Heterogeneity of luxury value perception: a generational comparison in China
研究中国年轻与年长消费者在奢侈品价值感知上的差异，发现功能价值和社会价值对年长者的购买意愿影响更强，而自我认同和享乐价值对年轻者影响更强。
Purpose Despite the growing research regarding consumer luxury value perception and their influence on luxury consumption behavior in different cultural contexts, there is little research investigating the cultural variation toward luxury within different generations in a given society. The purpose of this paper is to assess the relationships among Confucian propriety, luxury value perception, and purchase intention of luxury brands, and especially how these relationships differ between young and older consumers in a Chinese context. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected through a questionnaire survey in China. A multi-group structural equation model was used to test the conceptual model and research hypotheses. Findings The results show that the effects of functional value and social value on purchase intention of luxury brands are stronger for older generations than younger ones, while the effects of self-identity and hedonic value on purchase intention are stronger for younger generations than older ones. The Confucian propriety relates positively to the functional value and social value; however, these effects are more salient for older consumers. Originality/value The results of this study reveal the evolution of luxury consumption values and behaviors of Chinese consumers, suggesting that marketers should no longer label Chinese luxury consumers with common behaviors. It is also recommended that marketers of luxury brands in China should adapt this shifting attitude and respond actively to the expectations of different generations.