How to utilize the information gap for blind box marketing better: evidence from plane tickets

Abstract

ABSTRACT Blind boxes have swiftly emerged as a prominent marketing strategy in tourism. Based on information gap theory, this research aims to explore how to optimize marketing effectiveness through varying levels of information gap. Findings show that a moderate-level information gap triggers stronger impulsive purchase intention than a high-level information gap, with curiosity and anxiety perception mediating the effect. Moreover, consumers with a low-risk propensity are particularly sensitive to the impact of the information gap level. These findings contribute theoretically and provide practical guidance for optimizing the marketing of plane ticket blind boxes.