Destinasyon Marka Farkındalığı, Destinasyon Marka İmajı ve Algılanan Kalitenin Destinasyon Marka Sadakatine Etkisi: Mardin Odaklı Bir Araştırma (The Effects of Destination Brand Awareness, Destination Brand Image and Perceived Quality on Destination Brand Loyalty: A Case of Mardin)

Abstract

Purpose – The aim of this study is to measure the consumer-based destination brand equity of Mardin, which is an important tourism destination in the Southeastern Anatolia region, and to investigate effects of destination brand awareness, image, and perceived quality on destination brand loyalty. Design/methodology/approach – Scanning method was used in the research. First, the reliability and validity of the measurement tool used in measuring the brand equivalence components were tried to be obtained. Afterwards the validity and reliability analysis of the data (n: 212) collected in November and December 2019, the structural model was established, and the proposed theoretical model was tested. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis was performed to ensure the construct validity of the scale. Convergent and discriminative validities of the scale were provided as a result of the confirmatory factor analysis of the measurement model. Structural model analysis was performed to test the hypotheses. Findings – As a result of the confirmatory factor analysis, it was confirmed within the framework of the consumer-based brand equity which was modelled by Aaker, (1991) and Keller (1993) and it was determined that it consists of four dimensions. As a result of the analysis of the structural model, the hypotheses based on the theoretical framework were supported. According to findings, the result of the structural model analysis indicated that destination awareness, perceived quality and destination brand image affect positively destination brand loyalty. Discussion – To attain a strong brand, it is required to understand visitors perception of brand equity and needs to be created and followed marketing and management strategies by destination stakeholders. By offering tourists different and unique experiences beyond the known, a strong brand perception can be created by increasing the quality, image and loyalty levels perceived by the visitors towards the destination. Research findings provide important information to destination management stakeholders about the contribution of creating an effective destination brand equity to destination brand competency.