Search results

1 – 2 of 2
Article
Publication date: 22 August 2008

Sven Kuenzel and Sue Vaux Halliday

This study aims to analyse the influences of prestige, satisfaction, and communication on brand identification and to show how brand identification influences word‐of‐mouth and…

11050

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to analyse the influences of prestige, satisfaction, and communication on brand identification and to show how brand identification influences word‐of‐mouth and brand repurchase.

Design/methodology/approach

A theoretical model is developed and tested with a sample of car owners in the UK of two global car brands. Structural equation modelling was used with LISREL 8.54 and the maximum likelihood (ML) method.

Findings

This paper draws mainly on the theory of social identity to provide a comprehensive understanding of conditions under which brand owners are likely to identify with their brand and the bases and consequences of such identification. It was shown that prestige, satisfaction, and communication effect brand identification. The study confirms that consumers' development of relationships via brand identification results in word of mouth about the brand and intentions to repurchase the brand. Furthermore, it was found that brand identification fully mediates the influences of prestige, satisfaction, and communication on word of mouth and brand repurchase.

Research limitations/implications

The focus was on one country and one industry.

Practical implications

Managers are provided with strategies that enhance the identification of their customers with their brand so that they can strengthen the customers' brand identification. Areas for future research are suggested. For instance, it could be interesting to test the model in a different industry and/or cultural context.

Originality/value

Very few previous studies have looked at brand identification which is surprising considering it is such an important variable to influence word‐of‐mouth and brand repurchase. The study tests three antecedents to brand identification and two outcomes that have not been investigated previously. Overall, the study adds knowledge in this somewhat neglected area.

Details

Journal of Product & Brand Management, vol. 17 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1061-0421

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 April 2008

Sven Kuenzel and Ewa Krolikowska

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of the psychological bond on behavioral loyalty (word‐of‐mouth, continuance and non‐audit services) to audit firms providing…

2254

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of the psychological bond on behavioral loyalty (word‐of‐mouth, continuance and non‐audit services) to audit firms providing services to companies listed on the Polish Stock Exchange.

Design/methodology/approach

A model is proposed and tested using structural equation modeling with LISREL. Data were collected from top executives of companies listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange.

Findings

The psychological bond has a positive effect on word‐of‐mouth, continuance and non‐audit services.

Research limitations/implications

The current research is limited to the investigation of the psychological bond as an antecedent of behavioral loyalty in Poland. Future research should identify and assess other antecedents and replicate these across different countries. A longitudinal survey across different points in time might reveal more useful information about auditor‐client relationships.

Practical implications

Auditors need to consider ways in which they can develop the psychological bond with their clients. This bond is the basis for the client believing the audit firm is superior to others, which has been found to lead to behavioral loyalty in this study. In particular, management of the auditor brand and reputation, personal experience of the audit firm and alumni relations are discussed as ways of enhancing the psychological bond among client executives.

Originality/value

This study is the first to examine the impact of the psychological bond on behavioral loyalty in auditor‐client relationships.

Details

Managerial Auditing Journal, vol. 23 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0268-6902

Keywords

Access

Year

Content type

Article (2)
1 – 2 of 2