Corporate Social Responsibility and Enterprise Performance: The Chain Mediating Effect Test Based on Corporate Reputation and Brand Value

Abstract

Corporate social responsibility (hereinafter referred to as “CSR”) sometimes does not directly affect enterprise performance but through some mediator variable. Corporate reputation and brand value have chain-mediating effects in the influence mechanism of CSR on enterprise performance. Theoretically, this paper broadens the scope of study on CSR and enterprise performance, deeply explores the internal mechanism between them, and opens the “black box” in the process of transforming CSR into enterprise performance. Practically, it can encourage Chinese enterprises to actively undertake CSR, strengthen reputation management, enhance brand value, and finally promote the sustainable development of enterprises. A-share listed companies (listed companies in the Chinese A stock market) in Shanghai and Shenzhen stock exchanges from 2008 to 2020 in “China’s 500 Most Valuable Brands List” by World Brand Lab are studied in this paper. The results of the empirical study based on relevant data show a significant positive relationship between CSR and enterprise performance. It investigates the mediating chain effects of corporate reputation and brand value in the influence of CSR on enterprise performance. Listed companies must disclose the annual CSR report. CSR reports as an effective supplement to corporate financial information, which provides an important communication channel for the enterprise and stakeholders. Stakeholders can timely understand their rights and interests through the CSR information and have a more comprehensive and deeper understanding of enterprises. In turn, the enterprise can also win a good reputation, establish a good brand image, and get sustainable development.