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Cause‐related marketing in pandemic context—The effects of cause‐brand fit and cause‐brand alliance on customer‐based legitimacy and reputation

Author

Listed:
  • Sylvaine Castellano
  • Insaf Khelladi
  • Rossella Sorio
  • Saeedeh Rezaee Vessal
  • Judith Partouche‐Sebban
  • Mehmet A. Orhan

Abstract

Even though the COVID‐19 pandemic has represented an intense period of stress and anxiety for individuals, it has also been an opportunity for firms to engage in cause‐related marketing initiatives as a means of providing support and helping them cope with this global pandemic. This study analyzes the influence of cause–brand fit and cause–brand alliance on customer‐based legitimacy and reputation. This study also examines the mediating and moderating roles of trust and betrayal, respectively. Data were collected from 455 participants during the first wave of the pandemic, especially during the first lockdown. The results contribute to unveiling the economic and societal outcomes of cause‐related marketing. The findings also enrich the antecedents of the legitimacy and reputation conferred by customers.

Suggested Citation

  • Sylvaine Castellano & Insaf Khelladi & Rossella Sorio & Saeedeh Rezaee Vessal & Judith Partouche‐Sebban & Mehmet A. Orhan, 2023. "Cause‐related marketing in pandemic context—The effects of cause‐brand fit and cause‐brand alliance on customer‐based legitimacy and reputation," Business Ethics, the Environment & Responsibility, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 32(S3), pages 196-211, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:buseth:v:32:y:2023:i:s3:p:196-211
    DOI: 10.1111/beer.12538
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    References listed on IDEAS

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