International Journal of Economic and Tourism Research
Vol. 1 No. 3 (2025): October 2025

Optimizing Instagram Engagement Strategies for Culinary SMEs: Evidence from the Bakpia Juwara Satoe Account

Wahyu Purnomo (Universitas Ahmad Dahlan)
Guntur Andi Pamungkas (Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta)



Article Info

Publish Date
01 Oct 2025

Abstract

Instagram has become a key digital platform for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) seeking to strengthen audience engagement through visual communication. This study examines the engagement strategies implemented by Bakpia Juwara Satoe, a local culinary brand that utilizes Instagram as its primary promotional and branding medium. Using a qualitative descriptive case study approach, the research explores how content planning, visual presentation, interaction management, and credibility-building practices shape audience engagement. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with account managers, participant observation of audience interactions, and analysis of internal Instagram analytics and content archives. The findings indicate that Bakpia Juwara Satoe applies adaptive and predictive content planning supported by a consistent visual identity, attention-grabbing visual hooks, and active two-way communication in the comment section. Authentic storytelling and transparent product information further contribute to audience trust and sustained engagement. The study concludes that effective Instagram engagement for culinary SMEs does not depend solely on video-based content. Instead, strategic relevance, visual consistency, and relational communication play a decisive role in enhancing engagement outcomes. These findings contribute to social media marketing literature by highlighting alternative engagement strategies applicable to SMEs operating in competitive digital environments.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ECOTOUR

Publisher

Subject

Description

International Journal of Economic and Tourism Research (ECOTOUR) is a peer-review journal published fourth a year (January, April, June and October) by PT. Hidayat Muda Intelektual, Indonesia. ECOTOUR addresses the broad area of management and tourism applied and its practices in industry, business ...