Examining brand loyalty from an attachment theory perspective

Abstract

Purpose

This study aimed to ascertain the relationship between experiential value, brand attachment and brand loyalty. The authors employed the attachment theory as the theoretical framework and operationalised attachment as a two-dimensional construct: identity-based and bonding-based. The authors argue that experiential value reinforces customer attachment in these two perspectives of attachment and consequently determine brand loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a survey research design and collected data from 500 customers of mobile telecommunication network companies in Ghana. The authors analysed the data collected using the partial least squares approach to structural equation modeling.

Findings

The findings of the study showed that there is a relationship between experiential value, brand attachment (identity-based and bonding-based) and brand loyalty. This study showed how experiential value reinforces each dimension of the attachment theory, and drives brand loyalty.

Originality/value

This study intensifies the application of attachment theory in the marketing literature. It provides insight into how brand loyalty is developed via attachment.

Citation

Boateng, H., Kosiba, J.P., Adam, D.R., Ofori, K.S. and Okoe, A.F. (2020), "Examining brand loyalty from an attachment theory perspective", Marketing Intelligence & Planning, Vol. 38 No. 4, pp. 479-494. https://doi.org/10.1108/MIP-03-2019-0161