Labeling and Customer Loyalty: Mediating Effects of Brand-related Constructs

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyze the brand loyalty formation by positive labeling. Affecting such factors as involvement, self-image, community engagement, preference, and choice cutback, positive labeling can be seen as one of psychological factors that shapes consumer’s behavior and their decision. This study was carried out because little research was done to examine the influence of positive labeling toward brand loyalty, and also to find out the benefits that consumers can get from being labeled in positive terms. Data were collected through survey questionnaire and 151 usable responses were used. Following a series of pretests and confirmatory factor analysis helped to purify measures and verify the psychometric properties of the scale. Structural equation modeling with AMOS was used for testing of research hypotheses. The result of data analysis demonstrated the positive relationship between labeling and brand loyalty, i.e. positive labeling indirectly leads to consumers’ loyalty toward a brand. Findings revealed significant relationship between involvement and emotional attachment, as well as the relationship between community engagement and choice cutback. The results gave support for the hypothesis of moderating effect of buzz on the relationship between involvement and emotional attachment, even though the hypothesis of moderating effect of distinction was rejected. Taking Apple’s rivalry strategy as initial point, this study highlights the role of labeling in creating social identity. The study attempts to show the positive consequences of labeling strategy for firms that seeks ways of good competition without engaging into conflicts.