Search Results (294)

In the era of homogenized competition, brand knowledge has become a critical factor that influences consumer purchasing decisions. However, traditional single-layer network models fail to capture the multi-dimensional semantic relationships embedded in brand-related textual data. To address this gap, this study proposes a BKMN framework integrating TF-IDF and TextRank algorithms for comprehensive brand knowledge discovery. By analyzing 19,875 consumer reviews of a mobile phone brand from JD website, we constructed a tri-layer network comprising TF-IDF-derived keywords, TextRank-derived keywords, and their overlapping nodes. The model incorporates co-occurrence matrices and centrality metrics (degree, closeness, betweenness, eigenvector) to identify semantic hubs and interlayer associations. The results reveal that consumers prioritize attributes such as “camera performance”, “operational speed”, “screen quality”, and “battery life”. Notably, the overlap layer exhibits the highest node centrality, indicating convergent consumer focus across algorithms. The network demonstrates small-world characteristics (average path length = 1.627) with strong clustering (average clustering coefficient = 0.848), reflecting cohesive consumer discourse around key features. Meanwhile, this study proposes the Mul-LSTM model for sentiment analysis of reviews, achieving a 93% sentiment classification accuracy, revealing that consumers have a higher proportion of positive attitudes towards the brand’s cell phones, which provides a quantitative basis for enterprises to understand users’ emotional tendencies and optimize brand word-of-mouth management. This research advances brand knowledge modeling by synergizing heterogeneous algorithms and multilayer network analysis. Its practical implications include enabling enterprises to pinpoint competitive differentiators and optimize marketing strategies. Future work could extend the framework to incorporate sentiment dynamics and cross-domain applications in smart home or cosmetic industries. Full article

Purpose—This research paper examines the critical factors in customer satisfaction while purchasing fruits and vegetables at farmers’ markets. Design/methodology/approach—This study was conducted using a prepared questionnaire to collect data on a random sample of 235 customers of farmers’ markets in the state of Maharashtra, India. The research was carried out in the year 2023. Seven hypotheses were tested concerning the relationships between the variables of interest. The variables of convenience, variety, quality, price, health and hygiene, and service conditions were used as independent constructs and were proxied by reflective indicators. Customer satisfaction and customer loyalty were treated as an exogenous variable and an endogenous variable, respectively. Structural equation modeling was used to investigate the model relationships and confirm the theoretical model. Findings—The findings validate all the reflective indicators used in the study. The latent variables of convenience, variety, quality, price, health and hygiene, and service conditions positively and significantly affect customer satisfaction, and customer satisfaction positively and significantly affects customer loyalty toward farmers’ markets. The structural equation explains approximately 55% of the variation in customer satisfaction related to convenience, variety, price, quality, health and hygiene, and service conditions. Significance—The study results provide insights into the factors that influence consumer behavior and attitudes toward farmers’ markets. By identifying these predictors, this study can help farmers’ markets and other stakeholders develop effective marketing strategies to attract and retain customers, ultimately promoting sustainable food production and consumption. Additionally, the results can inform policymakers on how to support and promote farmers’ markets as healthy and sustainable food sources. Practical implication—By implementing the practical suggestions derived from the implications of this research, farmers’ markets can optimize customer satisfaction, boost customer loyalty, and reinforce their position as valuable contributors to local communities’ well-being and sustainability. Originality/value—The acceptance of farmers’ markets in India as an alternative shopping destination for fruits and vegetables is gradually increasing. This exploratory study conducted on farmers’ markets examined several factors, including price, in assessing customer satisfaction and farmers’ markets’ effectiveness at positioning themselves as shopping destinations for consumers in India. Full article

California’s SB 1014 (Clean Miles Standard) mandates ridehailing fleet electrification to reduce emissions from vehicle miles traveled, posing financial and infrastructure challenges for drivers. This study employs a mixed-methods approach, including expert interviews (n = 10), group discussions (n = 8), and a survey of full- and part-time drivers (n = 436), to examine electric vehicle (EV) adoption attitudes and policy preferences. Access to home charging and prior EV experience emerged as the most statistically significant predictors of EV acquisition. Socio-demographic variables, particularly income and age, could also influence the EV choice and sensitivity to policy design. Full-time drivers, though confident in the EV range, were concerned about income loss from the charging downtime and access to urban fast chargers. They showed a greater interest in EVs than part-time drivers and favored an income-based instant rebate at the point of sale. In contrast, part-time drivers showed greater hesitancy and were more responsive to vehicle purchase discounts (price reductions or instant rebates at the point of sale available to all customers) and charging credits (monetary incentive or prepaid allowance to offset the cost of EV charging equipment). Policymakers might target low-income full-time drivers with greater price reductions and offer charging credits (USD 500 to USD 1500) to part-time drivers needing operational and infrastructure support. Full article

Background: As e-commerce expands and delivery services diversifies, understanding the factors that shape consumer preferences becomes critical to designing efficient and sustainable urban logistics. This study examines how perceived walkability influences consumers’ preferences for shopping channels (in-store or online) and delivery methods (home delivery versus pickup points). Method: The analysis is based on structural equation modeling and utilizes survey data collected from 444 residents of Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Results: The findings emphasize the importance of walkability in supporting weekday store visits, encouraging pickup for online purchases and fostering complementarity between different modes of purchase and delivery services. Perceived walkability positively affects the preference to buy in physical stores and increases the likelihood of using pickup points. Educated men, particularly those living in walkable areas, are the most likely to adopt pickup services. In contrast, affluent individuals and women are less likely to forgo home delivery in favor of pickup points. Conclusions: The results highlight the role of perceived walkability in encouraging in-person pickup as a sustainable alternative to home delivery, providing practical guidance for retailers, urban planners, and logistics firms seeking to align consumer convenience with sustainable delivery strategies. Full article

Preventing food waste is a pressing global policy concern, with households being the main producers of food waste along the food supply chain. This study aims to analyze consumers’ food waste behavior and identify how different consumer profiles and sociodemographic characteristics influence food waste. A survey was carried out in Spain with a representative sample of 717 participants, and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) was applied to understand the influence of consumers’ attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavior control on their intention to reduce food waste and to find out the main drivers of their food waste behaviors. Results demonstrated that food waste reduction is mainly predicted by attitudes, followed by perceived behavior control, and lastly subjective norms. Finally, characteristics such as responsibility in food purchasing and cooking at home as well as sociodemographic factors played a relevant role in how much the intention to reduce food waste affects the final behavior. Our results suggest the potential of communication to reshape individual preferences towards valuing food conservation. Tailored strategies are recommended for specific groups, emphasizing the importance of targeted approaches in addressing food waste at various levels of society. Full article

(1) Background: Clays are popular raw materials of natural origin used in cosmetology, beauty salons, and home care. They have moisturizing, soothing, cleansing, disinfecting, detoxifying, and regenerating properties, and can be used externally in the form of poultices or internally in solution form. Though they are characterized by a rich and diverse mineral composition and are considered safe for the body, their use can expose users to harmful elements including mercury. (2) Materials and methods: This study analyzed mercury (Hg) concentrations in samples of cosmetic clays available on the Polish market. Hg analysis was performed using the AAS method with an AMA 254 analyzer. The clays differed in type/color and were purchased from different manufacturers. (3) Results: The mean Hg content in all the tested samples was 28.91 µg/kg, with a range of changes of 1.87–200.81 µg/kg. The highest concentrations of Hg were found in green (AM = 53.26 µg/kg) and white (AM = 52.80 µg/kg) clays, while the lowest were detected in purple (AM = 2.56 µg/kg) and blue (AM = 3.69 µg/kg) clays. The differences in Hg content between individual types of clay were statistically significant. (4) Conclusions: Due to the presence of Hg found in all the samples of cosmetic clay tested, it is likely that these products need to be tested for their metal contents. Full article

Cosmetics companies are increasingly integrating augmented reality and artificial intelligence technologies into products and services referred to as beauty tech; consumer perceptions of these solutions, however, remain understudied. Data generated via an online survey are implemented in a stimulus–organism–response framework, deduced from the beauty tech literature. Thereupon, the study identifies how interactivity, informativeness, personalization, and service quality of digital and physical beauty tech solutions for home use affect utilitarian and hedonistic values and the perceived risk factors among consumers. Via customer satisfaction, the effect of the value perception on the purchase intention and loyalty is considered. Results hint at strong effects of characteristics of the services and applications on the utilitarian and the hedonistic dimension of customer experience, which in turn strongly influence customer satisfaction. Perceived risk factors play only a marginal role. Only regarding the tested physical product does higher service quality add to the customer experience. Customer satisfaction in turn results in positive brand perception across different stages of the customer journey and leads to a higher purchase intention, positive brand advocacy, and a higher re-purchase intention. Consequently, well-designed solutions can generate higher customer satisfaction and loyalty on multiple stages along the customer journey. Full article

The objective of this study is to analyze the current situation of out-of-home catering (OHC) in Germany concerning the use of regional organic food using a case study; we also aim to determine the potential and challenges that exist in increasing the proportion of regional organic food in OHC. The food purchasing data from three canteens of the company were analyzed concerning regionality, seasonality, and organic share. The companies’ employees were asked about their willingness to pay and their attitude towards regional organic food using an online questionnaire. A price comparison between organically and conventionally grown food was carried out with food wholesalers’ product price lists. The study confirms the potential to increase the share of regional organic food in OHC. With their private purchasing behavior, eating habits and willingness to pay a surcharge for organic quality in the company restaurants, the consumers confirm that they support an increase in the regional organic share. Regional organic food could be purchased from (organic) wholesalers. However, the study also shows that the cost of sourcing organic food is on average 50% higher than that of conventional food and that this price markup is the main reason for consumers not buying organic food. Full article

This article attempts to estimate the potential of supplying a residential building in Europe with energy exclusively from RESs during a whole year, including the heating period. The aim of the tests carried out was to minimize the purchase of energy required to achieve the thermal comfort (HVACR + DHW) of a residential building powered solely by electricity. During the tests carried out, the EVs were used by the residents as their daily means of transport, topped up during working hours, and the excess energy remaining in their batteries was discharged into the building when they returned home. Energy for the EVs/PHEVs was sourced from RESs (mostly for free) while they were parked at the workplace, and also on the way home. Two one-month tests in the spring and autumn resulted in a state where, instead of purchasing a significant volume of black energy from the grid, the building was mostly powered by green energy from roof-top PVs and RES energy brought in by the PHEVs/EVs. This study identified days when the building became a real nZEB, which was not possible in previous years. The results of economic gains and carbon footprint reduction were calculated. After a period of testing, the degree of degradation of traction batteries used to carry the energy of EVs/PHEVs was checked. A high potential for such an operation was identified, especially in areas where there are periodic shutdowns (due to a call from the grid operator) of local RESs situated near the residential areas. The proposed solution may be of interest to all countries where the use of grid energy is associated not only with a doubling of costs (grid charges), but also with significant emissions, particularly in the heating period (e.g., Poland). Full article

The global energy crisis, driven by economic and political disruptions, has intensified efforts to transition toward a more competitive and sustainable society. This study, framed within the context of SDG 7, examines the influence of knowledge, psychological factors, and sociodemographic characteristics on two dimensions of sustainable residential energy consumption: energy efficiency and energy curtailment behavior. A quantitative survey was conducted with 1410 Romanian participants, using a structured questionnaire and convenience sampling. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses reveal that knowledge of energy issues and the importance attributed to sustainable development goals positively influence intentions to conserve energy at home. Notably, perceived importance significantly influences the purchase of energy-efficient appliances (F = 23.01, p < 0.001) and moderately supports curtailment behaviors, as evidenced by higher adoption rates of actions such as disconnecting appliances and using natural lighting among participants with stronger pro-saving attitudes. Attitudes toward voluntary energy-saving measures also predict purchasing and curtailment behaviors, with intention playing a mediating role. Sociodemographic variables impact energy-saving behavior to varying degrees. While perceptions may differ across countries due to historical contexts, the findings provide a valuable benchmark for informing national policies and promoting voluntary energy-saving and production measures at the residential level, supporting the transition to sustainable energy. Full article

Amid urbanization, many forest farmers have migrated for work, leading to a shortage of young labor in forestry. Socialized prevention and control (SPC) measures have emerged as a new forestry model. By integrating forestland property rights theory, SPC economic principles, and collaborative disaster governance, this study compares the econometrics methods of seemingly unrelated regression (SUR) and structural equation models (SEMs) to address correlation and endogeneity issues. It aims to understand forest farmers’ willingness to pay for SPC services, purchase forest insurance, and join as forest rangers. The findings offer theoretical and practical insights that address current challenges and rationalize SPC promotion costs, filling gaps in the existing literature. The results indicate that high-quality foresters with more home-planted forests are more inclined to hire SPC companies, while better-educated farmers are less likely to purchase forest insurance. Western forest farmers, highly reliant on forests, show greater willingness to become rangers under village committee organization. Farmers organized by committees or with prevention experience suggest SPC costs around USD $65/ha and forest premiums at USD $5/ha, with high-quality farmers proposing a ranger salary of USD $190/month. Recommendations include collecting SPC funds from farmers and supplementing through local finances; enhancing the forest insurance system; monitoring SPC companies; and recruiting young, skilled rangers. Full article

Heat pumps (HPs) are considered as a key technology in the future energy system. Besides technical and ecological aspects, user acceptance and user friendliness are also essential. The aim of the study was therefore to research which aspects are decisive for the purchase decision, which different types of HP owners can be distinguished, how their specific user behavior can be characterized in terms of control and operation, and what their respective requirements and wishes are for the functions and operation of their HPs. A mixed-methods approach in an exploratory sequential design was used. Based on nine qualitative interviews and a survey with 510 respondents, both conducted in Austria, it is observed that the most relevant arguments for the purchase decision of HPs are high environmental friendliness and efficiency, as well as resource independence. Respecting certain usage and requirement patterns, four user types could be identified and defined—the minimalist, the functionalist, the tech-savvy tinkerer, and the anxious user. In the future, intelligent control and regulation approaches and the integration of HPs into a holistic energy and building management system (smart home) will become more important. Based on the results, tailor-made system solutions can be developed, user friendliness optimized, and new services developed. Full article

Smart home technologies (SHT) offer numerous benefits to consumers. This study explored the relationship between the perceived benefits of and the likelihood of subsequently purchasing SHT among Taiwanese consumers. The study conducted a survey in May 2024 and collected data from 424 respondents of various ages, educational backgrounds, and income levels. Data on the perceived benefits of SHT, the perceived challenges of adopting these technologies, current methods for managing household tasks and energy consumption, and the likelihood of purchasing SHT were collected. The perceived benefits of SHT include enhanced comfort, security, and energy efficiency. Comfort and energy efficiency but not enhanced security were significant predictors of adoption. Proficiency in online research but not general technical proficiency also significantly predicted adoption. Consumers dissatisfied with current home energy management methods were more likely to adopt SHT. Positive perceptions of benefits and dissatisfaction with current methods drive the adoption of SHT. As there is increasing environmental awareness in Taiwan, this study verifies that environmentally conscious consumers affect their buying decisions positively. This study highlights how SHT can improve quality of life while promoting sustainable development. The study offers valuable insights into consumer buying behaviors and contributes to the SHT industry with actionable suggestions for improving product design, incorporating more green technology into their products, enhancing user interfaces, strengthening security protocols, and upgrading interoperability between different smart home devices that may facilitate users to embrace SHT. Full article

This study addresses the vast amount of information held by the banking sector, especially regarding opportunities in tourism development, production, and large residential projects. With advancements in information technology and databases, data mining has become essential for banks to optimally utilize available data. From January 2023 to July 2024, data from the Egyptian Arab Land Bank (EALB) were analyzed using data mining techniques, including rough set theory and the Weka version 3.0 program. The aim was to identify potential units for targeted marketing, improve customer satisfaction, and contribute to sustainable development goals. By integrating sustainability principles into financing approaches, this research promotes green banking, encouraging environmentally friendly and socially responsible investments. A survey of EALB customers assessed their interest in purchasing homes under the real estate financing program. The results were analyzed with GraphPad Prism version 9.0, with 95% confidence intervals and an R-squared value close to 1, and we identified 13 units (43% of the total units) as having the highest marketing potential. This study highlights data mining’s role in enhancing marketing for the EALB’s residential projects. Combining sustainable financing with data insights promotes green banking, aligning with customer preferences and boosting satisfaction and profitability. Full article

The design of product packaging significantly impacts consumer behavior by attracting attention and influencing purchasing choices within a competitive market environment. This research explores the effects of visual packaging elements, such as branding, imagery, and descriptive text, on consumer preferences and decisions. By examining regular, organic, and character-themed milk packaging, the study seeks to determine which features effectively capture attention and drive engagement. Employing eye-tracking tools (Tobii Pro Spectrum and Tobii Pro Lab) alongside survey analysis, the study evaluates consumer focus through fixation durations and heatmap visualizations. The findings indicate that character-themed packaging draws the most attention, with colorful illustrations and prominently displayed brand names playing a central role. Fixation data highlight brand names as the most consistently engaging feature across all packaging types. Regression analysis further reveals that cultural familiarity influences preferences, as international participants favored designs resembling those from their home regions or familiar global brands. These insights underscore the importance of visually appealing and culturally relevant designs in building consumer engagement and brand loyalty. The study offers valuable guidance for marketers and designers aiming to create packaging that resonates with diverse audiences and market demands. Full article