Consumer Expectations Research Articles

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

AbstractThe 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.

A Literature Review of Indoor Air Quality: Sources, Health Effects, and Mitigation Strategies

Sustainable marketing has become an essential component for businesses aiming to meet growing consumer demand for environmental responsibility. This paper explores how companies can align their brand values with sustainability efforts to foster long-term customer loyalty and market competitiveness. It examines key sustainable marketing strategies, including eco-friendly product design, transparent communication, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The study emphasizes the importance of authenticity, as consumers are increasingly wary of "greenwashing" tactics and seek brands that genuinely prioritize environmental stewardship. Case studies from various industries demonstrate successful integration of sustainability into brand identity, resulting in enhanced brand reputation, consumer trust, and business growth. The findings highlight the need for a comprehensive approach that includes stakeholder engagement, sustainable supply chains, and marketing campaigns that educate consumers on eco-friendly choices. By aligning brand values with consumer expectations for environmental responsibility, companies can create a competitive advantage while contributing to global sustainability efforts.

Investigating the Factors Affecting Customer Trust in E-Commerce

In the rapidly evolving landscape of e-commerce, the foundation of customer trust has emerged as a critical determinant of success for online businesses. This article delves into the multifaceted nature of trust in e-commerce, identifying and analyzing key factors that influence consumer confidence and loyalty. Through a comprehensive examination, we highlight the importance of website design and usability, security measures, customer reviews and testimonials, customer service and support, and the impact of brand reputation and influencer endorsements. The discussion extends to actionable strategies for e-commerce businesses to build and maintain customer trust, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement and adaptation to changing consumer expectations and technological advancements. Real-life case studies provide insights into successful and unsuccessful attempts to foster trust online, underscoring the lessons learned. The article concludes by reflecting on the dynamic nature of trust in e-commerce, urging businesses to stay vigilant and proactive in creating a trustworthy shopping environment. This analysis serves as a valuable resource for e-commerce businesses aiming to navigate the complexities of building trust in the digital age.

An Empirical Study on Advanced Marketing Practices, Sustainability, and EVM Strategies for Business Growth

In the modern business landscape, sustainable marketing strategies have become crucial for success. Companies are increasingly allocating substantial resources to these initiatives. While consumers expect businesses to adopt sustainable practices, their primary motivation remains fulfilling personal needs. This creates a gap between corporate sustainability efforts and consumer expectations. This study proposes a viable framework for sustainability strategies that businesses can implement to bridge this disconnect. Key findings include: First, sustainable marketing significantly enhances brand image development. Second, brand awareness plays a vital role in customer loyalty within the modern marketplace. Third, a strong brand image amplifies the appeal of sustainable purchasing intentions. Fourth, customer retention serves as a critical tool for boosting long-term purchase expectations. Fifth, elevating consumer expectations is essential for driving sustainable buying behaviors. Notably, sustainable marketing acts as an effective mediator between customer engagement and brand perception. Additionally, corporate social responsibility (CSR) strengthens the link between a company's reputation and sustainable purchase intentions. This research provides both a theoretical framework and practical recommendations for the modern business environment, emphasizing the importance of sustainable marketing campaigns as a precursor to organizational success

Integrating Artificial Intelligence in Autonomous Cashier Systems: A Study on Functional Schema Design and Its Impact on Supermarket Operations

This integrative literature review (ILR) explores the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in optimizing in-store logistics, a crucial aspect for retail environments striving to meet growing consumer demands for convenience and quick product availability. It aims to provide retail managers and logistics specialists with actionable insights on AI-driven tools that enhance competitiveness by improving inventory management and space utilization in retail settings. The conceptual framework is framed by functional schema design, user acceptance and experience, operational efficiency, data security and privacy, and equitable access, emphasizing the ethical and inclusive implementation of technology. Key findings suggest that AI improves demand accuracy, reduces inventory mismatches, and enables adaptable store layouts that respond dynamically to real-time consumer behavior, creating a more efficient, responsive, and customer-centered retail environment. Additionally, this study examines the adoption of AI in cashier systems as a response to evolving consumer expectations for efficient digital shopping experiences, revealing that AI-enabled cashier systems significantly reduce wait times and operational costs while providing personalized experiences through real-time analytics. However, challenges such as robust data security protocols, inclusive design for diverse user groups, and employee reskilling remain critical as automation progresses. Recommendations focus on privacy-enhancing data practices, user-friendly interfaces, and hybrid solutions combining human support with automation to foster inclusivity and consumer trust. Future research should address the long-term impacts of AI in retail, cultural adaptability, customer engagement, and secure data handling to support a balanced, customer-centered approach to automation in the retail sector.

Impact of High Hydrostatic Pressure and UV-C Radiation on Total Aerobic Bacteria in Minas Frescal Cheese.

Minas Frescal cheese (MFC) is a perishable product with high water activity and neutral pH, conditions that favor the development of microorganisms. Total aerobic bacteria (TAB) can deteriorate the cheese, negatively affecting its sensory characteristics. By controlling TAB, the shelf life of the product is extended and its quality is maintained, contributing to meeting consumer expectations. This study aimed to evaluate the individual and combined effect of technological treatments of high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) and ultraviolet C radiation (UV-C) on the TAB count present in the natural microbiota of MFC, as an alternative to control the microbiological quality of this product. After production, MFC were subjected to treatments with different levels of HHP (100 to 400 MPa/10 min) and UV-C (0.097 to 0.392 J/cm2.s-1). The combinations of HHP and UV-C doses were determined by a central composite rotational design (CCRD). The model efficiently described the individual and combined effect of HHP and UV-C on TAB, demonstrating that gradually increasing HHP levels reduces TAB counts in MFC, regardless of the UV-C dose applied. This study contributes significantly to the literature by providing new insights into how these technologies can be used to improve the microbiological quality of fresh cheeses.

BRAND AMBASSADORS, FOMO, AND PERCEIVED VALUE INFLUENCING LEVI'S IMPULSE BUYING

In today's dynamic market landscape, complex changes are evident across various industries. Consumers now expect a positive shopping experience, viewing consumption activities as both personal fulfillment and social identity markers. To stay competitive, businesses must align their branding strategies accordingly. One strategic approach to enhancing brand appeal involves collaborating with brand ambassadors. Specifically, the allure of K-pop idols plays a substantial role in shaping brand images, thereby motivating consumers to make impulsive purchases. This study seeks to investigate the impact of brand ambassadors on impulse buying behaviors. Additionally, we aim to analyze the significance of perceived value in influencing these behaviors. Data collection utilized Google Forms, gathering responses from 160 Indonesian females between ages 17 and 40 who were familiar with the New Jeans music group and had recently purchased or used Levi’s collections. Our methodology includes processing the data using SMART-PLS 4.0 with Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Our preliminary findings indicate that brand ambassadors significantly enhance impulse buying through increased perceived value and fear of missing out (FOMO). This research contributes valuable insights into consumer behavior under modern marketing strategies, emphasizing the importance of aligning branding efforts with evolving consumer expectations. By leveraging celebrity influences effectively, businesses can stimulate spontaneous retail activity, offering practical implications for marketers aiming to maximize customer engagement and loyalty. Ultimately, our analysis underscores the strategic potential of collaborating with influential figures like K-pop idols to boost sales within competitive markets.

What lies ahead? Consumer expectations and wishes for organic animal farming: analyzing improvements to boost confidence in organic livestock farming

IntroductionTo meet the policy target of increasing the share of organic farming in the EU to 25% by 2030, it is also essential to increase consumer demand for organic products. For many consumers, animal welfare is one of the main reasons to buy organics. Trust is inherently important when purchasing organic food, as most of the standards on which organic farming relies, such as more space, cannot be verified by the consumer. Consumer trust in organic animal farming is therefore an important factor in the expansion of the market share of organic products. The aim of this study is to identify specific trust-building “changes” in organic livestock husbandry to strengthen consumer trust in the long term.MethodA total of eight regulations or practices, e.g. early cow-calf separation or regulations on the use of antibiotics, were assessed in terms of consumer awareness. Further described changes to these practices or regulations were ranked regarding their potential to improve trust in organic animal husbandry.ResultsThe results show that most of the regulations and practices mentioned were not known to consumers, confirming a low level of consumer knowledge about specific aspects of organic farming. All eight possible changes would increase consumer trust, at least somewhat.DiscussionThe ranking shows that, in particular, the practice of dam rearing and an even stronger limitation of flock sizes for poultry have the highest potential to increase consumer trust in organic animal husbandry and can therefore be recommended as important strategies to meet consumer demands in the future.

Spiral of Silence: Consumer Attention, Media Emotion, and Pork Price Fluctuations

This study utilized web crawling and text analysis to collect weekly data from July 2018 to March 2022. Using the spiral of silence theoretical framework, it explores the relationship between consumer online attention during sudden animal epidemics and pork price volatility. The research found that consumer online attention, influenced by animal disease outbreaks, significantly intensifies pork price volatility both directly and indirectly through changes in media sentiment and consumer expectations. On the one hand, the sentiment in official media reports partially mediates the relationship between consumer attention and pork price volatility. As consumer attention increases, positive sentiment in official media also rises, exerting an indirect stabilizing effect on pork prices. On the other hand, consumer expectations also have a partial mediating role, and the volume of negative news reports from unofficial media significantly amplifies the impact of consumer attention on pork price volatility. These findings provide valuable insights into the relationship between consumer online attention and market fluctuations in the agricultural sector and offer practical recommendations for enhancing demand-side management strategies.

Sustainable Manufacturing Engineering: Enhancing Product Quality through Green Process Innovations

The imperative for sustainable practices within manufacturing has become increasingly critical, driven by environmental concerns, regulatory pressures, and the evolving expectations of eco-conscious consumers. This paper investigates the role of sustainable manufacturing engineering in enhancing product quality through the implementation of green process innovations. Specifically, the study explores how sustainable manufacturing methods, including energy-efficient systems, additive manufacturing, zero-waste production, and renewable energy integration, can drive quality improvements while reducing the environmental impact of production processes. The research is grounded in a comprehensive analysis of current green innovations in the manufacturing sector, drawing on case studies of companies that have successfully balanced quality and sustainability. The findings indicate that companies adopting sustainable practices not only reduce waste and lower emissions but also experience notable gains in product durability, customer satisfaction, and brand reputation. For instance, additive manufacturing is shown to improve precision and material efficiency, while zero-waste initiatives lead to a more efficient resource cycle, which in turn supports consistent quality standards. This paper further delves into the challenges of implementing green manufacturing processes without compromising product quality, examining factors such as initial costs, technological readiness, and market adaptation. Visual data in the form of tables and graphs are presented to compare different green process innovations and their respective impacts on quality and sustainability metrics. In addition, case study summaries provide real-world examples of how leading companies have enhanced product quality through sustainable engineering approaches. This study underscores the value of sustainable manufacturing engineering as a dual-benefit strategy that can drive environmental stewardship alongside quality enhancement. The paper recommends that future research focus on the development of new, cost-effective green technologies and the application of advanced data analytics for improved process control in sustainable manufacturing. Through these efforts, the manufacturing sector can continue advancing toward a more sustainable, high-quality production paradigm.

TEXTILE MERCHANDISING IN THE FAST FASHION ERA: ADAPTING TO RAPID CHANGE IN CONSUMER DEMANDS

Rapid changes in consumer preferences, technology breakthroughs, and mounting sustainability concerns have all had an impact on the fast fashion sector. This study investigates how textile merchandising is changing in this fast-paced world, with a particular emphasis on how companies are adjusting to meet customer expectations while maintaining speed and cost-effectiveness. By examining how these characteristics affect merchandising tactics, the study hopes to shed light on how fast fashion retailers can effectively negotiate the challenges of contemporary retail. The main goal of this study is to find out how fast fashion companies can handle sustainability issues and quickly adapt to changing consumer preferences by optimizing their merchandising strategies. The goal of the study is to comprehend how consumer behavior, sustainability, and technology interact to shape textile marketing techniques. To find new trends and best practices, this study uses a qualitative methodology to analyze secondary data from document analysis and scholarly literature. According to key results, technology is essential for enabling more individualized and flexible merchandising strategies, which enables firms to react swiftly to changing consumer expectations. Companies must manage this issue because the fast fashion model's emphasis on speed and inexpensive production frequently clashes with environmental objectives. Additionally, inventory management and coordination across many sales platforms are made more difficult by the omnichannel retail environment. The dependence on secondary data, which might not adequately reflect the subtleties of current customer behavior or the internal tactics of certain brands, is one of its limitations. Nonetheless, the results have important ramifications for theory and practice. The study theoretically advances our knowledge of how technology, sustainability, and consumer behavior interact in fast fashion merchandising. Practically speaking, it offers fast fashion companies’ useful information to improve their tactics, especially in the areas of inventory control, sustainability, and technological integration. Businesses can improve their competitiveness and long-term viability in a market that is changing quickly by implementing more adaptable, customer-centric strategies.

Data Privacy Concerns and their Impact on Consumer Trust in Digital Marketing

The rise of digital marketing has transformed consumer-brand interactions through personalized strategies and targeted ads driven by extensive consumer data. However, increased data collection has sparked privacy concerns, affecting consumer trust. This study examines how dataprivacy concerns impact consumer trust, engagement, and willingness to share information in digital marketing. Key privacy issues include over-collection, lack of transparency, unauthorized sharing, and data breaches. Using a mixed-methods approach, with quantitative surveys of 600 participants and qualitative interviews with 30 individuals, the study measures privacy concerns, trust, and engagement levels. Findings reveal a strong negative correlation between privacy concerns and trust, with transparency in data practices and regulatory compliance (GDPR,CCPA) identified as critical trust factors. Brands that prioritize transparency, data control, and compliance foster greater consumer trust, addressing the privacy- personalization paradox and aligning with consumer expectations for ethical data use. This study offers insights into privacy-trust dynamics and provides recommendations for privacy-centered marketing strategies. Keywords:Data Privacy ,Consumer Trust, User Consent ,Data Transparency, Data Collection Practices, Third-Party Data Sharing ,Data Breaches, Privacy Regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA).

Navigating the Challenges and Seizing Opportunities in Implementing Closed-Loop Supply Chains

Closed-Loop Supply Chains (CLSCs) present a transformative solution for industries seeking sustainability by reintegrating returned products through recycling, refurbishment, and remanufacturing, reducing waste and dependency on added resources. While offering substantial benefits, CLSC adoption faces challenges, including high infrastructure costs, complex reverse coordination, and inconsistent regulatory support, which hinder widespread application. Through a mixed-method approach using surveys and case studies, this study reveals barriers such as financial constraints and operational restructuring needs, while highlighting enablers like digital tools (e.g., blockchain, IoT) that enhance efficiency and transparency. Furthermore, it emphasizes the critical role of regulatory incentives (subsidies, tax breaks, and extended producer responsibility mandates) and strategic partnerships that pool resources and share risks, essential for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) aiming to implement CLSCs effectively. By proposing a practical CLSC framework, informed by empirical data, this research provides actionable insights for businesses to embrace circular economy principles, aligning environmental responsibility with corporate resilience, profitability, and consumer expectations. CLSCs, therefore, are not only an environmental solution but also a strategic opportunity that addresses sustainability imperatives while meeting regulatory requirements and advancing competitive advantage.

Market Entry Opportunities for a Music Artist

A music artist whose goal is to succeed in the music market needs to understand what the opportunities are. The music market is developed and full of a wide range of music artists that meet the expectations of different consumers. Every year, new music artists enter the music market, looking for opportunities to expand the recognition of their name as a brand and of their work. The aim of this paper is to find out what are the market entry opportunities for a music artist by analysing information and scientific sources and interviewing experienced music managers.

Preferences and Expectations for Home Robot Tasks: Comparison According to Age and Household Type in Republic of Korea

Most studies of consumer preferences and expectations for home robots focus on either older adults or single-person households (SPHs). However, with the rise in voluntary SPHs among young adults and seniors, it is critical to compare both age and household types in robot research. This study explored perceptions of home robots and willingness to use their features based on age and household type, in the context of the expanding home robot market in Republic of Korea. An online survey of 400 individuals was conducted, targeting young SPHs and multi-person households (MPHs) in their 20s and 30s as well as older SPHs and MPHs in their 50s and 60s. The survey covered four robot task categories, with 40 items derived from previous research: household chores (20 items), personal care (seven items), leisure/companion (nine items), and health (four items). The results helped predict the main target groups for each in-home robot task by identifying items that showed differences in responses between groups and interpreting these based on age, household type, and their combination. The study provides valuable data on consumer expectations, highlighting differences in responses according to both age and household type, offering insights for the robotics industry to effectively target their products.

Una metodología de despliegue de mejora continua replicable en escuelas de negocios en México

Continuous improvement fosters adaptability and the ability to respond to changes and challenges in the environment, so in a constantly evolving context, organizations must continuously learn to remain competitive. Continuous improvement provides a structure and mindset that promote innovation and the ability to anticipate the changing needs and expectations of consumers of goods and services, such that the focus on continuous improvement impacts efficiency, adaptability, and innovation within organizations. In this context, the research problem in this paper is to propose a methodology for deploying continuous improvement that is replicable in business schools in Mexico, based on an updated and relevant theoretical framework in line with the guidelines of a major international accrediting organization for higher education, in this case, the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. The methodology used in this research was documentary and descriptive, collecting, analyzing, and synthesizing existing information on continuous improvement in business schools according to international standards in order to provide a solid foundation for further research in this field of study, and to describe the characteristics and accurate representation of the continuous improvement process in business schools in accordance with the guidelines of leadership, planning, stakeholder listening methods, learning assessment, human capital, and administrative processes.

Predictors of preventative behavior in the restaurant industry: learning from the COVID-19 pandemic

ABSTRACT This study used a structural model to analyze the health beliefs and prevention expectations of consumers in order to better understand their health risk behavior and their experience with restaurant precautionary measures. The findings indicated the perceived severity of COVID-19 during the pandemic led to a significant increase in the consumers’ preventative behaviors. Likewise, the customers’ perceived severity of the COVID-19 threat enhanced their concerns about the safety of restaurant service. Based on the moderating effect, we found that lower trust in restaurant precautionary measures weakened the otherwise positive relationship between the consumers’ perceived severity of the COVID-19 threat and their preventative behavior. Recommendations can help the restaurant prepare for future public health concerns.

E-Business Online Experience, Satisfaction and Trust: Basis for Customer Loyalty among Selected SMEs in Bulacan

This research paper investigates the relationship between e-business online experience, satisfaction, and trust as predictors of customer loyalty among small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in a selected area of Bulacan. Considering the increasing reliance on digital platforms for e-commerce, issues surrounding online security and user privacy have arisen, raising concerns about consumer trust in e-business environments. Employing a quantitative research methodology, the study utilizes a quantitative descriptive and correlational design to measure and identify the mean and standard deviation of online experience, satisfaction, and trust as independent variables, with customer loyalty as the dependent variable. The findings reveal that SMEs in Bulacan have a strongly positive perception of their e-business online experience, particularly highlighting the simplicity, visual appeal, and effectiveness of the websites they use. They appreciate the quality of information provided by these e-business platforms, which facilitates e-purchases through up-to-date content and straightforward transactions. The study also indicates a strong agreement among SMEs regarding the effectiveness of e-business websites in meeting consumer expectations for repeat purchases, while also identifying areas for improvement in online performance features. Moreover, SMEs generally perceive a high level of security regarding e-business platforms, particularly regarding information transmission and electronic payment safety. However, there was a slightly lower perception of user privacy concerns. The regression analysis indicates that both e-business online experience and customer satisfaction are significant predictors of customer loyalty, underscoring the importance of enhancing these aspects to cultivate lasting customer relationships.

The impact of quality certificates on sustainable food production: An analysis of selected systems in Poland

This study evaluates the influence of quality certificates on sustainable food production in Poland, considering economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Analyzing 25 different certificates, the research explores their criteria, procedures, and costs across various food product categories, including meat, fish, and plant-based products. The study provides a detailed review of certification processes, from initiation to audits and inspections. It identifies both commonalities and differences among certificates, each addressing unique aspects such as environmental impact, worker rights, and product origins. Despite the diversity in standards and procedures, the study underscores the need for standardized international criteria to improve transparency and meet consumer expectations, highlighting the significant role of quality certificates in advancing sustainable food production.

Machine learning, banking, industry, digitalization, innovation

Aim: The application of artificial intelligence (AI) offers an encouraging avenue for developments in the banking industry. Methods: The study adopted a scoping review of methodology to provide a comprehensive overview of relevant research regarding the potential uses and challenges of AI in banking. Consumer expectations have evolved, emphasizing features such as payment gateways, swift transactions, and resilient banking services. Results: Major utilization of the AI in banking industry includes enhanced customer engagement, satisfaction, and relationships, personalized financial guidance, smart digital wallets, regulation compliance and collaborative efforts, forecasting, tracking market trends, decision-making and problem-solving, anti-money laundering and fraud detection, automation of repetitive, large and time-intensive tasks, enhanced cybersecurity, and opportunity for digital financial inclusion. Conclusion: Users encounter challenges involving security issues, privacy concerns, and the complexity of technology in AI-driven banking services. Recommendation: While AI holds a crucial role in the banking industry, successful implementation demands ample allocation and consistent, predictable utilization of AI practices.