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Blending package shape with the gender dimension of brand image: How and why?

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  • Pang, Jun
  • Ding, Ying

Abstract

We investigate the congruence of brand image and package shape on product preferences, the moderating role of a creative mindset, and the underlying processes. Across four studies, we show that consumers generally prefer products with curved-shaped (versus angular-shaped) packaging for a “feminine” brand and prefer products with angular-shaped (versus curved-shaped) packaging for a “masculine” brand (Study 1a). This effect is mediated by the perceived congruence between brand image and package shape (Study 1b). We further demonstrate that the congruence effect is reversed when consumers adopt a creative (versus less creative) mindset (Study 2), since a creative mindset leads consumers to perceive curved-shaped packaging as more congruent with a masculine (versus feminine) brand and angular-shaped packaging as more congruent with a feminine (versus masculine) brand (Study 3).

Suggested Citation

  • Pang, Jun & Ding, Ying, 2021. "Blending package shape with the gender dimension of brand image: How and why?," International Journal of Research in Marketing, Elsevier, vol. 38(1), pages 216-231.
  • Handle: RePEc:eee:ijrema:v:38:y:2021:i:1:p:216-231
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ijresmar.2020.06.003
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Sharma, Monika & Rahman, Zillur, 2022. "Anthropomorphic brand management: An integrated review and research agenda," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 149(C), pages 463-475.
    2. Chen, Nuoya & Jiao, Jinfeng (Jenny) & Fan, Xiucheng & Li, Shaobo (Kevin), 2021. "The shape of loneliness: The relationship between loneliness and consumer preference for angular versus circular shapes," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 136(C), pages 612-629.
    3. Li, Ruiqin & Wang, Yan & Zhang, Hongli, 2023. "The shape of premiumness: Logo Shape's effects on perceived brand premiumness and brand preference," Journal of Retailing and Consumer Services, Elsevier, vol. 75(C).

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