Sustainability

Research

33 pages, 2444 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Conceptual Models of Franchisee Behaviors in the Dietary Supplements and Cosmetics to Imply the Business Investments

by Patcharapol Suttidharm and Adisorn Leelasantitham

Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4287; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104287 - 19 May 2024

Viewed by 535

Franchise businesses have demonstrated resilience before, through, and after the circumstances of COVID-19. This can be attributed to the inherent appeal of rapid success and risk mitigation for investors. Therefore, investors are attached to engaging in a franchise business model. Fierce competition exists [...] Read more.

Franchise businesses have demonstrated resilience before, through, and after the circumstances of COVID-19. This can be attributed to the inherent appeal of rapid success and risk mitigation for investors. Therefore, investors are attached to engaging in a franchise business model. Fierce competition exists among franchise businesses, with numerous brands within the same industry, especially the cosmetic and dietary supplement franchise category, which has garnered significant popularity in Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand. The expansion of this franchise category has accelerated, surpassing the growth rates observed in other countries. Investment decisions across various investor levels are influenced by diverse factors, including intense competition, contributing to the rapid expansion. Therefore, a comprehensive study and understanding of the investment behavior of cosmetic and dietary supplement franchise businesses has become imperative. The success of a franchise business hinges on different factors encompassing decisions made before, during, and after investments. This study delves into the decision-making behaviors preceding and following investments across different investor levels in the cosmetics and dietary supplement franchise industry, utilizing fundamental aspects derived from rational choice theory (RCT) and additional variables. The researcher gathered responses through questionnaires from 490 respondents with investment experience in the cosmetics and dietary supplement franchise business. The study revealed that factors postulated in this study significantly influenced investment choices within cosmetics and dietary supplement franchises. When segmented based on investor levels, distinct considerations emerged for each group. Furthermore, there is a compelling need for cosmetic and dietary supplement franchise owners to implement enhancements in services to uphold and expand investor bases, representing an intense challenge in the cosmetics and dietary supplement franchise business nowadays. This study is intended only for individuals with prior investment experience in the cosmetics and dietary supplement franchise industry. It focuses on examining the factors that influence investment decisions both before and after the initial investment, particularly with regard to dietary supplement and cosmetics franchises. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Management and Consumer Behavior Studies)

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22 pages, 4562 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quantitative Evaluation of Sustainable Marketing Effectiveness: A Polish Case Study

by Pawel Tadeusz Kazibudzki and Tomasz Witold Trojanowski

Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3877; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093877 - 6 May 2024

Viewed by 645

Abstract

This research investigates the sustainable marketing effectiveness of Poland’s fruit and vegetable industry using a seminal approach to analyze the interconnected dynamics among all factors and highlight pivotal elements through a structural model. Methodologically, the research used a sample of 216 companies utilizing [...] Read more.

This research investigates the sustainable marketing effectiveness of Poland’s fruit and vegetable industry using a seminal approach to analyze the interconnected dynamics among all factors and highlight pivotal elements through a structural model. Methodologically, the research used a sample of 216 companies utilizing a comprehensive survey to gauge various dimensions of sustainable marketing, including the environmental and social aspects of production, pricing, distribution and promotional activities. The findings reveal a nuanced landscape of sustainability practices within the industry. While there is a commendable level of awareness and some positive strides in certain areas such as employee-focused social aspects, other domains lag significantly, particularly consumer-focused social aspects and sustainable promotional activities. The study highlights the need for a more concerted and integrated approach towards sustainability, emphasizing the necessity of balancing economic goals with environmental stewardship and social responsibility. These insights bear significant implications for both research and practice. Practically, the study offers industry stakeholders a detailed understanding of the current state of sustainable practices pinpointing areas of strength and opportunities for improvement. It underlines the originality and value of employing a sophisticated analytical approach in assessing and enhancing the sustainability of marketing practices in the industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Management and Consumer Behavior Studies)

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17 pages, 1414 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Promoting Sustainable Consumption: The Roles of Consumers’ Domain-Specific Environmental Knowledge and Personality Traits

by Lian Zeng, Marguerite Moore and Lori Rothenberg

Sustainability 2024, 16(2), 512; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16020512 - 7 Jan 2024

Viewed by 1039

Abstract

Environmental sustainability, a pivotal facet of sustainable development, is explicitly emphasized and advocated. The textile and apparel (T&A) industry, which is resource-intensive, faces challenges in transitioning toward an ecologically friendly market. The shift toward sustainability is causing significant changes in consumer lifestyles and [...] Read more.

Environmental sustainability, a pivotal facet of sustainable development, is explicitly emphasized and advocated. The textile and apparel (T&A) industry, which is resource-intensive, faces challenges in transitioning toward an ecologically friendly market. The shift toward sustainability is causing significant changes in consumer lifestyles and cultural practices, resulting in increased uncertainty in pro-environmental behaviors. This study adapts the environmentally responsible behavior (ERB) model to investigate how consumers’ subjective and objective domain-specific environmental knowledge (SUEK and OBEK) and personality traits—including personal environmental responsibility (PER), eco-centric and anthropocentric environmental beliefs (EEBs and AEBs), and internal and external environmental loci of control (IN-ELOC and EX-ELOC)—influence sustainable consumption intention (SCI) for T&A products. The data from 212 completed online survey questionnaires were analyzed using a two-stage partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) approach. The findings reveal that participants’ SUEK related to the T&A industry, and their PER and EEBs positively influence their SCI for T&A products. This research contributes to the literature on consumer SCI in the T&A industry and adds value to the existing ERB model, providing insights for brands, retailers, educators, policymakers, and stakeholders striving for a more sustainable industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Management and Consumer Behavior Studies)

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17 pages, 556 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identifying Factors Influencing Consumers’ Choice of Disposal Channels Regarding Children’s Clothing in China

by Wenjun Guo and Eunyoung Kim

Sustainability 2023, 15(16), 12628; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151612628 - 21 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1145

Abstract

The disposal of undesired clothing, a crucial phase in consumers’ post-purchase decision-making process, significantly impacts the environment. However, behavior regarding the disposal of children’s clothing, a hitherto unexplored research area, differs from that of adults’ clothing due to the unique physical features of [...] Read more.

The disposal of undesired clothing, a crucial phase in consumers’ post-purchase decision-making process, significantly impacts the environment. However, behavior regarding the disposal of children’s clothing, a hitherto unexplored research area, differs from that of adults’ clothing due to the unique physical features of children. Investigating consumers’ behavior regarding the disposal of children’s clothing is thus essential. Accordingly, this study aimed to identify factors influencing consumers’ choice of disposal channels regarding children’s clothing in China. Specifically, the study seeks to answer two sub-questions: (1) What are the factors that influence consumers’ choice of conventional disposal channels for children’s clothing? and (2) what is the usage status of online clothing recycling platforms among consumers, and what are the barriers and facilitators for their adoption? Data were collected through a combination of quantitative closed-ended questions and a qualitative open-ended question from an online survey involving 259 mothers of children aged 4 to 12 years. The quantitative data were analyzed using binary logistic regression, whereas the qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis and Chi-square by employing the capability, opportunity, and motivation–behavior model (COM-B). The findings show that Chinese consumers’ choice of conventional disposal channels for children’s clothing is influenced by reasons related to poor fit and clothing damage, mother’s age, and family’s annual family income level. Moreover, the study reveals that online clothing-recycling platforms as an emerging disposal channel are not widely accepted due to various barriers, including psychological capability, physical opportunity, social opportunity, and reflective motivation. Therefore, the insights gained from this study provide guidance to consumers, recyclers, public policymakers, and practitioners in the children’s clothing industry towards children’s clothing disposal, aiming to promote sustainable disposal behavior. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Management and Consumer Behavior Studies)

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9 pages, 359 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Why Do Consumers Buy Green Smart Buildings without Engaging in Energy-Saving Behaviors in the Workplace? The Perspective of Materialistic Value

by Lydia Chu

Sustainability 2023, 15(12), 9278; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15129278 - 8 Jun 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1069

Abstract

The construction industry is recognized as a heavily polluting industry, so it is imperative to understand consumer behavior towards green smart buildings and energy-saving behaviors at workplaces to achieve sustainable development. However, previous surveys on green purchasing behavior and green energy-saving behaviors did [...] Read more.

The construction industry is recognized as a heavily polluting industry, so it is imperative to understand consumer behavior towards green smart buildings and energy-saving behaviors at workplaces to achieve sustainable development. However, previous surveys on green purchasing behavior and green energy-saving behaviors did not investigate the double-edged perspective of these two variables. Therefore, this paper adopts the theory of symbolic self-completion to detect the double-edged impact of material values on green smart buildings and energy-saving behaviors, and the impact is moderated by a luxurious atmosphere. In addition, past investigations did not find a double-edged effect of material value on green smart buildings and energy-saving behaviors, so this paper provides a significant contribution to the field of green smart buildings and sustainable development. To test the proposed hypotheses, this paper conducted a survey of 101 consumers in Taiwan to test the theoretical model, and the analysis results support all hypotheses. This study contributes to the current literature in three ways. First, it constructs a theoretical model to clarify the relationship between materialism and environmental behaviors. Second, although a growing body of research has investigated the impact of material values on environmental behavior, these studies understand little about why material values lead to conflicting relationships. This study shows that material value is a double-edged sword for environmentally friendly behavior to fill this gap. Finally, the results can guide the construction industry in developing green marketing strategies for sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Management and Consumer Behavior Studies)

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23 pages, 1530 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Factors Determining the Acceptance of E-Wallet among Gen Z from the Lens of the Extended Technology Acceptance Model

by Mohd Shafie Rosli, Nor Shela Saleh, Azlah Md. Ali and Suaibah Abu Bakar

Sustainability 2023, 15(7), 5752; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15075752 - 25 Mar 2023

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 8315

Abstract

E-wallets are one of the breakthroughs brought forth by the evolution of FinTech, which has been accentuated by the global outbreak of COVID-19. Therefore, it is critical to comprehend the factor of e-wallet acceptance. As this technology advances, substantial knowledge and research gaps [...] Read more.

E-wallets are one of the breakthroughs brought forth by the evolution of FinTech, which has been accentuated by the global outbreak of COVID-19. Therefore, it is critical to comprehend the factor of e-wallet acceptance. As this technology advances, substantial knowledge and research gaps become apparent. Previous studies on e-wallet acceptance have overlooked the importance of motivation and self-efficacy. There is a dearth of focus on certain age groups, such as Gen Z, which is currently the trendsetter of new technologies. This study aims to close the gaps regarding the lack of focus toward Gen Z, motivation, and self-efficacy in understanding e-wallet acceptance by combining the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) with Self-Determination Theory (SDT), Self-Efficacy (SE), and Digital Media Self-Efficacy (DMSE) to fully understand the factors influencing e-wallet acceptance among Gen Z, using 233 samples to test 16 hypotheses derived from the identified research and knowledge gaps. External Regulation (ER), SE, and DMSE are the determinants of acceptance, according to Structural Equation Model analysis conducted. Mediation analysis reveals that Attitude toward Use (AT) is the full mediator of Perceived Usefulness (PU) and Perceived Ease of Use (PEU). The quintessential outcome of this research is the Model of E-Wallet Acceptance among Gen Z, which is significant for FinTech industries looking to strategically roll out e-wallet initiatives as well as a point of exploration for numerous future academic research and development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Management and Consumer Behavior Studies)

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18 pages, 1694 KiB

Open AccessArticle

International Students’ Nostalgic Behaviour towards the Purchase of Products and Services

by Luhui Hua, Zeeshan Rasool, Muhammad Akbar Ali Ansari, Ali Junaid Khan, Nadia Hanif and Waseem Ul Hameed

Sustainability 2023, 15(4), 2888; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15042888 - 6 Feb 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2295

Abstract

The literature has highlighted that international students abroad exhibit a strong preference for products from their country compared with foreign products and services, thus suggesting that the cultural disposition of consumers influences their purchasing decisions. Therefore, this current research aimed to determine how [...] Read more.

The literature has highlighted that international students abroad exhibit a strong preference for products from their country compared with foreign products and services, thus suggesting that the cultural disposition of consumers influences their purchasing decisions. Therefore, this current research aimed to determine how the feeling of groundedness could affect international students’ purchasing behavior in Malaysia through cultural products and services. To this end, quantitative data were collected from international students at the University of Malaya and the University Utara Malaysia and then analyzed using a structural equation model (SEM). The findings of this research highlighted that consumer behavior was influenced by a “feeling of groundedness”. This suggested that cultural services and products are valued by international students in foreign universities because of their ability to evoke a feeling of groundedness. The theoretical contributions of this study, particularly to the consumer behavior literature, are extensive, including how it highlights the influence of the feeling of groundedness on international consumers’ purchasing behavior. The marketing implications of this research are also valuable for businesses targeting international students. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Management and Consumer Behavior Studies)

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19 pages, 319 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Consumer Interaction and Community Relationships on Value Co-Creation Willingness: A Mediation Model of Chinese Sports Brands

by Xiaowei Jiang, Brandon Mastromartino, Qian Yang, Jianwei Zhang and James J. Zhang

Sustainability 2023, 15(1), 115; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15010115 - 21 Dec 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3027

Abstract

Existing research reveals the significance of understanding consumer interactions as an increasingly important determinant of sports consumption behaviors; yet, few studies have focused on the virtual communities of sporting goods brands, particularly for the Chinese marketplace that is becoming the largest globally. This [...] Read more.

Existing research reveals the significance of understanding consumer interactions as an increasingly important determinant of sports consumption behaviors; yet, few studies have focused on the virtual communities of sporting goods brands, particularly for the Chinese marketplace that is becoming the largest globally. This study aimed to examine the relationships among consumer interaction, brand-community relationship, and consumer value co-creation willingness in the sports virtual brand communities of China. Research participants (n = 445) were consumers participating in online community activities of two leading sporting goods brands in China, Li-NING and Anta Sports. A questionnaire survey study was conducted. Regression analyses revealed that three out of four consumer interaction factors—cultural identity behavior, experiential communication behavior, and community maintenance behavior—exert a significant and positive impact on consumer value co-creation willingness. The strength of community relationship played a mediating role in these relationships. The other one, member screening interaction, did not find support. This study extends knowledge of sports brand marketing and management of virtual brand communities and recognizes the effectiveness of consumer value co-creation aspirations by highlighting the importance and reliance of customer-to-customer interaction and the strength of brand-community relationships. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Management and Consumer Behavior Studies)

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