Creative Research Management Journal
Vol 9 No 1 (2026): June

PRODUCT DIFFERENTIATION AND DIGITAL PROMOTION IN A BAKSO RUSUK MICROENTERPRISE IN KONAWE

Melati Melati (Universitas Lakidende Unaaha)



Article Info

Publish Date
21 Jul 2026

Abstract

This study analyzes the marketing strategy of a Bakso Rusuk culinary microenterprise in Konawe Regency by treating product differentiation and digital promotion as integrated practices for building market positioning. The qualitative case study used an in-depth interview with the owner, two to three hours of direct observation during operating hours, and field notes; the data were analyzed descriptively through thematic organization. Market appeal was shaped by the distinctiveness of beef-rib meatballs, the use of Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, affordable pricing, friendly and quick service, and local ingredients and labor. The study's novelty lies in explaining how local product identity, digital communication, service quality, and locally embedded resources operate as a configuration in a regional culinary microenterprise. Theoretically, differentiation and digital promotion are mutually reinforcing rather than separate practices. Practically, owners should clarify product identity, highlight visual uniqueness, strengthen customer relationships through WhatsApp, and communicate local value consistently.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

crmj

Publisher

Subject

Decision Sciences, Operations Research & Management Economics, Econometrics & Finance Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering Social Sciences

Description

Jurnal Ilmiah CREATIVE RESEARCH MANAGEMENT JOURNAL dikelola dan diterbitkan Prodi Manajemen Fakultas Ekonomi Unihaz merupakan media publikasi hasil penelitian dalam bidang ilmu manajemen dan bisnis, termasuk aplikasinya, baik marketing, finance, operational, management information system, human ...