Factors Influencing Organic Food Purchase Intention in an Emergent Market: An Empirical Investigation of Saudi Arabia

The consumption of organic food has increased owing to consumers becoming more concerned about their health. Many people have begun to realize the advantages of using organic instead of conventional food. Consumer-attitude is now the most influential factor affecting consumer purchase intention toward organic food. This study aims to identify factors influencing consumers’ attitudes and purchase intention toward organic food in the Saudi context. The data used here were collected from 147 participants by using structured questionnaires. Structural equation modelling and partial least square (SmartPLS) were used to analyze the data collection. The results show that issues relating to food quality and scepticism influence consumers’ attitudes toward organic food. Interestingly, organic food knowledge and health consciousness are not significant in influencing consumer attitudes toward organic food. Besides, none of the moderating effects were significant (e.g., food safety and price) regarding the relationship between consumer-attitude and purchase intention toward organic food. The results will help marketers and organic food retailers to understand better consumer’s behaviour, build their marketing strategy and make advantageous decisions.