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Extending the concept of shopping: An investigation of browsing activity

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Abstract

In many previous studies of consumer behavior, shopping has been equated with buying. This research examines the concept of browsing—the examination of a retailer’s merchandise without a current intent to buy. Results indicate that for the product classes of clothing and personal computers, browsing is related to perceptions of relevant dimensions of the retail environment. In addition, heavy browsers are more involved with the product, are more knowledgeable, and are more likely to be opinion leaders than are other consumers. Suggestions for future research are also noted.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Massachusetts, Massachusetts, USA

    Peter H. Bloch

  2. University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado, USA

    Nancy M. Ridgway

  3. Louisiana State University, Alexandria, Louisiana, USA

    Daniel L. Sherrell

Authors
  1. Peter H. Bloch
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  2. Nancy M. Ridgway
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  3. Daniel L. Sherrell
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Bloch, P.H., Ridgway, N.M. & Sherrell, D.L. Extending the concept of shopping: An investigation of browsing activity. JAMS 17, 13–21 (1989). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02726349

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