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1 – 10 of 922
Article
Publication date: 19 March 2024

Ruchi Mishra, Rajesh Kumar Singh and Justin Paul

This paper aims to explore the factors influencing the behavioural intention of Gen Y consumers to avail omnichannel service and to identify the relative influence of predictors…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the factors influencing the behavioural intention of Gen Y consumers to avail omnichannel service and to identify the relative influence of predictors in explaining the behavioural intention of Gen Y consumers to use omnichannel service.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collected through surveys from 287 Gen Y consumers has been analysed through structural equation modelling to examine direct and mediated relationships between the constructs influencing behavioural intention to use omnichannel service.

Findings

Findings indicate that perceived ease of use, social influence, perceived trust, and personal innovativeness positively affect behavioural intention to use omnichannel service, with the result accounting for 48% of the variance. We also demonstrate that perceived value and perceived ease of use mediate the association between personal innovativeness and behavioural intention to use omnichannel service.

Research limitations/implications

The study provides valuable insights into adopting technology-based offerings for Gen Y customers. The presented model can be extended for analysing consumers' behavioural intentions by considering additional variables, such as consumer personality traits and diverse cultural settings. The study may help managers and policymakers formulate a consumer-focussed strategy to win over modern retail consumers.

Originality/value

This study explores the behavioural intention of Gen Y consumers in availing omnichannel services. Further, the study contributes to the technology acceptance model (TAM), unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) or UTAUT2 theories that may need to be extended in the omnichannel shopping context.

Details

Benchmarking: An International Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-5771

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 October 2023

Hyo-Jeong Kim and Sang Man Han

This study aims to understand why consumers continue to visit physical stores despite the rise in mobile shopping and online channels. Mobile shopping has changed how consumers…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to understand why consumers continue to visit physical stores despite the rise in mobile shopping and online channels. Mobile shopping has changed how consumers shop, allowing them to easily switch between channels. However, physical stores continue to remain significant because some consumers still prefer them, challenging the belief that online markets always surpass offline markets. To serve their needs effectively, retailers must understand the motivations and behaviors of shoppers in both channels. Therefore, this study aims to explore why people cross the online channel to offline by examining their dissatisfaction with online shopping, using E-SERVQUAL variables.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a two-method approach that involves in-depth interviews to develop questions related to E-SERVQUAL variables and a survey to assess respondents’ likelihood of switching from online to offline. Data was collected from 203 participants.

Findings

The results indicate that dissatisfaction with the timeliness and condition of online shopping services is a significant factor driving consumers to switch to physical stores. This challenges the notion that online markets always surpass offline markets, emphasizing the continued significance of physical stores in the retail landscape.

Originality/value

This study recognizes the importance and relevance of physical stores in the retail environment while challenging the assumption that online markets always outperform brick-and-mortar markets. In terms of dissatisfaction and satisfaction, it is possible to identify under what circumstances dissatisfied consumers go from online to offline by considering the distribution channel migration phenomenon.

Details

Journal of Services Marketing, vol. 37 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0887-6045

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 17 October 2023

Francesco Calza, Annarita Sorrentino and Ilaria Tutore

This paper aims to determine how environmental sustainability (ES) can be integrated into the customer experience (CX). In order to accomplish this, the paper uses a customer…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to determine how environmental sustainability (ES) can be integrated into the customer experience (CX). In order to accomplish this, the paper uses a customer journey (CJ) perspective. Speculatively, the paper analyses the experiential stakeholder ecosystem beyond the CJ to verify the obstacles to the implementation of ES.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a qualitative analysis of in-depth interviews with multiple stakeholders within the food delivery ecosystem. The multi-stakeholder analysis allows the authors to explore the problem not only from an operational point of view but also from a strategic point of view since in the delivery of a service the value for the end customer is the result of the efforts of several players.

Findings

The results shed light on the importance attributed to ES by the players that make up the food delivery ecosystem. The findings emphasise the importance of an ecosystemic view amongst stakeholders to achieve ES.

Originality/value

This research extends the scarce and embryonic literature on a sustainable CX by applying a CJ perspective, by revealing how and with which touchpoints it is possible to be environmentally sustainable in the design of the CX.

Details

Business Process Management Journal, vol. 29 no. 8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-7154

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 September 2023

Cheryl-lyn Ngoh and Hillary N. Mellema

This paper aims to study how retailers moving from a multi- (in-store and online) to a single- (online) channel impacts consumers’ retailer and channel choices.

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to study how retailers moving from a multi- (in-store and online) to a single- (online) channel impacts consumers’ retailer and channel choices.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conduct two scenario-based experimental studies to examine consumers’ in-store and online channel shopping preferences and behavioural intentions (i.e. channel and retailer choices) when their preferred focal retailer’s physical store closes.

Findings

The findings show that when a focal retailer removes its physical store location, consumers with a strong preference for shopping online have a greater likelihood of shopping online. Their loyalty towards the retailer explains this relationship but is conditional on low levels of reactance. When reactance is high, consumers with a strong preference for shopping online are more likely to switch to a competitor.

Originality/value

This research paper bridges the intersection between B2B and B2C literature to understand how retailers’ channel-related supply chain decisions affect downstream consumer shopping behaviour.

Details

Journal of Business & Industrial Marketing, vol. 39 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0885-8624

Keywords

Case study
Publication date: 27 November 2023

Deepak Singh and Abdul Qadir

Upon completion of this case study, students will be able to identify the key changes in the marketing environment affecting the industry, demonstrate the elements of the…

Abstract

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of this case study, students will be able to identify the key changes in the marketing environment affecting the industry, demonstrate the elements of the marketing mix in the fast-food industry, illustrate the crucial elements of customer value-driven marketing strategy, critique relevant marketing strategies that are crucial for business development and formulate effective market expansion strategies for Al-Chef Cafetaria to achieve sustainable competitive advantage in the VUCA world.

Case overview/synopsis

The Al-Chef Cafeteria, established by Ali Arif, one of the partners, became one of the most happening quick service restaurants (QSRs) in Patna. However, the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the once-thriving fast-food market in the city as the government imposed lockdowns to restrict the onslaught of the pandemic. The relentless waves of the pandemic in the subsequent months severely impacted India and worsened the economic challenges. Consumer behaviour towards outdoor eateries, especially QSRs, became uncertain, which led to the exit of several smaller players in the industry. In June 2021, because of an uncertain future, Arif was forced to contemplate different business trajectories for survival and growth. Arif’s resilience was highlighted, as he endeavoured to revive his dream cafe. To start the café, Arif had quit a stable job in the Middle East. His journey mirrored the broader narrative of businesses navigating uncharted waters as the cafe transformed from a flourishing enterprise to one reeling from adversity and looking forward to undergoing a strategist lens for revival. Against an uncertain business landscape and wavering consumer sentiment, Arif grappled with the question of whether a return to normalcy was possible or if a new-normal system would emerge. This case study highlighted the challenges and uncertainties faced by the Al-Chef Cafeteria post-pandemic and the strategies needed to rewire the previous business model to chart a new growth trajectory.

Complexity academic level

This case is suitable for postgraduate-level marketing management or sales management (business development) courses in any of the following programmes: MBA programme, PG diploma in marketing management/PG diploma in hospitality and tourism management/PG diploma in sales management/PG diploma in food and beverage service/PG diploma in service management, part-time diploma programmes in management and executive programmes in management.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 8: Marketing.

Details

Emerald Emerging Markets Case Studies, vol. 13 no. 4
Type: Case Study
ISSN: 2045-0621

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 27 January 2023

Francesco Calza, Annarita Sorrentino and Ilaria Tutore

The aim of this work is to provide a theoretical model that can help companies to develop a unique approach to achieve both corporate environmental sustainability (CES) and…

6251

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this work is to provide a theoretical model that can help companies to develop a unique approach to achieve both corporate environmental sustainability (CES) and successful customer experience management (CEM).

Design/methodology/approach

A two-phase study achieved the research aim. The first phase consisted of the analysis of contemporary theoretical contributions with a focus on CES and CEM. In the second phase, taking a qualitative approach, the key dimensions identified in the initial analysis were investigated to explore the dominant perceptions of practitioners and to hone the theoretical categories.

Findings

Five innovative pathways emerged from the study to inform decision-making while maintaining the dual objectives of CES and successful CEM. These pathways are combined to offer a strategic tool for managers and for research advances. This original integrated model also offers six novel theoretical propositions that describe how to shape corporate decisions to achieve environmental sustainability in CEM.

Research limitations/implications

Firms can benefit from an approach that integrates CES and CEM to develop a new mindset for an innovative and valuable decision-making process and to design more captivating experiences for customers. Nevertheless, the efficacy and generalizability of the theoretical framework and propositions require empirical testing.

Originality/value

This paper makes an original contribution to the environmental sustainability and marketing literature by bringing together all elements in these fields of research in a conceptual model. Moreover, this paper proposes theoretical propositions that advance knowledge of the subject and offer ideas for future research and managers.

Details

Management Decision, vol. 61 no. 13
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0025-1747

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 November 2023

Cheng Yanxia, Zhu Shijia and Xiao Yuyang

Chatbots are increasingly engaged in service marketing. Some academics and managers think using anthropomorphism chatbots will improve positive attitudes and behaviors in the…

Abstract

Purpose

Chatbots are increasingly engaged in service marketing. Some academics and managers think using anthropomorphism chatbots will improve positive attitudes and behaviors in the customer journey, but at a high degree of anthropomorphism, consumers may experience negative emotions such as fear and disgust due to the feeling that the robots resemble humans too much, which is known as the uncanny valley effect. Therefore, the authors aim to explore whether chatbot anthropomorphism will promote or limit the development of the customer journey and explore the moderating factors and the antecedent factors affecting consumers' perceptions of chatbot anthropomorphism.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collected 72,782 unique data points from 42 articles and 82 samples using a meta-analysis. Based on the stimuli-organism-response (SOR) model, the impact of anthropomorphic chatbots on the consumer journey was discussed.

Findings

The authors’ findings show that chatbot anthropomorphism positively impacts the customer journey but not their negative attitudes. Further moderator analysis reveals that the impact depends on service result, chatbot gender and sample source. The chatbot anthropomorphism is significantly influenced by social presence cues, emotional message cues and mixed cues.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the chatbot anthropomorphism literature and offers guidance for managers on whether and how to enhance chatbot anthropomorphism to facilitate the customer journey and improve service sustainability.

Details

Marketing Intelligence & Planning, vol. 42 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-4503

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 July 2022

Youjiang Gao and Hongfei Liu

Artificial intelligence (AI) technology has revolutionized customers' interactive marketing experience. Although there have been a substantial number of studies exploring the…

3990

Abstract

Purpose

Artificial intelligence (AI) technology has revolutionized customers' interactive marketing experience. Although there have been a substantial number of studies exploring the application of AI in interactive marketing, personalization as an important concept remains underexplored in AI marketing research and practices. This study aims to introduce the concept of AI-enabled personalization (AIP), understand the applications of AIP throughout the customer journey and draw up a future research agenda for AIP.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing upon Lemon and Verhoef's customer journey, the authors explore relevant literature and industry observations on AIP applications in interactive marketing. The authors identify the dilemmas of AIP practices in different stages of customer journeys and make important managerial recommendations in response to such dilemmas.

Findings

AIP manifests itself as personalized profiling, navigation, nudges and retention in the five stages of the customer journey. In response to the dilemmas throughout the customer journey, the authors developed a series of managerial recommendations. The paper is concluded by highlighting the future research directions of AIP, from the perspectives of conceptualization, contextualization, application, implication and consumer interactions.

Research limitations/implications

New conceptual ideas are presented in respect of how to harness AIP in the interactive marketing field. This study highlights the tensions in personalization research in the digital age and sets future research agenda.

Practical implications

This paper reveals the dilemmas in the practices of personalization marketing and proposes managerial implications to address such dilemmas from both the managerial and technological perspectives.

Originality/value

This is one of the first research papers dedicated to the application of AI in interactive marketing through the lenses of personalization. This paper pushes the boundaries of AI research in the marketing field. Drawing upon AIP research and managerial issues, the authors specify the AI–customer interactions along the touch points in the customer journey in order to inform and inspire future AIP research and practices.

Details

Journal of Research in Interactive Marketing, vol. 17 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2040-7122

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 26 June 2023

Sanna Sekki, Hannele Kauppinen-Räisänen, Eliisa Kylkilahti and Minna Autio

Research has largely disregarded consumer–packaging interaction in contexts other than retail. Focusing on the powerful cue of colour and consumers’ pleas for sustainability and…

1358

Abstract

Purpose

Research has largely disregarded consumer–packaging interaction in contexts other than retail. Focusing on the powerful cue of colour and consumers’ pleas for sustainability and drawing on the customer journey and moments of consumption, this study investigates how packaging colour meanings are redefined from retail to home and how the meaning of sustainability for colour transforms.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative methodology was employed with 27 informants, who were interviewed in pairs or in small groups of three.

Findings

First, colour meanings emerge outside the retail context, confirming the idea of the packaging journey. Colours are dynamic, as meanings are redefined throughout the voyage. In retail, colour conveys brand, product, environmental and origin-related meanings, while at home it conveys product, food- and health-related meanings. At the end of the journey, colour communicates disposal, environmental, health and origin-related meanings. Second, the meaning of sustainability for colour transforms during the voyage from being conveyed by a colour hue to being perceived as a material and, therefore, as a waste and recycling concern.

Originality/value

The study adds insight into the role of colour in the packaging life cycle, wherein colour transforms from a visual packaging cue to an issue of materiality. The recyclability of colours is a prevailing sustainability issue that deserves attention within the packaging industry. The study argues that although the consumer–packaging interaction in the retail context is essential, managers should recognise that the interaction continues with colours from in-store purchase decisions to consumers’ homes (use and recycling).

Details

International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management, vol. 51 no. 13
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0959-0552

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 November 2023

Jennifer F. Taylor, Sharon E. Beatty and Katherine J. Roberto

This paper aims to provide a better understanding of the prolonged consumption journey and how they are sustained by service providers’ use of habit-boosting strategies. Existing…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a better understanding of the prolonged consumption journey and how they are sustained by service providers’ use of habit-boosting strategies. Existing research is critically evaluated, and a research agenda is provided to inspire and guide future research.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper develops a conceptual framework that integrates habit and transformative consumer intervention theories with customer journey literature to explain the role of habit in sustaining prolonged consumption journeys. Habit-boosting strategies are introduced as mechanisms for service providers to facilitate their customers’ prolonged consumption journeys.

Findings

This paper argues that habit strength is a limited operant resource that often lacks resource integration efficiency and hinders customers’ abilities to sustain prolonged consumption journeys. Four distinct habit-boosting strategies are identified that provide the potential for service providers to facilitate their customers’ prolonged consumption journeys.

Originality/value

This study presents a typology of habit-boosting strategies and a research agenda that discusses a range of practically relevant and theoretically insightful contributions.

Details

Journal of Services Marketing, vol. 38 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0887-6045

Keywords

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