Exploring Motivational Triggers for Impulse Buying: A Study of Over the Counter Medicines in Pakistan

Abstract

This quantitative, hypothesis testing study aims to investigate the motivational factors impacting impulse buying of over-the-counter medicines in Pakistan. The study analyzes the relationship of perceived product quality, store atmosphere and shelf display with impulse buying. This research also introduces a new mediator of ‘Consumer urge to buy’ to the literature of impulse buying motivation. Data was collected from a sample of 320 over-the-counter customers whereby the sample size was determined on basis of principles set by the item response theory. Data analysis was done in SPPS using Process Macro by Hayes mediation model 4. The results showed that there is a significant positive relationship between perceived product quality, store atmosphere, shelf display and impulse buying of over the counter medicines with the mediation of urge to buy; hence all the study hypotheses were supported. The study provides a novel theoretical contribution by applying Hawkin Sterns impulse buying theory to a new area of research in behavioral sciences. This research will also help the pharmacists and pharmaceutical brand managers to gain a better understanding of impulse triggers of impulse buying and will enable them to develop a better placement strategy. In addition, this research study is in line with the third Sustainable Development Goal of the United Nations i.e., well-being and good health.