Throughout history, human needs and requirements for survival have consistently served as catalysts for new developments and inventions. Footwear, initially conceived in various forms to protect the feet from environmental conditions to survive. Over time, with the transformation of societal structures and the advancement of technology, footwear evolved beyond its functional role, becoming a marker of identity, a symbol of social status, and an accessory of aesthetic value. This shifting perception of footwear has, in turn, contributed to the growth and industrialization of numerous sectors worldwide. 

Within Türkiye, the labor-intensive sectors, which accounts for a substantial share of national employment and production, plays a pivotal role in the economy by contributing to gross domestic product, generating employment, and creating new business opportunities. Its capacity to adapt rapidly to changing conditions has been a key driver of this contribution (Şahin, 2015). Nevertheless, when assessed in comparison with its European counterparts in terms of R&D, technology, and manufacturing techniques, the sector despite its significant role within Türkiye remains at a comparatively premature stage of development.

Economic stability, energy infrastructure etc. is indisputably among the most critical determinants of industrial advancement (Çalışkan, 2024). In periods of economic downturn or instability, enterprises often fail to perform accurate analyses and, consequently, are unable to devise long-term strategies and tactics that could secure sustained success (Moberg & Overå, 2016). Given the structural advantages to the footwear industry, it is beneficial that industries stakeholders, along with local authorities and relevant national government institutions, implement regulatory and developmental initiatives. Such measures would enable producers to respond promptly to market changes, maintain competitive strength, and operate effectively in an innovation-driven environment. Innovation is a key factor determining the success of manufacturing enterprises in the footwear industry. For a company, ensuring long-term survival, maintaining operational and profit sustainability, and using available resources efficiently require the continuous development of products in line with technological progress and current fashion trends. In Türkiye, the labor-intensive footwear manufacturing has a long-standing presence in this dynamic and ever-diversifying field, making notable contributions to the national economy. This study explores the historical development, current situation, and future prospects of Türkiyes footwear industry, and suggest solution-oriented strategies to support its further growth (Sufian et al., 2023).

The primary purpose of this study is to conduct a comprehensive SWOT analysis of the Turkish Footwear Manufacturing Industry (TFMI), examining its historical development, current status, and future prospects. By tracing the sectors evolution from its origins to the present day, this research aims to identify the internal strengths and weaknesses as well as external opportunities and threats that shape the industrys competitive advantages. 

To achieve these objectives, the methodology of this study is grounded in qualitative research methods, aiming to provide an in-depth and context-rich analysis of the Turkish Footwear Manufacturing Industry (TFMI). The research design integrates participant observation in various production settings with the researchers extensive professional experience in the sector. This dual approach -combining field-based observations with experiential insights offers a nuanced understanding of the industrys internal dynamics, management practices, and operational challenges.

Sampling and Sample Size

The researcher has more than 10 years of professional experience in the Turkish footwear industry. This professional background provides comprehensive insights into production processes, labor structures, and management models. For this study, the researchers own industry experience findings were supported by 18 hours of participant observation and 27 semi-structured interviews conducted in 8 different manufacturing businesses. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with key stakeholders in the footwear industry, including business owners, master craftsmen, designers, and industry association managers. Each interview lasted approximately 45 minutes on average. Participant selection followed three criteria to ensure diversity and relevance: (1) engagement in footwear manufacturing operations within Türkiye; (2) a minimum of five years of export experience in the industry; and (3) demonstrated willingness to share in-depth personal insights and professional perspectives.

This approach allowed for a multidimensional analysis by integrating experience-based obser-vations with systematic data collection techniques. 

All collected data were systematically coded and thematically categorized to identify the TFMIs strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, forming the basis of the SWOT analysis. By embedding personal experience within a rigorous scientific framework and triangulating it with multiple qualitative data sources, this methodology ensures a reliable, multi-dimensional, and strategically oriented evaluation of the TFMIs present condition and future prospects.

Footwear Manufacturing Industry in Türkiye 

Footwear originated as a practical necessity, with early forms such as palm-leaf wrappings and animal hides protecting the feet from harsh natural conditions. Archaeological evidence, including a 5,500-year-old leather shoe from Armenia and ancient depictions in cave paintings, demonstrates its deep historical roots (Pinhasi et al., 2010). Over time, footwear evolved beyond functionality, serving as a marker of social status in civilizations such as ancient Egypt and Rome (Bakan & Güllü). This transformation accelerated during the Industrial Revolution, when mechanization, standardized sizing, and innovations like Elias Howes 1845 lockstitch sewing machine shifted production from artisanal workshops to mass manufacturing. The period also saw the specialization of last-making as a separate trade, underscoring the enduring need for precise fit through collaboration between last makers and shoemakers (Gregory, 2006).

The evolution of the footwear manufacturing industry from antiquity to the present day reflects significant technological and material advancements that have fundamentally transformed production processes and product design. Initially, footwear was handcrafted from natural materials such as leather, serving primarily as basic protection. During the Middle Ages, craftsmanship improved, emphasizing both functionality and aesthetics (H. İmre, 2020; Kastan, 2023). The Industrial Revolution marked a pivotal moment by introducing mechanization and mass production techniques, which substantially increased output and reduced costs. In the early 20th century, the establishment of modern factories and the widespread adoption of rubber soles further revolutionized the industry. The mid to late 20th century witnessed the rise of athletic footwear and the incorporation of synthetic materials and cushioning technologies, aligning product development with performance demands (Barff & Austen, 1993). 

Advances in computer-aided design (CAD) and automation from the 1980s onward enhanced precision and efficiency, facilitating the growth of global brands and fast fashion. More recently, innovations such as 3D printing, sustainable materials, customized manufacturing, and digital marketing have positioned the footwear industry at the forefront of technological integration and environmental consciousness (Düzgün & Çetinkaya, 2019; Jing et al., 2021; Savadkoohi & De Amicis, 2009). Collectively, these developments have shaped footwear manufacturing into a dynamic and complex global sector, balancing functional requirements with evolving consumer preferences 

Historical Development of the Turkish Footwear Industry

The TFMI possesses deep historical roots, strongly influenced by the advanced leatherworking traditions prevalent in Anatolia. Notably, during the Ottoman period, the production of footwear was both an artisanal craft and a significant cultural practice. For instance, the soft leather boots worn by the Janissaries reflected the high craftsmanship level and contributed substantially to footwear manufacturing (Bakan & Güllü; Turna, 2021). Ottoman shoes were known not only for their durability but also for their elegance, symbolizing the wearers social status and occupation, much like in today. Different types of shoes and boots were distinctly designed for soldiers, various professions, servants, and for indoor versus outdoor use. This meticulous production was institutionalized within guild systems tracing back to the Ahi Brotherhood, with a hierarchical organization led by the “Yiğitbaşı” who regulated quality and distribution. Apprenticeships, rigorous training, and progressive mastery ensured the crafts sustainability and high standards (H. M. İmre, 2016; Turna, 2021).

By the 1990s, the TFMI, particularly in İstanbul, had made significant strides in increasing exports and employment, contributing markedly to the national economy. Manufacturers began to adopt European technological advancements and knowledge transfers, moving production facilities to organized different industrial sites (Güler Müftüoğlu, 2000). The transition from predominantly handcrafted methods to mechanized manufacturing accelerated through the early 2000s, alongside the establishment of the new establishments to support industry. Today, Türkiyes footwear industry is recognized for its technological sophistication and production expertise, positioning it ahead of many other regions domestically and internationally. This historical evolution, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern industrial practices, underpins the sectors resilience and competitiveness in Türkiyes economic landscape.

Current Status of the TFMI Industry

The TFMI today represents a dynamic and significant segment of the national manufacturing industries, characterized by a diverse range of production scales from artisanal workshops to large-scale factories (Güler Müftüoğlu, 2000). The industry serves both domestic demand and export markets mainly to EU and Russia, with Türkiye ranking among the leading global footwear producers and exporters. Key production centers include cities such as Istanbul, Konya, Izmir, and Gaziantep, each contributing distinctively to the industrys capacity and specialization. The product portfolio ranges from traditional leather shoes to modern sports and casual footwear, incorporating both established brands and emerging manu-facturers. Despite challenges such as competition from low-cost producers and fluctuating raw material prices, the TFMI has maintained steady growth by embracing technological modernization, improving design capabilities, and expanding into new markets (Ahat, 2024). Government support, incentive programs implemented to encourage exports, and increased investments in research and development have further supported the competi-tiveness of the industry. Moreover, a growing emphasis on sustainability and innovation is shaping production trends, reflecting global consumer preferences. Overall, the current status of the TFMI illustrates a balance between preserving traditional craftsmanship and advancing industrial efficiency to sustain its role in both the domestic economy and the global market (Yazmacioğlu, 2006).

SWOT Analysis of the Turkish Footwear Manufacturing Industry

The TFMI exhibits a multifaceted profile characterized by distinct strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats that collectively shape its competitiveness. Among its key strengths are a well-established manufacturing infrastructure, skilled labor force with deep-rooted artisanal traditions, and strategic geographic location bridging Europe and Asia, which facilitates efficient export logistics. Additionally, the TFMI benefits from a diverse product range and increasing adoption of modern technologies, enhancing design and production capabilities. However, the industry faces certain weaknesses, including reliance on imported raw materials, fragmented small-scale producers limiting economies of scale, and occasional deficiencies in branding and marketing strategies on the global stage. Opportunities abound in expanding into emerging markets, leveraging advancements in sustainable materials and digital technologies, and capitalizing on Türkiyes customs union with the European Union to enhance trade. Moreover, the increasing global demand for personalized and environmentally sustainable footwear offers significant opportunities for innovation. However, the TFMI also faces notable challenges, including intense competition from low-cost international producers, exchange rate volatility that impacts export profitability, and potential disruptions in supply chains. Additionally, shifting consumer preferences and rising regulatory pressures regarding environmental standards necessitate the adoption of adaptive and proactive strategies. Overall, the SWOT analysis underscores the importance of strategic investments in technology, brand development, and sustainability initiatives to enhance the resilience and long-term growth of TFMI.

Advantages of the Turkish Footwear Manufacturing Industry

The TFMI holds a significant global competitive advantage, primarily due to its advanced industrial experience concentrated in key cities like Istanbul, Konya, İzmir, and Gaziantep. This extensive expertise allows for a strong emphasis on quality, making the country a preferred manufacturing partner for international brands. A major factor is Türkiyes strategic geographic location, which provides close access to major markets such as the EU and Russia, ensuring faster and more efficient logistics (Bashımov, 2021). This proximity, coupled with the industrys flexible production model, allows for lower minimum order quantities and enhanced production control, which appeals to global brands seeking agile supply chain solutions. The industry is further bolstered by a large domestic population that serves as both a strong market and a large labor force, supported by an effective "contractor" system and a "piece-rate" wage approach. This is complemented by a robust ecosystem that includes universities and vocational institutions collaborating with the industry, ensuring a continuous supply of skilled professionals. Türkiyes manufacturing capabilities are highly versatile, covering a wide range of footwear types, and are supported by a modern machinery park and a reliable domestic supply of key raw materials (leather and textile). This combination of historical expertise, logistical advantages, skilled labor, and flexible production capabilities collectively positions Türkiye as a key player in the global footwear industry.

• Türkiyes Large Population: The countrys large population is a source of labor for both the market and production, as it provides a significant domestic consumer base and a large, accessible workforce.
• Advanced Machinery and Technology Park: The TFMI is equipped with modern machinery and technology, which allows for efficient and high-quality production.
• Ability to Produce All Types of Footwear: The industry has the versatility to manufacture a wide range of shoe styles and construction types, from flip flops to combat boots.
• Geographical Proximity to Major Markets: Türkiyes strategic location provides a logistical advantage, from Asia to Europe, Russia to Africa along with Middle East enabling quick and cost-effective shipping to key export markets.
• Low Minimum Order Quantities and Fast Production Control: The industry offers flexibility with smaller order sizes and efficient management of the production process for global brands for their supply chain.
• Experience in Foreign Sales: Turkish textile and apparel manufacturers have a proven track record and established relationships in international markets, making TFMI advantageous.
• Coordinated Universities and Educational Institutions with the Industry: The presence of a strong educational ecosystem that works closely with the industry ensures a steady supply of skilled and innovative professionals.
• Domestic Sourcing of Many Raw Materials: The industrys ability to source key mate-rials like leathers, textiles, accessories and molds from within the country reduces dependence on imports and helps control costs.
• Unique and Flexible Production Methods. In manufacturing, a common workforce model is the “Contractor” or “Pair Rate” wage agreement. This model offers flexibility and efficiency by employing independent workers who are typically paid based on the number of units they produce.

Disadvantages of the Turkish Footwear Manufacturing Industry

Internal Disadvantages Affecting the Industry

Despite its many advantages, the TFMI faces significant internal challenges that hinder its full potential. A prominent issue is the shortage of qualified personnel, which creates a gap in specialized skills essential for advanced manufacturing. This problem is compounded by the disorganized and inadequate infrastructure of specialized industrial zones, leading to inefficiencies and operational disruptions. Furthermore, there is a noticeable lack of creative design and R&D that aligns with global trends, often rooted in a prevalence of traditional management approaches. This traditional mindset often leads to an insufficient utilization of scientific methods and data-driven insights. The industry also struggles with a failure to pay attention to critical details that could impact overall product quality. Another common practice is the widespread implementation of a "stock production" model, which can lead to oversupply and financial risk. Finally, the high rate of undocumented employment within the TFMI creates regulatory and ethical issues, while also undermining efforts to formalize the workforce (Bayrakcı & Altun, 2023).

• Shortage of Qualified Personnel: The industry struggles to attract and retain skilled workers, as traditional training methods and inadequate benefits discourage a new generation of labor from entering the TFMI.
•  Disorganized Infrastructure of Specialized Industries: Many industrial zones are built with small, multi-story workshops rather than modern factories, creating logistical inefficiencies and hindering large-scale production.
•   Lack of Creative Design Aligned with Global Trends: The TFMI suffers from a traditional mindset that prioritizes conventional models over innovative design and research, failing to keep pace with international fashion and technological advancements.
• Prevalence of Traditional Management Approaches: Management styles are often based on a master-apprentice model, which leads to a lack of strategic planning and a resistance to systematic self-evaluation.
•  Insufficient Use of Scientific Methods and Knowledge: The industry often overlooks data-driven insights and modern business practices, relying instead on conventional wisdom and personal experience.
•  Neglect of Details Affecting Total Quality: Small-scale production and a lack of specialized labor result in workers performing multiple roles, which can lead to errors and a decline in overall product quality.
•  Widespread Use of Stock Production: The common practice of producing goods for inventory rather than on-demand can lead to oversupply, financial risk, and a mismatch between products and market trends.
•   High Rate of Undocumented Employment: A significant portion of the workforce operates informally, creating regulatory and ethical challenges while undermining efforts to formalize and professionalize the TFMI.

External Disadvantages Affecting the Industry

Beyond internal issues, the TFMI must navigate several external disadvantages. A key problem is the insufficiency and non-compliance with industry standards, which can affect product consistency and international market credibility. The TFMI is highly vulnerable to seasonal sales fluctuations, which directly impacts production cycles and planning. High energy costs place an additional financial burden on manufacturers, reducing competitiveness. The tax burden is also a major concern, particularly the skewed tax rates on finished products, labor, and raw materials, which distorts cost structures and profitability. Furthermore, the education system fails to adequately support the TFMIs needs. This is primarily due to a shortage of educators who are familiar with the industry and the use of curriculums or practices that are not aligned with the TFMIs demands, creating a mismatch between academic training and real-world industry requirements (H. İmre, 2020).

•  Inadequate and Unenforced Standards: The lack of robust and consistently applied industry standards can lead to a decline in product consistency and a loss of international market credibility.
•  Production Highly Dependent on Seasonal Sales: The industrys production cycles are heavily influenced by seasonal demand, which can lead to volatile output and difficulty in maintaining stable employment and consistent production planning.
•  High Energy Costs: The elevated price of energy places a significant financial strain on manufacturers, increasing operational costs and reducing the TFMIs price competitiveness in global markets.
• Disproportionate Tax Burden: The footwear industry faces a challenging tax structure, with skewed tax rates on finished products, labor, and raw materials that distort cost calculations and profitability.
•  Education Systems Failure to Meet Sector Needs: Educational institutions often fail to provide a skilled workforce that aligns with the industrys requirements. This is due to a shortage of qualified educators familiar with the TFMI and curriculums that are not updated to match current industry demands and practices.

Opportunities for the Turkish Footwear Manufacturing Industry

The TFMI is well-positioned to capitalize on a number of significant external opportunities. The economic challenges in Europe, particularly in key manufacturing countries, present a dual advantage: the potential for production to shift from Europe to Türkiye and the increased demand for more affordable footwear, a niche that Turkish manufacturers can effectively fill. Concurrently, a growing trend among global brands to diversify production away from Asia, combined with Türkiyes logistical advantages, creates a compelling case for Türkiye as a manufacturing hub. The countrys economic stability and rising consumer purchasing power further attract international brands, who may seek local production to better serve the Turkish market. This environment, coupled with consumers changing perceptions of footwear as a fashion accessory and their rapid adoption of digital technologies, offers Turkish producers a clear path to innovation and increased market share (Uzkurt, Ekmekcioglu, Ceyhan, & Hatiboglu, 2024).

• European Economic Challenges: The economic crisis in Europe, particularly in traditional footwear-producing nations like Portugal, Italy, Greece, and Spain, presents a significant opportunity. The crisis could lead to production disruptions and a geographic shift in manufacturing, which Türkiye is well-positioned to capture due to its proximity and existing trade agreements. Furthermore, a weakened purchasing power among European consumers could increase demand for more competitively priced footwear, making Turkish products more attractive.
• Global Brands Diversifying Production from Asia: A growing trend among major global brands is to move production out of Asian countries. While some brands have relocated to nations from China to Indonesia and India, Türkiyes geographical proximity to key markets, coupled with its advanced produc-tion capabilities and easier logistics control compared to distant Asian competitors, makes it a highly attractive alternative.
• Türkiyes Economical Potential and Regional Stability: A stable and growing economy is a crucial foundation for any sectors development. Türkiyes recent economic stability has had a positive impact on the footwear industry, leading to significant export growth. This sustained stability provides a fertile ground for long-term strategic planning and continued expansion.
• Shifting Consumer Perceptions of Footwear: The modern consumer views footwear less as a basic necessity and more as a fashion accessory, placing a greater emphasis on design over material quality. This shift in consumer behavior, as evidenced by a rising per capita shoe consumption in developed markets, represents a major opportunity for Turkish manufacturers to gain market share and increase profitability by focusing on design-driven products.
• Favorable Currency Exchange Rates: The appreciation of currencies in major competitor nations like China against the US dollar and Euro has eroded their price competitiveness. This trend gives Turkish manufacturers a significant advantage by making their products more cost-effective in international markets.
• Entry of Major Global Brands into the Turkish Market: The growing stability and purchasing power of the Turkish market are attracting major global footwear brands like Deichmann and Payless. These brands may seek local production to better tailor their products to the specific tastes and cultural preferences of the Turkish consumer, creating a major opportunity for Turkish manufacturers to become local production partners.
• Turkish Societys Rapid Adaptation to Digital Innovation: The swift adoption of technology by the both consumers and Turkish SME creates a favorable environment for the industry to embrace new production methods. Innovations such as 3D printing and mass customization can be implemented more readily than in competitor nations, giving Turkish producers a technological edge.

Potential Threats to the Turkish Footwear Manufacturing Industry

The TFMI faces several potential threats that could impact its competitive position and market stability. These challenges stem from evolving global dynamics, including a shift toward sustainability and economic instability.

Competitors Development of Sustainable Solutions: Some countries, such as Portugal and Spain, are developing environmentally friendly raw materials and production methods for footwear. This focus on sustainability aligns with growing consumer interest, but it clashes with the more traditional and less environmentally-conscious approaches prevalent within the TFMI.

Global Economic Instability: Global crises can lead to trade sanctions, additional customs duties, and other measures that destabilize markets. For instance, TFMI exporters selling to Russia have faced banking and payment system disruptions due to sanctions, which poses a significant threat to trade in this and related markets.

Impact of Environmental Regulations: The increasing global emphasis on environmental approaches directly affects the footwear industry. These new regulations and consumer expectations pose a significant threat to traditional Turkish manufacturers who may lack the capacity or willingness to adapt their production processes to meet greener standards.

Geopolitical Risks: The geopolitical landscape, especially in regions surrounding Türkiye, can have a direct impact on the footwear industry. As seen with the Russia-Ukraine war, conflicts can lead to cancelled orders and disrupted supply chains. The industrys reliance on certain regional markets, while a strength in some ways, also makes it vulnerable to political and economic instability.

Threats from New Production Bases: A possible threat to the TFMI arises from the European markets shift toward sourcing new production bases in Eastern European countries. Specifically, this includes Italy sourcing from Albania, Spain from Morocco, and Germany from Romania and Poland. While the full establishment and operationalization of these new manufacturing sectors is a gradual process, developing alongside their sub-sectors, this trend represents a potential competitive threat to the TFMI that warrants careful evaluation.

To address current challenges and thrive in global competition, the TFMI must adopt a strategic and multi-faceted approach. 

Addressing Labor and Education Shortfalls 

Modernize Training and Curriculum: The industry should collaborate with universities and vocational schools to develop modern curriculums backed with government counterparts and Minister of Education that align with industry needs. First, ensuring the training of teaching staff then providing education to students. The focus should be on specialized fields like footwear technology, sustainable production, and emerging digital design. Improve Working Conditions and Image: To counter the TFMIs negative image, working conditions, social benefits, and wages must be improved. Instead of traditional "pair-rate" models, the industry should promote professional career paths. Sector leaders should launch a positive communication campaign to encourage young people to view shoemaking as a viable and rewarding career.

Fostering Modern Management and Innovation

Shift to Modern Management: Businesses must move away from traditional management styles and embrace strategic planning, continuous improvement, and data-driven decision-making. This will encourage companies to systematically evaluate and improve their operations, not just during crises.

Invest in Design and R&D: Recognizing that footwear is now a fashion accessory, companies should be incentivized to invest heavily in design and R&D. Protecting innovative ideas through patents and design registrations is crucial. The industry should also increase its participation in international design fairs to stay ahead of global trends.

Improving Infrastructure and Production Structure

Develop Modern Industrial Zones: The TFMI must move beyond small, multi-story workshops. New industrial zones should be built with spacious, single-floor factories suitable for modern assembly-line production, which will resolve logistical, workflow, and safety issues.

Promote Specialization and Collaboration: Instead of small businesses handling every stage of production, specialization should be encouraged. A more efficient and transparent subcontracting system can be developed to improve overall quality and allow businesses to focus on their core competencies.

Enhancing Market Position and Exports

Embrace Sustainability: To meet the growing environmental demands of global markets, the industry must invest in eco-friendly raw materials, waste management, and sustainable production processes. This will provide a significant competitive advantage in markets like the EU.

Diversify Export Markets: To reduce dependency on a few key markets, such as Russia, the industry should actively explore and develop new export opportunities in emerging regions like Asia and Africa.

Accelerate Digital Transformation: Companies must leverage e-commerce platforms and digital marketing to build a strong online presence and sales network. Integrating new technologies like 3D printing will enable personalized and on-demand production models, increasing agility and consumer engagement.

The TFMI, with its deep-rooted history and significant contributions to the national economy, stands at a crucial juncture, while it presents a unique advantage: a vast potential for growth that is unavailable to more developed industries. A key strength of the TFMI is its established "know-how" culture, particularly in leather production, which has enabled it to consistently produce high-quality products. However, a persistent challenge is the effort to offer quality at a low price point, a dilemma that often leads manufacturers to compromise on quality to cut costs. To achieve sustainable growth, the industry must transition from being a primary manufacturer of other brands to creating its own valuable brands. As a supplier, a companys worth is largely tied to production volume; however, a brands value, as demonstrated by global brand, far exceeds that of its suppliers. Therefore, Turkish manufacturers must develop a long-term strategy to build their own brands, focusing on product differentiation and understanding their target markets. Economic stability is a fundamental driver of a TFMIs success. The economic crises in Europe have created a significant chance for Turkish manufacturers to attract production that is being relocated. Türkiyes geographical proximity to key markets and its logistical advantages over distant competitors in the Far East, which often specialize in low-cost and imitation footwear, further strengthen this position.

To overcome existing challenges and leverage these opportunities, the TFMI requires a collective and comprehensive approach. Significant barriers include a shortage of skilled labor and outdated infrastructure. Addressing these issues demands collaboration among all stakeholders: companies, NGOs, universities, local governments, and relevant ministries. By modernizing production infrastructure, investing in vocational training, fostering innovation, and prioritizing brand creation, the TFMI can transcend its traditional limitations and secure a more prominent position in the global market.

The author sincerely appreciates the participants for their time and responses, for facilitating the research process, and the anonymous reviewers for their constructive suggestions that improved the manuscript.

The author declares that there are no conflicts of interest regarding the publication of this paper.