IIJSE
Vol 9 No 2 (2026): Sharia Economics

The Effect of Word-of-Mouth (WOM) and Atmosphere on Competitive Advantage at Rumah Makan Rasa Leluhur, Medan City

Junaedi Caga (Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Ekonomi Eka Prasetya, Medan, Indonesia)
Dedy Lazuardi (Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Ekonomi Eka Prasetya, Medan, Indonesia)
Irvan Rolyesh Situmorang (Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Ekonomi Eka Prasetya, Medan, Indonesia)
Elisabeth Nainggolan (Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Ekonomi Eka Prasetya, Medan, Indonesia)
Idina Gustina (Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Ekonomi Eka Prasetya, Medan, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 Jul 2026

Abstract

The culinary industry in Medan City is growing rapidly, with over 2,002 restaurants operating as of 2025, creating intense competition. Rumah Makan Rasa Leluhur, a traditional restaurant in Medan, faces challenges in maintaining its competitive advantage amid increasing rivalry. This study aims to analyze the effect of Word of Mouth (WOM) and store atmosphere on the competitive advantage of Rumah Makan Rasa Leluhur in Medan City, both partially and simultaneously. This research employed a quantitative associative approach. Data were collected through questionnaires distributed to 100 respondents selected using incidental sampling. The research variables include Word of Mouth (X₁), Store Atmosphere (X₂), and Competitive Advantage (Y). Data analysis was conducted using multiple linear regression, classical assumption tests, t-test, F-test, and coefficient of determination (R²). The results show that Word of Mouth has a positive and significant partial effect on competitive advantage (t = 4.695 > t-table = 1.661; sig. = 0.001) with a partial contribution of 15.5%. Store Atmosphere also has a positive and significant partial effect (t = 4.917 > t-table = 1.661; sig. = 0.001) with a partial contribution of 17.1%. Simultaneously, both variables significantly influence competitive advantage (F = 23.487 > F-table = 3.09; sig. < 0.001), explaining 32.6% of the variance (R² = 0.326). These findings suggest that improving positive word of mouth communication and enhancing the physical store atmosphere are key strategies for strengthening the competitive position of Rumah Makan Rasa Leluhur.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

iijse

Publisher

Subject

Economics, Econometrics & Finance

Description

The Indonesian Interdisciplinary Journal of Sharia Economics (IIJSE) is Sharia Economics Journal published by Sharia Economics Department Institut Pesantren KH. Abdul Chalim, Mojokerto. The Journal focuses on the issues of Sharia Economics, the History of Islamic Economic Thought, Islamic Law, Local ...