IIM Shillong concludes the 3rd International Marketing Conference (iMaRC-3), held on the 30th and 31st of January 2024, under the theme 'Marketing Transformation - Reimagine, Realign, and Rework.'
The event commenced with two-day pre-conference workshops on quantitative research methodology topics, covering 'PLS-SEM' and 'Time-Series Analysis'. Dr. Lim Weng Marc, Dean and Professor at Sunway Business School, Malaysia, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, conducting a workshop on high-quality research strategies. The conference witnessed 254 submissions, with 234 registrations and 158 presentations.
Prof. D.P. Goyal, Director, IIM Shillong while gracing the inauguration ceremony, welcomed all participants and paper presenters. The keynote session by Dr. Bipul Kumar explored emerging trends in marketing, including 'Artificial Intelligence,' 'Metaverse,' 'Sustainability, Climate Change, and Marketing,' and 'Conflicts around the World.' Across 15 diverse marketing tracks, 32 sessions unfolded over two days, providing a comprehensive view of the evolving marketing landscape. Day 2 featured a panel discussion on 'Achieving Marketing Transformation through Innovative Marketing Strategies'.
The Valedictory Session, joined by Chief Guest Dr. Nripendra P Rana, Professor at the College of Business and Economics, Qatar University, marked the culmination of the event. Prof. Prasanta Chopdar and Prof. Basav Roy Choudhary highlighted the conference's journey and IIM Shillong's commitment to meaningful impact, respectively.
IIM Shillong expresses gratitude to its Knowledge Partner, Sunway University – Malaysia, and Publication Partners – Global Business and Organizational Excellence, International Journal of Quality and Innovation, and IIMS Journal of Management Science. Additionally, the conference's achievements are attributed to the dedicated efforts of the organizing team and the Marketing Club of IIM Shillong, 'Markathon.'
The conference emphasised the broader impact of marketing research in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Aligning efforts with these goals is crucial for building a sustainable future. As Philip Kotler rightly stated, "Marketing takes a day to learn. Unfortunately, it takes a lifetime to master." Sustainability should guide our collective efforts, ensuring marketing contributes positively to the world.