufficient linkage with performance evaluation point to the need for a comprehensive professionalization strategy. Such a strategy should ensure the sustainable adaptation of the public service to the challenges of the digital era, European integration, and post-war recovery. A cyclical professionalization strategy was developed, consisting of four interrelated blocks (changes in competency requirements, transformation of training methods, modernization of HR processes, and changes in work organization), as well as a target-state block with permanent feedback. Empirical analysis confirms a tangible shift in organizational culture toward innovation. The 2025 portfolio of professional development programs demonstrates systematic coverage of digital literacy, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and data-driven approaches; however, it also reveals fragmentation and the need for a unified development trajectory. The professionalization of the public service in the context of digitalization represents a fundamental transformation of its very essence – from a traditional bureaucratic model to a digitally oriented, data-driven, agile, and citizen-centric system. The proposed strategic framework provides a basis for transitioning from fragmented digital modernization to comprehensive strategic change management, which constitutes a strategic resource for national security, sustainable development, and Ukraine’s European integration.
Copyright (c) 2026 Olha Rudenko, Oleksandr Ignatenko, Yuliia Lykhach, Ihor Khrebtiy, Roman Mishchenko https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT IN THE CONTEXT OF EDUCATIONAL REFORM
In the article, the peculiarities of functioning of educational institutions of different levels are examined. The influence of factors on the reform of the education system is substantiated. The importance of adapting the sphere of financial management to the modern needs of a market economy is proven. The European experience of financial management in educational institutions is studied, which proves the influence of the state-building system on the evolutionary development of the sphere of knowledge. The main models of financing the sphere of education are analyzed, which made it possible to identify both positive and contradictory aspects of each system. An analysis of education expenditures based on GDP and the share of expenditures in GDP in the global dimension, including in Ukraine, as well as an analysis of the structure and dynamics of sources of education financing in Ukraine were conducted. The main directions of improving financial management in the sphere of education were identified, which will contribute to the adaptation and flexibility of institutions in a turbulent environment and changing labor market conditions.
Copyright (c) 2026 Peter Jakúbek, Viera Guzonova, Yuliia Lykhach, Volodymyr Moroz, Andrea Urickova https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
FORECASTING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF INNOVATIVE PROCESSES BY FOOD INDUSTRY ENTERPRISES
The article is devoted to the study of the current state and main trends in the implementation of innovative processes at food industry enterprises in Ukraine. The main problems of innovative development are disclosed in the article. The development of food industry enterprises, which were involved in the introduction of innovations in Ukraine, is predicted. The tasks, the solution of which is a necessary prerequisite for the innovative development of the food industry, are outlined. An analysis of the dynamics of the development of the components of innovation processes was carried out. Forecasting of the dynamics of the number of food industry enterprises engaged in the production and sale of products new to the market was carried out. Three variants of predictive scenarios regarding the innovativeness of the Ukrainian economy are analyzed. Trends in the implementation of innovative processes at food industry enterprises are outlined.
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
MANAGING FINANCIAL STABILITY AND ECONOMIC SECURITY THROUGH SUSTAINABLE MARKETING IN THE ESG PARADIGM’S
The article reveals key aspects of managing the financial stability and economic security of enterprises through sustainable marketing tools in the context of the actualization of the ESG paradigm. The relevance of the study is due to the need to form long-term financial benefits and prevent economic risks in the context of modern global challenges of climate change, resource shortages, social instability and regulatory pressure. The purpose of the study is to develop a comprehensive model that allows to increase the level of financial stability of enterprises through the implementation of ESG principles in marketing activities. The research used methods of SWOT analysis, GAP analysis, scenario modeling, construction of an ESG indicator panel and an analytical index of the impact of ESG marketing on financial stability. As a result of the study, key gaps in the implementation of ESG principles in domestic companies were identified, a mechanism for implementing ESG marketing for risk management and financial stability was proposed, and an analytical model was built that allows assessing the financial stability of an enterprise taking into account ESG factors. It is proven that enterprises with a high level of ESG compliance demonstrate increased financial efficiency, reduced reputational risks, and long-term economic security. The results obtained have practical significance for business, the educational environment, and further scientific research in the field of sustainable development.
THE IMPACT OF EARLY RETIREMENT ON THE PERFORMANCE OF THE ECONOMY AND THE SUSTAINABILITY OF THE PENSION SYSTEM IN THE CONTEXT OF ESG FACTORS
The study investigates how early retirement affects economic performance and the sustainability of the pension system, incorporating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors. Using data from the Social Insurance Agency of the Slovak Republic, the Statistical Office, and EUROSTAT, the study applies regression analysis to examine the relationship between early retirement expenditures, GDP, and public finance outcomes. The results reveal a complex but predominantly negative impact: while earlier labor market exits may free jobs and influence productivity, they simultaneously reduce the labor force, weaken economic growth, and increase fiscal pressure on the pension system. These effects have broader social and governance implications, including risks to long-term public finance sustainability and challenges for ESG-aligned policymaking. The findings underscore the need for balanced pension policies that consider demographic trends, economic efficiency, and ESG responsibilities. The study fills a research gap by linking early retirement to ESG dimensions and provides evidence-based insights for future pension reforms and policy development.
ASSESSMENT OF THE INTERNATIONAL COMPETITIVENESS OF BEEF OF LITHUANIAN ORIGIN
The production and export of Lithuanian beef constitute a significant component of the national economy. However, in recent years, its competitiveness in international markets has been substantially affected by major external factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic, Russia’s war in Ukraine, shifting conditions in export markets, fluctuations in raw material and feed prices, and increasingly stringent environmental requirements. This study examines the international competitiveness of the Lithuanian beef sector by evaluating export dynamics and key competitiveness indicators. Using the Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA) and Relative Trade Advantage (RTA) indices, it was determined that both the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine exerted a negative impact on the sector under investigation. Export volumes fluctuated, and significant changes in demand were observed in certain markets. The analysis of international competitiveness demonstrated that, during the period under review, the Lithuanian beef sector exhibited a dynamic character and, despite considerable challenges, managed to adapt to evolving conditions. The findings reveal that although competitiveness declined in some segments, Lithuanian beef exports maintained strong positions within specific product categories. This indicates that the sector possesses the capacity to respond effectively to external shocks and to adjust to the continuously changing international market environment.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN THE OPERATIONAL ACTIVITIES OF ENTERPRISES AS A FACTOR FOR INCREASING THEIR COMPETITIVENESS IN REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL MARKETS
The use of the artificial intelligence technology is spreading rapidly in all areas of activity, which is due to the impact of technology not only on increasing the level of human activity indicators, but also on increasing the competitiveness level of enterprises when using this technology in their operational activities. The main areas of operational activity of enterprises in which the artificial intelligence technology is used are highlighted, which include automation, organization, transport and logistics and marketing activities, management and personnel activities, quality control and monitoring. The impact of the links between the main areas and types of activities of enterprises on the competitiveness of these enterprises is described and formalized. Positive factors that, if the artificial intelligence technology is integrated into the production activities of the enterprise, increase its competitiveness, are highlighted. Attention is paid to studying the AI impact on increasing competitiveness of enterprises represented in regional and international markets for the sale of manufactured products/services, and implementation of the artificial intelligence technology in operational activities of these enterprises. Current trends in the AI use in operational activities of enterprises are analyzed.
PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT IN LVHM MANUFACTURING: KPIS, TECHNOLOGIES, AND STARTUP GAPS
The high degree of product variability and the ever-changing demands of customers make performance monitoring a constant struggle in low-volume high-mix (LVHM) production settings. This research provides a systematic literature review in accordance with PRISMA principles, examining 42 peer-reviewed papers (2021–2025) sourced from Scopus and Web of Science. Research has indicated that lead time and makespan are the predominant performance indicators. Moreover, digital twins, reinforcement learning, and discrete-event simulation are being increasingly used to increase scheduling efficiency and cost effectiveness. A bibliometric study using R Studio indicates a significant focus on job shop scheduling and AI-driven optimisation. Critically, there is a substantial gap in the literature, as no study explicitly addresses startup LVHM manufacturing. This review lays the foundation for performance frameworks specifically designed for LVHM manufacturers in the early stages of development.
Wickramanayake Pathirannahalage Sajith Dilshan
THEORY OF ORGANIZATIONS AND PROJECT ANALYSIS OF MANAGING CHANGES IN PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCIES IN ACADEMIC ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN THE CONTEXT OF HUMAN RESOURCE MIGRATION, TOURISM BUSINESS AND INTERNATIONAL MARKETING
The study identifies the crucial issue of managing transformations of professional competencies in sectors such as academic entrepreneurship, tourism business and international marketing, especially during the growth of human resource migration. The research in the scientific article deepens the synthesis of traditional methodological approaches to planning and project management tools, which allows for a deep reflection of the trends in the transformation of expertise in modern business entities. Scientists have proposed a system of adaptive mathematical and economic models that take into account systemic factors such as turbulence, nonlinearity, asymmetry and resource efficiency limitations. In practice, these models allow for quantitative modeling of trends in competency adaptation, calculating the degree of sufficiency during skills improvement, investigating the impact of turbulence in the tourism business, and also clarifying the balance between productivity and the negative consequences of migration. In particular, the proposed mathematical models will allow for determining the level of dynamic sustainability of academic entrepreneurship. The conclusions of the scientific article prove that competence management is a systemic, extremely complex multidimensional process. Its core is the systematic updating of science and technology, the accumulation of highly qualified personnel, risk hedging and the effective combination of innovation and human capital development. The practical value of the conclusions of the scientific article is based on the possibility of implementing the proposed models for adaptive strategizing the activities of educational and business structures. Mathematical models should be used in planning strategies aimed at preserving human capital in the conditions of a global economy and total migration of human resources.
ADAPTIVE MARKETING STRATEGIES FOR MANAGING TOURISM ENTERPRISES WITHIN TOURISM CLUSTERS
The article explores contemporary approaches to the development of adaptive marketing strategies as a key instrument for managing tourism enterprises within the framework of tourism clusters. The main aspects of applying these strategies to enhance the effectiveness of management processes amid the ongoing transformational shifts in the Ukrainian tourism market are analyzed. The study demonstrates that the use of marketing management tools within tourism clusters serves as an effective mechanism for promoting domestic tourism. It is substantiated that the implementation of adaptive strategies enables tourism enterprises to respond promptly to external changes, adjust their operations to new conditions, and thereby enhance their competitiveness in the domestic and inbound tourism markets. The article provides both theoretical insights and practical recommendations for the implementation of marketing strategies within tourism cluster structures.
THE IMPACT OF THE SILVER ECONOMY ON NATIONAL ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE IN THE CONTEXT OF THE LABOR MARKET
Population ageing has become one of the key demographic challenges affecting economic performance and labour markets across Europe. The growing share of older individuals has led to the emergence of the silver economy as a concept emphasising the economic potential of the population aged 50 and above. This paper examines the development and economic determinants of purchasing power in Slovakia and analyses the impact of the silver economy on the country’s gross domestic product. The empirical analysis is based on secondary statistical data for the period 2015–2023 and applies ordinary least squares regression models to assess the relationship between GDP and the employment rates of older age cohorts (50–54, 55–59, 60–64 and 65+ years). The results confirm a statistically significant positive relationship between senior employment and economic performance in all analysed age groups. The strongest and most stable effects are observed among individuals aged 50–59, while a substantial positive impact is also identified for the 65+ cohort, indicating the high economic value of working retirees. The findings highlight the heterogeneous nature of the silver economy and underline the importance of age-specific and regionally differentiated labour market and social policies. Supporting senior employment and purchasing power can represent an effective tool for mitigating the negative economic consequences of population ageing and for promoting sustainable economic growth in Slovakia.
ECONOMIC ASPECTS OF THIRD PLACES USAGE BY GENERATION Z: AN ANALYSIS OF PREFERENCES AND EXPENDITURE
In contemporary society, the cultivation of social bonds and the support of social capital are particularly important for economic development. The construction of social capital frequently occurs in Third Places – locations situated between the First Place (home) and the Second Place (work/school). A thorough review of relevant literature clearly indicates that the presence of such venues yields multifaceted benefits. Accordingly, the present study focuses on uncovering patterns and preferences in the use of Third Places among Generation Z users. The purpose of this study was to examine the preferences of Generation Z as users of Third Places. This was achieved through a survey conducted among young people born between 1995 and 2007, followed by a statistical analysis that particularly focused on the relationship between their self-reported financial situation and the frequency of visits to various types or categories of Third Places. A survey was conducted in the Silesian Voivodeship (Poland) in October 2025, utilizing a non-random sample of 300 students. The collected data enabled a detailed statistical analysis. Based on these findings, it was revealed that Generation Z users actively frequent diverse categories of Third Places. Notably, free or low-cost Third Places related to recreation (such as urban parks and public gyms) attracted particular interest. The results also demonstrated that financial barriers constitute the primary obstacle to utilizing Third Places among the surveyed individuals. The analysis summarizes the current situation and identifies avenues for further research on this subject.
ADAPTIVE AGRICULTURAL MANAGEMENT: RESPONDING TO CLIMATE CHANGE
In the article, main theoretical and methodological aspects of implementing adaptive management in functioning of agricultural enterprises in conditions of natural and climatic changes are considered. Theoretical approaches to determining the essence of adaptive management have been generalized, with identification of priority characteristics that have developed in modern economic conditions. Directions of comprehensive activity for implementation of adaptive management measures in strategic aspect have been determined. It has been considered the main directions of adaptive management of agricultural production and implementation of adaptive systems in conditions of climatic changes and specifics of technogenic direction of adaptation of agricultural production. Organizational aspects of agricultural production in the context of climate change have been substantiated, relating to both territorial location of individual enterprises and farms and technological innovations. It has been identified state management supporting adaptation of agricultural production in the context of climate change based on the systemic approach, including main components of the state management system. Functional purpose of the state management policy supporting adaptation of agricultural production is to ensure effective adaptive management, which is determined by the degree of organizational support of the state management system. Functional areas cover diverse activities of agricultural enterprises from optimizing the use of water resources and chemical fertilizers, adjusting timing of sowing and harvesting crops to implementing risk management measures in the context of climate change. The emphasis is on importance of taking into account aspects of risk and uncertainty of environmental conditions, and development of the appropriate risk management mechanism have been proposed.
ORGANISATIONAL SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY IN A LITHUANIAN MUNICIPALITY ADMINISTRATION: EVIDENCE ON PLANNING, COORDINATION AND IMPLEMENTATION
This study investigates the concept and application of organisational social responsibility (OSR) within a Lithuanian municipality administration. Drawing on key theoretical models - Carroll’s pyramid of responsibility, the Triple Bottom Line, the UN Global Compact principles, and stakeholder theory - the research examines how OSR is perceived and practiced in a public sector context. A quantitative research approach was used, combining a systematic literature review with an online survey of 101 district municipal employees. The results show that OSR is strategically embedded within the organisation and is actively planned, coordinated, and evaluated. Factor and correlation analyses confirm strong interrelations between these processes. Internally, OSR enhances organisational reputation, culture, and innovation; externally, it strengthens partnerships and community engagement. However, the perceived benefits vary by age, with younger employees showing more favourable attitudes. The findings suggest that when strategically integrated, OSR serves as an effective governance tool in the public sector.
Copyright (c) 2026 Remigijus Kinderis, Sandra Razmaitė https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0