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In recent years, Iraq has witnessed a significant growth in the number of private schools, sparking widespread discussions about the reasons behind this expansion and its impact on the educational system. This development comes amid the increasing challenges faced by public schools, such as deteriorating infrastructure, overcrowded classrooms, and a lack of educational resources. These issues have pushed many Iraqi families to seek alternatives that offer education aligned with their aspirations for high-quality learning. 

On the other hand, opinions about the role of private schools vary. While some view them as a key factor in improving educational quality and meeting growing demands, others argue that they may deepen the gap between social classes, further widening the disparity in educational opportunities. There is also the question of how this expansion affects the state’s role in providing free and comprehensive education, and whether private schools undermine this role or complement it. 

Furthermore, topics such as the role of the private sector in funding education and its influence on curricula, as well as the challenges teachers may face when moving between the public and private sectors, are also worth exploring. 

The Motives for the Growth of Private Schools in Iraq 

Challenges in Public Education: Public schools in Iraq suffer from chronic problems, including insufficient funding, deteriorating infrastructure, and overcrowded classrooms, which negatively impact the quality of education provided. Additionally, the public education system faces a shortage of teaching resources and modern technologies, making it unable to keep pace with global educational advancements. These challenges have led many Iraqi families to seek alternatives that offer suitable learning environments for their children, resulting in a noticeable increase in demand for private schools. 

The Pursuit of Better Educational Quality: Private schools in Iraq serve as a haven for families aspiring to provide their children with better quality education. These schools offer modern curricula based on advanced teaching methods, such as interactive learning and the integration of technology in classrooms. This approach enhances students’ academic capabilities and offers them better opportunities to excel in fields of knowledge and science, making private schools an attractive choice for families seeking a distinguished educational future for their children. 

Curriculum Flexibility to Meet Modern Needs: Private schools excel in their greater flexibility in adapting and developing their curricula to align with the modern demands of the labour market and society. They place special emphasis on practical skills, such as learning foreign languages, information technology skills, and advancements in modern sciences. This focus on skill-based education helps in preparing a generation capable of competing in both local and global markets. 

Focus on Extracurricular Activities and Personal Development: One of the key features of private schools is their attention to developing students’ personal and social skills through extracurricular activities. These activities cover a wide range of fields, including the arts, sports, and volunteering programs, which are essential elements in building a well-rounded and balanced character. Extracurricular activities also enhance students’ ability to adapt to everyday life challenges, fostering leadership and communication skills. 

Emphasis on Holistic and Sustainable Education: Many private schools adopt educational strategies that aim to promote sustainable education, which not only focuses on academic curricula but also on creating a learning environment that supports the holistic development of students. These efforts include providing psychological and social support services for students, contributing to improving their academic and personal performance alike. 

The Role of Technology in Private Education: Technology has become an integral part of the curricula in private schools, where these institutions invest in modern educational technologies, such as smart boards, online learning, and interactive applications. These technological innovations contribute to the enhancement of the learning process, enabling students to understand academic content in a deeper and more effective way. 

Global Trends and Their Impact on Private Education: Thanks to the alignment of Iraqi private schools with global education trends, they are better equipped to adopt internationally recognised standards of quality and academic progress. This openness helps to improve the standard of education in Iraq, making it more competitive compared to neighbouring countries and providing students with better opportunities for higher education in global institutions. 

These factors collectively explain the large expansion in the number of private schools in Iraq and their role in shaping a new educational reality that aligns with the aspirations of Iraqi society for progress and development. 

The Expansion of Specialised Treatment Centres as Part of the Growth in Private Schools 
Alongside the growth of private schools in Iraq, recent years have also seen a significant expansion in specialised treatment centres associated with the education sector, targeting children with special needs, such as those with delayed development, speech issues, autism, Down syndrome, and children who need to learn sign language. 

Centres Specialising in Developmental and Speech Delays: These centres play a vital role in supporting children who face difficulties in natural development, whether in physical, mental, or linguistic skills. They offer advanced therapeutic programs that help children overcome these obstacles and develop their abilities in line with their age. Additionally, these centres provide a safe and nurturing environment for the development of the child’s capabilities and improvement of their social and academic interaction. 

Sign Language Education Centres for Deaf Children: There has been a growing need for sign language education centres for deaf and hard-of-hearing children to meet their educational and communication needs. These centres offer specialised services to teach children sign language, enabling them to communicate effectively with their social and academic surroundings. This type of education enhances their independence and provides them with better opportunities to participate in society. 

Specialised Nurseries for Children: Nurseries play an important role in caring for children while parents are busy with work or daily commitments, providing a safe and nurturing environment for the child’s growth and development. In the nursery, children learn new skills and interact with their peers, helping them develop their social and cognitive abilities. Nurseries give parents peace of mind, knowing their children are in a place that provides the appropriate care and attention, easing their stress and helping them focus on their work. 

Centres for Autism and Children with Special Needs: With growing awareness of autism in Iraq, specialised centres have emerged to offer support and care for children with autism. These centres focus on developing communication skills, enhancing social interaction, and improving academic performance for children with autism through comprehensive educational and training programs. Additionally, these centres provide psychological and social support to families, helping them adapt to the specific needs of their children. 

The Role of Treatment Centres in Improving Education Quality: Collaboration between treatment centres and private schools forms a crucial element in improving the quality of education for children with special needs. By offering specialised and varied services, these centres help prepare students to face educational challenges, whether by improving speech and communication skills or developing their physical and cognitive abilities. 

Overall, this expansion in both treatment and educational centres signals an important shift in Iraqi society’s vision for integrated education and healthcare. 

In conclusion, The expansion of private schools in Iraq is a complex educational and social phenomenon that requires in-depth study to understand its implications for both the educational system and society at large. While these schools offer solutions to the challenges faced by public education, such as improving educational quality and providing a modern learning environment, there remain issues that need addressing. Chief among these is the growing gap between public and private education and its impact on social justice and equal educational opportunities. 

This expansion also carries economic impacts worth studying, such as the high costs for families, especially those striving to provide better education for their children with limited resources. On the other hand, the spread of private schools could support the private sector and create new job opportunities in education and administration. 

It is, therefore, crucial for the government to adopt a comprehensive strategy focusing on developing public schools to make them competitive with their private counterparts. This balance would ensure equal educational opportunities for all groups, contributing to improving the overall level of education in the country, while also promoting social and economic growth. 

The economic developments Iraq has witnessed in recent years, foreign labour has emerged as one of the key elements driving development, especially in sectors such as construction, energy, and industry. Despite its numerous economic benefits, foreign labour raises many discussions about its impact on the local market, balancing the benefits it offers against the challenges it presents. 

Benefits 

Transfer of Skills and Expertise: Foreign labour, particularly from advanced economies, serves as a valuable source of transferring technology and cutting-edge knowledge to the Iraqi market. By employing experts and specialists in technical and engineering fields, local companies can benefit from international expertise, helping to improve production quality and increase work efficiency. 

Bridging The Skills Gap: In some vital industries such as oil and gas, local skills may be insufficient to meet job demands. Here, foreign labour plays a crucial role in filling this skills gap, ensuring the continuity of work in these essential sectors. For example, oil companies in Iraq heavily rely on foreign engineers and technicians due to the specialised experience required in this field. 

Contributing to Economic Growth: Foreign labour also helps accelerate the pace of development in infrastructure and service projects. By providing qualified labour, Iraq can complete major development projects more quickly and efficiently, thus stimulating the local economy. 

Challenges 

Impact on Local Employment Opportunities: One of the main concerns is the effect of foreign labour on employment opportunities for local residents. Some sectors rely heavily on foreign labour, reducing job opportunities for Iraqis, particularly in roles that do not require high skills. This raises questions about the government’s policy in regulating the labour market and ensuring that local workers are prioritised. 

Cultural and Social Differences: The presence of a significant number of foreign workers in Iraq also poses a challenge related to cultural and social differences. Foreign workers often have habits and traditions that differ from Iraqi society, which can lead to cultural clashes. These challenges should be addressed through awareness programmes aimed at foreign workers to educate them about Iraqi culture and help them integrate more smoothly. 

Currency Outflows: Foreign workers often remit a large portion of their income to their home countries, leading to an outflow of hard currency from the Iraqi economy. This can have a negative impact in the long term if measures are not taken to limit excessive capital outflows. 

Regulation and Management of Foreign Labour 

The presence of foreign workers requires an effective system to manage their entry and stay in Iraq, as well as to regulate their work according to local laws. A lack of proper regulation in this area can lead to challenges such as an increase in illegal labour or the exploitation of foreign workers under poor working conditions. 

Proposed Solutions 

1. To address these challenges, Iraq can take several steps to ensure a balance between benefiting from foreign labour and protecting the rights of local workers. Firstly, vocational training for Iraqis can be strengthened to equip them with the skills needed in key sectors, reducing dependence on foreign labour. The government should also implement clear policies to regulate foreign labour, including setting specific quotas for the employment of both foreigners and locals in each sector. 

2. Furthermore, foreign workers could be directed towards specific projects that require complex technical expertise, while ensuring that administrative and simpler technical roles are available for Iraqis. Additionally, it is essential for the government to establish policies that encourage local investment and reduce excessive reliance on foreign labour by incentivising Iraqi companies to employ local workers whenever possible. 

In conclusion, Foreign labour plays a vital role in Iraq’s economic development, helping to fill technical gaps and boost productivity. However, it also poses challenges related to local employment opportunities and socio-economic impacts. Through well-planned policies and regulatory measures, Iraq can strike the necessary balance between harnessing foreign expertise and safeguarding the interests of its local workforce, ensuring sustainable development that benefits all parties. 

In recent years, the legumes sector in Iraq has witnessed a remarkable transformation due to the increasing control of foreign companies. These companies have been able to tighten their grip on the market thanks to their advanced technologies and ability to provide high-quality products. This increasing influence has not only changed consumer preferences, but has also radically reshaped the structure of the local market. With the increasing demand for imported products, especially in light of the impact of agricultural seasons, local companies find themselves facing major challenges in maintaining their position in the market. 

Challenges facing the frozen legumes sector in Iraq: 

1. Local companies faced major challenges in meeting the needs of the population for frozen legumes products when they first appeared on the market. This deficit in production capacity and the scarcity of local products at that time led to an increase in demand for frozen legumes, as the desire to consume them increased as they were new products. 

2. The market faced difficulty in achieving a balance between supply and demand, which negatively affected the ability of local companies to adequately meet the needs of consumers, due to the increase in demand at a rate exceeding supply.  

3. With the entry of foreign companies into the market, these companies were able to gain the trust of consumers thanks to the high quality and variety of products. This increasing preference for imported products led to an increase in demand for them, which posed an additional challenge for local companies that were struggling to meet consumer expectations in terms of quality and reliability. 

4. Some government policies sought to attract foreign investment as a means of stimulating economic growth, which provided foreign companies with a greater opportunity to capture the local market for frozen legumes. This government support contributed to strengthening the presence of foreign companies, which increased the challenges faced by local companies in competing and maintaining their market share. 

Opportunities for local companies to meet the challenges of foreign companies’ dominance 

1. Investing in innovation and technology, where local companies can take advantage of the opportunities available in the field of research and development to innovate new products and improve production processes using modern technology. 

2. International strategic cooperation, this type of cooperation includes partnerships with advanced international companies to exchange expertise and modern technologies, which enhances production capacity and quality. 

3. Focusing on building a strong brand identity that highlights local quality and distinction to strengthen the brand locally., which can help attract customers who prefer local products. 

4. Investing in training and developing local skills to improve production and administrative efficiencies, which raises the level of performance and reduces the gap with foreign companies. 

5. Cooperating with local suppliers by building a strong network of local suppliers to improve the supply chain and reduce costs, which helps in providing products with competitive value. 

Suggestions to address the challenges of foreign control 

1. Local companies can start expanding their production capacity by investing in new facilities and advanced equipment for freezing and packaging legumes. This expansion can be accompanied by a careful analysis of the market to understand the actual size of demand and its future expectations, which helps in planning production according to actual need. 

2. Product diversity is a crucial step. By studying consumer preferences and offering a variety of products that meet different needs, local companies can regain part of their market share. 

3. Expanding the scope of targeting to enhance the acceptability and diversity of products by targeting large commercial markets that are a basic station within the regions and have a crowded nature, which gives the product purchasing power due to the reliable view by customers on these stations. 

Expectations 

1. With the continued urban expansion and the significant increase in population, research and studies based on the analysis of commercial markets (markets) show us several vital indicators in the future, so by the year (2027), commercial development within the scope of food products will be of clear importance due to the expansion in large commercial markets and a clear increase, which gives an opportunity to expand with regard to local companies by monitoring the commercial activity of commercial markets, and thus cooperating with these markets to establish a distinctive commercial activity. 

2. Through the study, we concluded that the diversity of frozen legume products is not sufficient to meet the needs of the population. However, the existing agricultural areas are relatively sufficient to provide products that meet the needs of the population, so we expect that by the year (2028) large agricultural areas will be established within a comprehensive plan aimed at enhancing food diversity. This step will contribute to enabling control of the frozen legumes market in commercial markets. 

3. Within the scope of the commercial aspect, we see that government laws are one of the reasons for the commercial restrictions in the region due to the imbalance between supply and demand, but by the year (2027), there will be strict government laws on foreign companies that expand their trade inside Iraq from expanding inside the region, and some will establish a factory inside the region to expand frozen legume products in it, so this will be a golden opportunity to raise the level of domestic products and control the Iraqi market. 

At the end of this article, it is clear that the legumes sector is witnessing rapid challenges and changes due to the entry and spread of foreign companies in the market. Local companies will witness great opportunities for growth and excellence as a result of investing in innovation, improving product quality, and enhancing customer experience in a distinctive way. At the same time, foreign companies continue to use effective marketing strategies and expand their distribution scope, which increases 

The Iraqi business environment is complex and constantly evolving, where the private sector faces a range of challenges that require innovative solutions and flexible strategies. Despite these challenges, there are numerous opportunities that can be leveraged to drive economic growth and contribute to the country’s development. In this article, we explore the key challenges facing the private sector in Iraq, the available opportunities, and how companies can adapt and thrive in this difficult environment. 

Challenges 

Political and Security Instability: One of the most significant challenges facing the private sector in Iraq is the ongoing political and security instability. Frequent conflicts and security tensions negatively impact the investment climate, leading to decreased confidence and increased risks. 

Weak Infrastructure: Many regions in Iraq suffer from a lack of basic infrastructure such as electricity, water, and transportation. This shortage acts as a barrier for both local and international companies seeking to deliver services and products efficiently. 

Bureaucracy and Corruption: Excessive bureaucracy and administrative complexity hinder the establishment and operation of businesses. Widespread corruption also affects the chances of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) securing government contracts or competing fairly. 

Limited Financial System: Iraqi companies face significant challenges in accessing finance, as banks and financial institutions offer limited services, particularly restricting the growth of SMEs. 

Opportunities: 

Economic Reforms: Despite the challenges, the Iraqi government has begun implementing a series of economic reforms aimed at strengthening the role of the private sector and increasing foreign investment. These reforms provide opportunities for companies looking to enter the Iraqi market or expand their operations. 

Agriculture Sector: Iraq has considerable potential in the agriculture sector, with vast areas of arable land. Companies can capitalise on this by investing in modern farming technologies and improving supply chains. 

Technology and Innovation Sector: The technology sector in Iraq is emerging as one with significant growth potential. The private sector can leverage technology to improve business efficiency and offer digital solutions that drive economic growth. 

Renewable Energy: With the global shift towards renewable energy, Iraq’s private sector can benefit from investing in clean energy sources such as solar and wind power, reducing dependence on oil and enhancing sustainability. 

How to Adapt 

Innovation and Investment in Technology: Iraqi companies should focus on innovation and utilising technology to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. Technological solutions, such as digital transformation and smart business applications, can boost business resilience and open up new opportunities for growth. 

Strategic Partnerships: Iraqi companies can benefit from entering strategic partnerships with foreign or local firms. These partnerships help in exchanging expertise, technologies, expanding business scope, and providing additional resources. 

Focus on Training and Capacity Building: Developing the skills of the Iraqi workforce presents a significant opportunity for the private sector. Companies can improve productivity and foster innovation by investing in employee training and skills development. 

Adapting to New Legislation and Regulations 

As Iraq adopts new economic policies aimed at improving the investment climate, companies need to quickly adapt to legislative changes and take advantage of the opportunities these changes present to enhance their competitive position. 

In conclusion, The private sector in Iraq faces a challenging environment, but it also holds great potential for growth and development. Through innovation, strengthening strategic partnerships, and focusing on capacity building, companies can adapt to this environment and achieve success. As economic reforms continue and infrastructure improves, Iraq’s business environment is expected to become more attractive for investments, offering greater opportunities for the private sector to expand its operations and contribute to building a sustainable and diversified economy. 

Green spaces are the lungs of modern cities, playing a pivotal role in maintaining environmental balance and providing vital breathing space for residents. In Baghdad, which faces the pressures of population expansion and rapid urban development, the need to prioritise green spaces has become urgent. These areas act as natural barriers against environmental pollution and serve as a means to improve the quality of life in the city, yet urban development challenges significantly hinder this balance. 

The Importance of Green Spaces 

The importance of green spaces in Baghdad is multifaceted, covering environmental, health, and social aspects. Environmentally, trees and gardens absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, which is crucial in a city plagued by high levels of pollution from vehicles and industrial activities. Green spaces also help reduce the high temperatures that are characteristic of Baghdad, as plants absorb heat and mitigate the “heat island effect” caused by residential clusters and tall buildings. 

From a health perspective, green spaces offer open areas for physical activities like walking, which enhances physical fitness and reduces public health issues related to urban lifestyles such as obesity and heart disease. Moreover, they help lower stress and anxiety levels among city residents, with studies showing that spending time in nature boosts mental health. 

Challenges to Development 

Despite the significant environmental and social importance of green spaces, Baghdad faces numerous challenges that hinder their development and preservation. One of the main challenges is uncontrolled urban sprawl, where available land is exploited for housing projects and infrastructure without considering the need to allocate green spaces. This expansion places immense pressure on the city’s natural environment, leading to a substantial decline in green space coverage. 

In addition, the lack of effective environmental policies and regulations to protect these spaces poses a serious problem. There are currently no comprehensive strategies to safeguard green areas from being cleared or used inappropriately, making them vulnerable to degradation over time. The shortage of funding allocated for the maintenance and development of public parks further complicates the situation, as many areas lack the necessary infrastructure to preserve the quality of these spaces. 

Furthermore, the lack of community awareness regarding the importance of green spaces exacerbates these challenges. Green areas are often viewed as an unnecessary luxury, diminishing public appreciation for their role in improving quality of life and reducing harmful environmental impacts. 

Possible Solutions 

To address these challenges, relevant authorities in Baghdad must adopt sustainable development strategies that balance urban growth with environmental protection. This can begin with the implementation of strict policies to limit the exploitation of green spaces for uncontrolled construction, alongside allocating more funding for the maintenance and development of public parks and green spaces. Collaboration between the public and private sectors can also be encouraged to create green projects aimed at improving the urban environment. 

Community awareness is also a key part of the solution. Authorities should organise awareness campaigns aimed at increasing public understanding of the importance of preserving green spaces and their health and environmental benefits. By involving local communities in the planning and preservation of these areas, greater success can be achieved in developing a sustainable and healthy environment for all. 

In conclusion, The challenges facing green spaces in Baghdad require the concerted efforts of all stakeholders to find solutions that ensure the preservation of these vital resources. By leveraging sustainable planning and effective environmental policies, Baghdad can overcome these challenges and achieve a balance between urban development and environmental conservation. Developing green spaces in the city is not merely a luxury, but a necessity to improve quality of life and ensure a sustainable environmental future. 

Phone and tablet brands expand their distribution agents in Iraq for several strategic reasons aimed at strengthening their presence and achieving success in a volatile and complex market. The importance of this lies in the diversity of distribution agents that helps companies expand the reach of their products to different regions of Iraq, ensuring the availability of phones and tablets in all markets, whether in major cities or remote areas. This expansion allows companies to meet the needs of diverse segments of consumers, who may have different preferences and needs based on their geographical and economic locations.

In recent years, the phone and tablet market in Iraq has witnessed remarkable growth, prompting many major brands to expand their distribution agent network. This expansion reflects companies’ strategies to achieve their goals in the Iraqi market, which is characterised by a great diversity in demand and preferences. Diversifying agents contributes greatly to enhancing access to a wide customer base, as the needs of multiple consumer segments can be met more effectively by appointing a variety of agents in different regions. This geographic expansion improves the distribution of brands and ensures their availability in the most needed areas, which contributes to increasing the presence of products in all areas. Moreover, the multiplicity of agents contributes to significantly improving the company’s logistical coverage. With distribution agents in multiple regions, the supply and distribution processes are accelerated, which reduces the time and effort required to deliver products to local markets. This strategy improves overall efficiency and reduces delays, which contributes to providing a faster and more effective response to market needs. The Iraqi market is witnessing a great diversity in customer preferences and needs, and by cooperating with a diverse network of agents, companies can offer a wide range of products to meet varying demands precisely. This customization enhances the companies’ ability to effectively meet the needs of consumers, which increases their satisfaction and loyalty to the brand. Brands’ cooperation with local distribution agents also contributes to building strong and sustainable business relationships in the local market, as local agents have a deep understanding of the market and local preferences, which enables them to provide valuable support and advice. This cooperation enhances the brand’s ability to adapt to market changes and enhances the achievement of its business goals. In addition, multiplying agents enhances companies’ ability to achieve faster growth and increase their market share. Through a diverse network of agents, companies can provide distinguished services to a wide customer base and increase their product sales opportunities in the Iraqi market. Multiplying distribution agents for phones and tablets in Iraq enhances brands’ ability to effectively adapt to security, political and financial challenges, as it contributes to ensuring continuous availability of products throughout the country despite recurring security crises or political unrest, which enhances companies’ ability to manage logistics operations more efficiently and reduces negative impacts on distribution. It also enhances the management of commercial transfers by accelerating and settling financial transfers more effectively, which raises the level of financial efficiency and reduces the risks associated with delays or problems in transfers, which supports business continuity and growth in a volatile and turbulent business environment, and allows brands to maintain their flexibility and increase their ability to respond to changes in the market. In conclusion of this article on multi-agent distribution for phones and tablets in Iraq, it becomes clear that this strategy is not just a business expansion process, but rather a comprehensive approach that aims to enhance the response to the multiple challenges facing brands in a dynamic and complex market such as the Iraqi market. By expanding their network of agents, companies can better adapt to changing security and political conditions, as multi-agent distribution provides greater flexibility in managing distribution operations, and reduces the risks associated with logistical disruptions that may arise as a result of crises or local unrest. Ultimately, multi-agent distribution in Iraq represents a strategic step that enables brands to achieve sustainable growth, and provides the flexibility needed to adapt to the increasing challenges in an ever-evolving market, making this strategy a fundamental pillar to ensure continued commercial success in the growing Iraqi market.

Innovation in the Iraqi private sector represents a key driver of economic progress and sustainable development. This sector is witnessing continuous growth in a challenging yet opportunity-rich economic environment. As competition intensifies and consumer needs constantly evolve, market research has become an essential tool for enhancing companies’ ability to differentiate themselves and achieve sustainable growth. Today, Iraqi companies increasingly rely on tools that support their strategic decisions, with market research being one of the most important. It provides accurate data and in-depth analyses of market trends and consumer behaviours. This data plays a significant role in steering innovation and improving products and services in line with the ever-changing demands of the market.

Innovation in the Iraqi private sector is not limited to improving existing operations but also requires the introduction of new solutions that meet market needs in creative and unconventional ways. In a highly competitive environment, innovation is one of the most critical keys to success, as innovative companies deliver added value to their customers, helping to build a strong reputation and attract a wider consumer base. In this context, the role of market research extends beyond merely providing insights into the market; it also serves as a strategic tool that helps uncover hidden opportunities. By gathering and analysing consumer data, companies can identify unmet needs, thus opening the door to innovations that meet these needs in effective and profitable ways.

One of the primary benefits that market research offers is the ability to discover new growth opportunities. Through in-depth analysis of consumer behaviour, companies can identify gaps in the market and introduce new products or services that respond to these gaps. In Iraq, where consumer behaviour is visibly and consistently changing, understanding these shifts helps guide innovation towards solutions that meet the growing demand for quality and diversity, thereby enhancing companies’ chances of growth.

Market research also plays an important role in developing existing products and services. By monitoring consumer feedback and opinions, companies can make the necessary improvements to better meet customer expectations. This approach not only enhances customer loyalty but also helps expand the company’s market share. In the increasingly competitive environment of the Iraqi private sector, differentiation becomes a crucial factor for success. Innovation based on market research enables companies to identify areas where they can deliver added value that exceeds what competitors offer, whether through developing new technologies or providing innovative services.

Finally, innovation should not be seen merely as a means for quick success but as a tool for achieving long-term sustainable growth. Companies that rely on market research to develop their innovative strategies are better equipped to adapt to future market changes. This prepares them for emerging trends such as increased demand for eco-friendly products or the shift towards digital services. Innovation based on accurate data and in-depth analyses ensures that companies sustain their success in the Iraqi market and continue to grow in a rapidly changing economic environment.

Technological innovations in the age of digital technology have had a profound impact on various business sectors in Iraq, with one of the foremost and perhaps most notable being the restaurant sector. This sector has been undergoing significant transformations recently with the advent of technology, which not only aimed to facilitate people’s lives but, at times, resulted in the exclusion of many popular restaurants from the commercial scene.

These digital transformations present restaurants with two options: either quickly adapt to the changes or face the risk of exclusion. The use of delivery apps and online ordering technologies is among the developments that many customers have become accustomed to, making it something difficult to do without. However, on the flip side, it has placed an additional burden on many owners of popular restaurants.

The goal of this article is to shed light on the impact of technology in the exclusion of some popular restaurants. It also reveals the challenges these restaurants face and the opportunities that may open up for them, even in the absence of delving into the world of advanced technology.

Challenges:

The challenges facing popular restaurants due to the lack of technology can be summarized as follows:

1. Popular restaurants in Iraq face several challenges in light of the increasing prevalence of delivery applications. Customers prefer to order food quickly and easily without the need to leave their homes or workplaces. The lack of technology adoption by popular restaurants creates unprecedented competitive pressures, given the fact that customers lean toward methods that provide them with a lot of convenience and comfort.
2.   Using delivery applications is not only a mean of transporting food but also a powerful marketing tool. They serve as an effective marketing platform, allowing restaurants to reach a wide range of customers who seek a dining experience at home or in the office. Restaurants can leverage these platforms to showcase their menu and attract the attention of new customers, given the fact that they have replaced traditional TV commercials or social media advertising, providing an easy way for customers to navigate and choose from a variety of restaurants through the use of the application.
3. Activating the discount system and enticing promotional offers for consumers through the application. This has led to the emergence of new challenges in the form of catchy discounts on those platforms which works on motivating customers to place an order. We do not deny that these discounts have impacted consumer behavior and created a growing need.
4. Popular restaurants in Iraq face a significant challenge in the absence of electronic payment options. The lack of these methods as an available option is a problem that hinders the customer experience and reduces the restaurant’s effectiveness in keeping up with technological developments, especially with the widespread reliance on technology by many restaurants, whether within the restaurant itself or through delivery applications.

Electronic payment methods have become increasingly important, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, where the use these methods was promoted to reduce social contact. The absence of such an option can be a barrier for customers who prefer electronic payment over cash.

These challenges impact the opportunities for expansion and growth for restaurants. Popular restaurant owners must consider adopting new and effective methods to enhance the customer experience, meet their expectations, and maintain the sustainability of these restaurants, especially in a world where the use of technology is rapidly accelerating.

Opportunities:

Despite the widespread adoption of technology by modern and forward-thinking restaurants, traditional popular restaurants that do not heavily rely on this technology still have valuable opportunities, such as:

1. Popular restaurants in Iraq serve as vital social and cultural hubs, allowing expatriates and foreigners to enjoy tasting food and exploring the rich heritage of Iraqi cuisine in a unique way, filled with memories and cultural experiences.
2.  Popular restaurants that do not heavily rely on technology may benefit by offering lower prices, which can be a strong attraction for a wide range of customers, including students and families with limited incomes. This approach enhances customer loyalty and contributes to business success.
3.   The absence of marketing or aesthetic (decor) costs is considered a significant opportunity for popular restaurants. Not needing to invest large amounts in online ordering systems or advanced technology can have a positive impact on the total cost of the restaurant.
4.  Popular restaurants distancing themselves from areas dominated by technology is an additional advantage as it keeps them away from intense competition and contributes to their sustainability.

In these ways, popular restaurants that avoid heavy reliance on technology can still take advantage of opportunities in the food market and offer a distinctive experience characterized by authenticity and affordability.

Suggestions:

There are several suggestions that can be offered to owners of popular restaurants in Iraq who are not willing to use technology. These suggestions may enhance their performance and attract more customers. Here are some ideas:

1. Classic Marketing: Utilize traditional marketing methods such as signage, distributing flyers, or local advertising. Approximately 50% of popular restaurants rely on classic marketing, with signage being the most common method.
2.  Extended Operating Hours: Consider extending operating hours to include 24/7 service. Currently, only about 5% of popular restaurants operate 24 hours a day.
3.   Embrace Authenticity: Popular restaurants can find opportunities by distancing themselves from technology and focusing on the cultural and social value of the dining experience. Emphasizing cultural authenticity can be appealing to customers seeking a genuine and human interaction.

Expectations:

There are several expectations regarding the future of non-technology-dependent popular restaurants in Iraq, as follows:

1. By 2025, the number of non-technology-dependent popular restaurants is expected to decrease by 30%, posing challenges to the sustainability of these establishments. Currently, this type of restaurants constitutes 60% of the restaurant landscape in Iraq.
2. In the next 2-5 years, several hybrid restaurants with an old-fashioned popular heritage are anticipated to emerge, aligning with technological advancements in the restaurant sector. This development will create a new category of restaurants competing with both traditional and modern popular restaurants, and it will also attract a new segment of the audience.
3. By the year 2025, non-technology-dependent popular restaurants may face increased competition, particularly in their traditional strongholds, as new restaurants and agencies relying on modern technological advancements gradually encroach into these areas

To conclude, it is evident that there are challenges and implications affecting this sector. While relying on traditional methods may carry cultural and historical values, it comes with negative impacts in an era where business operations have evolved, and many customers prefer modern experiences. These impacts include missed opportunities to improve efficiency, expand the customer base, and integrate with technological advancements. In the face of increasing competition and changing customer preferences, it may be necessary for owners of popular restaurants in Iraq to exert more effort to excel, attract customers, and consider exploring some simplified technological solutions that align with their cultural identity to achieve a balance between preserving traditions and meeting evolving market expectations.

This article was written by Data Ship, the leading and specialized market research services provider in the private sector in Iraq, based on market research and surveys conducted as follows:

1. 3000 samples from restaurants.
2. 1000 surveys with restaurant audiences.
3. 300 surveys with restaurant owners.

Article authors:

Abdullah Ahmed

Executive Director of Data Ship

Marwa Obeid

Article Managerither side.