How consumers value sustainable packaging: an experimental test combining packaging material, claim and price

PurposeThis study investigates the combined impact of two packaging cues (i.e. packaging material, recycled content claim) and a price premium on young consumers' product perceptions and choices.Design/methodology/approachExperimental data were collected online via a questionnaire and a hypothetical choice task completed by 221 young consumers (i.e. 19-25 years). We manipulated two packaging cues for a liquid food product: the packaging material (glass vs plastic) and the presence (vs absence) of a recycled content claim (i.e. 100% recycled). We also manipulated whether a price premium was attached to these packaging variations.FindingsThe packaging material and the claim both had a significant influence on young consumers' sustainability perceptions, and these perceptions extended to perceptions of various product attributes (e.g. healthiness, quality). When all products cost the same, participants were more likely to choose a glass bottle (i.e. 81%) than a plastic bottle, and a bottle with the recycled content claim (i.e. 79%) than a bottle without this claim. However, these preferences dropped significantly when a price premium was attached to these packaging variations.Originality/valueWhile most studies have relied on surveys and qualitative methods to investigate consumers' reactions to sustainable packaging, our research uses an experimental method to assess how packaging impacts young consumers' perceptions and choices. Additionally, by manipulating the presence of a price premium, this study uniquely investigates the impact of such a premium on young consumers' willingness to choose sustainable packaging.