What affects consumers' choice behaviour towards organic food restaurants? By applying organic food consumption value model

Abstract

PurposeAlthough there is a rising demand for organic food restaurants (OFRs), limited studies have attempted at understanding the drivers of customers' intention to visit OFRs. There is also a need to examine customers' choice behaviour in the context of OFRs.Design/methodology/approachThis study has assessed the effect of consumption values (functional, emotional, epistemic, conditional, quality and social) on the intention to visit OFRs by utilizing 1863 online customer reviews about different Indian OFRs (Study 1) and 205 survey-based responses of Indian customers (Study 2).FindingsFindings show an overall positive sentiment towards OFRs. Results of Study 1 and Study 2 reveal that functional, quality, social and emotional values have a significant impact on customers' OFR visit intention. Interestingly, Study 2 found that epistemic values have an insignificant impact on customers' visit intention.Practical implicationsStudy findings suggest that the OFR management need to provide a better ambience, and good quality organic food in OFRs. Additionally, managers of OFRs can train their staff to be well mannered, cooperative and sincere.Originality/valueThe study on OFRs is still in its nascent stage. The findings of this study will thus provide academicians and policy makers an idea of the consumption values that affect customers' intention to visit OFRs.