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With 86% of Generation Y South Africans found to have a Samsung phone, we examined 1) whether they love and are satisfied with the brand, 2) how much the consumption value theory (monetary, functional and symbolic values) explains brand love and satisfaction, 3) the relationship between brand satisfaction and love. We surveyed 651 respondents from two large universities. Results revealed that Generation Y South Africans moderately love and are adequately satisfied with the Samsung phone brand. Structural equation modeling results showed that the three consumption values and brand satisfaction positively influenced brand love. Brand satisfaction was driven by only monetary and functional values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of this research is to assess the perceptions of black African middle managers on barriers to career progression. While a number of studies have investigated barriers to career progression among previously disadvantaged individuals, no study has focused on the perceptions of middle managers on the barriers to career progression amongst black Africans in the workplace. The study was qualitative in nature, employing a purposive sampling approach. Data was collected by means of semi-structured interviews amongst 18 black African middle managers in two major South African banks. Results indicate that a lack of exposure to senior managerial duties, lack of career guidance and support, demographic composition of senior management, as well as perceived unequal career opportunities present barriers to career progression. The value of the research lies in the practical changes banks can make to Human Resource practices and policies to overcome current challenges. The paper is of value to managers and HR professionals in the banking sector by addressing a major South African labour market issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]