The influence of firm behavior on purchase intention: do consumers really care about business ethics?

TLDR

Ethical behavior by firms can influence consumers’ purchase decisions. The study investigates consumers’ expectations of corporate ethics and whether ethical or unethical behavior affects their purchase decisions. Consumers report caring about firm ethics and adjust purchases accordingly.

Abstract

Posits that although behaving “ethically” should be important for its own sake, whether a firm behaves ethically or unethically may also have a significant influence on consumers’ purchase decisions. Examines the issue of unethical corporate behavior from the perspective of consumers. Addresses several questions. First, what are consumers’ expectations regarding the ethicality of corporate behavior? Second, is whether a firm acts ethically or unethically an important consumer concern, and if so, will information regarding a firm’s behavior influence their purchase decision? Demonstrates that consumers say they do care about a firm’s ethics and will adjust their purchase behaviors accordingly.