Consumer Expectations Research Articles

How to catch the investor’s eye when going green in the Spanish hospitality industry

The growing integration of environmental sustainability within the hospitality industry, driven by both ethical and financial motivations, underscores the need to understand the investment criteria valued by stakeholders. However, limited research exists on how investors specifically evaluate sustainable investments in this sector. Drawing on existing literature that highlights the positive financial and operational impacts of sustainability initiatives, this study investigates factors influencing sustainable investment decisions in the Spanish hospitality sector. Grounded in focus group interviews conducted with a representative sample of investors aligned with the current structure of investment practices in the Spanish hospitality industry, this study employs an adapted concept mapping methodology enhanced by consensus analysis using the global index of consensus indicator. This approach enables the quantitative measurement of consensus among investors, providing a structured view of the criteria shaping sustainable investment choices. Findings reveal that while financial motivations continue to dominate investment decisions, environmental considerations are becoming increasingly significant, particularly those aligning with consumer expectations and stakeholder engagement in sustainable practices. Results suggest that environmentally friendly initiatives must demonstrate clear economic benefits to attract investment; sustainability must be financially viable. By aligning environmental goals with profitability, sustainable investments can appeal to a broader range of investors, promoting responsible practices in the hospitality sector while ensuring long-term returns.

Electric Vehicle Traction Battery Recycling Decision-Making Considering Blockchain Technology in the Context of Capacitance Level Differential Demand

In recent years, the rapid growth in electric vehicle ownership has resulted in a significant number of decommissioned traction batteries that will require recycling in the future. As consumer expectations for electric vehicle range continue to rise, the turnover of traction batteries has accelerated substantially. Consequently, there is an urgent need for electric vehicle manufacturers to establish an efficient, recyclable supply chain for the return of end-of-life (EOL) electric vehicle (EV) traction batteries. In this paper, we investigate the closed-loop recycling supply chain for retired power batteries in electric vehicle manufacturers, taking into account blockchain technology and the high range preferences in the electric vehicle market, which are influenced by varying demand for different levels of electric vehicle capacitance. Blockchain, as a distributed and decentralized technology, offers features such as consensus mechanisms, traceability, and security, which have been effectively applied across various fields. In this study, we construct four models involving EV battery manufacturers, EV retailers, and battery comprehensive utilization (BCU) enterprises participating in the recycling process. Through the analysis of a Stackelberg response model, we find that (1) single-channel recycling is less efficient than dual-channel recycling models, a difference driven by the diversity of recycling channels and the variability in recycling markets; (2) Recycling models incorporating blockchain technology demonstrate superior performance compared to those that do not utilize blockchain technology, particularly when the intensity of recycling competition is below 0.76; (3) Traction batteries integrated with blockchain technology exhibit higher recycling rates when the optimization index is below 0.96. Electric vehicle battery manufacturers must evaluate the benefits and costs of adopting blockchain technology; (4) With lower recycling incentive levels and EV range preferences, the single-channel recycling model yields better returns than the other three recycling models. EV manufacturers can enhance overall battery supply chain revenues by establishing varying incentive levels based on market demand for different capacitance levels.

Navigating Digital Leadership: How UK-Based Marketing Leaders are Redefining Brand Trust in an AI-Driven Era

This study examined the impact of ethical leadership in AI-driven digital marketing on brand trust among UK consumers. As AI transforms digital marketing through personalisation and predictive tools, concerns about transparency, data privacy, and consumer autonomy have become vital for sustaining trust. Data was collected through 25 semi-structured interviews with marketing leaders and industry experts and three focus groups with UK consumers. The findings underscored the importance of ethical leadership, transparent AI use, and balancing personalisation with privacy in building consumer trust. Case studies of UK brands illustrated the successful alignment of AI with consumer expectations and regulations. This research contributed to digital marketing and AI ethics by offering insights into the relationship between ethical leadership, AI-driven personalisation, and brand trust, highlighting the need for responsible AI frameworks within the UK marketing sector.

The Influence of Halal Lifestyle, Halal Knowledge and Promotion on Rabbani Brand Purchasing Decisions

This study aims to determine and analyze the influence of halal lifestyle, halal knowledge and promotion on purchasing decisions of Rabbani Brand (Study on Rabbani Consumers in Medan City). This study uses a quantitative method, with an associative approach. The number of samples in this study was 92 respondents, namely consumers of Rabbani Medan Store). The data source used in this study is primary data obtained by distributing questionnaires to respondents. Data analysis techniques in this study are data quality testing, classical assumption testing, multiple linear regression analysis and hypothesis testing carried out using SPSS software version 25. The results of the study indicate that Halal Lifestyle partially has a positive and significant effect on Consumer Purchasing Decisions at Rabbani Medan Store in 2024. This is evidenced by the t-count value of 3.430 which is greater than the t-table of 1.662 and has a significant figure of 0.001 <0.05. Halal Knowledge partially influences Consumer Purchasing Decisions at Rabbani Medan Store in 2024. This is evidenced by the t-count value of 3.040 which is greater than the t-table of 1.662 and has a significant figure of 0.003 <0.05. Promotion partially influences Consumer Purchasing Decisions at Rabbani Medan Store in 2024. This is evidenced by the t-value of 2.922, which is greater than the t-table of 1.662 and has a significant figure of 0.004 <0.05. The results of the study indicate that Promotion is classified as very satisfying consumer expectations, because the promotions offered are very affordable for consumers who have a limited shopping budget. Halal Lifestyle, Halal Knowledge and Promotion simultaneously have a positive and significant effect on Consumer Purchasing Decisions at Rabbani Medan Store in 2024. This is evidenced by the F-value of 29.860, which is greater than the F-table of 2.01 and has a significant figure of 0.00 <0.05. Based on the results of the determination coefficient test (Adjust R Square), it is known that the Halal Lifestyle, Halal Knowledge and Promotion variables can explain the level of Consumer Purchasing Decisions by 48.8%. While the rest (51.2%) can be explained by other factors not examined in this study.

Optimization Strategies for Modern Transportation and Distribution Network

In the contemporary logistics landscape, it is a challenge to figure out the transportation and distribution problem, especially between the factory and the market. Given the increasing consumer expectation for fast delivery, the need for highly effective distribution strategies is more pressing than ever because the manufacturers and retailers have to minimize costs while maximizing efficiency. This paper aims to devise a method to optimize for costs and efficiency, and has certain reference value for how to reduce costs and improve efficiency in the freight industry. The current approach only considers the cost of products, but does not consider the cost occurring from the transportation distance. Therefore, this paper puts forward a model that considers both transportation distance and costs in optimization.

CLASSIFICAÇÃO DE OVOS: ANÁLISE DE MÉTODOS E PADRÕES NA INDÚSTRIA AVÍCOLA

Egg grading is a fundamental process in the poultry industry that ensures quality and food safety. This article explores the most commonly used classification methods, their implications for product quality and consumer expectations. Through a systematic review of the literature, three main classification criteria were identified: weight, size and shell quality. The results show that standardization in sorting practices improves production efficiency and market acceptance. It is concluded that the adoption of modern technologies and the harmonization of global standards are essential for the sustainable development of the poultry industry. Egg grading is crucial to ensuring that consumers receive high-quality products, as well as facilitating marketing. For producers, this practice allows for better management of stock and product distribution, in addition to meeting regulatory requirements aimed at ensuring food safety. The chicken egg is made up of a clear shell and yolk. The shell protects the inside of the egg and allows gas exchange. The egg white is rich in proteins and water, functioning as protection and a source of nutrients for the embryo. The yolk contains lipids, proteins, vitamins and minerals, being the main source of energy for the development of the embryo. The egg also has internal membranes, an air chamber and chalazions that hold the yolk in place.

Blockchain empowerment: enhancing consumer trust and outreach through supply chain transparency

Despite the growing interest in blockchain for supply chain transparency, a gap remains in understanding consumer perceptions and attitudes toward blockchain-supported initiatives. This study examines how consumers perceive blockchain's role in enhancing supply chain transparency, the factors influencing consumer trust in blockchain-enabled transparency, and the implications for consumer engagement and behaviour within the supply chain network. Through a scenario-based experiment, we find that technology-supported transparency enhances consumer trust not only in the focal firm but also in various stakeholders involved. Specifically, consumers exhibit higher trust in retailers and other stakeholders when firms adopt decentralised transparency systems compared to centralised ones. Decentralised technology-supported transparency significantly influences consumers’ decisions to interact directly with stakeholders, shifting their preference toward responsible supply chain actors over focal firms. While multi-stakeholder transparency does not directly affect consumers’ purchase intentions, high trust in the technology positively influences their intention to purchase. Our study provides actionable managerial insights, guiding decision-makers in adopting decentralised transparency practices to strengthen stakeholder relationships and align with consumer expectations. By understanding the nuances of consumer trust in technology-supported transparency, firms can make more informed strategic decisions, ultimately enhancing the overall performance of their supply chains.

Comparison of total phenolic content in organic and conventional carrot under different drying conditions using non-destructive analysis techniques

Current evidence indicates that the higher nutritional value of organic foods, compared to their conventional counterparts, significantly impacts consumer demand. However, the application of thermal processes during processing may lead to a loss of nutritional values, including total phenolics and antioxidants, thereby failing to meet consumer expectations. Phenolics, known as some of the most potent natural antioxidants and are typically assessed through biochemical tests based on the concentration and reactivity of antioxidant compounds. However, the extraction methods can affect the accuracy of phenolic content measurement. In this study, the total phenolic (TP) (mg/100 g) capacity of fresh, hot air (HA)-dried, and intermittent microwave (IMW)-dried organic and conventional black carrots were compared, and the detectability of these compounds using a colorimeter and FT-NIRS was evaluated. PLSR models developed for estimating the TP content using FT-NIRS resulted in successful outcomes (IMW: R2val = 0.78, RMSEP = 51.4 mg/100 g; HA: R2val = 0.70, RMSEP = 63.0 mg/100 g). The highest prediction accuracy was achieved with drying treatments at 300 W (R2val = 0.95, RMSEP = 5.1 mg/100 g) and 450 W (R2val = 0.83, RMSEP = 50.7 mg/100 g), as well as at 80 °C (R2val = 0.90, RMSEP = 21.0 mg/100 g). The drying methods significantly influenced the TP content and the accuracy of TP prediction in samples. Additionally, organic carrots contained a higher level of total phenolic compared to conventional.

Digitalization and Sustainability of Supply Chains: Assessing the Potential of the DYLLI Application in the Hotel, Restaurant, and Catering Industry

This article investigates the integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) to enhance service quality and sustainability within the Hotel, Restaurant, and Catering (HoReCa) sector. The study aims to explore how improved communication through ICT can optimize supply chain processes and elevate service standards. A usability analysis was conducted via surveys among HoReCa companies to assess perceptions of a demo application designed to facilitate sustainable practices. Additionally, a competitiveness analysis, grounded in Porter’s Five Forces model, examines the dynamics of mobile applications in the HoReCa market. The usability analysis validates business model assumptions while providing insights into market challenges and opportunities. The findings indicate that volatile commodity prices and recruitment difficulties are significant challenges for restaurateurs, highlighting the need for tools that support sustainable operations. The proposed ICT solutions serve as innovative tools that improve communication between HoReCa businesses and their suppliers, thereby directly influencing service quality. By promoting transparency in pricing and collaboration terms, these solutions align with sustainable supply chain principles, addressing environmental concerns while meeting evolving consumer expectations. This research contributes to the literature on competitiveness in the HoReCa sector by emphasizing the pivotal role of technology in fostering both service quality and sustainable development.

Omnichannel Marketing Strategy to Enhance Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty in the Modern Retail Industry

The omnichannel marketing strategy has become a critical approach in modern retail to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty by offering a seamless, integrated shopping experience across various online and offline platforms. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of omnichannel strategies in the modern retail industry by utilizing qualitative methods, focusing on literature review and library research to analyze existing academic and industry sources. Through an in-depth exploration of the relevant literature, this research identifies key omnichannel elements—such as personalized customer interactions, consistent brand experience across channels, and optimized customer journey mapping—that contribute to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty. Findings indicate that a well-executed omnichannel strategy enhances customer engagement and builds stronger relationships by providing a cohesive and responsive shopping experience that meets evolving consumer expectations. Additionally, the study highlights the challenges and best practices for implementing omnichannel approaches, such as managing data integration, ensuring technological compatibility, and maintaining operational efficiency across channels. The results suggest that by strategically aligning these elements, retail companies can significantly improve their competitive advantage, foster long-term customer loyalty, and respond effectively to shifts in consumer behavior. This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge on retail marketing strategies, offering practical insights for retail businesses aiming to optimize customer experiences through comprehensive omnichannel solutions.

Cannabidiol Supplements in Romania: Bridging the Gap Between Marketed Claims and Clinical Reality

In recent years, the European market, including Romania, has witnessed a significant increase in the promotion of cannabidiol (CBD)-based products, often presented as effective treatments for various health conditions. This study investigates the inconsistencies between the health claims associated with these supplements and the evidence from clinical trials. To identify products available on the Romanian market, a systematic review of online pharmacies and websites that specialize in selling CBD-based products has been performed. Additionally, a systematic review of clinical trials has been conducted to assess the efficacy of CBD for the specified indications. Our analysis revealed that some claims, such as those related to post-traumatic stress disorder, lack substantial clinical evidence. Moreover, even when clinical support exists, the dosages recommended for the supplements are often significantly lower than those used in trials, raising concerns about their efficacy. These findings highlight the need for stricter regulatory oversight and more transparent communication to ensure that consumer expectations are aligned with scientific evidence, ultimately promoting informed decision-making and consumer safety.

Testing Forecast Rationality for Measures of Central Tendency

Abstract Rational respondents to economic surveys may report as a point forecast any measure of the central tendency of their predictive distribution, e.g. the mean, median, or mode. We propose tests of forecast rationality when the measure used by the respondent is unknown. We overcome an identification problem that arises when the centrality measures are in a local neighborhood of each other, as is the case for approximately symmetric distributions. We apply our tests to income forecasts from the FRBNY's Survey of Consumer Expectations. We find these forecasts are rationalizable as mode forecasts, but not as mean or median forecasts.

The Influence of Digital Marketing, Product Quality, and Emotional Factors on Consumer Satisfaction

The rapid evolution of digital technology has reshaped marketing approaches, with digital marketing emerging as a cornerstone in connecting brands with consumers. Alongside digital marketing, product quality and emotional factors have gained prominence in shaping consumer satisfaction. This study investigates the interplay between digital marketing, product quality, and emotional factors influencing consumer satisfaction in Indonesian markets. The research aims to evaluate their individual and collective impacts to provide insights for strategic optimization. Using a quantitative approach with a descriptive correlational design, data were collected through an online questionnaire from January to March 2024. A purposive sampling method was employed, targeting 150 respondents across Indonesia who had engaged with brands utilizing digital marketing strategies. The variables were measured using a 5-point Likert scale, and data were analyzed through multiple linear regression using SPSS. The findings reveal significant positive contributions from all three variables. Digital marketing had a regression coefficient of 0.321 (p < 0.001), emphasizing the importance of personalized and interactive strategies. Product quality demonstrated the highest influence with a coefficient of 0.412 (p < 0.001), confirming its critical role in exceeding consumer expectations and fostering loyalty. Emotional factors contributed a coefficient of 0.275 (p = 0.001), underscoring the relevance of positive brand interactions in enhancing satisfaction. The simultaneous effect of these variables was validated through an F-statistic of 42.7 (p < 0.001), with an R² value of 0.72, indicating strong explanatory power. This research provides a holistic framework for understanding consumer satisfaction by integrating digital marketing, product quality, and emotional factors. It recommends prioritizing product quality, optimizing digital marketing strategies, and fostering emotional connections to achieve sustained consumer loyalty. Future studies should explore these dynamics across diverse industries and consumer segments to expand upon these findings.

Rapid, Non-Destructive Prediction of Ripeness of Pink Lady Apples by Using Near-Infrared Spectroscopic Methods to Monitor Firmness, Sugar Content, Juiciness and Acidity

Apples are one of the most widely consumed fruits in the world and are available year- round. In France, Pink Lady production has increased despite stable global production in recent years. To meet consumer expectations in terms of quality, apples must be at optimum ripeness. Traditional destructive methods are currently used to measure physicochemical parameters. To avoid such destructive measurements, it has been shown in the literature that near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy can predict fructose and glucose content in apple juice, as well as firmness, titratable acidity and sugar content in Fuji. The present study demonstrates the relevance of the MicroNIR spectrometer to address agricultural sustainability concerns. This compact device is easy to use in the field and allows non-destructive monitoring of the physicochemical characteristics of Pink Lady. The device acquires NIR spectra from different areas of apples, followed by standard analyses to assess these characteristics. Results indicate no impact on measurements across different quarters of the apple, though there is a slight impact between the median zone and the poles. Firmness is predictable with a 77 N threshold (using partial least square regression), and juiciness prediction is reliable, though a larger database could improve the model. Predictions for sugar content and acidity still need improvement, which would confirm the MicroNIR device’s potential for assessing Pink Lady apple ripeness in the field.

NEUROMARKETING: TRANSFORMING MANAGEMENT FOR CONSUMERS AND EMPLOYEES

The main focus of this research was to explore management tools in response to stimuli from neuromarketing, contributing to consumer satisfaction and improving the quality of life of employees. The research problem inquires about management strategies that, aligned with neuromarketing, can simultaneously meet consumer expectations and promote employee well-being. The main objective is to understand the application of neuromarketing as a strategic business management tool, aimed at improving consumer experience and raising quality of life in the workplace. Specific objectives include analyzing the predictions of neuromarketing as a management strategy, identifying organizational disadvantages resulting from its consumer-centered application, and justifying the relevance of neuromarketing for improving employee quality of life. The research proposes a comprehensive approach, discussing not only the effectiveness of neuromarketing as a management tool, but also exploring the practical and organizational implications of its implementation. The expectation is to provide specific insights for managers and marketing professionals, highlighting how the integration of neuromarketing into management practices can be a multifaceted strategy to achieve consumer satisfaction and promote healthier work environments.

Parent-child dynamics of cultural tensions between traditional and consumerist values through an identity perspective

This study addresses a gap in literature by exploring how dynamic cultural forces between parents and children lead to paradoxical identity conflicts and related tensions. The study explores two distinct consumer categories. The results reveal that traditionally rooted parents consider dependent children as extensions of their identity and experience intense tensions due to the conflict between consumerist aspirations and traditional obligations toward children. They experience tensions due to discrepancies between an ideal self-guide or ought self-guide (both representing traditional values), an ideal self-guide (representing consumerist values at a level considered ideal) and a feared self (embracing too many consumerist values beyond what is considered ideal). The child, in turn, feels obliged to comply with parents’ traditional expectations despite their consumerist identity. They feel similar tensions just as their parents do, between conflicting value systems. In contrast, non-traditional parents do not use children as identity extensions; hence, they find no need to transfer personally rooted values to children and do not experience tensions. The findings contribute to literature on how children as contemporary consumers have implications with regard to identity and tensions of parents and vice versa. Accordingly, practitioners should cater products differently to target groups, based on specific value internalizations—the traditionally rooted parent and child are influenced by each other’s values during the buying decision process. However, marketers have the liberty of considering non-traditional parents and children as separate consumer categories as there are no interplay of values during the buying decision process. By such considerations marketers can successfully exploit consumer expectations and desires that would help address prevailing anxieties and cultural contradictions in society.

Optimizing ticket booking strategies using Binomial Option Pricing Models

A flexible financial instrument that is frequently used to assess the fair value of options is the Binomial Option Pricing Model (BOPM). This study examines the innovative use of the BOPM in booking tickets, highlighting how it might improve decision-making in the quickly changing ticketing sector. The option pricing model is used in the study to solve the problem of cancelation fees in ticket purchases. The aim is to provide a solution that enhances the company’s reputation while also being in line with client pleasure. This study probably considers the dynamic nature of ticket prices, variations in demand, and industry uncertainty by using the BOPM. The model’s adaptability is used to customize a response that considers consumer preferences and expectations regarding cancelation fees. The utilization of the BOPM in the ticketing industry highlights the tool’s capacity to enhance decision-making procedures by offering a more sophisticated and customer-focused method for setting prices and developing policies.

Advancing Horticulture: The Role of Marker-Assisted Breeding in Crop Improvement

Marker-assisted breeding (MAB) is revolutionizing the cultivation of horticultural crops by enabling more accurate genetic selection of desired traits. Unlike traditional breeding methods, which depend heavily on selecting traits based on visible characteristics, a process often hindered by complex inheritance patterns and environmental influences, MAB uses molecular markers tied to specific genes. This allows breeders to more efficiently identify and choose plants with the desired genetic features. MAB has significantly accelerated the breeding process for crops with traits like disease resistance, higher yields, and enhanced nutritional and visual qualities. It also reduces the time needed for breeding cycles; while traditional methods may require multiple generations to achieve desired traits, MAB can confirm the presence of beneficial genes early, speeding up the development of improved varieties. This is particularly crucial in addressing challenges like climate change, where crops must quickly adapt to stressors such as drought, salinity, and temperature fluctuations. In essence, MAB represents a major advancement in horticultural crop development, increasing the precision and efficiency of breeding efforts. It also plays a vital role in creating crops suited to specific environmental and market needs, while helping tackle global issues like food security, climate change resilience, and sustainable farming. MAB positions horticulture to better meet evolving consumer expectations and agricultural demands.

Golden opportunities? How marketing expectations drive purchase intentions of golden rice in Bangladesh and the Philippines

ABSTRACT Golden Rice (GR), genetically modified (GM) rice enriched with provitamin A, holds promise to address micronutrient deficiencies in developing countries. However, its success hinges on market acceptance. This study investigates how the marketing aspects of GR influence consumers’ purchase intentions in Bangladesh and the Philippines. The Expectation Confirmation Theory (ECT) is employed to analyze the role of expectations regarding the marketing mix components (i.e. product, price, place, promotion), risk perceptions, performance expectations, and expected satisfaction on consumers’ purchase intentions. Data from online surveys in Bangladesh (n = 391) and the Philippines (n = 354), collected using convenience sampling, were analyzed using structural equation modeling. Findings reveal that positive expectations toward the marketing mix, performance, and satisfaction increase consumers’ purchase intention of GR, whereas risk perceptions have a negative influence. Additionally, it was found that expectations toward all four marketing mix components significantly affect purchase intention in Bangladesh. However, only product and promotion have a notable influence in the Philippines. These results emphasize the importance of effectively addressing consumers’ marketing expectations to help ensure a successful implementation. This study is novel as it delves into consumers’ purchase intentions for a GM biofortified crop and their expectations for different aspects of its future marketing (i.e. product, price, place, promotion), performance, and satisfaction. If GR is commercialized, future research should validate these expectations based on actual consumer experiences. Additionally, longitudinal studies could track changes in consumer expectations over time, identifying consistently valued marketing elements and offering a valuable technique for product development before launch.

Plant-based mince texture: A review of the sensory literature with view to informing new product development.

The texture of plant-based meat alternatives is a sensory attribute that holds a central value in consumer acceptability. The texture dimensions and drivers of liking for plant-based mince, a popular product within plant-based meats, are not yet fully established and literature in this area is limited. Consequently, the successful development and positioning of such products in the market next to traditional proteins is compromised, and improved product development guidelines are needed for the industry. This review aims to inform product development of what is currently known about plant-based mince texture and where the research gaps are, particularly with respect to sensory dimensions and drivers of liking, by reviewing the present landscape of relevant sensory literature. Potential texture sensory dimensions for plant-based mince, based on limited studies and seemingly aligning with conventional mince, are posited as juiciness, tenderness, firmness, and/or softness with a key driver of liking being juiciness, but this requires further validation utilizing robust sensory studies. A significant need exists to expand on the currently known texture dimensions and drivers alongside new ways that texture can be improved upon to more closely align to, or exceed, consumer expectations. Once this has been achieved, a robust sensory framework for developing plant-based mince products can be used to better position plant-based mince to effectively compete with traditional mince, and not merely cannibalize upon other brands, in the current market.