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This document is an editorial from the Journal of International Marketing, titled "Brands and Branding around the World." It discusses the challenges and opportunities that brands and their managers face in the global market due to various trends and disruptions, such as the climate crisis, the pandemic, and deglobalization. The competitive landscape is also changing, with emerging market firms becoming formidable competitors with their own brands. Consumer attitudes toward brands are evolving, with expectations for brands to act responsibly. The editorial introduces a special issue of the journal that focuses on brands and branding in a global context, featuring six articles that explore different branding topics and perspectives. The articles cover areas such as pricing strategies, brand sponsorship, terroir branding, consumer reactions to product-harm crises, and consumer preferences for masstige brands. The editorial concludes by highlighting the need for further research in areas such as glocal branding, brand purpose and activism, and the use of AI in brand management. [Extracted from the article]

Privacy concerns may influence many choices consumers make. However, their expressed concerns are sometimes inconsistent with their information-sharing and privacy-protecting behaviors. Many theories have been proposed to explain the paradoxical gap between privacy attitudes and behaviors. Part of the privacy paradox may be explained with two measures that have received limited consideration: impulsiveness and social desirability bias (SDB). Surveys of US adults in 2015 and 2022 included questions to measure several types of privacy concerns along with impulsive tendencies and SDB (N = 2729). Age, education, gender, race, income, and impulsive tendencies were linked with some privacy concerns. If people with above-average concerns also disclose personal information on impulse, it might explain part of the paradox. Large coefficients on the SDB measure suggest that individuals who adjust their responses to be consistent with social norms may also overstate specific privacy concerns. For these individuals, their high expressed concerns may be inconsistent with their privacy behaviors. When researchers try to explain consumer attitudes or actions that involve privacy, multiple privacy concern dimensions should be considered and demographics, impulsive tendencies, and SDB should be included in the models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Much research has been conducted to understand the impact of sexual appeals in advertising on consumer attitudes and behaviors. Yet, romantic advertising, advertising that focuses on romantic relationships, has received less scholarly attention. To counter this imbalance, the present research investigates the influence of attachment anxiety, an individual difference variable, on consumer reactions to advertising featuring romantic relationships. As hypothesized, our findings suggest that consumers high in attachment anxiety respond more favorably to advertising that highlights romantic relationships. This effect is consistent across trait- and state-level attachment anxiety and consistent across product type (i.e., goods vs. services). Specifically, the results of four experiments demonstrate that compared to securely attached consumers, those who chronically experience high attachment anxiety (experiments 1A and 1B) as well as those who are primed to experience attachment anxiety (experiment 2) respond more favorably to advertisements that focus on the potential romantic rewards associated with an advertised product's use. Consistent results were obtained using a different advertisement for an experience versus a material good (experiment 3). Implications of the findings for advertisers, marketers, brand managers, and scholars are discussed, and several opportunities for future research are identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Packaging waste makes up more than 10% of the landfilled waste in the United States. While consumers often want to make environmentally friendly product choices, we find that their perceptions of the environmental friendliness of product packaging may systematically deviate from its objective environmental friendliness. Eight studies (N = 4,103) document the perceived environmental friendliness (PEF) bias whereby consumers judge plastic packaging with additional paper to be more environmentally friendly than identical plastic packaging without the paper. The PEF bias is driven by consumers' "paper = good, plastic = bad" beliefs and by proportional reasoning, wherein packaging with a greater paper-to-plastic proportion is judged as more environmentally friendly. We further show that the PEF bias impacts consumers' willingness to pay and product choice. Importantly, this bias can be mitigated by a "minimal packaging sticker" intervention, which increases the environmental friendliness perceptions of plastic-only packaging, rendering plastic-packaged products to be preferable to their plastic-plus-paper-packaged counterparts. This research contributes to the packaging literature in marketing and to research on sustainability while offering practical implications for managers and public policy officials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent research has highlighted a difference in the way consumers approach choice sets. Some consumers focus on products' quality benefits (vertical differentiation): their selections are driven by the level of quality obtained relative to the price paid. Other consumers focus on products' taste benefits (horizontal differentiation): their selections are driven by acquiring personal tastes at favorable prices. This article aims to investigate how consumers' benefit focus, a continuum anchored by quality and taste, drives their preferences between retailers differing in pricing strategies. All else equal, consumers who focus on taste benefits will prefer EDLP stores (infrequent discounters), while consumers who focus on quality benefits will prefer Hi-Lo stores (frequent discounters). Findings from our experiments and an analysis of consumer panel data corroborate this relationship. This work also shows the mediating role of perceived value and the effect of several moderators: the strength of the price–quality relationship, the pattern of discounts, and cherry-picking costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study develops and validates an innovative approach for extracting knowledge from online user reviews by integrating textual content and emojis. Recognizing the pivotal role emojis play in enhancing the expressiveness and emotional depth of digital communication, this study aims to address the significant gap in existing sentiment analysis models, which have largely overlooked the contribution of emojis in interpreting user preferences and sentiments. By constructing a comprehensive model that synergizes emotional and semantic information conveyed through emojis and text, this study seeks to provide a more nuanced understanding of user preferences, thereby enhancing the accuracy and depth of knowledge extraction from online reviews. The goal is to offer a robust framework that enables more effective and empathetic engagement with user-generated content on digital platforms, paving the way for improved service delivery, product development and customer satisfaction through informed insights into consumer behavior and sentiments. Design/methodology/approach: This study uses a structured methodology to integrate and analyze text and emojis from online reviews for effective knowledge extraction, focusing on user preferences and sentiments. This methodology consists of four key stages. First, this study leverages high-frequency noun analysis to identify and extract product attributes mentioned in online user reviews. By focusing on nouns that appear frequently, the authors can systematically discern the primary features or aspects of products that users discuss, thereby providing a foundation for a more detailed sentiment and preference analysis. Second, a foundational sentiment dictionary is established that incorporates sentiment-bearing words, intensifiers and negation terms to analyze the textual part of the reviews. This dictionary is used to assign sentiment scores to phrases and sentences within reviews, allowing the quantification of textual sentiments based on the presence and combination of these predefined lexical items. Third, an emoticon sentiment dictionary is developed to address the emotional content conveyed through emojis. This dictionary categorizes emojis based on their associated sentiments, thus enabling the quantification of emotional expressions in reviews. The sentiment scores derived from the emojis are then integrated with those from the textual analysis. This integration considers the weights of text- and emoji-based emotions to compute a comprehensive attribute sentiment score that reflects a nuanced understanding of user sentiments and preferences. Finally, the authors conduct an empirical study to validate the effectiveness of the proposed methodology in mining user preferences from online reviews by applying the approach to a data set of online reviews and evaluating its ability to accurately identify product attributes and user sentiments. The validation process assessed the reliability and accuracy of the methodology in extracting meaningful insights from the complex interplay between text and emojis. This study offers a holistic and nuanced framework for knowledge extraction from online reviews, capturing both explicit and implicit sentiments expressed by users through text and emojis. By integrating these elements, this study seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of user preferences, contributing to improved consumer insight and strategic decision-making for businesses and researchers. Findings: The application of the proposed methodology for integrating emojis with text in online reviews yields significant findings that underscore the feasibility and value of extracting realistic user knowledge to gain insights from user-generated content. The analysis successfully captured consumer preferences, which are instrumental in informing service decisions and driving innovation. This achievement is largely attributed to the development and utilization of a comprehensive emotion-sentiment dictionary tailored to interpret the complex interplay between textual and emoji-based expressions in online reviews. By implementing a sentiment calculation model that intricately combines textual sentiment analysis with emoji sentiment analysis, this study was able to accurately determine the final attribute emotion for various product features discussed in the reviews. This model effectively characterized the emotional knowledge of online users and provided a nuanced understanding of their sentiments and preferences. The emotional knowledge extracted is not only quantifiable but also rich in context, offering deeper insights into consumer behavior and attitudes. Furthermore, a case analysis is conducted to rigorously test the validity of the proposed model in a real-world scenario. This practical examination revealed that the model is not only capable of accurately extracting and analyzing user preferences but is also adaptable to different contexts and product categories. The case analysis highlights the robustness and flexibility of the model, demonstrating its potential to enhance the precision of knowledge extraction processes significantly. Overall, the results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed approach in integrating text and emojis for comprehensive knowledge extraction from online reviews. The findings validate the model's capability to offer actionable insights into consumer preferences, thereby supporting more informed and strategic decision-making by businesses. This study contributes to the broader field of sentiment analysis by showcasing the untapped potential of emojis as valuable indicators of user sentiments, opening new avenues for research and applications in digital marketing and consumer behavior analysis. Originality/value: This study introduces a pioneering approach to extract knowledge from Web user interactions, notably through the integration of online reviews that incorporate both textual content and emoticons. This innovative methodology stands out because it holistically considers the dual channels of communication, text and emojis, to comprehensively mine Web user preferences. The key contribution of this study lies in its novel insights into the extraction of consumer preferences, advancing beyond traditional text-based analysis to embrace nuanced expressions conveyed through emoticons. The originality of this study is underpinned by its acknowledgment of emoticons as a significant and untapped source of sentiment and preference indicators in online reviews. By effectively merging emoticon analysis and emoji emotion scoring with textual sentiment analysis, this study enriches the understanding of Web user preferences and enhances the accuracy and depth of consumer preference insights. This dual-analysis approach represents a significant leap forward in sentiment analysis, setting a new standard for how digital communication can be leveraged to derive meaningful insights into consumer behavior. Furthermore, the results have practical implications to businesses and marketers. The insights gained from this integrated analytical approach offer a more granular and emotionally nuanced view of customer feedback, which can inform more effective marketing strategies, product development and customer service practices. By pioneering this comprehensive method of knowledge extraction, this study paves the way for future research and practice to interpret and respond more accurately to the complex landscape of online consumer expressions. This study's originality and value lie in its innovative method of capturing and analyzing the rich tapestry of Web user communication, offering a ground-breaking perspective on consumer preference extraction that promises to enhance both academic research and practical applications in the digital era. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Facing sustainability challenges and the demand for green and high-quality food, smart agriculture has become a key solution, and understanding consumer preferences for its products is crucial for sustainable development. By employing a structural equation model and using the sample data of an online survey conducted in China, this study investigated consumers' intention to purchase smart agricultural products, thereby examining the effects of value co-creation, cue utilization, attitude, and future orientation. According to the results, cue utilization positively affects value co-creation and attitude. In addition, value co-creation and attitude can promote consumers' purchase intention. Moreover, future orientation positively moderates the effect of attitude on purchase intention. These findings have substantial practical implications for formulating marketing strategies aimed at promoting the consumption of smart agricultural products. By strengthening the effects of cue utilization, value co-creation, and future orientation, marketers can specifically target consumers and facilitate the transition to more sustainable consumption patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cannabis consumers' preference while selecting cannabis products, specifically dried flower, has been undergoing a drastic change as more consumers have begun considering the impact that flavor has on their purchasing intent of different cannabis species (including Indica, Sativa, and or hybrid varieties). As such, the objective of this study was to quantify consumers' sensory perceptions of cannabis strains currently on the market. The researchers used Natural Language Processing (NLP) and online North American cannabis retailers, cannabis user reviews, and other informative cannabis websites to identify 107 different descriptors. Cannabis consumers (n = 123) were asked to complete a free word sorting task on the 107 most frequently cited sensory descriptors identified using NLP, as well as identify which attributes they associated with high and low‐quality cannabis. The consumers sorted the descriptors into 10 different categories (fruit, berry/dried fruit, savory, floral, spices, spicy, potent, smoke, roasted, and confectionary). As the cannabis market continues to grow and mature in North America, this study presents a baseline of how consumers describe different cannabis varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A brand name is a fundamental component of a brand's identity. This research introduces a novel linguistic tool for brand name creation: phonesthemes—sound and spelling letter clusters that are associated with one dominant meaning. For instance, sn, one of over 140 phonesthemes in English, consistently appears in words related to the nose or breathing (sneeze, sniff, snort). Six experiments reveal positive effects of phonesthemic non‐word brand names (e.g., Glif; gl‐; e.g., glow, glimmer; meaning "light") on consumer preference, attitude, purchase intent, and choice when the dominant meaning activated by the phonestheme is semantically congruent with the product category or product attribute (e.g., luminant car wax), due to enhanced processing fluency. Phonological (sound) and orthographic (spelling) priming are eliminated as alternative explanations for the phenomenon. This research advances psycholinguistic research in marketing and the emerging area of brand linguistics by broadening the focus beyond brand name phonology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: In today's global markets, the constant arrival of new products represents a challenge for the food industry to offer distinct choices to consumers, primarily due to the parallel sensory attributes and pricing structures of the available food options. Innovators must employ methodologies beyond traditional sensory analysis to ensure the product's success. Researchers must, therefore, explore the entire product experience to understand its influence on consumer behaviours. Food choices are multifaceted, influenced by various factors, including individual physiological and psychological characteristics and intrinsic and extrinsic product attributes. As a result, consumers' decisions are shaped by the multisensory information derived from products they encounter in supermarkets. This review aims to comprehensively examine the factors influencing consumer food choices, from initial product encounters to consumption. The review explores the impact of repetitive tasting on the consumer's attitudes and intentions towards novel products. Additionally, the review investigates which extrinsic attributes capture consumer attention in supermarket settings. It also delves into the effects of extrinsic product attributes on both explicit and implicit emotions and expectations raised about the sensory properties of the product and, ultimately, their purchasing behaviours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food labels and storytelling are marketing tools used by the food industry to highlight and communicate important product characteristics to consumers. By using these tools, food companies can influence consumers' attitudes toward the product and potentially the likelihood of purchase. In the present study, we investigated how storytelling about an innovative and sustainable organic beef production system influenced participants' preference and acceptance of a veal steak product and, further, if some information characteristics were more important than others for consumer satisfaction. Without being aware that the samples were identical, participants (n = 224) tasted two veal steak samples: one steak sample was presented with information about the production system, and the other without information. Results showed that when the steak sample was presented with product information, compared to without information, it received significantly higher hedonic ratings (overall liking, liking of flavor, and liking of texture). This was likewise reflected in a greater preference for the steak sample when presented with product information. Furthermore, product information was found to positively impact the participants' satisfaction with the steak sample regardless of their preference. Overall, our results suggest that the use of storytelling about the innovative and sustainable product system for veal steaks can positively influence consumers' attitudes toward the product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As consumers begin to spend more time on social networks, social media platforms have become commercial marketing tools. Advertisements for any goods, services or brands, especially on social media platforms, have become effective. Social media advertisements have begun to be very effective on consumers' brand value perception and preferences, and this affects the consumer's thoughts in terms of awareness, loyalty and quality in the context of brand value. As a result, unplanned purchasing behavior has come to the fore. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of consumers' attitudes towards social media advertisements on brand value and consumer behavior. The data obtained within the scope of the research was obtained by online survey method between 10 March and 30 April 2024. During the data analysis process, SPSS 25.0 and AMOS 26.0 package programs were used within the scope of the research. The results obtained reveal that the attitude of consumers towards social media advertisements has a positive and statistically significant effect on brand value and consumer behavior. In this context, it is seen that social media advertisements play a decisive role in the changes in consumers' perception and this effect indicates a positive relationship between brand value and consumer behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recognizing that the waste of imperfect produce contributes to the global environmental crisis, the authors conduct three studies examining whether retailers can use anthropomorphizing marketing techniques to make irregular‐appearing produce more attractive and increase purchase intentions. Based on the exemplar model theory, Study 1 shows that when retailers place googly eyes on pictures of irregular‐appearing produce, consumers judge the product according to multiple exemplars as they do when they evaluate humans. The multiple esthetic cues cause them to perceive irregular produce as more attractive. Study 2 replicates Study 1 by using human names as the anthropomorphic cues, demonstrating that anthropomorphism can increase purchase intentions toward irregular‐appearing produce. Study 3 further shows that the anthropomorphism effects hold for irregular‐appearing produce from corporate farms and not from local farms. The differences occur because consumers expect corporate farms to conform to standardized esthetic norms but expect local farms to market irregular‐appearing produce. When expectations are aligned, anthropomorphism is more likely to cause consumers to diversify esthetic cues, but not when expectations are disassociated. The article concludes with suggestions for promotion strategies that use anthropomorphizing to change attitudes and increase purchase intentions toward irregular‐appearing produce. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although consumers are commonly exposed to numerous choices and the opportunity to touch products when they shop, the literature remains unclear on how both factors simultaneously affect choice. With the growth of online shopping, touch literature has studied the effects of mere touch (i.e., nondiagnostic tactile contact) or vicarious touch (e.g., observing a hand in physical contact with a product or imagining touching a product) to demonstrate that these nondiagnostic haptic inputs can comparably influence consumer attitude, just like diagnostic touch. By investigating the moderating effects of different haptic inputs on choice overload, this research reveals certain conditions in which nondiagnostic haptic inputs operate differently than those of diagnostic touch. We find that both mere touch (Study 1) and vicarious touch (Study 2) help reduce choice overload effects by eliminating the effect of choice set size on choice uncertainty, which is typically observed in the no touch (i.e., control) condition. As haptic cues have been increasingly employed to aid the online shopping experience for consumers, we also find that the choice overload effect is eliminated when an autotelic haptic cue is presented but amplified when an instrumental haptic cue is provided (Study 3). Besides, this research demonstrates that, while the moderating effects of the nondiagnostic haptic inputs are driven by increased personal control, instrumental touch can amplify choice overload effects due to the increased choice difficulty when choosing from large (vs. small) choice sets. These findings help retailers know what type of haptic cues to apply or avoid, as consumers have already been overloaded with abundant choices when they shop online. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to explore the negative effect of power distance belief (PDB) on do-it-yourself (DIY) preference. It extends previous studies by delving into the underlying mechanism and identifying three theoretically driven moderators that could mitigate this negative effect. Design/methodology/approach: The paper uses secondary data at the country level and conducts three experiments involving participants from the USA and Germany. Findings: The results suggest that the adverse impact of PDB on DIY preference exists through the underlying mechanism of attitude toward customer power. This negative effect can be mitigated when individuals with high PDB focus on status, find themselves in a position of low power or engage in activities within a private consumption setting. Practical implications: For DIY companies, this study offers crucial insights into the impact of cultural values on consumers' DIY preferences. By customizing their marketing communications, companies can resonate with high PDB customers more effectively. Originality/value: This research enhances DIY literature by introducing novel moderators within a theoretical framework, explaining why DIY preference might be low among individuals with high PDB and suggests ways to attenuate this effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The communication style between seller and consumer is an important component of post‐purchase communication, yet little research has examined the role of nonverbal language in online post‐purchase communication. Given the prevalence of emojis, which convey a sender's emotion, in both social and business communication online, this article aims to examine how the use of animated emojis in online post‐purchase communication differs from the use of static emojis. Through three laboratory experiments, this research shows that consumers' attitudes are more positive when they communicate with sellers who use animated emojis than with sellers who use static emojis in online post‐purchase communications (Studies 1 and 2). We also demonstrate that sellers' use of animated emojis, rather than static emojis, increases consumers' perceived emotional support, which subsequently boosts consumers' positive attitudes (Study 2). Notably, when consumers discuss embarrassing products in online post‐purchase communications, sellers' use of static emojis is more effective than that of animated emojis (Study 3). These findings therefore provide insights into why and when consumers prefer animated emojis and how sellers can use them appropriately in online post‐purchase communications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While existing consumer research on political ideology often focuses on ideological differences in preferences for high-status, typically observably superior products, little is known about how political ideology may shape preferences for observably inferior products in non-status-signaling domains. Observably inferior products are product options that are dominated by alternatives along observable dimensions. We propose that, in non-status-signaling domains, conservatives are more interested in observably inferior products than liberals. This happens because conservatives (vs. liberals) have a stronger belief that things, including products, are in balance, whereby positives offset negatives. As a result, when presented with observably inferior products, conservatives (vs. liberals) are more likely to engage in compensatory reasoning and attribute positive qualities to these products, boosting their appeal. Activating belief in balance and preventing compensatory reasoning through cognitive load attenuate this effect. Salience of status-signaling motives serves as a boundary condition. Five studies and four follow-ups provide converging evidence using data collected in the laboratory and in the field, hypothetical and actual product choices, a variety of product categories and participant populations. These findings contribute to research on political ideology, compensatory inferences, and inferior products and provide insights with respect to managing product manufacturing, inventory, and waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the relationship between consumers' taste preferences—specifically sweetness and saltiness—and dietary diversity. This study utilizes consumer panel data collected by the Rural Development Administration of South Korea, in combination with a food nutrient database. The study applies long‐term purchase data to derive indices of dietary diversity and taste preferences. The objective is to examine the impact of sweetness and saltiness preferences, as a consumer attitude, on dietary diversity as a consumption behavior. The findings suggest that consumer preference for sweet and salty tastes significantly contributes to dietary diversity, while preference for sweetness has a negative impact and preference for saltiness has a positive impact on dietary diversity. Practical Applications: The utilization of long‐term consumer panel data for the calculation of household‐level dietary diversity, as an alternative to short‐term memory recall surveys, offers a more comprehensive and data‐driven approach to the measurement of dietary diversity. Furthermore, an integration of nutrient content with purchased items to quantify consumers' sweet and salty taste preferences and a measurement of preference based on nutrient intake can be employed as a more objective approach to assessing taste preferences. The results indicate that consumption behavior, specifically dietary diversity, is significantly influenced by sweet and salty taste preferences. Consumers who prefer sweetness are expected to exhibit lower dietary diversity, contributing to the association between sweetness preference and poorer health outcomes. In particular, as sweetness preference is a learned behavior, it is necessary to recognize that frequent exposure to sweetness fosters its preference and that this, in turn, negatively impacts dietary diversity. Therefore, individuals aiming for a higher level of dietary diversity should actively reduce their exposure to sweetness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored the impact of various label information (extrinsic attributes) and sociodemographic and attitudinal factors (intrinsic attributes) on Brazilian consumer choices, using simulated traditional and plant-based muçarela cheese as the model product. The research was conducted in two phases: the first involved a structured questionnaire assessing attitudinal dimensions such as Health Consciousness, Climate Change, Plant-based Diets, and Food Neophobia, along with sociodemographic data collection. The second phase comprised a discrete choice experiment with (n = 52) and without (n = 509) eye tracking. The term "Cheese" on labels increased choice probability by 7.6% in a general survey and 15.1% in an eye tracking study. A prolonged gaze at "Cheese" did not affect choice, while more views of "Plant-based product" slightly raised choice likelihood by 2.5%. Repeatedly revisiting these terms reduced the choice probability by 3.7% for "Cheese" and 1% for "Plant-based product". Nutritional claims like "Source of Vitamins B6 and B12" and "Source of Proteins and Calcium" boosted choice probabilities by 4.97% and 5.69% in the general and 8.4% and 6.9% in the eye-tracking experiment, respectively. Conversely, front-of-package labeling indicating high undesirable nutrient content decreased choice by 13% for magnifying presentations and 15.6% for text. In a plant-based subsample, higher environmental concerns and openness to plant-based diets increased choice probabilities by 5.31% and 5.1%, respectively. These results highlight the complex dynamics between label information, consumer understanding, and decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep fat frying is one of the oldest processes used to dry, cook, and formulate food products. The success of this process is due to its adaptability and flexibility in domestic and industrial scale. Fried foods are very popular owing to their good mouthfeel, high pleasantness, good taste, and texture. Foods absorb a significant amount of oil during frying, which increases the risk of such diseases as increased cholesterol levels, blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. The shift in consumer attitude and preference towards healthier options with lower fat content has markedly affected the fried food industry. Numerous attempts have been made globally to create low-fat products due to the excessive oil content in fried foods. There are novel methods to reduce the amount of oil in fried products. This review aimed to assess the effect of new technologies of blanching, microwave, and ultrasound on physicochemical properties, especially the reduction of oil absorption in fried products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aims to examine the relationship between perceived digital social responsibility (DSR) and consumer selection by mobile telecom companies in Saudi Arabia, considering purchase intention (PI) and consumer loyalty (CL), with the mediating role of brand preference (BP). This study found digital social responsibility to be a powerful marketing tool that can reach customers and increase sales volume, which is a significant addition for corporate social responsibility officers and marketing managers. Therefore, using social media platforms as a medium is important for influencing consumers' attitudes toward and social responsibility for social media. Telecom companies need to focus on digital social responsibility strategies since there is high competition with similar services and products, making it difficult to earn consumer loyalty. The research strategy employed a positivist approach with a quantitative methodology, utilizing an online questionnaire. The data were collected from 375 Saudi participants and analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) v.23 for hypothesis testing. The theoretical framework was tested using AMOS v.23 and structural equation modelling (SEM). Weak relationships were observed between perceived digital social responsibility and both PI and CL. However, a significant relationship existed between perceived DSR and BP. The most significant relationships were found between BP and both PI and CL. Thus, BP was identified as a partial mediator between perceived DSR and PI, as well as CL. This study highlights the importance of fostering long-term relationships between consumers and mobile telecom companies. Cultural differences may explain the contradictory findings of previous studies. There are several limitations in terms of the perception of digital social responsibility. In the Saudi context, participants seemed unfamiliar with the term. However, the use of a cross-sectional method prevented the research from measuring the change in participants' perceptions of digital social responsibility over time, making it difficult to measure purchase intentions and consumer loyalty. Additionally, no specific digital platforms, such as Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, were used in this research, making it difficult to analyse each post and its impact. Moreover, future research should investigate small mobile telecom companies in Saudi Arabia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines Chinese consumers' perceptions and responses to disruptive innovations within the New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) market, utilizing a questionnaire survey to explore awareness, perceived value of technological advancements, and the impact of these perceptions on adoption decisions. The survey, encompassing a diverse demographic of 154 respondents, highlights a female majority with a significant representation from the "25-34" age group, indicating a young, educated demographic with a considerable interest in NEVs. Analysis reveals a moderate familiarity with NEVs, a high valuation of technological progress, and a clear recognition of charging infrastructure availability as critical factors influencing adoption. Primary barriers identified include the high initial cost and limited charging infrastructure, with the data suggesting a strong potential for NEVs market growth if these concerns are addressed. Additionally, the survey uncovers optimistic future expectations among consumers, closely tied to government policies, technological advancements, and evolving market trends. This research contributes to understanding consumer attitudes in the rapidly changing NEVs landscape, offering insights for stakeholders to foster adoption and align strategies with consumer preferences and needs, underscoring the necessity for focused educational and marketing efforts to mitigate existing barriers and leverage consumer interest in technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the impact of social exclusion on consumer preferences for color combinations. Drawing on findings from five experimental studies, we demonstrate that individuals who have experienced social exclusion display a heightened preference for analogous color combinations, as opposed to complementary ones, compared to those who have not experienced social exclusion. Our research posits that this preference arises from the feeling of conflict induced by social exclusion, leading individuals to choose products and environments with analogous colors as a coping mechanism to alleviate this feeling of conflict. By establishing a connection between social exclusion and color combination preferences, our study contributes to a deeper comprehension of the factors influencing consumer choices in the realm of color. Furthermore, we demonstrate the broader consequences of social exclusion on consumer behavior. Our research also indicates that utilizing analogous color combinations in both product and interior design can substantially enhance the appeal for socially excluded individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food reformulation and the introduction of novel sources of nutrition are considered potential strategies to address poor nutrition and public health issues. Seaweed, a novel food in Western cuisine, is gaining popularity, and seaweed farming in the United States is an emerging and fast‐growing aquaculture segment. This paper provides a comprehensive understanding of US consumers' preferences and attitudes toward seaweed and value‐added seaweed products. Specifically, the study focuses on two distinct consumer groups: those who consume seaweed and those who do not. It includes separate analyses for each group to compare their attitudes and examine the characteristics and factors affecting their attitudes. This paper summarizes the different characteristics of seaweed consumers and nonconsumers. The results show that the seaweed consumers' knowledge of seaweed and perceptions of seaweed quality, price, and availability positively affect their intentions to try a new product flavored with seaweed. Nonconsumers have unique reasons for not consuming seaweed, several of which are associated with their intentions to try a new seaweed product [EconLit Citations: D12, Q13]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of the study is to investigate the effect of terminal and instrumental values on the attitude and brand desirability for upcycled luxury designer facemasks, in relation with generic luxury designer facemasks. Design/methodology/approach: A quantitative approach was adopted in this study, and data were collected via an online consumer panel from 390 existing Australian luxury consumers, aged 18 and above. Stimuli that represented the two upcycling conditions (remnants and past collections) and a control condition (generic product) from an actual Burberry-branded facemask were designed for the study. The collected data were analysed using the least partial square and multi-group analysis of the structural equation model Findings: The findings indicate that consumers do not perceive Burberry facemasks made from upcycled remnant materials and previous collections have superior aesthetic or self-expressive benefits to them when compared to the generic Burberry masks. In the same vein, both upcycled categories do not provide superior instrumental values through economic benefits or safety when compared to the generic Burberry masks. Hence, terminal and instrumental values had no influence on the attitude and brand desirability for upcycled luxury designer facemasks, in relation with generic luxury designer facemasks. Practical implications: The results indicate that strategies will have to be better designed to have a balance between safety features (as opposed to fashion) and luxury desirability of the brand to better capture the market for difference consumer values for the facemasks. As this is a relatively low involvement product, the pricing strategies must be re-evaluated. Originality/value: This study offers empirical support for the proposition that different upcycling methods in the name of sustainable practices may have different functions for different consumer values in luxury marketing implementations. For the choice of facemasks during the COVID-19 pandemic, it provides empirical evidence for consumer choice for the different types and how it can be used to elevate luxury brand desirability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) energy management optimization method is proposed based on deep learning (DL) model predictive control. Through empirical research combined with the questionnaire survey, this article not only provides a new perspective and practical basis but also improves the efficiency and accuracy of the model by improving the relevant algorithms. The study first analyzes the importance of HEV energy management and reviews the existing literature. Then, the optimization method of HEV energy management based on the deep learning model is introduced in detail, including the composition of energy management for hybrid electric vehicles, the structure and working principle of the deep learning model, especially the backpropagation neural network (BPNN) and the convolutional neural network (CNN), and the steps of application of deep learning in energy management. In the experimental part, questionnaire data from 1,500 consumers were used to design the HEV energy management optimization scheme, and consumers' attitudes and preferences towards HEV energy optimization were discussed. The experimental results show that the proposed model can predict HEV energy consumption under different road conditions (urban roads, highways, mountain areas, suburban areas, and construction sites), and the difference between the average predicted energy consumption and the actual energy consumption is between 0.1KWH and 0.3KWH, showing high prediction accuracy. In addition, the deep learning-based energy management strategy outperforms traditional control strategies in terms of fuel consumption (6.2 L/100 km), battery charge and discharge times (814), battery life, and CO2 emissions, significantly improving the efficiency of HEV energy. These results demonstrate the great potential and practical application value of deep learning models in the optimization of energy management of HEVs, helping to drive the development of more sustainable and efficient transportation systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of new energy Electric Vehicles (EVs), certain car manufacturers engage in deceptive behaviors known as "greenwashing", including activities such as "subsidy cheating", "exaggerating carbon reduction claims", and "selective disclosure of environmental information". These behaviors have a negative impact on industry progress. While previous studies suggest that consumers' perceptions of greenwashing towards individual brands extend to the industry as a whole and influence their overall purchase intentions, there remains a gap in understanding how these behaviors specifically affect consumers' willingness to purchase EVs. To address this gap and enrich the literature on the relationship between greenwashing and consumer choice, this study uses ABC attitude theory and experimental methods to investigate the impact of greenwashing in the EV sector on consumers' vehicle preferences in three experiments. The results show that consumers' perceptions of greenwashing in one EV brand negatively influence their purchase intentions towards other brands, mediated by a general skepticism towards environmental claims in the industry. In addition, consumers' innovativeness and attitudes towards other brands play a negative moderating role in this relationship. The research findings provide comprehensive insights into the complex impact of brand greenwashing on consumer behavior within the EV industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electric vehicles (EVs) market in Malaysia, though growing remains relatively small. Previous related studies on Malaysia focused mainly on consumer preferences and the country's readiness towards a higher adoption of environmentally friendly alternative vehicles. This study extends previous work to examine consumer preferences towards EVs through a market survey conducted in Klang Valley. Then follows a comparative economic and environmental cost-benefit analysis of EVs relative to conventional vehicles and hybrid vehicles to provide some understanding on the market diffusion of the former. The key findings from the survey suggest that pricing and the maintenance costs of EVs negatively influence the uptake of EVs despite the positive environmental attitudes of consumers. The cost-benefit analysis, in turn, implies that the EV transition will accelerate with rising petrol prices and falling battery costs. The study concludes with some implications for sustainability based on the adoption of EVs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This Research determines the factors influencing American consumers' willingness to purchase turmeric products, amidst the spice's rising popularity for its potential health benefits, particularly those linked to its bioactive component, curcumin. Through a comprehensive analysis of a Qualtrics online survey with 1,020 national respondents in the U.S., we employed advanced choice experiment mixed logit models to elucidate consumer preferences regarding product form, origin, sustainability certification, curcumin content, and price. Contrary to the initial hypothesis that curcumin potency would be a primary driver, our results indicate that the place of origin and price significantly shape purchasing decisions, with a clear preference for inland domestically grown, organically certified turmeric products. These insights offer valuable guidance for producers, manufacturers, and marketers in the natural products industry, suggesting a focus on emphasizing local, sustainable sourcing and clear communication of organic credentials to align with consumer expectations. Our findings not only provide a detailed understanding of current consumer attitudes toward turmeric but also highlight potential markets for turmeric-based product development and effective marketing to cater to the evolving demand for health-beneficial natural products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to determine how much of an impact The Female Daily Community (FD Talk), a reference group, has on customers' intentions to buy cosmetic items. Online communities are crucial in influencing customer behavior in today's digital environment, especially in the competitive and ever-changing beauty market. This study investigates how much FD Talk influences consumers' attitudes, preferences, and buy intentions in the beauty sector through qualitative interviews. The results highlight the significant influence of FD Talk as an online community, offering insightful information to marketers looking to use online communities for tactical marketing campaigns. Comprehending the interplay between virtual reference groups and customer behavior is crucial for enterprises seeking to effectively interact with their intended market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The main objective of this article is to identify and analyze the attitudes of Polish consumers toward practices related to sustainable logistics. Design/methodology/approach: The results will be based on empirical research concerning attitudes toward practices related to sustainable logistics in a research sample of 130 consumers. The research was conducted in November 2023 and covered the entire area of Poland. Findings: The vast majority of respondents are positive when assessing their ecological attitude. Therefore, they have specific preferences in the field of urban transportation. Most often they use electric bicycles or scooters. In addition, they prefer goods to be delivered to parcel machines. They appreciate when shipments are combined into one delivery or the switching of paper transport documents into electronic ones. Priority solutions in sustainable logistics include, in the opinions of consumers, organizing intelligent and ecological warehouses and modernizing the transport fleet. In addition, almost half of the respondents assessed that they are aware of greenwashing in the logistics industry and in their opinion the phenomenon is mainly manifested by the abuse of not insignificant formations in the field of sustainable development. Research limitations/implications: Among the limitations of the research are the small sample size of the empirical study, as well as the limited nature of the survey questionnaire. Practical implications: This research has provided a lot of practical information that can be used in the business environment. Firstly, companies knowing consumer preferences can better adjust their marketing strategies to meet expectations, as well as develop more attractive product offerings. In addition, the research points to the need for public campaigns to educate consumers about sustainable logistics, as well as greenwashing. Social implications: This research can be a systemic shift toward more environmentally and socially responsible practices in both the private and public sectors. By influencing public attitudes, corporate behavior, policy development, and quality of life, it can contribute to building a more sustainable and resilient society for future generations. Originality/value: Up-to-date knowledge of consumer attitudes toward sustainable logistics activities is particularly important for both the business and government communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Precision Livestock Farming (PLF) has the potential to address some of the societal concerns regarding intensive livestock production, such as those with regard to animal health and welfare. However, information on the attitudes of consumers towards PLF is scarce. An online survey with a Discrete Choice Experiment was conducted in Flanders, Belgium to determine whether type of animal health monitoring (visual assessment without PLF, PLF at group level, PLF at individual animal level), animal welfare label (4 levels) and price influence the preference for filet mignon of consumers. In total, 454 respondents participated in the survey, of which 250 purchased filet mignon themselves. The characteristics gender, frequency of buying filet mignon, attitude towards organic and attitude towards welfare labels affected the utility (or "preferences") of the meat. The utility was highest for female respondents, for respondents who bought filet mignon less than once a month, for those who consciously bought organic meat and those with a positive attitude towards labels guaranteeing animal welfare and health. The utility of filet mignon was not affected by the type of animal health monitoring, whereas animal welfare label and price had a significant effect. Respondents were willing to pay more for filet mignon carrying a welfare label, ranging from 15.2 €/kg (Label 1) up to 18.1 €/kg (Label 3) compared to a reference price of 12 €/kg (No label). For the use of PLF for automated health monitoring, it should be further researched if consumers are neutral towards the use of PLF, or whether the technology might be relatively unknown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indigenous and native chickens play a pivotal role in rural economies, providing income and food security. India is one of the world's top producers of poultry, with a total chicken population of 851.8 million in 2019 and 37.2% representing native or indigenous breeds. In recent years, the rising demand for native chicken meat and government-backed projects in India have led to a shift from traditional backyard chicken raising to semi-intensive and intensive farms, empowering marginalized communities and women. Consumer preferences for native chicken meat in India was examined in this study, employing a two-part model with a logit model and log-normal OLS model to analyse responses from 503 consumers. Additionally, factor analysis revealed nine key factors influencing attitudes. Gender, age, income, education, marital status, cohabitation, household size, the presence of seniors or children, and consumption frequency significantly shaped preferences. Factors such as psychological well-being, affordability, knowledge, nutrition, food quality, fitness, purity, and sustainability had negative effects on preference and quantity purchased. The study reveals a strong consumer preference for native chicken meat, attributed to its organic nature, including traditional farming and sustainable production. To enhance sustainability of semi-intensive and intensive native chicken farming, it is imperative to address pricing disparities and ensure the consistent availability of native chicken meat. Achieving long- term sustainability in native chicken farming requires aligning consumer demand with ethical and environmentally sustainable farming practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amid increasing concerns about plastic pollution and its negative impact on ecosystems, this research explores the relationship between environmental consciousness and the desire of urban consumers in Yogyakarta City to purchase products with eco-friendly packaging. Using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) as a foundation, we aim to unveil the factors influencing consumer preferences toward sustainable packaging alternatives. Through a quantitative approach, this study involved 150 respondents who were selected purposively, with data analysis utilizing Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Findings indicate a significant relationship between environmental consciousness and positive consumer attitudes towards sustainable packaging, emphasizing the crucial role of environmental consciousness in driving preferences for eco-friendly options. However, consumer attitudes alone do not directly increase the willingness to purchase these products. Instead, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control emerge as the primary determinants, highlighting the strong influence of social pressure and personal efficacy beliefs on sustainable purchasing decisions. This study not only contributes to the theoretical discourse on consumer behavior in environmental sustainability but also offers practical insights for policymakers, businesses, and environmental campaigns in promoting a culture of sustainable consumption through effective communication strategies, policy interventions, and market-based solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In developing countries, food safety is an important predictor of consumer attitude when purchasing fish. This paper explores factors affecting the choice of retail markets and consumers' Willingness to Pay (WTP) for safe fish in Bangladesh. Cross-sectional data were collected through a consumer survey (n = 420) in two major cities. Factor analysis, multinomial logit model, and log-linear regression were employed to investigate the latent structure of a set of variables; assess factors affecting consumers' WTP and their choices of retail markets for safe fish. The study outcomes demonstrate that consumers perceived the production method as the more influential attribute in choosing safe fish, and their WTP for production method is higher than for safety claims. High earners and female customers with a heightened safety awareness have the strongest preference for safe fish from supermarkets. In contrast, low-income consumers only are more likely to buy safe fish at wet markets. For a high-income level, the presence of a minor in the family, a low number of family members, willingness to join an Environmental Club, and a positive attitude toward attributes substantially influence consumers' WTP for safe fish positively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study estimates the influence of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on consumer preferences for turfgrass attributes by analyzing data from two surveys conducted in Jan 2019 and Apr 2021. First, the study estimated a mixed logit model to account for individual heterogeneity in preferences. Subsequently, estimates of the willingness to pay (WTP) were compared between periods before and after the pandemic. To show the impact of consumers' risk attitudes with respect to climate change on their preference for turfgrass attributes, we re-estimated the model according to the risk attitude groups (i.e., risk-seeking vs. risk-averse). Finally, to examine how consumers' demographic characteristics and risk attitudes are related to their WTP for improved turfgrass attributes, we estimated a random-effect panel data model for each attribute. Our results showed that, overall, consumers' WTP increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. We also found that the WTP of risk-averse consumers were mostly higher than those of risk-seeking consumers during both time periods. Furthermore, the increase in the WTP observed among the risk-averse group was greater than the increase of the WTP of the risk-seeking group. Our findings imply that the demand for drought-tolerant and stressresistant turfgrasses would increase with possible future climate changes and infectious disease outbreaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study delves into the intricate relationship between gender and consumer satisfaction with eco-friendly products. Through a comprehensive analysis, it explores the level of customer awareness regarding environmentally sustainable products and investigates how gender influences satisfaction levels. The research aims to provide valuable insights into consumer behavior and preferences in the context of green purchasing decisions. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the factors shaping consumer attitudes towards eco-friendly products by uncovering gender-based disparities in awareness and satisfaction. The study aims to shed light on the complex interrelations between gender, awareness, and satisfaction, thus contributing to a more nuanced understanding of the factors shaping consumer attitudes towards eco-friendly products. The findings of this research underscore the significance of gender as a determinant factor in both consumer awareness and satisfaction with eco-friendly products. Moreover, the study reveals notable disparities between genders in awareness levels, with implications for marketing strategies and environmental initiatives promoting sustainable consumption. Additionally, the correlation between gender and satisfaction levels highlights the importance of tailored approaches to meet the distinct preferences and needs of different demographic groups. Ultimately, this study serves as a valuable resource for businesses, policymakers, and environmental advocates seeking to foster greater consumer engagement and satisfaction in the realm of eco-friendly products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigates the relationship between consumer perception and the demand for organic products. As sustainability and health consciousness continue to shape consumer choices, understanding the factors influencing their perception becomes crucial for the organic industry. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining surveys and interviews to analyze consumer attitudes towards organic products. Examining factors such as perceived health benefits, environmental impact, and trust in organic certification, the research aims to unveil the drivers and barriers impacting consumer perception. Additionally, it explores the influence of marketing strategies on shaping consumer views. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The purpose of this research was to examine the shoe industry in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and how brand localness and globalness affect customer loyalty. The study's overarching goal is to learn, in a culturally varied market, how these brand characteristics influence consumer actions and preferences via the medium of customer perception. In all, 239 Saudi Arabians who bought shoes from different brands took part in the survey. Data were gathered by structured questionnaires using validated scales that were derived from prior research. To examine the connections between brand traits (brand localness, brand globalness), customer perception, and loyalty dimensions, the statistical software ADANCO enabled structural equation modelling (SEM).Brand localness and globalness both have good impacts on customer loyalty, according to the results. Customer perception has a crucial role in influencing consumer attitudes and behaviours towards footwear businesses, as it mediates these interactions. Brands that deliberately use their local identity or global reputation are able to increase consumer loyalty, according to the study, since their customers regard them as genuine, relevant to their culture, and consistently providing high-quality products.This study empirically validates brand qualities' effects on consumer loyalty in a specific cultural environment, advancing theory. Aligning with local cultural values and global norms helps improve brand strategy, strengthening consumer ties and competitive advantage in varied markets. The study's findings can help brand managers prosper in globalised consumer marketplaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A popular form of cause marketing (CM) that has recently emerged is one requiring the consumer to perform a prescribed behavior—such as providing a product review or uploading a picture on social media alongside a hashtag—to trigger a donation from the firm to the charitable cause. While this approach may be engaging, its effectiveness in eliciting positive consumer responses toward the brand remains uncertain when compared to conventional forms of CM. The current research uses a moral self-signaling framework to examine the role of effort in CM on consumer attitudes toward the brand, consumer choice, and purchase and participation intentions. Five studies reveal that consumers who are concerned about their moral self-image prefer effort-based CM over no-effort CM. This effect emerges because consumers anticipate greater moral self-signaling utility from effort-based CM than from no-effort CM. However, this effect only occurs for CM campaigns where the consumer's effort is private. Despite the prevalence of CM campaigns requiring public performance of effort (e.g., selfie campaigns), consumers seeking to reinforce their moral self-image view such campaigns unfavorably. Important implications of effort-based CM for firms, non-profits, and consumers are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on recommendation agents (RAs) originally focused on interactive RAs, which rely on explicit methods, i.e., eliciting user-provided inputs to learn about consumers' needs and preferences. Recently, due to the availability of large amounts of data about individuals, the focus shifted toward non-interactive RAs that use implicit methods rather than explicit ones to understand users' needs. This paper examined the differences between interactive and non-interactive RA types in terms of how they influence the impacts of two important antecedents of RA adoption, namely recommendation quality and trust on users' cognitive and affective attitudes and behavioral intention. To that end, we developed a set of hypotheses and tested them empirically using a meta-analytic structural equation modeling approach. Our findings provide strong support for the influence of interactivity on RA users' attitudes and cognitions. While we found that recommendation quality exerts a strong influence on consumers' cognitive attitudes toward interactive RAs, this influence is statistically non-significant in the context of non-interactive RAs, in which recommendation quality mainly drives consumers' affective attitudes toward the agent. Furthermore, while we found that cognitive attitudes exert a stronger influence than affective ones on consumers' adoption of non-interactive RAs, our results indicate that the reverse is true with interactive RAs. Given the recent rise in the popularity of non-interactive RA tools, our results carry important implications for researchers and practitioners. Specifically, this study contributes to the extensive literature on consumers' use of RAs by providing a better understanding of the differences between interactive and non-interactive RAs. For practitioners, the findings provide guidance for designers and providers of RAs on developing and improving RAs that are more likely to be adopted by consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current trends in the food market are influenced not only by the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic but also by healthy lifestyles and sustainability. Therefore, functional meat products (FMP) are moving to food groups that could be more consumed due to their health benefits. The aim of the paper is to point out the attitude of Slovak consumers towards FMP consumption and to identify factors and reasons for consumption. The research is based on data obtained by conducting a questionnaire survey in Slovakia (n=1,138 respondents). By using statistical methods, consumer attitudes, preferences and reasons for FMP consumption were identified. The results showed that approximately 50% of consumers are regular consumers of FMP. Majority of consumers prefer fish, products with the addition of fish oil, omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, fiber and vitamins. Fat content is the most important factor related to the composition of FMP during the purchase process. The key reasons for consumption are to support their health and to eliminate the risk of developing different diseases. For the favorable development of the market with FMP, it is necessary to inform consumers about the importance of FMP consumption. The results of the consumer study can be a suitable basis for experts and researchers in the field of public health and can be used by producers of meat products for the development and production of new FMP based on consumer requirements and improvement of their marketing strategies.

This paper explores how the busy mindset, a common mindset in modern society, affects consumers' evaluations of new products. It proposes that a busy mindset increases the consumer's evaluation of new products and outlines the mediating role of self-efficacy and the moderating role of perceived economic mobility. The study enriches the research on busy mindsets and new product evaluations and makes practical contributions to enterprises in management and marketing. The paper used three formal experiments (Ns = 196, 84, 277). Participants in studies 1 and 2 were students recruited from different colleges in Guangzhou city, China. The sample in study 3 were adults from all over China recruited from www.wjx.cn. This research shows that activating participants' busy mindsets will increase their evaluations of new products, with self-efficacy as the mediator and economic mobility as the moderator. There may still be other mediating explanations, such as a sense of control. Meanwhile, this study's current manipulation method of busyness mainly focuses on writing tasks; thus, researchers can adopt more new manipulation methods of busyness in a realistic context. Marketers can improve consumers' evaluations and attitudes to new products by stimulating their busy mindsets and briefly activating their highly perceived economic mobility. Unlike previous studies, this research distinguishes between time pressure and a busy mindset. Meanwhile, our results show that the effect of a busy mindset differs from the effect of time pressure on new product evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Economic agents' sentiment about implementation of Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) and the Digital Euro (DE) was captured through two representative consumer surveys among groups of 525 and 1,050 European citizens which reflect the population distribution of the EU countries. The findings reveal broad resistance towards abandoning physical currency, highlighting concerns over security and privacy with the implementation of the Digital Euro. This resistance underscores the necessity for CBDC designs that prioritize these concerns to facilitate wider adoption. Recommendations include enhancing security and privacy features in the DE's design, maintaining cash as a payment option alongside CBDC to allow for gradual transition based on consumer preferences, and implementing a tiered nonremunerated CBDC system. The study contributes to existing literature by offering empirical evidence on consumer attitudes towards CBDCs and providing policy recommendations to address public concerns and promote acceptance of CBDC and the Digital Euro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brand Service Recovery Strategies (BSRS) have garnered significant attention due to their transformative potential in traditional business practices. However, the precise influence of BSRS on fostering positive Electronic Word of Mouth (eWOM) remains inadequately elucidated within the academic literature. Most scholarly investigations have tended to adopt either a theoretical perspective or have overlooked intermediary factors, particularly the role of consumer attitudes toward the brand. Drawing upon the Social Exchange Theory, this study presents an empirical model that seeks to examine whether consumer attitude toward the brand mediates the relationship between BSRS and positive eWOM. Based on survey data from 292 Executive MBA students in a large Chinese university, our study confirms that BSRS strongly impact consumer attitudes, leading to increased positive eWOM. Additionally, we discover that consumer power plays a moderating role, highlighting its contextual importance in this relationship. This study provides vital practical insights for businesses, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies involving BSRS, fostering positive consumer attitudes, active eWOM engagement, tailored approaches for consumer power, and ongoing adaptation to customer feedback, all contributing to improved brand perception and customer satisfaction in today's business environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research aimed to explore the psychological analysis of sports consumers and its application in the rural collective economy industry. Select the top six cities in GDP ranking, namely (A city, B city, C city, D city, E city, F city), in each city, 4 out of 24 comprehensive operational sports and fitness service enterprises with fitness projects as their main business were selected based on consumer satisfaction, and 600 consumers' consumption behaviour was randomly selected as the research object. In terms of purchasing attitude, the most significant impact is the substantive stimulus among the stimulus factors, the correlation coefficient between the two is as high as 0.789, indicating that consumers' actual purchasing attitude is still influenced by factors such as the quality and function of sports products or the relevant services and prices provided in sports consumption venues. The product information reflected in stimulating factors and the consumer's own nature reflected in external factors are interrelated, which plays an important role in influencing consumer preferences and adjusting real consumption behaviour. The study also contributed a significant results which suggest the need for sports businesses to prioritize service-oriented offerings and invest in product quality and facilities to enhance consumer satisfaction and stimulate sports consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Consumers can spend their disposable income on hedonic consumption or save for the future. Their preferences were altered by the prolonged life and livelihood-threatening experiences of the pandemic. This paper aims to study the spillover effect of the pandemic experience on consumer savings attitudes and hedonic purchase preferences in the new normal. Design/methodology/approach: The authors conducted 35 in-depth interviews with consumers in India. The data were analysed thematically. Findings: The results showed that when fear of life and negative emotions of the pandemic persisted, consumers became short-term focused, moved towards materialism and increased hedonic spending. Alternatively, individuals who faced substantial financial hardships resorted to an increased preference for savings. The relationship between changes in savings orientation and hedonic consumption was found to be moderated by consumer's individual differences in financial vulnerability and life history strategies. Practical implications: As the trend towards increased hedonic consumption and preference for luxury products continues, the study findings can be used to devise effective marketing strategies to tap the emerging segment of mass luxury consumption. Originality/value: Despite ample work being conducted in the hedonic consumption domain, it has not been studied in conjunction with savings orientation, a significant determinant. This research links personal savings orientation with hedonic spending and substantiates that purchase decisions are cognitively weighted as a choice of discretionary spending against the opportunity to save. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]