Brand engagement in self-concept (BESC), value consciousness and brand loyalty: a study of generation Z consumers in Malaysia

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Date

3/31/2020

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Article

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Emerald Group Publishing Ltd

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Young Consumers;

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Abstract

Brand engagement in self-concept (BESC), value consciousness and brand loyalty: a study of generation Z consumers in Malaysia Ahmed Rageh Ismail, Bang Nguyen, Junsong Chen, T.C. Melewar, Bahtiar Mohamad Young Consumers ISSN: 1747-3616 Publication date: 31 March 2020 Reprints & Permissions PDF (616 KB) Abstract Abstract Purpose This study aims to examine the relationship between brand engagement in self-concept (BESC), value consciousness (VC) and brand loyalty among Generation Z consumers. In addition, the study aims to segment the Generation Z consumers based on BESC and VC and examine the differences between the segments. Design/methodology/approach A self-administered questionnaire was developed and administered to a sample of 346 undergraduate students in Malaysia. The hypothesized structural models are tested using partial least squares structural equation modeling. The study also uses cluster analysis to segment the Generation Z consumers. Findings The results reveal that among Generation Z consumers both BESC and VC have a positive effect on brand loyalty. Additionally, the mediation analysis established that BESC plays a mediating role in the relationship between VC and brand loyalty. The study also identified four consumer groups – attentive group, dedicated group, prospective group and switchers group. Furthermore, consumer classification according to BESC can be used by marketers and managers in marketing strategy development. Originality/value The study has originality and value in developing and testing a new model linking BESC with VC and brand loyalty. Further, market segmentation on the basis of BESC and VC has been rarely studied. Even less, has been studied among Generation Z consumers and this study fills this important gap.

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SCOPUS

Keywords

October University for university of Market segmentation, Brand loyalty, Generation Z consumers, Brand engagement in self-concept, Value consciousness

Citation

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