Analysing brand attachment for restaurant table booking mobile application

Abstract

Purpose Restaurant table booking (RTB) mobile apps are transforming how consumers reserve tables in the restaurants of their choice. This study analyses how RTB mobile apps influence brand attachment (BA) and brand commitment (BC), highlighting the moderation effect of desire for uniqueness (DU) by integrating visual content theory and social exchange theory. Design/methodology/approach Data [ N = 414] were collected through the survey method from consumers having experience in using RTB mobile apps. The data were analysed through structural equation modelling using AMOS and SPSS PROCESS macro to examine moderated relationship. Findings The results confirm that content aesthetic quality, perceived technical interactivity and brand investments influence BA and BC in the RTB mobile app and also confirm the moderating role of the DU. Originality/value The present work is among the first to study the sources of BA in the RTB mobile app domain. Thus, it contributes to the literature on the restaurant industry to understand consumers' BA behaviour to achieve BC.