Effects of Visual Information and Argument Concreteness on Purchase Intention of Consumers Towards Online Hotel Booking

Abstract

Online consumer reviews impact the traveller’s decision to book hotel online. The study examines the role of visual information and argument concreteness on the credibility of reviews and consequently on purchase intention. The study examines the effect of trust and perceived risk as mediators on the relationship of review credibility and purchase intention. An online survey was conducted on 310 travellers above 18 years. The data was analysed using PLS-SEM. Travellers believed visual information and argument concreteness of review enhances the review credibility. Traveller’s purchase intentions were influenced by the credibility of reviews. This relationship was partially mediated by trust but not by perceived risk. The research suggests that the elaborate travel reviews with visual elements that describe the location and surroundings of the hotel are considered to be more credible and develop a positive intention towards booking the hotel.