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“Establishing and Deepening Brand Loyalty through Brand Experience and Customer

Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants”.

A thesis submitted

By

Muneer Alam

To

Department of Business Administration

In the partial execution of the obligation for the

Degree of

MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

In

Marketing

This thesis has been

Accepted by the faculty

FACULTY OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

_____________________________________________
Ma’am Wajeeha Aslam
Advisor

_____________________________________________
IQRA University
Acknowledgement

Firstly, I would like to thank Almighty Allah for giving me the strength to complete my thesis. I

would also like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to my teachers Ma’am Wajeeha

Aslam who have been inspirational in paving the way for this landmark by facilitating me

throughout the course. This research surely would not have been possible without their guidance,

direction and cooperation.

Additionally, I would also like to thank the Staff Members of Research Department for

supporting me in every single aspect of my research. I acknowledge the respondents for their

participation in the study whose valuable contribution was very precious and critical for this

thesis.

At the end, I convey my sincere gratitude to my family and to all who have been directly and

indirectly associated and endured with the project. All I remain is thankful!

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Table of Contents
Acknowledgement........................................................................................................................i

Abstract......................................................................................................................................iv

Chapter#1: Introduction............................................................................................................1

Chapter#1: Introduction............................................................................................................2

1.1 Background.......................................................................................................................2

1.2 Problem Statement...........................................................................................................3

1.3 Research Aim....................................................................................................................5

1.3 Research Objectives..............................................................................................................5

1.5 Research Questions...............................................................................................................5

1.6 Significance of the Study......................................................................................................5

1.7 Scope of the Study.................................................................................................................6

1.8 Organization of the Study....................................................................................................7

Chapter#2: Literature Review...................................................................................................9

2.1 Theoretical Background.......................................................................................................9

2.2 Literature Review.................................................................................................................9

2.3 Hypothesis Development....................................................................................................15

2.3.1 Sensory experience and customer engagement.............................................................15

2.3.2 Esthetical experience and customer engagement...........................................................17

2.3.3 Affective experience and customer engagement...........................................................19

2.3.4 Customer engagement and brand loyalty.......................................................................21

2.3.5 Cognitive style impact on behavioral and attitudinal loyalty........................................23

2.4 Conceptual Framework......................................................................................................25

Chapter#3: Research Methodology.........................................................................................27

Introduction:.............................................................................................................................27

3.1 Research approach.............................................................................................................27

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3.2 Research purpose................................................................................................................27

3.3 Research design...................................................................................................................28

3.4 Data source & instrumentation:........................................................................................28

3.5 Face and content validity...................................................................................................29

3.6 Target population...............................................................................................................30

3.7 Sample size...........................................................................................................................30

3.8 Sampling technique.............................................................................................................30

3.9 Statistical techniques for data analysis.............................................................................31

3.10 Ethical consideration........................................................................................................31

3.11 Summary of the chapter...................................................................................................32

Chapter#4: Data Analysis........................................................................................................34

4.1 Introduction:.......................................................................................................................34

4.2 Reliability (Pilot Study):.....................................................................................................34

4.3 Data Screening:...................................................................................................................35

4.3.1 Missing Values:.............................................................................................................35

4.3.2 Univariate and Multivariate Outliers:............................................................................36

4.4 Descriptive Analysis and Interpretations:.........................................................................36

4.5 Analysis:...............................................................................................................................38

4.5.1 Outer Model Measurement:...........................................................................................39

4.5.2 Inner model measurement and hypothesis testing:........................................................46

4.6 Discussion............................................................................................................................50

Chapter#5: Conclusion and Recommendation......................................................................53

5.1 Conclusion...........................................................................................................................53

5.2 Managerial and Theoretical Implications........................................................................56

5.3 Limitations and Future Recommendation.......................................................................57

References..................................................................................................................................59

iii
Appendix....................................................................................................................................67

Abstract
This quantitative research study investigates the relationship between brand experience,

customer engagement, and brand loyalty in Karachi's chain restaurants. In a highly competitive

market, brand loyalty has emerged as a crucial factor in sustaining business success.

Understanding the quantitative impact of brand experience and customer engagement on brand

loyalty provides actionable insights for restaurant chains aiming to cultivate a loyal customer

base. The study employs a cross-sectional survey design to collect data from a diverse sample of

customers visiting chain restaurants in Karachi. The survey instrument measures brand

experience, customer engagement levels, and brand loyalty through a well-validated and reliable

questionnaire. Respondents are asked to rate their perceptions of various restaurant attributes,

their engagement with the brand, and their likelihood of repeat visits and advocacy. Using

statistical analyses such as correlation and regression, the study quantifies the associations

between brand experience, customer engagement, and brand loyalty. It also explores the

mediating effect of customer engagement on the relationship between brand experience and

brand loyalty. The research findings reveal significant positive correlations between brand

experience, customer engagement, and brand loyalty. Customers who report positive brand

experiences are more likely to engage with the restaurant through loyalty programs, social media

interactions, and personalized communications, leading to higher levels of brand loyalty.

Moreover, the study identifies customer engagement as a significant mediator between brand

experience and brand loyalty. This suggests that a positive brand experience not only directly

influences brand loyalty but also does so indirectly through increased customer engagement. The

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results of this study have significant implications for chain restaurant managers and marketers in

Karachi, as well as the broader hospitality industry. By quantitatively understanding the impact

of brand experience and customer engagement on brand loyalty, restaurants can tailor their

strategies to optimize customer satisfaction, retention, and advocacy.

Keywords: Brand Loyalty, Brand Experience, Customer Engagement, Karachi’s Chain

Restaurant.

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Establishing and Deepening Brand Loyalty through Brand Experience and Customer 1
Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

Chapter#1: Introduction
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Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

Chapter#1: Introduction

1.1 Background

In the fiercely competitive landscape of the fast food industry, establishing and maintaining

brand loyalty has emerged as a critical objective for businesses worldwide (Ladhari, 2007). With

consumers faced with a plethora of choices, it has become imperative for fast food chain

restaurants to differentiate themselves beyond the mere quality of their offerings (Kotler et al.,

2002). This necessitates a strategic shift towards building robust brand experiences and fostering

active customer engagement (Pine and Gilmore, 1998). Karachi, as a bustling metropolis in

Pakistan, provides a dynamic backdrop for exploring the intricate relationship between brand

loyalty, brand experience, and customer engagement within this industry. The city's diverse and

discerning consumer base places significant emphasis not only on the taste and quality of food

but also on the overall experience associated with the brand (Akram and Jalees, 2013). This

dynamic environment is characterized by an evolving urban culture, where consumers seek not

only nourishment but an immersive experience that resonates with their lifestyles and values.

The fast food industry in Karachi has witnessed exponential growth over the past few decades,

mirroring global trends. The city now hosts a diverse array of international and local fast food

chains, ranging from global giants like McDonald's, KFC, and Pizza Hut to local favorites such

as OPTP, Nando's, and Student Biryani. This proliferation has not only transformed the culinary

landscape but also intensified competition, necessitating a strategic reevaluation of customer-

centric approaches. Brand loyalty, as defined by Ladhari (2007), encompasses the emotional,

psychological, and behavioral attachment that customers develop towards a particular brand,

leading to repeated patronage, positive word-of-mouth, and resistance to competitive offerings.


Establishing and Deepening Brand Loyalty through Brand Experience and Customer 3
Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

In a marketplace teeming with alternatives, cultivating brand loyalty becomes instrumental in

securing a dedicated customer base. This loyalty not only translates into higher revenue and

profitability but also acts as a buffer against market fluctuations and competitive pressures

(Kotler et al., 2002). Brand experience, according to Pine and Gilmore (1998), encapsulates the

entirety of a customer's interactions with a brand, encompassing every touchpoint from pre-

purchase to post-consumption. In the fast food context, this encompasses not only the taste and

quality of the food but also the ambiance, service, convenience, and any additional elements that

contribute to a memorable encounter. By orchestrating a seamless and gratifying experience, fast

food chains can forge deeper connections with their clientele, fostering brand loyalty. Customer

engagement, as highlighted by Kotler et al. (2002), involves active interactions and participation

between customers and the brand. It goes beyond mere transactions, encompassing elements

such as feedback, social media interactions, loyalty programs, and events. Effective engagement

initiatives can create a sense of community, empowerment, and belonging among customers,

further solidifying their allegiance to the brand.

1.2 Problem Statement

In the dynamic and competitive market of Karachi, Pakistan, building and maintaining brand

loyalty has emerged as a pivotal goal for businesses, particularly within the thriving chain

restaurant industry. Despite the acknowledged significance of brand experience, there exists a

noticeable gap in research that comprehensively examines its impact on customer loyalty in this

context. While existing studies offer valuable insights, they often lack depth in understanding the

nuanced factors contributing to brand experience (Keller, 2013; Schmitt, 1999). Additionally, the

diverse consumer base in Karachi, spanning various socio-economic backgrounds, presents a

unique challenge in crafting effective customer engagement strategies. Research on customer


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Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

engagement within the local context is scarce, necessitating a focused investigation into the

specific dynamics at play within Karachi's chain restaurant industry (Verhoef et al., 2010; So et

al., 2013). Moreover, with the rapid integration of digital platforms and technological

advancements, there is a pressing need to explore how these innovations influence customer-

brand interactions and, consequently, brand loyalty in the local market (PwC, 2019; Frow et al.,

2016).

Karachi's cosmopolitan environment, characterized by its rich tapestry of cultures, languages,

and traditions, introduces an additional layer of complexity in brand loyalty formation.

Understanding the role of cross-cultural sensitivities in this process is imperative for crafting

strategies that resonate with the diverse consumer segments prevalent in the city (Usunier & Lee,

2009; Vigneron & Johnson, 2004). Finally, while establishing brand loyalty is a strategic

imperative, its translation into tangible business outcomes remains a subject of ongoing inquiry.

Delving into the connection between brand loyalty, customer retention, and the financial

performance of chain restaurants in Karachi will provide invaluable insights for both

practitioners and researchers alike (Reichheld, 2003; Rust et al., 2004). By addressing these

critical gaps in the existing literature, this research endeavors to offer a comprehensive

understanding of how brand experience and customer engagement strategies can be effectively

leveraged to establish and deepen brand loyalty within Karachi’s chain restaurant industry. The

findings of this study hold the potential to not only inform the strategies of local businesses but

also contribute to the broader discourse on brand management in diverse and dynamic market

contexts.
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Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

1.3 Research Aim

The aim of this research is to examine the role of brand experience and customer engagement in

establishing and deepening brand loyalty within the context of chain restaurants. The study seeks

to investigate how chain restaurant operators can create meaningful and memorable brand

experiences that foster active customer engagement, leading to long-term brand loyalty. By

exploring these connections, the research aims to provide valuable insights and actionable

recommendations to enhance customer relationships, brand loyalty, and overall business success

for chain restaurants.

1.3 Research Objectives

The main aim of this study is:

 To identify the association between the brand loyalty and customers engagement

 To examine the impact of brand loyalty on the restaurant chain

 To examine the impact on brand experience on customer engagement.

1.5 Research Questions

The research questions of this study are:

 What is the relationship between brand loyalty and customer engagement?

 What is the impact of brand loyalty on restaurant chain?

 What is the impact of brand experience on customer engagement?

1.6 Significance of the Study

The primary objective of this research is to build upon the existing studies in brand management

that have focused on customer engagement as a multi-dimensional construct, as discussed by


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Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

Dessart et al. (2015) and So et al. (2014). Specifically, Hollebeek et al. (2014) have identified

three dimensions of customer engagement: cognitive (related to interest in using the integrated

resort brand), affective (concerning feelings or expressions towards the integrated resort brand),

and behavioral (relating to behaviors associated with the integrated resort brand). This research

aims to explore and identify potential antecedents and outcomes of these three dimensions of

customer engagement. In this study, the researchers have categorized the majority of customers'

experiences with the integrated resort brand, including sensory, affective, behavioral, and

intellectual engagements, to form a comprehensive concept of customer brand engagement. By

delving into these aspects, the study seeks to enhance our understanding of customer engagement

in the context of brand management and contribute valuable insights to the field.

1.7 Scope of the Study

The study "Establishing and Deepening Brand Loyalty through Brand Experience and Customer

Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants" is delimited to the dynamic landscape

of Karachi's chain restaurant industry. Specifically, the research aims to investigate the intricate

interplay between brand experience, customer engagement, and brand loyalty within this unique

market. The geographical focus centers exclusively on Karachi, Pakistan, where a diverse array

of international and local chain restaurants operate, were catering to a wide range of consumer

preferences. By concentrating on this specific locale, the study seeks to offer insights that are

particularly relevant to the local market dynamics and consumer behaviors prevalent in Karachi.

This geographic scope allows for a comprehensive examination of the factors influencing brand

loyalty in a highly competitive urban environment. Consequently, the study contributes to a

deeper understanding of how chain restaurants in Karachi can strategically enhance their brand
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Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

experiences and customer engagement initiatives to foster lasting customer loyalty in this

bustling metropolis.

1.8 Organization of the Study

This current research will be summarized in five chapters. The first chapter will highlight the

introduction of the research, whereas the second chapter highlights the literature review,

conceptual framework and hypothesis. The third chapter will teach the methodology of this

research. The fourth chapter highlights the analysis of the overall data and the last chapter

highlights the conclusion and recommendation of this research. will include total of five

chapters.
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Chapter#2: Literature Review


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Chapter#2: Literature Review

2.1 Theoretical Background

Brand Resonance Theory, developed by marketing scholar Kevin Lane Keller, is a conceptual

framework that illustrates the various stages of brand development and the dynamic relationship

between consumers and a brand. The model is represented by the Brand Resonance Pyramid,

which comprises four distinct levels. The foundational level is "Identity," emphasizing brand

awareness and recognition as essential prerequisites for meaningful connections. Moving up the

pyramid, the "Meaning" level encompasses brand attributes and benefits, shaping consumers'

perceptions and attitudes. The subsequent level, "Response," signifies favorable consumer

reactions and preferences, leading to increased brand loyalty and repeat purchases. Finally, at the

pinnacle of the pyramid, "Resonance" epitomizes the deepest level of brand engagement, where

consumers forge strong emotional bonds, resulting in unwavering loyalty, advocacy, and a sense

of belonging. Brands that achieve resonance benefit from heightened customer retention, positive

word-of-mouth, and increased brand advocacy. To attain brand resonance, marketers must

comprehend their target audience, deliver consistent and relevant brand experiences, and

establish meaningful relationships that transcend functional benefits, connecting with customers

on a profound emotional level. Such endeavors cultivate a loyal customer base, serving as a

crucial asset in achieving long-term success and gaining a competitive edge in the market.

2.2 Literature Review

Atulkar (2019) investigates the impact of brand trust and loyalty among Indian mall customers.

The findings of the study basis were emotional connection, which contributes to brand loyalty
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and trust. SEM technique was used in this research to test the hypothesis, and Smart PLS 2.0

software was used to analyze the data by taking 332 responses from those respondents who have

experience shopping at the mall. The targeted audience is those 10 to 30 years who purchase

branded things from the mall. According to the study, brand loyalty significantly impacts brand

trust and does not directly affect emotional connection. Moreover, this study also suggested that

other factors like buying patterns paying capacity, and lifestyle will be used for further research.

The moderating role of brand loyalty was the focus of a study by Bicakcioglu et al. published

under the heading “Antecedents and Consequences of Brand Loyalty”. A survey was used as a

data-gathering instrument to examine the framework and hypothesis with a sample of 361

Turkish consumers. The methodology of a structure-based equation model was used to evaluate

the hypothesis. The study's findings show a high correlation between brand loyalty and

behavioral outcomes built on experience and non-experience. Additionally, this research

demonstrates the mediating function of brand loyalty and the impact of brand loyalty on the

positive statement. Since such factors were not previously included, brand loyalty and

encouraging word of mouth may be used in future research.

The implications of brand loyalty and recognition in Tapie City, Taiwan, are analyzed by Chang

(2020). The data is collected from 225 respondents by using a questionnaire. In this study, a

structural equation design was adopted in combination with exploratory factor analysis. The

research finding emphasizes that experimental marketing could not directly affect brand loyalty,

while the use of brand analytics served as a connection between brand loyalty and brand vision;

the researcher also discovered that social marketing strategy significantly impacted both of these

metrics. The researcher also considered different research settings while doing this study.
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Ebrahim (2019) highlighted that trustworthiness is essential for understanding how social media

advertising affects brand loyalty and perception. The study was conducted in Egypt using a

questionnaire to collect the data. The data is collected from 287 participants for non-probability

sampling techniques Estimation techniques are used to analyze the result of the hypothesis.

According to the findings, social media advertising initiatives significantly impact brand loyalty

and secondarily influence the brand's equity. Further researchers should use other geographical

locations for further research and determine how social media advertising initiatives influence

negative word-of-mouth.

According to Fernandes and Moreira (2019), brand loyalty, customer experience, and customer

interaction are all examined. This study focuses on the relationship between functional and

emotional brand relations. The study's objective is to highlight the distinction between CBE and

BL. This data was collected from 655 respondents, of which 320 respondents were for the

available brand while another consumer was the emotional brand. Throughout this study, the

hypothesis was evaluated using a structural equation model technique, and AMOS was

implemented. The finding of the research shows that consumer brand engagement has 3

dimensions.While widely accessible brands indirectly impact brand equity, solid emotional

engagement has a direct impact.

Using complexity theory approaches, Foroudi et al. (2019) analyze the regular and irregular

ways to brand loyalty and brand intention to buy. This research needed to discern how using a

brand-marketing strategy could enhance market potential. The mixed method was used in this

research. With the assistance of 308 participants, a structured questionnaire was used to gather

data in Mexico once a preliminary interview had been conducted to explore the connection

between the various aspects of brand perception. Fuzzy-set Data analysis techniques included
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Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

comprehensive qualitative evaluation. The finding demonstrates how branding is worth

understanding consumer brand loyalty and consumer buying behavior.

The influence of sales marketing and brand loyalty on the brand awareness was explored by

Joseph et al. in 2020. This experimental investigation aims to understand how consumers feel

about sticking with certain companies. The conceptual framework is explained in terms of extent

theory. To investigate the formulated hypotheses, 147 Indian volunteers were randomly selected

as a sample. The information is gathered using a survey. This research investigates the

hypothesis using a method called structural equation modeling. The result confirms that using

short-term promotions increased brand equity and brand loyalty. The finding suggests that

competitive actions and split loyalty should use for further research.

In their 2019 study, Kaur et al. examined the impression of official brand recognition on the

customer brand engagement and loyalty in digital communities for brands. They focused on the

importance of the virtual brand community; for this, they collected data from 602 Facebook

users using a survey questionnaire. Structural equation modeling techniques were used in this

research to examine the hypothesis. The research results show that virtual community increases

brand attachment in the consumers’ minds.

Kim et al,m (2020) studied the impact of celebrity on brand knowledge, the quality received, and

brand image on brand loyalty to a literacy festival in the USA. This study shows that celebrity

endorsement impacts destination brand and festival community attachment. The data was

collected from 405 consumers in the fashion retail industry in the US market by using an online

survey. The statistical analyses were performed using a structure-based equation model. The

findings demonstrate how celebrity endorsement significantly impacts brand perception and
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Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

customer retention, which may increase the brand image. Further research uses other influential

factors such as functions, roles, and attributes of celebrity endorsement.

Kwon et al. (2020) examine the factors that directly impact brand loyalty and brand trust in the

restaurant industry. This study was conducted on USA and Korean consumers. The study

investigates how marketing influences consumers' perceptions of a brand and their willingness to

stick with it. The total number of participants is 606, of which 230 consumers were taken from

the US, while 376 respondents were taken from the Korean market. They examined the

hypothesis; they used the structural equation model technique. According to the study, brand

trust and brand loyalty are directly impacted by advertisements if they are tied to the brand's

competence and serve to boost these two metrics.

Liu et al. (2020) investigated the link between brand loyalty and popular destinations and the

impact of brand recognition on the sense of place. It works on the variable product brand,

authenticity, affective place image, culture distance, affective place, product brand image, and

loyalty. They used confirmatory factor analysis to test the variable through which they found out

that Brand loyalty depicts a central figure with a commitment to a spot and an expressive

presence. The research conceptualizes and factually displays the sign's existence, connections,

and significance. It worsens consideration for brand-place concerns and acknowledges necessary

limit circumstances. In order to strengthen spot links, tour operators must effectively handle

perceptions of local companies' actuality and consider heritage sites while creating destination

marketing.

The relationship between brand loyalty and the brand experience was found by Mostafa (2019).

The association between the brand experience and brand loyalty is explored in this experiment.

This research was done in Labuan, and data was gathered with the participation of 278 clients
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Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

using a questionnaire as an essential tool. The hypothesis was tested using mediation analysis to

generate the required outcomes. The report's findings demonstrate that brand intensity,

connection, and attachment strongly influenced sustained brand loyalty. In a recent study, brand

awareness, loyalty, and diverse geographic locations should all be considered.

On the other hand, a 2017's study examined the effect of customer brand image on customer

loyalty to the hotel sector. This research evaluated brand recognition and brand loyalty using

cross-sectional data. 345 Indian consumers assisted in gathering this research. The theory was

evaluated using techniques for structural equation modeling. The study's results demonstrate that

brand identity directly affects brand loyalty. To accomplish the desired outcome, future studies

should explore the implications of the brand personalization on brand loyalty by utilizing data

from many geographical regions.

Social media customization's impact on boosting brand loyalty and value perception in the

United States of America was examined by Shanahan et al. in 2019. This research demonstrates

how customized social media ads influence how consumers perceive a brand. Two hundred

forty-two individuals took part in an online poll that was used to gather these statistics. The data

analysis method employed was the structural modeling approach. The findings demonstrate that

quality affects customer brand engagement and brand attachment in a constructive way.

In their study, Li et al. (2020) highlight the associations between consumer engagement and

brand loyalty in the tourism industry and the linkage between brand attachment and brand equity

in Taiwan's social media sites.. It demonstrates the connections between consumer interaction,

brand association, consumer loyalty, and brand loyalty—data. Two hundred ninety-eight

participants are gathered. They do convergent and discriminant validity analyses to ensure that

brand partnerships' perceptual stages adequately address the emotional one's behavioral aims.
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Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

Although trust has no immediate impact, the emotional component of brand relationships

substantially impacts pricing lenience. Along with suggestions for additional research,

managerial implications are highlighted.

According to Yoshida (2018), there is a contradiction between Japanese customers' brand loyalty

and their use of social media. The theoretical foundation of the structure was supported by social

branding and customer interaction theory. This research investigates the connection between

Japanese licensed sports brand recognition and customer reactions on the social media platforms.

The data was gathered from 309 clubs in Japan using an online survey. Based on the findings,

social media sites' entertainment value directly influences online consumer brand recognition and

positively influences brand related social media activity. Future studies ought to investigate the

gap between brand awareness and brand loyalty using brand identity and team recognition.

2.3 Hypothesis Development

2.3.1 Sensory experience and customer engagement

The hypothesis posits that delivering a positive and immersive sensory experience to customers

can have a significant impact on customer engagement, satisfaction, and brand loyalty. A study

conducted by Spence and Piqueras-Fiszman (2014) provides empirical support to this idea by

shedding light on the pivotal role of sensory experiences in consumer behavior. Their research

demonstrates that when customers are exposed to multisensory stimuli, such as appealing

visuals, pleasant aromas, and soothing music, their overall engagement with the product or

service is substantially heightened. The combination of various sensory cues triggers a more

profound emotional response, making the experience more memorable and enjoyable. As a

consequence, customers develop a stronger positive perception of the brand, resulting in higher
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Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

levels of satisfaction with their purchase decisions. Moreover, this positive emotional connection

cultivated through sensory experiences fosters a sense of loyalty towards the brand, making

customers more likely to repeat their purchases and recommend the brand to others. In essence,

businesses that prioritize and excel in creating sensory-rich experiences stand to gain a

competitive advantage in an increasingly crowded marketplace by establishing lasting

connections with their customers, leading to long-term customer loyalty and advocacy. Sensory

experience and cognitive style are two factors that can influence how people process

information. Cognitive style refers to an individual's preferred way of processing information,

while sensory experience refers to the way in which an individual experiences the world through

their senses, such as vision, hearing, touch, taste, and smell. Cognitive style can be divided into

two main categories: visual and verbal. People with a more visual cognitive style tend to rely on

visual cues when processing information, while people with a more verbal cognitive style tend to

rely on language-based cues. For example, a visual thinker might prefer to use diagrams, charts,

and images to understand information, while a verbal thinker might prefer to use written or

spoken language. Research has shown that cognitive style can influence how people learn, solve

problems, and make decisions. Sensory experience can also influence cognitive style. For

example, people with hearing or vision impairments may have different cognitive styles than

people without these impairments. People with hearing impairments may rely more on visual

cues when processing information, while people with vision impairments may rely more on

auditory cues. Research has also shown that people who are bilingual or multilingual may have

different cognitive styles than people who speak only one language. One way in which sensory

experience and cognitive style can be studied is through the use of cognitive tests. These tests are

designed to measure an individual's cognitive abilities, such as memory, attention, and problem-
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Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

solving. Researchers can use these tests to compare the cognitive abilities of people with

different sensory experiences and cognitive styles. Another way in which sensory experience and

cognitive style can be studied is through the use of brain imaging techniques. These techniques

allow researchers to observe the activity of the brain while an individual is performing cognitive

tasks. By comparing the brain activity of people with different sensory experiences and cognitive

styles, researchers can gain insights into how sensory experience and cognitive style influence

cognitive processing, the following hypotheses are proposed:

H1: Sensory experience has a significant impact on cognitive engagement.

H2: Sensory experience has significant impact on emotional engagement.

H3: Sensory experience has a significant impact on cognitive style.

2.3.2 Esthetical experience and customer engagement

The proposed hypothesis posits that a positive esthetical experience has a significant impact on

customer engagement with a brand. Esthetical experiences evoke positive emotions, such as joy

and satisfaction, leading to a deeper emotional connection between customers and the brand.

According to the affective system model (Havlena and Holbrook, 1986), these positive emotions

are likely to result in increased customer engagement as individuals are more willing to interact

with a brand that elicits positive feelings. Moreover, esthetical experiences stimulate cognitive

processing due to their novelty and attractiveness, resulting in better memory encoding and

retrieval. Customers are more likely to remember and recall brands that provided them with

memorable esthetical experiences, leading to heightened brand engagement and positive word-

of-mouth promotion (Babin and Attaway, 2000).


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Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

In today's competitive market, differentiation is vital for a brand's success. Aesthetically pleasing

products, websites, packaging, or physical stores can serve as a competitive advantage by setting

a brand apart from its competitors (Bloch et al., 2003). The distinctive nature of esthetical

experiences can attract and retain customers, driving increased customer engagement and brand

loyalty. Furthermore, esthetical experiences have a social dimension. Customers tend to share

their positive experiences on social media platforms and among their peers. The viral nature of

these experiences can significantly impact customer engagement and expand the brand's reach

through word-of-mouth marketing (Cheung et al., 2018) The relationship between esthetical

experience and cognitive style is a complex and multifaceted area of research. One hypothesis is

that people with a more visual cognitive style may be more likely to have a strong esthetical

experience when viewing visual art, while people with a more verbal cognitive style may be

more likely to have a strong esthetical experience when reading literature or listening to music.

However, this hypothesis is still being explored and more research is needed to fully understand

the relationship between esthetical experience and cognitive style. One study that investigated

the relationship between cognitive style and esthetical experience found that people with a more

visual cognitive style were more likely to have a strong esthetical experience when viewing

visual art. The study used the Group Embedded Figures Test (GEFT) to measure cognitive style

and the Esthetic Experience Scale (EES) to measure esthetical experience. The GEFT measures

an individual's ability to identify a simple shape within a complex figure, which is thought to be

an indicator of cognitive style. The EES measures an individual's subjective experience of

esthetic pleasure when viewing art. The results of the study showed that people with a more

visual cognitive style had a stronger esthetical experience when viewing visual art than people

with a more verbal cognitive style. The researchers suggested that this may be because people
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Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

with a more visual cognitive style are better able to process the visual elements of art, such as

color, shape, and texture. However, the study did not investigate the relationship between

cognitive style and esthetical experience for other types of esthetical experiences. Based on the

rationales and results, this study proposes the following hypotheses:

H4: Esthetical experience has a significant impact on cognitive engagement.

H5: Esthetical experience has a significant impact on emotional engagement.

H6: Esthetical experience has a significant impact on cognitive style.

2.3.3 Affective experience and customer engagement

From a managerial perspective, the interactions between restaurant staff and customers, as well

as the operational procedures in the establishment, are crucial for creating a pleasant and

comfortable dining experience. Previous research in restaurant settings has emphasized the

importance of emotional elements in influencing customers' psychological responses, particularly

their satisfaction levels. It highlights how customers' perceptions of the restaurant environment

significantly impact their emotional states. Wakefield and Blodgett (1999) suggest that tangible

aspects of the service environment, such as the physical ambiance and facilities, also play a role

in influencing customer responses, including their excitement and likelihood of returning to the

restaurant.

The theoretical framework of the affective-cognition-behavioral (A-C-B) model proposed by

Breckler (1984), Holbrook, and Batra (1987), and Solomon (2014) provides insight into how

consumers' cognition can be influenced by both internal and external emotional stimuli. In other

words, a customer's emotional experiences can affect their cognitive processes, which, in turn,

can influence their behavior and actions. This study aims to build on the A-C-B model and
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related research to explore how affective experiences impact customer engagement. Customer

engagement refers to the level of involvement and interaction customers have with a brand or

business. The study seeks to investigate how affective experiences (both cognitive and

emotional) interact with customers' cognitive styles, which are individual differences in how

people perceive and process information, to influence their level of engagement with a

restaurant. Understanding the relationship between affective experiences, cognitive styles, and

customer engagement can provide valuable insights for restaurant managers. By creating positive

and emotionally enriching experiences for diners, restaurants can potentially enhance customer

engagement, leading to increased satisfaction, loyalty, and positive word-of-mouth.

The relationship between affective experiences and cognitive styles in marketing is an essential

area of research. One hypothesis is that individuals with a more analytical cognitive style may

respond more positively to marketing messages based on logic and reason, while those with a

more intuitive cognitive style may respond better to messages based on emotion and feeling.

Studies have shown that people with different cognitive styles react differently to marketing

messages that appeal to various types of affective experiences. For example, research by Lee and

Labroo (2004) found that people with an analytical cognitive style had a more positive attitude

toward advertising messages based on logic and reason, while those with an intuitive cognitive

style responded more favorably to messages based on emotion and feeling. The study used the

Need for Cognition Scale (NCS) to measure cognitive style and the Attitude Toward the Ad

(Aad) Scale to measure affective experience.

Another study by Lee and Labroo (2011) discovered that people with different cognitive styles

respond differently to marketing messages designed to elicit various types of affective

experiences. The study used the Regulatory Focus Theory to measure cognitive style and the
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Attitude toward the Ad Scale to measure affective experience. The results revealed that people

with a more promotion-focused cognitive style responded positively to messages designed to

evoke positive affective experiences, such as happiness and excitement, while those with a more

prevention-focused cognitive style responded positively to messages designed to evoke negative

affective experiences, such as fear and anxiety. The researchers suggested that these findings

may be attributed to the fact that individuals with a more analytical cognitive style process

information in a systematic and logical manner, while those with a more intuitive cognitive style

rely on their feelings and emotions when making decisions. Similarly, individuals with a

promotion-focused cognitive style may be motivated by positive outcomes, whereas those with a

prevention-focused cognitive style may be more motivated by avoiding negative outcomes.

H7: Affective experience has a significant impact on cognitive engagement.

H8: Affective experience has a significant impact on emotional engagement.

H9: Affective experience has a significant impact on cognitive style.

2.3.4 Customer engagement and brand loyalty

Customer engagement refers to the active involvement, interaction, and emotional connection

that customers establish with a brand. It includes various aspects such as online interactions,

social media engagement, customer service experiences, and participation in loyalty programs.

On the other hand, brand loyalty represents the extent to which customers consistently prefer a

particular brand over its competitors. Loyal customers frequently make repeat purchases,

recommend the brand to others, and are less likely to switch to alternative products or services.

Higher levels of customer engagement are expected to lead to improved brand recall, increased

brand awareness, and more positive brand perceptions. Engaged customers feel valued by the
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brand, leading to increased trust and satisfaction. This emotional connection and sense of

affiliation can further strengthen customer loyalty.

The results of this research will offer valuable insights to marketers and brand strategists, helping

them develop effective customer engagement strategies to foster brand loyalty and build long-

term customer relationships. Understanding the relationship between customer engagement and

brand loyalty is crucial in today's competitive marketplace, where establishing strong customer-

brand connections is essential for business success (Fournier et al., 2015). Previous studies have

identified various cognitive factors, such as trust and identification, and their positive impact on

outcomes like revisit intention and attitudinal loyalty. These studies highlight the positive

influence of the service environment on customers' willingness to revisit and recommend

(Wakefield & Blodgett, 1999), the significant roles of service quality and pleasure in shaping

consumer revisit intention (Kim and Moon, 2009), and the favorable impact of affection and trust

on customer loyalty (La & Choi, 2012). Building on these findings, this study further explores

the underlying principles and proposes that cognitive engagement positively influences brand

loyalty, encompassing both behavioral and attitudinal aspects

H10: Cognitive engagement has a significant impact on behavioral loyalty.

H11: Cognitive engagement has a significant impact on attitudinal loyalty.

From a buying behavior perspective, an engaged consumer is one who actively participates in the

entire consumption process and pays keen attention to every aspect of their experience with a

product or service. This high level of involvement increases the likelihood that the consumer will

return for future purchases or engagements. Existing research has identified emotional factors as

crucial drivers of consumer behavior and loyalty. These emotional factors include involvement,
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Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

attachment, love, as well as behavioral and attitudinal loyalty. In other words, when consumers

feel emotionally connected to a brand or product, they are more likely to exhibit loyalty in their

behaviors and attitudes towards that brand. Bahri-Ammari et al. (2016) have specifically

highlighted the significance of emotional attachment in fostering brand loyalty within luxury

restaurant contexts. In such settings, customers' emotional connections to the restaurant can

greatly influence their loyalty and likelihood to revisit. Similarly, Mattila (2001) has emphasized

the importance of emotional bonds in building restaurant loyalty. When customers develop

emotional connections with a restaurant, they are more likely to become loyal patrons and

advocate for the restaurant through positive word-of-mouth. Combining insights from consumer

psychology and existing findings, this study proposes the following hypotheses:

H12: Emotional engagement has a significant impact on behavioral loyalty.

H13: Emotional engagement has a significant impact on attitudinal loyalty.

2.3.5 Cognitive style impact on behavioral and attitudinal loyalty

Cognitive style is a psychological construct that refers to an individual's preferred way of

processing information. It is an important factor to consider in marketing because it can impact

how consumers respond to marketing messages and how they form attitudes toward brands. In

this essay, we will explore the relationship between cognitive style and behavioral and attitudinal

loyalty in marketing. Behavioral loyalty refers to the degree to which a consumer is willing to

purchase a brand repeatedly over time. Attitudinal loyalty refers to the degree to which a

consumer has a positive attitude toward a brand. Both types of loyalty are important for brands

because they can lead to increased sales and long-term profitability. Research has shown that

cognitive style can impact both behavioral and attitudinal loyalty. For example, a study by Lee
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and Labroo (2004) found that people with a more analytical cognitive style were more likely to

have a high level of behavioral loyalty to a brand when they perceived the brand as being high in

quality. In contrast, people with a more intuitive cognitive style were more likely to have a high

level of behavioral loyalty to a brand when they perceived the brand as being emotionally

appealing. The study used the Need for Cognition Scale (NCS) to measure cognitive style and

the Brand Loyalty Scale (BLS) to measure behavioral loyalty. The NCS measures an individual's

preference for engaging in effortful cognitive tasks, while the BLS measures an individual's level

of behavioral loyalty to a brand. The results of the study showed that people with a more

analytical cognitive style had a higher level of behavioral loyalty to a brand when they perceived

the brand as being high in quality. This may be because people with a more analytical cognitive

style are more likely to process information in a systematic and logical way, and they may be

more likely to evaluate the quality of a brand based on objective criteria. In contrast, people with

a more intuitive cognitive style had a higher level of behavioral loyalty to a brand when they

perceived the brand as being emotionally appealing. This may be because people with a more

intuitive cognitive style are more likely to rely on their feelings and emotions when making

decisions, and they may be more likely to form an emotional attachment to a brand that they

perceive as being emotionally appealing. Another study by Lee and Labroo (2011) found that

cognitive style can impact attitudinal loyalty to a brand. The study used the Regulatory Focus

Theory to measure cognitive style and the Attitude towards the Brand (Atb) Scale to measure

attitudinal loyalty. Therefore, it can be hypothesized that:

“H14: Cognitive style has a significant impact on Behavioral loyalty.

H15: Cognitive style has a significant impact on attitudinal loyalty.”


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2.4 Conceptual Framework


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Chapter#3: Research
Methodology
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Chapter#3: Research Methodology

Introduction:

This includes all of the writing, including all of the research readily available for the principally

based as well as pertinent variables, together with the conjecture, which was addressed, along

with a portion of the ongoing chapter. Based on the previous chapter, this chapter has described

the research paradigm for the current investigation. This chapter includes descriptions of the

population, sample procedure, design, and research methodology. The usage of the questionnaire

from earlier studies has also been looked into.

3.1 Research approach

Qualitative research and quantitative research are the two types of research that are most

frequently used globally. The current study employs the quantitative research methodology.

Quantitative research makes mathematical model building and application possible. The

statistical conclusions are obtained by data analysis. The theories and hypotheses are put to the

test using statistical techniques. The correlations between the variables are examined in the

current study using a quantitative method. The Smart PLS is used to analyze the data.

3.2 Research purpose

In explanatory research, the primary goal is to identify and understand the causal relationships

between variables. It goes beyond just describing a situation (descriptive research) or exploring a

topic without predetermined hypotheses (exploratory research). Instead, explanatory research

involves the formulation of specific hypotheses and uses statistical analysis to test these

hypotheses. Researchers conducting explanatory research seek to determine how one variable
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influences or affects another variable. They use different methods to control for confounding

variables and establish causality. Some common statistical approaches used in explanatory

research include regression analysis, experimental studies, and quasi-experimental designs.

Explanatory research is particularly useful when there is a need to understand the reasons behind

a certain phenomenon or when trying to identify the underlying mechanisms that explain

observed relationships between variables.

3.3 Research design

The current study employs a co-relational design. The correlational design can be used to

quantify and analyze the statistical relationship between two variables. The correlations between

the variables can be high or weak, positive or negative, or they could even be completely absent.

The research assesses how strongly the independent and dependent variables are correlated

(Bordens& Abbott, 2002).

3.4 Data source & instrumentation:

The basic data were utilised for this study. Primary data is information that the researcher

gathers directly from sources. The data was collected from different restaurants in Karachi. The

majority of the data was gathered in Karachi. The questionnaire was created to collect the data.

The apparatus includes citations to the various sources from which the questionnaire was

adapted.

Data Source Instrumentation

Sensory Experience (Huang & Chen, 2022)

Aesthetical Experience (Huang & Chen, 2022)


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Affective Experience (Huang & Chen, 2022)

Cognitive Engagement (Huang & Chen, 2022)

Emotional (Huang & Chen, 2022)

Engagement

Behavioral Loyalty (Huang & Chen, 2022)

Attitudinal Loyalty (Huang & Chen, 2022)

Cognitive Style (Huang & Chen, 2022)

3.5 Face and content validity

Validating the survey questionnaire is a crucial aspect essential for the successful execution of

research (Tan et al., 1999). Achieving validity, in particular, can be a challenging endeavor

(Neuman, 2007). In this study, the questionnaire underwent a rigorous process of content

validation and reliability assurance. The survey was first discussed with experts in human

resource management to ensure its relevance and appropriateness. Following expert feedback,

necessary improvements were made. Subsequently, a pilot study was conducted to enhance the

questionnaire's clarity and precision based on participant feedback. Finally, the refined

questionnaire was administered to consumers for data collection purposes. This meticulous

validation process increases the likelihood that the questionnaire yields valid and reliable data,

thereby enhancing the overall quality of the research. It's worth emphasizing that ensuring
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validity and reliability is an ongoing endeavor, necessitating continual review and refinement of

the questionnaire throughout the research process.

3.6 Target population

For this research study, the focus is on consumers, and the target population comprises

individuals residing in Karachi, Pakistan. The respondents for the study were selected from

various locations across Karachi, representing a diverse group of consumers. The specific target

locations for data collection were restaurants situated in Karachi.

3.7 Sample size

According to Tabachnick and Fidell (2007), the recommended sample size should be 50 + 8m,

where 'm' represents the number of latent variables in the research. Based on this guideline, the

sample size for the current research would be 250 respondents, considering the number of latent

variables in the study. On the other hand, Hair et al. (2012) propose a thumb rule for the

minimum sample size, which is 10(n), where 'n' represents the number of paths in both the outer

and inner model. Following this guideline, the minimum sample size for the current research

should be 200 respondents, considering the number of paths in the research model.

3.8 Sampling technique

Researchers employ two different kinds of sampling techniques: probability sampling and non-

probability sampling. Data for the current investigation were gathered using a non-probability

sampling method. The purposive sample with non-probability was chosen for the study. With the

aid of purposive sampling, the researcher can pick an easy-to-reach subject (Kothari, 2004, p.

15). It is the easiest and quickest approach.


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3.9 Statistical techniques for data analysis

In this study, the data underwent analysis using various statistical techniques. Firstly, SPSS

(Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) was employed for data screening, which involved

identifying missing data and eliminating multivariate and univariate outliers. These procedures

acted as a means of purging contaminants from the dataset. After addressing data quality issues,

the cleaned data was further examined using Smart PLS 3.2.7 for hypothesis testing. Partial

Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS SEM) was the chosen analysis methodology.

PLS SEM has become increasingly popular in marketing research studies (Hair et al., 2011) due

to its capability of handling small sample sizes effectively (Hair Jr. et al., 2014). In summary, the

data analysis process involved data screening using SPSS to handle missing values and outliers,

followed by hypothesis testing using Smart PLS 3.2.7, which is a PLS SEM approach known for

its applicability in marketing research and its suitability for analyzing small datasets.

3.10 Ethical consideration

The primary and most important issue in the field of research is ethical consideration. It is

important to guarantee the security of the respondent's provided personal information. The

ethical considerations were taken into account while conducting this study. The responders

received guarantees that their personal information would be kept secret and wouldn't be

disclosed to anybody else. They received a guarantee that the information would only be utilised

for study. Additionally, before being asked to complete the questionnaire, respondents were

informed of the study's objectives. They were also asked to complete a questionnaire based on

their perceptions. In order to lessen the social desirability impact, respondents were requested not

to converse with one another while completing the questionnaire. Additionally, respondents had
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the option to pause the filling process whenever they wanted. Additionally, respondents were

asked to pose questions about the study.

3.11 Summary of the chapter

The chapter contains all the details about data collection, sample size, sampling techniques,

research approach. Moreover, the statistical technique selected for the data analysis is discussed

in this chapter.
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Chapter#4: Data Analysis


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Chapter#4: Data Analysis

4.1 Introduction:

The major goal of the data assessment is to put the research/proposed conceptual

framework model to the test SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) is a statistical

package for the social sciences) and Smart PLS (Partial Least Squares) are two statistical and

analytical approaches that have been used. The SPSS tool was used toperform the process of data

screening, and Smart PLS was utilizedtoevaluate the link between the latent constructs,

determining whether or not the presented hypothesis had a substantial impact on other constructs.

PLS-SEM has expanded more extensively used throughout subsequent years in a variety of

areas, minimum sample size, and the usage of content validity seems to be the most frequent

causes to their utilization. PLS- SEM’s tool facility has a while back been updated to facilitate

more complex conceptual development and address data issues like genetic variation (Hair Jr et

al., 2014).

4.2 Reliability (Pilot Study):

The smaller version of a larger study; it is also known as a research feasibility research or

explicit pre-testing of a research instrument, such as a questionnaire is considered to pretested in

the pilot study. According to (Van-Teijlingen and Hundley, 2001), a prototype study is a critical

component of high-quality research), and it is typically used to assess the latent components'

dependability. Furthermore, reliability refers to the degree to which various elements of the

research yield consistent and predictable results, with Cronbach's Alpha, named for the inventor

Lee Cronbach’s, being the most used method for measuring reliability (1951).In beginning, 50
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questionnaires have been distributed to respondents by LinkedIn and email for data collection,

and the acquired data was analyzed using SPSS in order to determine the Cronbach alpha. It

should be noted that Cronbach Alpha’s value must be higher than 0.7 and it has been shown in

table I (Appendix B), demonstrates that all indicators have satisfactory consistency and stability,

which was the primary goal of the pilot testing.

Reliability Statistics

Cronbach's

Alpha N of Items

.952 39

4.3 Data Screening:

The 250 questionnaires were distributed through email, LinkedIn to the appropriate

responders in order to collect the data. A total of approximately 92.8% of people responded on

survey. The data screening process was then applied to these 232 appropriate responses. Prior to

running the data through the statistical analysis, it is essential to complete the screening of the

data. SPSS is being used for data screening; data was checked for missing values, multivariate

and univariate outliers.

4.3.1 Missing Values:

It is accounted as a concern in the study since there exist few delicate questions that

respondents may be not be able to respond to due to absences of comprehension, stress, or

exhaustion. Apparently lack of answers in data would be considered as missing values.

Consequently, if the researcher does not appropriately manage the missing values, this problem
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must be corrected before future experiments may be conducted. There is a great chance that in

the absence of missing data, an inaccurate interpretation of the data will be represented, and the

obtained result will be different from the actual. However, in the study, no value was missing,

and all of the data was meticulously organized.

4.3.2 Univariate and Multivariate Outliers:

Data screening should be performed before data coding and analysis to ensure data

integrity. The goal of data screening is to increase evidence and reduce pollution by identifying,

correcting, and eliminating errors, which entails checking and or detecting faults in the data.

Univariates are classified as a specific set of data items that do not fit with the total data, and

they are recognized in SPSS using the Z table. The absolute Z-score of the items, according to

Tabachnick and Fidell (2007), must be between – 3.29 + 3.29. After eliminating all

contaminants, the sample size for this research was 232 as total of 18 outliers were eliminated,

this was used for further analysis.

4.4 Descriptive Analysis and Interpretations:

In this research, the data was collected from a variety of manufacturing industries,

because the objective of this particular research is associated to the manufacturing sector. On the

sample of 232, the descriptive analysis was conducted to determine. The below table represent

the demographics, age, education, income and favourite restaurant. The data was mainly

collected from the respondents that are indulged in visiting the restaurants.

Table II-

Descriptive statistics (N=232)


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4.5 Analysis:

Smart PLS was utilized in order to further evaluate the data. Outer evaluation was first

performed on the data afterwards it underwent the process of hypothesis testing.


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4.5.1 Outer Model Measurement:

The outer model's objective is figuring out what are the constructs that can be detected

and are consider as fundamental or important constructs are. PLS-SEM was recommended by

Hair et al., (2011) for explanatory and complicated models. The validity and reliability of the

data are evaluated using the outer model. As a consequence, in order to confirm that a given

construct is valid, it is required to check the indicators' appropriateness (Churchill, 1979). The

variables' internal consistency is measured by the reliability (composite reliability) and the

validity includes measuring the convergent validity through average variance extracted and cross

loading and also the discriminant validity that includes Fornell- Larcker criterion and HTMT,

which is also validate by ( Hair et al., 2011 &Henseler et al., 2015). The researcher employed

PLS-SEM for estimating such a sophisticated model (Ringle et al., 2015).

4.5.1.1 Reliability Testing:

Composite reliability is used to assess internal consistency (Neuman, 2007), Hair et al.,

(2011) explained that the value of CR must be at least 0.7, as composite reliability (CR)

considers better provider measure of internal consistency indicator so in terms of reliability it is a

better measure than Cronbach alpha. Table III shows that all values of CR are greater than the

indicated value (CR>0.7), which is in the range of 0.821-0.935, which validates the accuracy of

the data (O'Leary-Kelly and Vokurka, 1998).

4.5.1.2 Convergent Validity Analysis:

For measuring the convergent validity the AVE (Average variance extracted) and item

loading is used (Hair et al., 2011).As stated by Hair et al., (2010) determined that the convergent

validity as well as factor loading must be greater than 0.65 whereas AVE should be 0.5 or greater
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than 0.5. Hair et al.,(2014) explained that in factor loading must be greater than 0.7. Table III

highlights that AVE values are greater than the benchmark value (AVE >0.5).

Bagozziet al., (1991) advise deleting indicators with outer loadings lower than 0.4, taking

into account the impact of their elimination on reliability and validity, where as if the outer

loading are between 0.4 and 0.70, according to Hair et al., (2014), these items should only be

eliminated from the scale when doing so results in a rise in the AVE that is more than the

advised threshold value and the threshold value of average variance must be above than 0.5 (Hair

et al.,2014 ).

Table III:
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Figure (I) Algorithm

4.5.1.3 Discriminant Validity:

It is used to determine if the variables should not correlate with each other (Hair Jr et al.,

2014), discriminate validity explains how a construct is unique. Moreover, the variables should

be different when compared to the other variables. According to (Hair Jr et al., 2014; Henseler et

al., 2015), Fornell and Larcker criterion, Heterotrait-Monotrait ratio of correlations (HTMT) and

cross loading between the items is used to determine the discriminant validity. It is used in order

to determine the accuracy of data and ensure that are no major statistical differences in the result

(Henseler et al., 2015). The basic premise is that two variables should not correlate with each

other in order to differentiate the constructs from each other (Hair Jr et al., 2014).

The Fornell and Larcker criterion recommended that an individualconstruct should have

lower variance with other constructs whereas it should have a greater variance with its own item

(Hair Jr et al., 2014). The criteria of Fornell and Larcker are the square root of AVE and it should
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be greater than other correlation(Hair et al., 2011).The table below demonstrates that

discriminant validity exists as the diagonal lines in the table are greater in the rows of their own

items.

Table IV:

Fornell and Larcker

Emo
AE AL BL CE CS EE E SE
AE 0.915
AL 0.661 0.884
BL 0.667 0.656 0.862
CE 0.567 0.565 0.569 0.913
CS 0.362 0.436 0.552 0.307 0.908
EE 0.676 0.577 0.591 0.504 0.459 0.879
EmoE 0.691 0.962 0.656 0.584 0.459 0.615 0.895
SE 0.518 0.565 0.472 0.508 0.384 0.476 0.584 0.867

There have been discussions regarding the Fornell and larcker criteria and its efficacy in

determining the discriminant validity. As a consequence, Henseleter et al., (2015) developed the

new way that is known as HTMT correlation ratio which is considered as an approach which has

less limitations and is more extensive in determining discriminant validity with the benchmark

value being less than 0.9 (Henseler et al., 2015), so if there’s following value in such a way

discriminant validity is established, which demonstrate that all of the values are less than 0.90.
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Cross loading elements is another way to verify discriminant validity. Each item should

be cross-loaded more than once in its own build (Hair Jr et al., 2014). According to Gefen and

Straub (2005), cross loading on its own construct should differ by 0.1 from cross loading on

another construct. The cross loading of all components is shown in Table VI.

AE AL BL CE CS EE Emo SE
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AE2 0.918 0.635 0.592 0.505 0.349 0.600 0.658 0.496

AE3 0.911 0.574 0.630 0.532 0.312 0.637 0.605 0.451

AL2 0.612 0.890 0.567 0.524 0.421 0.526 0.890 0.575

AL3 0.624 0.904 0.585 0.511 0.373 0.527 0.903 0.463

AL4 0.508 0.857 0.594 0.459 0.360 0.473 0.743 0.456

BL1 0.499 0.538 0.829 0.430 0.593 0.520 0.535 0.353

BL3 0.649 0.588 0.877 0.541 0.424 0.505 0.594 0.411

BL4 0.576 0.570 0.879 0.501 0.405 0.502 0.566 0.459

CE2 0.530 0.482 0.522 0.910 0.262 0.495 0.499 0.436

CE3 0.506 0.549 0.519 0.916 0.299 0.427 0.566 0.490

CS2 0.350 0.413 0.452 0.266 0.909 0.457 0.434 0.397

CS3 0.307 0.379 0.551 0.293 0.907 0.376 0.400 0.301

EE3 0.628 0.518 0.495 0.489 0.389 0.891 0.557 0.445

EE4 0.582 0.564 0.596 0.457 0.479 0.896 0.574 0.386

EE5 0.573 0.427 0.457 0.375 0.330 0.851 0.481 0.431

EmoE

4 0.612 0.890 0.567 0.524 0.421 0.526 0.890 0.575

EmoE

5 0.624 0.904 0.585 0.511 0.373 0.527 0.903 0.463

EmoE

7 0.620 0.784 0.610 0.531 0.441 0.599 0.892 0.529

SE1 0.456 0.470 0.400 0.434 0.269 0.418 0.501 0.868

SE2 0.466 0.470 0.384 0.456 0.303 0.421 0.492 0.904


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SE3 0.424 0.523 0.440 0.428 0.418 0.398 0.521 0.827

Factor Analysis

Figure (2) Bootstrapping

4.5.2 Inner model measurement and hypothesis testing:

The Data is further processed for the internal measurement of the model once the outer

model measurements have been verified (Henseler et al., 2009; Hair et al., 2011).By

bootstrapping, the PLS SEM Partial Least Square approach was employed to evaluate the

hypothesis with the Smart PLS (Haenlein and Akaplan, 2004). In bootstrapping (Hair Jr et al.,

2014), a large the total number of sub-samples, i.e. 5000, are created from the original data,

ensuring the results' stability. Figure 2 shows the bootstrapping figure.


Establishing and Deepening Brand Loyalty through Brand Experience and Customer 47
Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

4.5.2.1 Predictive Relevance of the Model:

Internal model's predictability for endogenous constructs determines its quality (Hair Jr et

al., 2014). In addition, the inner model is consistent was assessed using cross-validated

redundancy (Q2) as well as the determination coefficient (R2) (Hair et al., 2011; Hair Jr et al.,

2014; Henseler et al., 2009). The impact that the independent variable has on the dependent

variable is represented by R2 (Hair Jr et al., 2014). R2 was divided into three categories by

Sanchez (2013), high, moderate, and low. It is deemed strong when R2 is more than 0.6., when

the value is between 0.3 and 0.6, it is usually taken into consideration, whenever the value

becomes less than 0.3, it is considered low. The R2 values in Table VII indicate that the model is

fit.

Another way to verify the model's accuracy is to use cross-validated redundancy (Q 2).

According to (Hair Jr et al., 2014), Q2 assesses the predictive value of the inner model. The Q

square is calculated using the blindfolding method, Q square should be bigger than zero,

according to Henseleret al., (2009). The model's fitness is confirmed by the values of Q 2 in Table

VII, the values are greater than zero.

Table VII:
Establishing and Deepening Brand Loyalty through Brand Experience and Customer 48
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4.5.2.2 Hypothesis Testing:

This research includes eleven hypotheses. The hypothesis was examined using the

Structural equation model (SEM). For this particular research, Smart PLS was used in order to

test the model(Hair et al., 2011). The Table VIIIhighlights the results of the hypothesis.

Table VIII:

Hypothesis Testing
Standard

deviation T statistics
Establishing and Deepening Brand Loyalty through Brand Experience and Customer 49
Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants
Original sample (O) (STDEV) (|O/STDEV|) P values Decision

AE ->

CE 0.320 0.092 3.478 0.001 Accepted

AE ->

CS 0.019 0.087 0.220 0.826 Rejected

AE -

>Emo

E 0.409 0.071 5.800 0.000 Accepted

CE ->

AL 0.007 0.022 0.311 0.756 Rejected

CE ->

BL 0.265 0.057 4.677 0.000 Accepted

CS ->

AL 0.008 0.019 0.399 0.690 Rejected

CS ->

BL 0.304 0.054 5.627 0.000 Accepted

EE ->

CE 0.162 0.085 1.911 0.056 Rejected

EE ->

CS 0.346 0.082 4.226 0.000 Accepted

EE -

>Emo

E 0.209 0.064 3.239 0.001 Accepted

EmoE

-> AL 0.961 0.017 57.056 0.000 Accepted

EmoE

-> BL 0.361 0.061 5.950 0.000 Accepted


Establishing and Deepening Brand Loyalty through Brand Experience and Customer 50
Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

Source: Author’s estimation

4.6 Discussion

Cognitive style is found to have a negative relation with attitudinal loyalty. Cognitive style refers

to an individual's preferred way of processing and organizing information. It can vary from

person to person, with some individuals being more analytical and logical in their thinking, while

others may be more intuitive and holistic in their approach. Attitudinal loyalty, on the other hand,

refers to a customer's psychological attachment and commitment to a particular brand, product,

or service. While there is not that much extensive research specifically examining the

relationship between cognitive style and attitudinal loyalty, it is important to note that cognitive

style is likely to influence how individuals form and maintain their attitudes, including loyalty

attitudes. Different cognitive styles may lead individuals to prioritize and interpret information

differently, resulting in varying attitudes and levels of loyalty. However, it is not accurate to say

that cognitive style universally has a negative relation with attitudinal loyalty. The relationship

between cognitive style and attitudinal loyalty is complex and can vary depending on multiple

factors, such as the specific context, individual differences, and the nature of the loyalty being

examined. For example, individuals with a more analytical cognitive style may evaluate products

or brands based on rational criteria, such as price, quality, and performance. They may be less

influenced by emotional appeals or brand image, and their loyalty may be more contingent on

objective factors. On the other hand, individuals with a more intuitive and holistic cognitive style

may rely on their gut feelings and overall impressions when forming loyalty attitudes. It is worth

noting that cognitive style is just one factor among many that can influence attitudinal loyalty.

Other factors such as personal values, brand image, satisfaction, and perceived benefits also play

significant roles in shaping attitudes and loyalty. Therefore, it is important to consider a range of
Establishing and Deepening Brand Loyalty through Brand Experience and Customer 51
Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

factors when studying and understanding the relationship between cognitive style and attitudinal

loyalty.
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Chapter#5: Conclusion and


Recommendation
Establishing and Deepening Brand Loyalty through Brand Experience and Customer 53
Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

Chapter#5: Conclusion and Recommendation

5.1 Conclusion

In conclusion, the evidence gathered from our study indicates that brand experience and

customer engagement are pivotal in building brand loyalty for Karachi chain restaurants.

Emphasizing these aspects will not only contribute to a loyal customer base but also provide a

sustainable competitive advantage for restaurants in a dynamic and competitive market. By

proactively addressing challenges and leveraging opportunities, chain restaurants can reinforce

brand loyalty and achieve long-term success. The insights gained from this study can guide

restaurant owners and managers in their efforts to create meaningful and enduring relationships

with their customers, ensuring continued growth and prosperity in the evolving landscape of the

restaurant industry. In conclusion, the evidence gathered from our study confirms the vital role

that brand experience and customer engagement play in establishing and deepening brand loyalty

in Karachi chain restaurants. The findings underscore the significance of creating positive and

memorable brand experiences, which leave a lasting impact on customers. The sensory aspects

of the restaurant, such as ambiance, music, and decor, emerge as crucial drivers of brand

experience, influencing customer emotions and behaviors.

Moreover, our research highlights the importance of customer engagement as a means to foster

sustainable relationships with patrons. By actively interacting with customers both online and

offline, restaurants can create a sense of connection and belongingness. Social media platforms

and loyalty programs are effective tools for nurturing customer engagement and building a loyal

customer base. The study also underscores the significance of personalization and tailored

offerings in deepening brand loyalty. When restaurants understand and cater to individual
Establishing and Deepening Brand Loyalty through Brand Experience and Customer 54
Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

customer preferences, it enhances the emotional bond between the brand and the customers. This

leads to increased brand loyalty as customers feel valued and understood. Another critical

finding of the study is the power of word-of-mouth marketing in promoting brand loyalty.

Satisfied and engaged customers become brand advocates, willingly recommending the

restaurant to friends, family, and acquaintances. This organic growth through positive word-of-

mouth can significantly contribute to the restaurant's success. However, our research also

highlights the challenges faced by chain restaurants in Karachi. Maintaining consistency in

service quality, managing online reputation, and adapting to changing customer preferences and

trends are some of the hurdles that need to be addressed proactively. For managers and owners of

chain restaurants, our study provides important managerial implications. Prioritizing the creation

of unique and memorable brand experiences, investing in ambiance, staff training, and service

quality are essential to ensure every customer interaction is positive and engaging. Furthermore,

leveraging digital platforms and loyalty programs to foster ongoing customer engagement is

crucial. Active engagement with customers on social media, responding to their feedback, and

providing personalized offers can strengthen their connection with the brand. It is also essential

for restaurant managers to recognize the importance of customer feedback and data analytics. By

collecting and analyzing customer feedback, they can identify areas for improvement and tailor

their offerings to better meet customer preferences. The main question that arises is why

different customers evaluate restaurant service performance in distinct ways. New customers

tend to base their initial evaluations on functional benefits such as value for money and

convenience, using a calculative process to assess the service brand's utility. On the other hand,

repeat customers rely heavily on relational benefits like affiliation, personal recognition, rapport,

and empathy when evaluating service performance.


Establishing and Deepening Brand Loyalty through Brand Experience and Customer 55
Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

However, this study reveals that customer satisfaction alone is not enough to create ongoing

loyalty. This challenges the notion of using satisfaction as a sole indicator of service provider

performance. Relying on generalized satisfaction metrics to assess various service attributes may

be misleading, as it overlooks a more comprehensive examination of customers' responses,

including measures of affect (emotional response). The research identifies affective experience

as a significant driver of customer engagement, both cognitively and emotionally, particularly in

restaurant settings. Sensory experiences, such as food quality and ambiance, have a positive

impact on cognitive engagement but do not significantly affect emotional engagement. Aesthetic

experience, on the other hand, influences emotional engagement but not cognitive engagement,

meaning it elicits emotional responses from consumers but does not necessarily affect their

cognitive processes. Emotional engagement emerges as a key driver of both behavioral and

attitudinal loyalty, possibly due to its deeper level elements, such as attachment and love,

triggering loyalty at both the behavioral and attitudinal levels. The study also highlights trust,

commitment, and satisfaction as antecedents of customer engagement. Emotional engagement

plays a mediating role in shaping brand loyalty, followed by cognitive engagement. In low-

involved contexts like restaurants, emotional engagement may play a more significant role in

creating customer satisfaction and loyalty. This emotional mechanism can foster loyalty more

effectively than in high-involved contexts. This research presents an innovative brand loyalty

model mediated by emotional engagement, particularly applicable to chain restaurant contexts. It

examines the relationships between brand experiences, customer engagements, and brand

loyalty, offering valuable insights for chain restaurants seeking to build and strengthen customer

loyalty to gain a sustainable competitive advantage.


Establishing and Deepening Brand Loyalty through Brand Experience and Customer 56
Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

5.2 Managerial and Theoretical Implications

The research findings provide significant theoretical implications for the field of marketing and

brand management. The study highlights the central role of brand experience and customer

engagement in building brand loyalty within the chain restaurant context. The identified

relationship between positive brand experiences and increased customer engagement contributes

to the understanding of how these factors interact to influence brand loyalty. This study

reinforces the importance of creating memorable and satisfying brand experiences to enhance

customer engagement and, in turn, foster brand loyalty. Additionally, the research offers valuable

insights into the dynamics of customer-brand interactions and sheds light on the mechanisms

through which customer engagement influences loyalty in the restaurant industry. The

managerial implications drawn from this research offer practical guidance to chain restaurant

managers in Karachi on how to strengthen brand loyalty among their customer base. Firstly, the

study underscores the significance of consistently delivering exceptional brand experiences

encompassing elements like ambiance, service, and food quality. By focusing on creating

positive emotional connections with customers, managers can increase the likelihood of repeat

visits and patronage. Secondly, the study emphasizes the pivotal role of customer engagement

strategies, including personalized offers, loyalty programs, and active social media presence, to

keep customers engaged and invested in the brand. Managers should prioritize these initiatives to

enhance customer interactions and cultivate brand loyalty. Overall, the research underscores the

importance of aligning brand experience and customer engagement efforts to drive brand loyalty,

ultimately leading to sustained business success for chain restaurants in Karachi.


Establishing and Deepening Brand Loyalty through Brand Experience and Customer 57
Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

5.3 Limitations and Future Recommendation

Despite its contributions, this research study has several limitations that warrant consideration.

Firstly, the study's focus on chain restaurants in Karachi may limit the generalizability of

findings to other geographical locations or restaurant types with different customer preferences

and cultural backgrounds. Therefore, future research should encompass a more diverse sample to

ensure broader applicability. Secondly, the data collected for this study relies predominantly on

customer perceptions, which may introduce bias or subjectivity in responses. Combining

customer feedback with objective performance metrics could provide a more comprehensive

analysis. Additionally, the cross-sectional nature of the research design restricts the ability to

establish causality. A longitudinal approach could better capture the dynamics between brand

experience, customer engagement, and brand loyalty over time. Building on the insights gained

from this research, several future recommendations emerge to enhance the understanding of

brand loyalty, brand experience, and customer engagement in chain restaurants. Firstly,

researchers could conduct comparative studies across various restaurant formats and regions to

identify differences in the factors influencing brand loyalty. This will aid in developing region-

specific strategies for customer retention and brand loyalty in the restaurant industry. Secondly,

exploring the role of technology in improving brand experience and customer engagement

warrants attention. As technology continues to evolve, investigating the impact of artificial

intelligence, virtual reality, or augmented reality on enhancing customer interactions and loyalty

could be valuable. Thirdly, deeper investigations into the role of employee engagement in

delivering exceptional brand experiences may offer unique insights for managers seeking to align

their workforce with customer-centric goals. Lastly, conducting experimental studies to test the
Establishing and Deepening Brand Loyalty through Brand Experience and Customer 58
Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

effectiveness of specific customer engagement strategies could provide more conclusive

evidence of causality, aiding managers in prioritizing their investments for better results.

By addressing these limitations and pursuing the future recommendations, researchers and

managers in the chain restaurant industry can further advance their understanding and

implementation of effective strategies to establish and deepen brand loyalty, ultimately driving

sustained growth and success.


Establishing and Deepening Brand Loyalty through Brand Experience and Customer 59
Engagement: Evidence from Karachi’s Chain Restaurants

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Appendix
Reliability Statistics

Cronbach's

Alpha N of Items

.952 39
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AE AL BL CE CS EE EmoE SE

AE2 0.918 0.635 0.592 0.505 0.349 0.600 0.658 0.496

AE3 0.911 0.574 0.630 0.532 0.312 0.637 0.605 0.451

AL2 0.612 0.890 0.567 0.524 0.421 0.526 0.890 0.575

AL3 0.624 0.904 0.585 0.511 0.373 0.527 0.903 0.463

AL4 0.508 0.857 0.594 0.459 0.360 0.473 0.743 0.456

BL1 0.499 0.538 0.829 0.430 0.593 0.520 0.535 0.353

BL3 0.649 0.588 0.877 0.541 0.424 0.505 0.594 0.411

BL4 0.576 0.570 0.879 0.501 0.405 0.502 0.566 0.459

CE2 0.530 0.482 0.522 0.910 0.262 0.495 0.499 0.436


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CE3 0.506 0.549 0.519 0.916 0.299 0.427 0.566 0.490

CS2 0.350 0.413 0.452 0.266 0.909 0.457 0.434 0.397

CS3 0.307 0.379 0.551 0.293 0.907 0.376 0.400 0.301

EE3 0.628 0.518 0.495 0.489 0.389 0.891 0.557 0.445

EE4 0.582 0.564 0.596 0.457 0.479 0.896 0.574 0.386

EE5 0.573 0.427 0.457 0.375 0.330 0.851 0.481 0.431

EmoE4 0.612 0.890 0.567 0.524 0.421 0.526 0.890 0.575

EmoE5 0.624 0.904 0.585 0.511 0.373 0.527 0.903 0.463

EmoE7 0.620 0.784 0.610 0.531 0.441 0.599 0.892 0.529

SE1 0.456 0.470 0.400 0.434 0.269 0.418 0.501 0.868

SE2 0.466 0.470 0.384 0.456 0.303 0.421 0.492 0.904

SE3 0.424 0.523 0.440 0.428 0.418 0.398 0.521 0.827


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Standard

deviation T statistics
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Original sample (O) (STDEV) (|O/STDEV|) P values Decision

AE ->

CE 0.320 0.092 3.478 0.001 Accepted

AE ->

CS 0.019 0.087 0.220 0.826 Rejected

AE -

>Emo

E 0.409 0.071 5.800 0.000 Accepted

CE ->

AL 0.007 0.022 0.311 0.756 Rejected

CE ->

BL 0.265 0.057 4.677 0.000 Accepted

CS ->

AL 0.008 0.019 0.399 0.690 Rejected

CS ->

BL 0.304 0.054 5.627 0.000 Accepted

EE ->

CE 0.162 0.085 1.911 0.056 Rejected

EE ->

CS 0.346 0.082 4.226 0.000 Accepted

EE -

>Emo

E 0.209 0.064 3.239 0.001 Accepted

EmoE

-> AL 0.961 0.017 57.056 0.000 Accepted

EmoE

-> BL 0.361 0.061 5.950 0.000 Accepted

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