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1 – 10 of over 1000
Article
Publication date: 2 September 2013

Matthew Walker

Several factors are known to influence donations to university athletic departments including previous donations and university affiliation. This research aims to build on prior…

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Abstract

Purpose

Several factors are known to influence donations to university athletic departments including previous donations and university affiliation. This research aims to build on prior work by examining whether a university's environmental management initiatives can also influence donor behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper employs a quantitative study on environmental responsibility (ER) and “green management” using donor and non-donor data in the context of a university athletic department to investigate additional (i.e. personal and dispositional) factors that drive donation intentions.

Findings

Employing tenets of the theory of reasoned action (TRA), the hierarchical regression models confirm prior donor motives and indicate that personal disposition towards the environment and attitude toward environmental initiatives predict donor intentions. These results are set against a backdrop of managerial strategy that seemingly enabled the effects.

Research limitations/implications

The study should be replicated to advance the decision-making literature. This study focused solely on the attitudinal component of the TRA and only anecdotally accounted for the social norms that might influence the results. Retesting the model where ER is not as well-known or has just been implemented would add credibility to the results. Finally, using a behavioral intention factor limits the explanatory power.

Practical implications

In a modern giving climate where supply (i.e. donations) is not currently paralleling demand, university athletic departments are continually looking for innovative ways to bolster donor support. The results suggest that ER can be positive for the local community and society at large but also in reciprocal fashion for the organization.

Originality/value

While results confirming the traditional predictors of donor intentions are not particularly novel, the contribution of this research lies in showing that environmental disposition and importance contribute to the giving dynamic.

Book part
Publication date: 17 February 2023

Neelam Raut and Meenal Pendse

This chapter focuses on analyzing conscious consumption practices of sustainable products among the young generation, and their perceptions and behavior toward it. Because…

Abstract

This chapter focuses on analyzing conscious consumption practices of sustainable products among the young generation, and their perceptions and behavior toward it. Because university students are the future consumers, they are more educated and aware than the typical person (Mcmillin & Dyball, 2009), will have earning capacity, and will be able to influence others in their workplaces (Nejati & Nejati, 2013), it is critical to measure sustainable consumption in the context of university students. Businesses and marketing strategies must also take into account sustainable consumption. In this vein, policy and business ramifications have been explored (Joshi & Rahman, 2015; Young, Hwang, McDonald, & Oates, 2010). Taking in view the above viewpoint, the focus of the study is to measure and analyze the responses of young generations to conscious consumption of sustainable products in Pune City. This is a descriptive study that was conducted among the 501 students at MIT-World Peace University (MITWPU) in Pune using a judgmental sampling method. Data collection was done through a standardized questionnaire using Google forms. Exploratory factor analysis and percentage analysis were used to examine the responses obtained using SPSS IBM 28.0. The results of the study reveal that conscious consumption enhances the environmental, social, and economic quality of life among young generations. It reflects conscious sense among youth as well as their perception and behavior on caring about themselves, the environment, and conserving for future generations.

Details

Transformation for Sustainable Business and Management Practices: Exploring the Spectrum of Industry 5.0
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-80262-278-2

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 January 2023

Hyowon Hyun, Dongyoup Kim and Jungkun Park

The purpose of this study is to develop a conceptual model to examine the effect of word-of-mouth in the retailing of Chinese consumer electronics in the US. This study aims to…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop a conceptual model to examine the effect of word-of-mouth in the retailing of Chinese consumer electronics in the US. This study aims to show that word-of-mouth affects directly or indirectly consumer trust-loyalty link for Chinese consumer electronics.

Design/methodology/approach

A research framework was designed to test the direct and indirect relationships with structural equation modelling regarding how word-of-mouth affects consumer trust and loyalty for Chinese consumer electronics in the US consumers.

Findings

The results indicate that word-of-mouth increases consumer trust directly whereas decreases consumer trust through two types of consciousness (i.e. health and price consciousness), resulting in loyalty. The results also show that ethnocentrism moderates the effect of word-of-mouth. For those with low ethnocentrism, the effect of word-of-mouth on trust exists only in the direct route.

Research limitations/implications

The result suggests that retail managers need to carefully consider the positive and negative influences of word-of-mouth to build consumer trust and loyalty when promoting Chinese consumer electronics. Further cross-cultural research should be explored to generalize the moderating influence of ethnocentrism on the relationship between word-of-mouth and trust-loyalty link.

Originality/value

This study contributes to a better and wider understanding of consumer loyalty regarding Chinese consumer electronics by investigating the effect of word-of-mouth and the differential mediating role of multidimensional consumer consciousness with ethnocentrism.

Details

International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management, vol. 51 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0959-0552

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 April 1993

Richard Adams

Follows up an earlier article which held that consumer power wouldchange the market, forcing manufacturers and retailers to respond tosocial and ethical concerns. Shows that, in…

Abstract

Follows up an earlier article which held that consumer power would change the market, forcing manufacturers and retailers to respond to social and ethical concerns. Shows that, in practice, the trend has been driven by industry rather than the consumer, as conscious consumerism has been hard hit by the recession of the late 1980s/early 1990s, whereas the long‐term policies initiated by industry are now coming to maturity. Considers the social implications, the cost of manufacturers and discusses recent research which gives a confusing picture of the degree to which companies have accepted and are acting on their social responsibilities. Suggests that only the top 25 corporations have set a really strong lead. Discusses the proposed introduction of the Fairtrade Mark at the end of 1993 which will indicate that a product has been assessed against social and environmental criteria and conforms to a high standard which provides genuine benefits to poor products.

Details

British Food Journal, vol. 95 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0007-070X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 October 2012

Steven Lysonski, Srinivas Durvasula and A.D. Madhavi

India has undergone dramatic changes since the economic liberalization of 1992. This study aims to provide an historical analysis to determine if consumer attitudes towards…

3020

Abstract

Purpose

India has undergone dramatic changes since the economic liberalization of 1992. This study aims to provide an historical analysis to determine if consumer attitudes towards marketing practices and consumerism in India have changed measurably from 1990 to 2009.

Design/methodology/approach

To measure consumer attitudes towards marketing and consumerism, an established research instrument was administered with 39 Likert scaled items measuring seven dimensions. Two samples were compared: 1990 vs 2009.

Findings

The paper finds that 22 items exhibited significant differences. The mindset of Indians has evolved over the last two decades. Many of the changes were positive. However, the study does not provide a completely clean “bill of health” to the business community.

Research limitations/implications

This paper used an urban sample; a rural sample would also be useful. Future research could examine other emerging economies such as Brazil, China, and Vietnam.

Practical implications

The Indian marketplace is operating in a much more open and uncontrolled way since liberalization. Businesses must heed some of the results of this study and continue to pursue practices that consumers see as fair and as transparent. The authors encourage the Indian business community to remain vigilant about the issues addressed in this paper.

Social implications

These consumer perceptions could be used for decision making by consumer welfare advocates and public policy makers. The lack of improvements in deficient areas may represent possible problems for business in the future. Firms must be concerned about their social responsibility regarding consumerism issues.

Originality/value

The paper offers a longitudinal view of India's consumerism movement. No other research has examined one of the BRICs in this context as this paper has done. Since India is now in the limelight, this research has contemporary value. The paper also provides a very good commentary on the changes in India's consumer markets. The paper has value to marketing managers and public policy advocates.

Details

Journal of Consumer Marketing, vol. 29 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0736-3761

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 April 2003

Steven Lysonski, Srinivas Durvasula and John Watson

New Zealand has gone through a radical metamorphosis since free market economics were introduced in the mid‐1980s. Marketing managers are particularly interested in the views of…

2245

Abstract

New Zealand has gone through a radical metamorphosis since free market economics were introduced in the mid‐1980s. Marketing managers are particularly interested in the views of consumers about issues dealing with marketing activities. Negative views could signal consumer backlash against free market activities. This study examines the views of consumers from 1986 to 2001 on a range of issues dealing with marketing and consumerism. The results clearly show that consumers are less negative about marketing and consumerism issues since 1986. It seems likely that New Zealand has evolved in terms of the consumerism life cycle over the last 15 years. Marketing managers should continue to remain proactive in their responses to consumer discontents. Implications for New Zealand and for other countries are addressed.

Details

European Journal of Marketing, vol. 37 no. 3/4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0309-0566

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Article
Publication date: 31 January 2022

Elmira Djafarova and Sophie Foots

This study aims to explore the factors that encourage Generation Z consumers to turn an ethical purchase intention into purchase behaviour. Theory of planned behaviour model is…

13386

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explore the factors that encourage Generation Z consumers to turn an ethical purchase intention into purchase behaviour. Theory of planned behaviour model is applied to understand the Generation Z ethical consumerism.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative method in the form of 18 semi-structured interviews was conducted on participants aged within the Generation Z cohort in the UK.

Findings

Research findings show that Generation Z has strong awareness and desire towards ethical and environmental issues. Driven in the main by the cohorts unlimited exposure to social media platforms and online resources where information is shared. Generation Z’s frugality limits them to purchase truly ethically in their current life stage. Financial aspirations from this target market suggest a future desire to purchase high value ethical items. Further trends discovered highlighted sustainable lifestyle choices within the generation. Recycling, diet choices and reduced consumption on clothing were expressed. The paper highlights that Generation Z are aware of ethical issues prevalent in society and are doing what they can at this life stage to make a positive impact.

Practical implications

This research has valuable implications for both academics and marketers. It provides new insights for scholars into understanding Generation Z decision-making in ethical consumption. It successfully applied the Theory of Planned Behaviour to understand generational consumer behaviour. The findings can assist practitioners to determine effective marketing strategies to persuade Generation Z to act ethically. The research can also be considered when dealing with government legislation when tackling social change in younger population as this appeared important factor for the researched consumers. Marketers should also consider digital influencers as part of their communication campaigns targeting Generation Z users.

Originality/value

This search offers a valuable contribution to current academic findings towards Generation Z research as ethical consumers incorporating TPB framework.

Details

Young Consumers, vol. 23 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1747-3616

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 24 March 2022

Nitha Palakshappa, Sarah Dodds and Sandy Bulmer

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many consumers to pause and rethink the impacts of their consumption behavior. The purpose of this paper is to explore changes to consumers’…

Abstract

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many consumers to pause and rethink the impacts of their consumption behavior. The purpose of this paper is to explore changes to consumers’ preferences and shopping behavior in retail using a sustainable consumption lens to understand the long-term effects of the pandemic on retail services.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 30 participants to gain insights into shopping behaviors and preferences during the pandemic and to investigate changes in attitudes or behaviors toward sustainable consumption as a result of the pandemic. Data analysis involved an iterative inductive process and subsequent thematic analysis.

Findings

The results reveal a strong move toward sustainable and conscious consumption with three key changes occurring as a result of the pandemic, including changes in consumers’ ethos, move to purpose-driven shopping and drive to buy local and support national.

Practical implications

This paper reveals insights into consumer shopping behaviors and preferences that can potentially counter the collapse of “normal” marketplace activities in the face of the current global pandemic by providing a framework for how retail services can respond, reimagine and recover to move forward long term.

Originality/value

This study uncovers the importance of services marketing in endorsing and promoting sustainable consumption by shaping subtle shifts in conscious consumption as a way to recover from a global pandemic and move to a “new” service marketplace.

Article
Publication date: 16 October 2017

Philip T. Roundy

Social entrepreneurship represents an unconventional, but increasingly prevalent, activity in developed and emerging economies. Social entrepreneurs devise novel business models…

1092

Abstract

Purpose

Social entrepreneurship represents an unconventional, but increasingly prevalent, activity in developed and emerging economies. Social entrepreneurs devise novel business models that blend business and social missions with the aim of (co-)producing value with two primary stakeholder groups, beneficiaries and customers. Although interactions between social entrepreneurs and their beneficiaries are well-studied, the relationship between social ventures and consumers has received almost no extended attention.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a qualitative, partially-inductive approach based on interviews with 40 social entrepreneurs, a study of how social entrepreneurs market their ventures to consumers was conducted.

Findings

Findings reveal the ways in which marketing is relevant for social entrepreneurs, the unique challenges and opportunities entrepreneurs face in their interactions with customers, and the tactics entrepreneurs use to understand and educate their consumers.

Originality/value

The study’s findings contribute to work on social entrepreneurship and the entrepreneurship and marketing interface and have practical implications for social entrepreneurs.

Details

Journal of Research in Marketing and Entrepreneurship, vol. 19 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-5201

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 April 2023

Sonia Bharwani and David Mathews

In the context of heightened awareness and understanding of responsible tourism, it has become increasingly imperative for luxury hotels to introspect on the impact of their…

Abstract

Purpose

In the context of heightened awareness and understanding of responsible tourism, it has become increasingly imperative for luxury hotels to introspect on the impact of their operations on environmental and social sustainability. This study aims at examining the prevalence and growth of sustainability practices in the Indian luxury hotel segment as it increasingly competes on a global platform.

Design/methodology/approach

The research approach adopted in this paper is qualitative and emic. Primary data is gathered for the study through semi-structured interviews with select luxury hotel general managers from four hotel chains of Indian origin – ITC Luxury Hotels, Oberoi Hotels and Resorts, Taj Hotels and Palaces and The Leela – to gain an insight into sustainability initiatives adopted in the Indian hospitality industry. Secondary research data regarding the eco-friendly, green measures implemented in these hotels is collected primarily from the websites of the respective hotel chains and supplemented by review of academic literature, media articles, industry reports and company press releases.

Findings

The findings of the study reveal that Indian luxury hotel brands are increasingly adopting green products and integrating innovative sustainability practices in their day-to-day operations. However, several of these initiatives are in the non-customer-facing domains such as the engineering and back-of-the-house operations. Very few Indian hotel chains are building these sustainability initiatives into their core philosophy and embedding it in the front-line customer service experience at their properties to reinforce the green image of the hotels.

Originality/value

The paper also proposes the 6Cs Framework of Sustainability that can be utilised to categorise the green sustainable practices adopted in responsible hotels in a simplistic manner under six broad verticals. Practitioners, researchers and educationists in the hospitality industry would find the implications of this study useful in the context of a post-pandemic world where sustainability is influencing consumer choices across industries in today’s eco-conscious and enlightened business and marketing environment.

Details

Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes, vol. 15 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1755-4217

Keywords

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