The impact of trust on purchase intention through omnichannel retailing

Abstract

PurposeThis study investigates factors in consumer trust and purchase intention through omnichannel retailing. The theoretical framework is an extended theory of planned behaviour (TPB) model, with additional factors including time-saving and trust as explanatory variables.Design/methodology/approachThe study drew on a sample of Thai consumers aged 18 and over (n = 408), with data collected through an online survey. Analysis was based on a structural equation modelling (SEM) approach, employing confirmatory factor analysis.FindingsThe analysis showed that attitudes towards omnichannel retailing had the strongest effect on purchase intention, followed by subjective norms, perceived behavioural control and information search. All variables except attitudes to omnichannel retailing had moderate effect sizes. Analysis also showed that attitudes towards omnichannel retailing had a significant (though only moderately strong) effect on consumer trust towards omnichannel retailing. Subjective norms, perceived behavioural control and time-saving also had significant effects on consumer trust, although these effects were all weaker than the effect of attitudes. Finally, time-saving had a significant and strong effect on perceived behavioural control.Originality/valueThese findings show that both personal attitudes towards omnichannel retailing and technology characteristics can influence user acceptance. Its practical implication is that retailers need to consider the psychological needs and attitudes of their customers before implementing omnichannel tools. Theoretically, there is a need for more empirical research into the consumer decision for omnichannel retailing. This is particularly true since omnichannel retailing is a relatively new retail strategy which consumers may not yet fully understand.