The association of interactivity, perception of product quality and cost with purchase intention: A moderated mediation model

This study investigates whether perception of product quality positively mediates the relationship between interactivity and purchase intention and whether the relationship between interactivity and perception of product quality is moderated by cost such that higher-priced items strengthen the relationship. Differences between those consumers purchasing personally or as a business were considered. Three hundred and forty-nine participants experienced a simulated environment within a real-world retail website they had previously shopped at. Results from a questionnaire were analysed using moderated mediation regression analysis. The hypothesized theoretical model was supported for individual consumers with results indicating that the effect of interactivity on purchase intention is mediated by product quality, and this indirect effect is moderated by cost. No such result was found for business consumers. This research demonstrates a notable difference between purchasing behaviours of business and individual consumers when considering interactivity and perception of product quality.