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2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3
June 22-24, 2008
Oxford, UK
1
CONSUMER ATTRACTIVENESS TOWARDS GREEN
PRODUCTS OF FMCG SECTOR: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY
W.M.C.B. Wanninayake
Lecturer in Marketing,
Department of Marketing Management,
University of Kelaniya
Sri Lanka
TP: 0717-898319
bwanninayake@yahoo.com
Pradeep Randiwela
Senior Lecturer in Marketing,
Former Dean - Faculty of Management and Finance,
University of Colombo
Sri Lanka
TP: 0773136959
P_randiwela@yahoo.co.uk
2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3
June 22-24, 2008
Oxford, UK
2
CONSUMER ATTRACTIVENESS TOWARDS GREEN
PRODUCTS OF FMCG SECTOR: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY.
ABSTRACT
The growing social and regulatory concerns for the environment lead an increasing number of
companies to consider green issues as a major source of strategic change. In particular, this
trend has major and complex implications on the technological strategy of a company and on
its product innovations. Even though it is increased eco-awareness of Sri Lankan customers
during the past few decades, there are some barriers to the diffusions of more ecologically
oriented consumption and production styles. Therefore, companies are increasingly recognizing
the importance of green marketing concepts.
The purpose of study was to investigate the consumer attitudes and perceptions towards
eco- friendly products in FMCG sector and their willingness to pay on green products. This
study was based on both primary and secondary data. The primary data were collected from the
sample survey that was conducted in the three districts in western province such as Colombo,
Kalutara, and Gampaha. 160 respondents were selected for the survey and respondents were
asked to answer the prepared questionnaire. The questionnaire was designed to obtain the
consumers attitudes and perception regarding eco-friendly FMCG products under four value
added areas such as product designing, packaging, place and promotion that lead towards the
motivation of consumption. The secondary data were collected from relevant journals, books
and other published data.
The study revealed that the green products have substantial awareness among Sri Lankan
customers and they are willing to pay something more on green products. The majority of
2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3
June 22-24, 2008
Oxford, UK
3
customers considered that package is most important element of such products. The researchers
have recommended some marketing strategies to meet changing mind set of customers towards
the green products.
Key words- Green products, FMCG, Attitudes, Eco awareness, value addition
INTRODUCTION
Whole World is identifying the need of the Green Marketing, Environmental Marketing
and Ecological marketing which gives the same meaning to the research area. Although
environmental issues influence on all most all activities in our day today lives, there were only
few academic disciplines have discussed green issues in Sri Lankan market context. Especially
from Sri Lankan business discipline, FMCG sector is a considerably large sector in the
economy which has to open their eyes on eco friendliness. As society becomes more complex
with the environmental pollution and unethical business practices, now both consumers and
business organizations are concerned with the natural environment. So businesses have begun
to modify their behavior in an attempt to address this society's "new" concerns .The FMCG
sector is one of growing industry that concern about the green marketing issues. Most of
marketing practitioners are using green elements as powerful marketing tools. In this context,
this study focus on examine the consumer attractiveness towards green products of FMCG
Sector.
RESEARCH PROBLEM AND OBJECTIVE
Environmental sustainability is a matter which can not be ignored, so business
organizations have to recognize the competitive advantages and business opportunities to be
2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3
June 22-24, 2008
Oxford, UK
4
gained from green marketing although it may cost to the organization. Consumers also have to
largely aware of the usefulness of adapting to the green products. Green marketing incorporates
a broad range of activities, including product modification, changes to the production process,
packaging changes, as well as modifying advertising. (Michael Jay Polonsky, 1994). Today,
marketing parishioners of FMCG sector in Sri Lanka use environment friendly packaging and
modify the products to minimize the environment pollution. However there is a big argument
among the marketing philosophers regarding attractiveness of green product to customers in
developing country like Sri Lanka. With this background, the researchers have made attention
on attractiveness of green marketing strategies in Sri Lanka. The Main objective of the study is,
 To investigate the consumer attractiveness towards eco- friendly products in FMCG
sector and their impact of purchasing decision.
 To evaluate consumer attitudes and perception regarding eco-friendly FMCG products
under four value-added areas such as product, package, place and promotion that lead
towards the motivation of consumption.
LITERATURE REVIEW
While green marketing came into prominence in the late 1980s and early 1990s, it was
first discussed much earlier. The American Marketing Association (AMA) held the first
workshop on "Ecological Marketing" in 1975. The proceedings of this workshop resulted in
one of the first books on green marketing entitled "Ecological Marketing" (Henion and Kinnear
1976a). Since that time a number of other books on the topic have been published (Coddington
1993, and Ottman 1993). Green marketing incorporates a broad range of activities, including
2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3
June 22-24, 2008
Oxford, UK
5
product modification, changes to the production process, packaging changes, as well as
modifying advertising. (Polonsky, 1994) World-wide evidence indicates people are concerned
about the environment and are changing their behavior accordingly. As a result there is a
growing market for sustainable and socially responsible products and services. (Environmental
protection agency -2000) Green consumerism is often discussed as a form of ‘pro-social’
consumer behavior (Wiener and Doesher, 1991). It may be viewed as a specific type of socially
conscious (Anderson, 1988) or socially responsible (Antil, 1984) consumer behavior that
involves an ‘environmentalist’ (Schlossberg, 1991) perspective and may thus be called
‘environmentally concerned consumption’ (Henion, 1976). A classic definition (Henion, 1976)
describes ‘environmentally concerned consumers. Business organizations tend to concern about
environments issues due to several reasons such as environmental pressure, governmental
pressure, competitive pressure, cost or profit issues (Environmental protection agency -2000)
Unfortunately, a majority of people believe that green marketing refers solely to the promotion
or advertising of products with environmental characteristics. (Polonsky,1994) and terms like
Phosphate Free, Recyclable, Refillable, Ozone Friendly, and Environmentally Friendly are
some of the things consumers most often associate with green marketing. . (Polonsky,1994)
While these terms are green marketing claims, in general green marketing is a much broader
concept, one that can be applied to consumer goods, industrial goods and even services
(Roberts and Bacon, 1997).
Hopes for green products also have been hurt by the perception that such products are
of lower quality or don't really deliver on their environmental promises. And yet the news isn't
all bad, as the growing number of people willing to pay a premium for green products — from
2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3
June 22-24, 2008
Oxford, UK
6
organic foods to energy-efficient appliances — attests. (D’Souza et al. 2004)Green or
Environmental Marketing consists of all activities designed to generate and facilitate any
exchanges intended to satisfy human needs or wants, such that the satisfaction of these needs
and wants occurs, with minimal detrimental impact on the natural environment. [Polonsky
1994b, 2] Green marketing has not lived up to the hopes and dreams of many managers and
activists. Although public opinion polls consistently show that consumers would prefer to
choose a green product over one that is less friendly to the environment when all other things
are equal, those "other things" are rarely equal in the minds of consumers. (Hackett, 2000)
They must always keep in mind that consumers are unlikely to compromise on
traditional product attributes, such as convenience, availability, price, quality and performance.
It's even more important to realize, however, that there is no single green-marketing strategy
that is right for every company. (Prothero,, and McDonagh, 1992) Despite the increasing eco-
awareness in contemporary market economies, it is generally recognized that there are still
considerable barriers to the diffusion of more ecologically oriented consumption styles. In lay
discourse as well as in much of consumer research, these barriers are usually attributed to the
motivational and practical complexity of green consumption (Hackett, 2000). Increased use of
Green Marketing is depending on five possible reasons. (Polonsky 1994b)
 Organizations perceive environmental marketing to be an opportunity that can be
used to achieve its objectives [Keller 1987, Shearer 1990]
 Organizations believe they have a moral obligation to be more socially responsible
[Davis 1992, Keller 1987,]
2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3
June 22-24, 2008
Oxford, UK
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 Governmental bodies are forcing firms to become more responsible [Davis 1992];
 Competitors' environmental activities pressure firms to change their environmental
marketing activities [Davis 1992]
 Cost factors associated with waste disposal, or reductions in material usage forces
firms to modify their behavior [Keller, K.L. (1993]
Moreover, environmentally responsible behavior usually involves difficult motivational
conflicts, arising from the fundamental incompatibility of environmental protection-related
collective goals and individual consumers’ personal or self-interested benefits and the resulting
free-rider problem (Wiener and Doesher, 1991) Public policymakers will continue to develop
more efficient ways to regulate waste and pollution, and scientists will continue to gather
information about the environmental risks from various substances or practices. As they do,
pricing structures will evolve that communicate even more accurate information to
manufacturers and entrepreneurs about the true cost of commercial activities and the potential
rewards from innovative solutions to environmental problems. This definition incorporates
much of the traditional components of the marketing definition that is "All activities designed
to generate and facilitate any exchanges intended to satisfy human needs or wants"
(Schlegelmilch et al,1996). There are usually severe external constraints to green consumerism,
arising from the cultural, infrastructural, political and economic circumstances in the markets
and society (McIntosh, A. 1991). Both individual and industrial are becoming more concerned
and aware about the natural environment. In a 1992 study of 16 countries, more than 50% of
consumers in each country, other than Singapore, indicated they were concerned about the
environment (Ottman 1993). A 1994 study in Australia found that 84.6% of the sample
2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3
June 22-24, 2008
Oxford, UK
8
believed all individuals had a responsibility to care for the environment. A further 80% of this
sample indicated that they had modified their behavior, including their purchasing behavior,
due to environmental reasons (EPA-NSW 1994).
Owing to the conceptual and moral complexity of ‘ecologically responsible consumer
behavior’ and to the perplexity of ecological information, different consumers have different
conceptions of ecologically oriented consumer behavior and, thus, myriad ways of acting out
their primary motivation for being green consumers (Antil, 1984). These innovations aren't
being pursued simply to reduce package waste. (Prothero, 1990) Food manufacturers also want
to improve food preservation to enhance the taste and freshness of their products. The cost of
the foods would be lower; consumers could enjoy the convenience of pre-sliced ingredients,
and waste peelings (Prothero, 1990). It can be assumed that firms marketing goods with
environmental characteristics will have a competitive advantage over firms marketing non-
environmentally responsible alternatives. There are numerous examples of firms who have
strived to become more environmentally responsible, in an attempt to better satisfy their
consumer needs. (Schwepker, and Cornwell, 1991) While governmental regulation is designed
to give consumers the opportunity to make better decisions or to motivate them to be more
environmentally responsible, there is difficulty in establishing policies that will address all
environmental issues. (Schwepker, and Cornwell, 1991). Hence, environment-friendly
consumption may be characterized as highly a complex form of consumer behavior, both
intellectually and morally as well as in practice.
CONCEPTUALIZATION
2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3
June 22-24, 2008
Oxford, UK
9
In conceptualizing the study, researchers have attempted to build relationship between
key variables of green marketing i.e., product, package, distribution and promotion
(independent variables) and customer buying decision (dependent variable). Those
relationships can be varied according to the demographic variables. Therefore demographic
factors were considered as intervene variable of the conceptual framework.
Figure 01. Conceptual Model
According to the literature and pilot study in Sri Lankan supermarkets, researchers
recognized that marketers can use different tools relating to independent variables in order to
determine the effectiveness of green marketing practices. It is also necessary to examine the
relationship between two key variables and other variables influenced on dependent variable.
Consumer Demographic
(Age, Gender, Education)
Element of Green Marketing
1. Product
2. Package
4. Place and Distribution
5. Promotion
Purchase
Decision
2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3
June 22-24, 2008
Oxford, UK
10
This would enable the researchers to interpret the findings in a more comprehensive manner.
The conceptual model that has been developed indicating their relationship (Figure 01)
METHODOLOGY
Data Collection
As a matter of fact, this study is almost an empirical one. So, as far as possible and
attempt was made to gather primary data. In that context, a detailed questionnaire was
administrated. Meanwhile personal interviews and observations were also made. In order to
ensure an acceptable number of responses, a convenience sample was used. Data were collected
through the self administrated questionnaires by the researchers them selves and trained field
assistants. The questionnaire comprised 24 questions including both close ended and open
ended questions All close ended constructs used in this study were measured by various items
on five-point Likert-
believed that attitudes are best measured by way of multiple measures and the general trend in
measuring environmental issues is via several items instead of single-item questions (Gill et al.,
1986). The sample was drawn from Colombo and suburbs. Researcher selected the sample
using combination of convenience and simple random sampling method. As much as possible
attempt was made to get the sample comparable basis for convenience of the analysis.
Secondary data were collected by website published articles, newspapers, relevant journals etc.
40 size of sample was selected from University undergraduates who follow business
management degrees of University of Kelaniya, and the researches had a predetermined
discussion with them before the product categories and brands were determined. Basically, they
were asked to come up with the free ideas the products available in FMCG sector in Sri Lanka,
2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3
June 22-24, 2008
Oxford, UK
11
with special attention paid on those of green marketing practices. Thereafter, researches
determined the product categories such as food items, beauty soap and detergent respectively.
The sample was employed 160 respondents from Colombo, Gampaha and Kaluthara
districts of western province. Respondent category comprised with university students,
academic staffs, office workers, housewives, business people and managers of several
companies those who have much exposure to the FMCG category and who represent the Sri
Lankan customers . The sample size is also enough to generalize findings to the Sri Lankan
context.
Table 01: Sample Profile
District Number of Respondents
Colombo 62
Gampaha 52
Kaluthara 46
Total 160
Data Analysis Procedure
Descriptive statistical techniques were utilized to analyze the data with the help of SPSS
package. The major statistical techniques, which were used in this study, are central tendency
(Specially Mean), percentage analysis and the correlation analysis.
Percentage and correlation values highlighted the salient features of the collected data,
facilitated comparisons between variables and enabled the study relationships more readily.
Percentage values were used to identify the contribution of various categories of each variable.
The central tendency values used to identify the nature of attractiveness towards the each
2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3
June 22-24, 2008
Oxford, UK
12
variable of eco friendliness. Answers for open ended questions had coded and categorized
before analyzing
FINDINGS AND DISCUSSIONS
Many firms and customers are beginning to realize that they are members of the wider
community and therefore must behave in an environmentally responsible fashion. This
translates into firms that believe they must achieve environmental objectives as well as profit
related objectives. This results in environmental issues being integrated into the firm's
corporate culture. All most all in the sample generally want to do the right thing, so the
challenge and opportunity for the green marketer is to make it easy for people to do so.
Green marketing elements and Purchasing decisions
Researchers observe the type of mean variances between each of the independent variables and
the purchase decision of the consumers. Table 01 shows the correlation of each of the
concepts, namely product, package, price, place and promotion and how each of those variables
correlates to the purchase decision of FMCG products.
Table 02: Degree of relationship between testable variables
Urban and Rural consumer
Variable-1 Variable-2 Pearson’s Correlation
Coefficient
Product purchase decision .612
2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3
June 22-24, 2008
Oxford, UK
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Correlation is significant at the 0.01 level (2-tailed).
As per the study, in the above table variables classified independent variables into variable –1
category and dependant variable purchase decision into variable-2.The above analysis clearly
shows that environment friendly products and packages make the significant impact of
customer buying decisions. The marketing communication with the environment friendly
product information will also significantly impact on the buying decisions.
Comparisons of Means of elements of green marketing against the demography
This study focused on the green marketing strategy and consumer buying decisions. The
main objective of this study was to examine the influence emerged from green marketing
strategy for consumer’s buying decisions of FMCG sector in Sri Lanka. The finding shows that
influence emerged from green marketing strategies on consumer’s buying decisions is strong.
The mean value of green marketing elements is 23.25. It is represented in strongly influenced
score category (22-30). Mode and median values are 24.00 and 23.80 respectively (See
Annexure 02).
Package purchase decision .510
Place/ Distribution purchase decision .212
Promotion purchase decision .428
2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3
June 22-24, 2008
Oxford, UK
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However, green marketing elements consists of four variables such as product, package,
place and promotion. Out of those variables, except eco friendly distribution and promotions as
green products other variables strongly influence in selecting products of foods, beauty soap
and detergents. The majority of respondents (57%) mentioned that promotions of green
products strongly influence on their buying decisions. In the same time, 32% of respondents
have indicated that promotions of green products strongly influence on their buying decisions.
Moreover, the mean value of green promotion is 3.15. (See Annexure 01) It is more close to the
lower level of strongly influenced score category (3.67 – 5.00). The findings show that 89% of
respondents have indicated that eco-friendly packaging is strongly influenced on their buying
behavior. The descriptive statistics relating to the green products mention that both mean and
median belong to strongly influenced score category. However, the statistical distribution has
multiple modes. Most of the customers mentioned that designing bio degratebles packaging is
one of the most important factors of product attractiveness. According to the findings, 62% of
respondents and 36% of respondents have indicated bio- degradable packing will affect in a
strong and moderate way respectively on their buying decisions. Even though distribution has
not big involvement to the green marketing, 46% of consumers are willing to get the services
from places and distribution channels which are not cause to environmental pollution.(eg.-eco
friendly hotels) and others go for any choice considering cost and convenience. And also, 62%
of employees are willing to get the services from outlets which are not situated in the polluted
environment. The mean value of green marketing outlets is 2.95. It is represented in moderately
influenced score category (2.33 – 3.67). Therefore, the quantitative figures show that green
marketing elements have significant impact on store choice decision in Sri Lanka.
2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3
June 22-24, 2008
Oxford, UK
15
Customer attractiveness for green marketing elements Based on Demographic Variables.
Another important finding was that all variables of green marketing elements are having
more responses for the all age categories, gender, and education levels. That means except any
demographic difference, customers are considering green marketing as the important factor in
their store choice decisions.
The findings show that both 18 – 30 and 31 -50-aged customers highly consider eco-
friendly packaging as the most important variable in their buying decisions of each product
categories. However, 32 of 18 – 30 aged customers selected eco friendly package as the most
important variable and 16 customers have selected green promotion as main variable. In
addition, only 04 respondents have indicated that they consider distribution function as
important variables for their decisions.
The sample consists of 90 male customers and 70 female customers. A cross analysis
was made in order to identify the relative importance of green marketing variables relating to
the gender basis. Most of the male customers (37 respondents) consider eco friendly packaging
as the most importance factor in selecting green products. However, most of female customers
gave priority to green feature of in their selection. The both genders gave their next priority to
promotion.
This section focused on analyzing relative importance of green marketing variables
under different education levels. The sample mainly consists of 62 graduates, 30 professionally
qualified individuals and 44 customers who have completed secondary education (A/L passed).
Generally, graduates, postgraduates and A/L passed customers have given first priority to green
feature of products. In the same time, they have indicated eco friendly packaging is highly
considered in selecting specific supermarket outlet. Most of the professionally qualified
2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3
June 22-24, 2008
Oxford, UK
16
customers have selected eco friendly packaging as important variables in selecting the green
products in the FMCG category.
CONCLUSION AND RESEARCHERS’ RECOMMENDATIONS TO BUSINESS
ORGANIZATIONS FROM THE VIEW POINTS OF CUSTOMERS
Though consumers are willing to purchase green products, many business organizations still in
behind the need of the eco friendly society. The authors suggest business organizations to
follow strategies in order to get benefits from the environmentally friendly approach as green
marketing offers business incentives and growth opportunities while it may involve start-up
costs, it will save money in the long term. Therefore, in the product strategy, marketers can
identify customers’ environmental needs and develop products to address this issue, produce
more environmentally responsible packages. (Recycle, biodegradable, reuse), and ensure that
products meet or exceed the quality expectations of customers. In addition to that marketer can
charge high price with highlighting eco friendliness of the products. In the case of distribution,
obtaining dealer support to green marketing practice is essential. And also, the location must
differentiate from competitors and it can achieve by in-store promotions and displays by using
recycled materials to emphasize the environmental and other benefits. Finally, organization can
reinforce environmental credibility by using sustainable marketing and communications such as
public relations and creative advertising associated with green issues in Sri Lanka.
REFERENCES
2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3
June 22-24, 2008
Oxford, UK
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2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3
June 22-24, 2008
Oxford, UK
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2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3
June 22-24, 2008
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18. Prothero, A. (1990), “Green consumerism and the societal marketing concept:
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24. webhttp://www.epa.state.il.us/water/conservation-2000/ - Environmental protection
agency -2000

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Consumer attractiveness towards green products

  • 1. 2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3 June 22-24, 2008 Oxford, UK 1 CONSUMER ATTRACTIVENESS TOWARDS GREEN PRODUCTS OF FMCG SECTOR: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY W.M.C.B. Wanninayake Lecturer in Marketing, Department of Marketing Management, University of Kelaniya Sri Lanka TP: 0717-898319 bwanninayake@yahoo.com Pradeep Randiwela Senior Lecturer in Marketing, Former Dean - Faculty of Management and Finance, University of Colombo Sri Lanka TP: 0773136959 P_randiwela@yahoo.co.uk
  • 2. 2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3 June 22-24, 2008 Oxford, UK 2 CONSUMER ATTRACTIVENESS TOWARDS GREEN PRODUCTS OF FMCG SECTOR: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY. ABSTRACT The growing social and regulatory concerns for the environment lead an increasing number of companies to consider green issues as a major source of strategic change. In particular, this trend has major and complex implications on the technological strategy of a company and on its product innovations. Even though it is increased eco-awareness of Sri Lankan customers during the past few decades, there are some barriers to the diffusions of more ecologically oriented consumption and production styles. Therefore, companies are increasingly recognizing the importance of green marketing concepts. The purpose of study was to investigate the consumer attitudes and perceptions towards eco- friendly products in FMCG sector and their willingness to pay on green products. This study was based on both primary and secondary data. The primary data were collected from the sample survey that was conducted in the three districts in western province such as Colombo, Kalutara, and Gampaha. 160 respondents were selected for the survey and respondents were asked to answer the prepared questionnaire. The questionnaire was designed to obtain the consumers attitudes and perception regarding eco-friendly FMCG products under four value added areas such as product designing, packaging, place and promotion that lead towards the motivation of consumption. The secondary data were collected from relevant journals, books and other published data. The study revealed that the green products have substantial awareness among Sri Lankan customers and they are willing to pay something more on green products. The majority of
  • 3. 2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3 June 22-24, 2008 Oxford, UK 3 customers considered that package is most important element of such products. The researchers have recommended some marketing strategies to meet changing mind set of customers towards the green products. Key words- Green products, FMCG, Attitudes, Eco awareness, value addition INTRODUCTION Whole World is identifying the need of the Green Marketing, Environmental Marketing and Ecological marketing which gives the same meaning to the research area. Although environmental issues influence on all most all activities in our day today lives, there were only few academic disciplines have discussed green issues in Sri Lankan market context. Especially from Sri Lankan business discipline, FMCG sector is a considerably large sector in the economy which has to open their eyes on eco friendliness. As society becomes more complex with the environmental pollution and unethical business practices, now both consumers and business organizations are concerned with the natural environment. So businesses have begun to modify their behavior in an attempt to address this society's "new" concerns .The FMCG sector is one of growing industry that concern about the green marketing issues. Most of marketing practitioners are using green elements as powerful marketing tools. In this context, this study focus on examine the consumer attractiveness towards green products of FMCG Sector. RESEARCH PROBLEM AND OBJECTIVE Environmental sustainability is a matter which can not be ignored, so business organizations have to recognize the competitive advantages and business opportunities to be
  • 4. 2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3 June 22-24, 2008 Oxford, UK 4 gained from green marketing although it may cost to the organization. Consumers also have to largely aware of the usefulness of adapting to the green products. Green marketing incorporates a broad range of activities, including product modification, changes to the production process, packaging changes, as well as modifying advertising. (Michael Jay Polonsky, 1994). Today, marketing parishioners of FMCG sector in Sri Lanka use environment friendly packaging and modify the products to minimize the environment pollution. However there is a big argument among the marketing philosophers regarding attractiveness of green product to customers in developing country like Sri Lanka. With this background, the researchers have made attention on attractiveness of green marketing strategies in Sri Lanka. The Main objective of the study is,  To investigate the consumer attractiveness towards eco- friendly products in FMCG sector and their impact of purchasing decision.  To evaluate consumer attitudes and perception regarding eco-friendly FMCG products under four value-added areas such as product, package, place and promotion that lead towards the motivation of consumption. LITERATURE REVIEW While green marketing came into prominence in the late 1980s and early 1990s, it was first discussed much earlier. The American Marketing Association (AMA) held the first workshop on "Ecological Marketing" in 1975. The proceedings of this workshop resulted in one of the first books on green marketing entitled "Ecological Marketing" (Henion and Kinnear 1976a). Since that time a number of other books on the topic have been published (Coddington 1993, and Ottman 1993). Green marketing incorporates a broad range of activities, including
  • 5. 2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3 June 22-24, 2008 Oxford, UK 5 product modification, changes to the production process, packaging changes, as well as modifying advertising. (Polonsky, 1994) World-wide evidence indicates people are concerned about the environment and are changing their behavior accordingly. As a result there is a growing market for sustainable and socially responsible products and services. (Environmental protection agency -2000) Green consumerism is often discussed as a form of ‘pro-social’ consumer behavior (Wiener and Doesher, 1991). It may be viewed as a specific type of socially conscious (Anderson, 1988) or socially responsible (Antil, 1984) consumer behavior that involves an ‘environmentalist’ (Schlossberg, 1991) perspective and may thus be called ‘environmentally concerned consumption’ (Henion, 1976). A classic definition (Henion, 1976) describes ‘environmentally concerned consumers. Business organizations tend to concern about environments issues due to several reasons such as environmental pressure, governmental pressure, competitive pressure, cost or profit issues (Environmental protection agency -2000) Unfortunately, a majority of people believe that green marketing refers solely to the promotion or advertising of products with environmental characteristics. (Polonsky,1994) and terms like Phosphate Free, Recyclable, Refillable, Ozone Friendly, and Environmentally Friendly are some of the things consumers most often associate with green marketing. . (Polonsky,1994) While these terms are green marketing claims, in general green marketing is a much broader concept, one that can be applied to consumer goods, industrial goods and even services (Roberts and Bacon, 1997). Hopes for green products also have been hurt by the perception that such products are of lower quality or don't really deliver on their environmental promises. And yet the news isn't all bad, as the growing number of people willing to pay a premium for green products — from
  • 6. 2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3 June 22-24, 2008 Oxford, UK 6 organic foods to energy-efficient appliances — attests. (D’Souza et al. 2004)Green or Environmental Marketing consists of all activities designed to generate and facilitate any exchanges intended to satisfy human needs or wants, such that the satisfaction of these needs and wants occurs, with minimal detrimental impact on the natural environment. [Polonsky 1994b, 2] Green marketing has not lived up to the hopes and dreams of many managers and activists. Although public opinion polls consistently show that consumers would prefer to choose a green product over one that is less friendly to the environment when all other things are equal, those "other things" are rarely equal in the minds of consumers. (Hackett, 2000) They must always keep in mind that consumers are unlikely to compromise on traditional product attributes, such as convenience, availability, price, quality and performance. It's even more important to realize, however, that there is no single green-marketing strategy that is right for every company. (Prothero,, and McDonagh, 1992) Despite the increasing eco- awareness in contemporary market economies, it is generally recognized that there are still considerable barriers to the diffusion of more ecologically oriented consumption styles. In lay discourse as well as in much of consumer research, these barriers are usually attributed to the motivational and practical complexity of green consumption (Hackett, 2000). Increased use of Green Marketing is depending on five possible reasons. (Polonsky 1994b)  Organizations perceive environmental marketing to be an opportunity that can be used to achieve its objectives [Keller 1987, Shearer 1990]  Organizations believe they have a moral obligation to be more socially responsible [Davis 1992, Keller 1987,]
  • 7. 2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3 June 22-24, 2008 Oxford, UK 7  Governmental bodies are forcing firms to become more responsible [Davis 1992];  Competitors' environmental activities pressure firms to change their environmental marketing activities [Davis 1992]  Cost factors associated with waste disposal, or reductions in material usage forces firms to modify their behavior [Keller, K.L. (1993] Moreover, environmentally responsible behavior usually involves difficult motivational conflicts, arising from the fundamental incompatibility of environmental protection-related collective goals and individual consumers’ personal or self-interested benefits and the resulting free-rider problem (Wiener and Doesher, 1991) Public policymakers will continue to develop more efficient ways to regulate waste and pollution, and scientists will continue to gather information about the environmental risks from various substances or practices. As they do, pricing structures will evolve that communicate even more accurate information to manufacturers and entrepreneurs about the true cost of commercial activities and the potential rewards from innovative solutions to environmental problems. This definition incorporates much of the traditional components of the marketing definition that is "All activities designed to generate and facilitate any exchanges intended to satisfy human needs or wants" (Schlegelmilch et al,1996). There are usually severe external constraints to green consumerism, arising from the cultural, infrastructural, political and economic circumstances in the markets and society (McIntosh, A. 1991). Both individual and industrial are becoming more concerned and aware about the natural environment. In a 1992 study of 16 countries, more than 50% of consumers in each country, other than Singapore, indicated they were concerned about the environment (Ottman 1993). A 1994 study in Australia found that 84.6% of the sample
  • 8. 2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3 June 22-24, 2008 Oxford, UK 8 believed all individuals had a responsibility to care for the environment. A further 80% of this sample indicated that they had modified their behavior, including their purchasing behavior, due to environmental reasons (EPA-NSW 1994). Owing to the conceptual and moral complexity of ‘ecologically responsible consumer behavior’ and to the perplexity of ecological information, different consumers have different conceptions of ecologically oriented consumer behavior and, thus, myriad ways of acting out their primary motivation for being green consumers (Antil, 1984). These innovations aren't being pursued simply to reduce package waste. (Prothero, 1990) Food manufacturers also want to improve food preservation to enhance the taste and freshness of their products. The cost of the foods would be lower; consumers could enjoy the convenience of pre-sliced ingredients, and waste peelings (Prothero, 1990). It can be assumed that firms marketing goods with environmental characteristics will have a competitive advantage over firms marketing non- environmentally responsible alternatives. There are numerous examples of firms who have strived to become more environmentally responsible, in an attempt to better satisfy their consumer needs. (Schwepker, and Cornwell, 1991) While governmental regulation is designed to give consumers the opportunity to make better decisions or to motivate them to be more environmentally responsible, there is difficulty in establishing policies that will address all environmental issues. (Schwepker, and Cornwell, 1991). Hence, environment-friendly consumption may be characterized as highly a complex form of consumer behavior, both intellectually and morally as well as in practice. CONCEPTUALIZATION
  • 9. 2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3 June 22-24, 2008 Oxford, UK 9 In conceptualizing the study, researchers have attempted to build relationship between key variables of green marketing i.e., product, package, distribution and promotion (independent variables) and customer buying decision (dependent variable). Those relationships can be varied according to the demographic variables. Therefore demographic factors were considered as intervene variable of the conceptual framework. Figure 01. Conceptual Model According to the literature and pilot study in Sri Lankan supermarkets, researchers recognized that marketers can use different tools relating to independent variables in order to determine the effectiveness of green marketing practices. It is also necessary to examine the relationship between two key variables and other variables influenced on dependent variable. Consumer Demographic (Age, Gender, Education) Element of Green Marketing 1. Product 2. Package 4. Place and Distribution 5. Promotion Purchase Decision
  • 10. 2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3 June 22-24, 2008 Oxford, UK 10 This would enable the researchers to interpret the findings in a more comprehensive manner. The conceptual model that has been developed indicating their relationship (Figure 01) METHODOLOGY Data Collection As a matter of fact, this study is almost an empirical one. So, as far as possible and attempt was made to gather primary data. In that context, a detailed questionnaire was administrated. Meanwhile personal interviews and observations were also made. In order to ensure an acceptable number of responses, a convenience sample was used. Data were collected through the self administrated questionnaires by the researchers them selves and trained field assistants. The questionnaire comprised 24 questions including both close ended and open ended questions All close ended constructs used in this study were measured by various items on five-point Likert- believed that attitudes are best measured by way of multiple measures and the general trend in measuring environmental issues is via several items instead of single-item questions (Gill et al., 1986). The sample was drawn from Colombo and suburbs. Researcher selected the sample using combination of convenience and simple random sampling method. As much as possible attempt was made to get the sample comparable basis for convenience of the analysis. Secondary data were collected by website published articles, newspapers, relevant journals etc. 40 size of sample was selected from University undergraduates who follow business management degrees of University of Kelaniya, and the researches had a predetermined discussion with them before the product categories and brands were determined. Basically, they were asked to come up with the free ideas the products available in FMCG sector in Sri Lanka,
  • 11. 2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3 June 22-24, 2008 Oxford, UK 11 with special attention paid on those of green marketing practices. Thereafter, researches determined the product categories such as food items, beauty soap and detergent respectively. The sample was employed 160 respondents from Colombo, Gampaha and Kaluthara districts of western province. Respondent category comprised with university students, academic staffs, office workers, housewives, business people and managers of several companies those who have much exposure to the FMCG category and who represent the Sri Lankan customers . The sample size is also enough to generalize findings to the Sri Lankan context. Table 01: Sample Profile District Number of Respondents Colombo 62 Gampaha 52 Kaluthara 46 Total 160 Data Analysis Procedure Descriptive statistical techniques were utilized to analyze the data with the help of SPSS package. The major statistical techniques, which were used in this study, are central tendency (Specially Mean), percentage analysis and the correlation analysis. Percentage and correlation values highlighted the salient features of the collected data, facilitated comparisons between variables and enabled the study relationships more readily. Percentage values were used to identify the contribution of various categories of each variable. The central tendency values used to identify the nature of attractiveness towards the each
  • 12. 2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3 June 22-24, 2008 Oxford, UK 12 variable of eco friendliness. Answers for open ended questions had coded and categorized before analyzing FINDINGS AND DISCUSSIONS Many firms and customers are beginning to realize that they are members of the wider community and therefore must behave in an environmentally responsible fashion. This translates into firms that believe they must achieve environmental objectives as well as profit related objectives. This results in environmental issues being integrated into the firm's corporate culture. All most all in the sample generally want to do the right thing, so the challenge and opportunity for the green marketer is to make it easy for people to do so. Green marketing elements and Purchasing decisions Researchers observe the type of mean variances between each of the independent variables and the purchase decision of the consumers. Table 01 shows the correlation of each of the concepts, namely product, package, price, place and promotion and how each of those variables correlates to the purchase decision of FMCG products. Table 02: Degree of relationship between testable variables Urban and Rural consumer Variable-1 Variable-2 Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient Product purchase decision .612
  • 13. 2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3 June 22-24, 2008 Oxford, UK 13 Correlation is significant at the 0.01 level (2-tailed). As per the study, in the above table variables classified independent variables into variable –1 category and dependant variable purchase decision into variable-2.The above analysis clearly shows that environment friendly products and packages make the significant impact of customer buying decisions. The marketing communication with the environment friendly product information will also significantly impact on the buying decisions. Comparisons of Means of elements of green marketing against the demography This study focused on the green marketing strategy and consumer buying decisions. The main objective of this study was to examine the influence emerged from green marketing strategy for consumer’s buying decisions of FMCG sector in Sri Lanka. The finding shows that influence emerged from green marketing strategies on consumer’s buying decisions is strong. The mean value of green marketing elements is 23.25. It is represented in strongly influenced score category (22-30). Mode and median values are 24.00 and 23.80 respectively (See Annexure 02). Package purchase decision .510 Place/ Distribution purchase decision .212 Promotion purchase decision .428
  • 14. 2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3 June 22-24, 2008 Oxford, UK 14 However, green marketing elements consists of four variables such as product, package, place and promotion. Out of those variables, except eco friendly distribution and promotions as green products other variables strongly influence in selecting products of foods, beauty soap and detergents. The majority of respondents (57%) mentioned that promotions of green products strongly influence on their buying decisions. In the same time, 32% of respondents have indicated that promotions of green products strongly influence on their buying decisions. Moreover, the mean value of green promotion is 3.15. (See Annexure 01) It is more close to the lower level of strongly influenced score category (3.67 – 5.00). The findings show that 89% of respondents have indicated that eco-friendly packaging is strongly influenced on their buying behavior. The descriptive statistics relating to the green products mention that both mean and median belong to strongly influenced score category. However, the statistical distribution has multiple modes. Most of the customers mentioned that designing bio degratebles packaging is one of the most important factors of product attractiveness. According to the findings, 62% of respondents and 36% of respondents have indicated bio- degradable packing will affect in a strong and moderate way respectively on their buying decisions. Even though distribution has not big involvement to the green marketing, 46% of consumers are willing to get the services from places and distribution channels which are not cause to environmental pollution.(eg.-eco friendly hotels) and others go for any choice considering cost and convenience. And also, 62% of employees are willing to get the services from outlets which are not situated in the polluted environment. The mean value of green marketing outlets is 2.95. It is represented in moderately influenced score category (2.33 – 3.67). Therefore, the quantitative figures show that green marketing elements have significant impact on store choice decision in Sri Lanka.
  • 15. 2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3 June 22-24, 2008 Oxford, UK 15 Customer attractiveness for green marketing elements Based on Demographic Variables. Another important finding was that all variables of green marketing elements are having more responses for the all age categories, gender, and education levels. That means except any demographic difference, customers are considering green marketing as the important factor in their store choice decisions. The findings show that both 18 – 30 and 31 -50-aged customers highly consider eco- friendly packaging as the most important variable in their buying decisions of each product categories. However, 32 of 18 – 30 aged customers selected eco friendly package as the most important variable and 16 customers have selected green promotion as main variable. In addition, only 04 respondents have indicated that they consider distribution function as important variables for their decisions. The sample consists of 90 male customers and 70 female customers. A cross analysis was made in order to identify the relative importance of green marketing variables relating to the gender basis. Most of the male customers (37 respondents) consider eco friendly packaging as the most importance factor in selecting green products. However, most of female customers gave priority to green feature of in their selection. The both genders gave their next priority to promotion. This section focused on analyzing relative importance of green marketing variables under different education levels. The sample mainly consists of 62 graduates, 30 professionally qualified individuals and 44 customers who have completed secondary education (A/L passed). Generally, graduates, postgraduates and A/L passed customers have given first priority to green feature of products. In the same time, they have indicated eco friendly packaging is highly considered in selecting specific supermarket outlet. Most of the professionally qualified
  • 16. 2008 Oxford Business &Economics Conference Program ISBN : 978-0-9742114-7-3 June 22-24, 2008 Oxford, UK 16 customers have selected eco friendly packaging as important variables in selecting the green products in the FMCG category. CONCLUSION AND RESEARCHERS’ RECOMMENDATIONS TO BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS FROM THE VIEW POINTS OF CUSTOMERS Though consumers are willing to purchase green products, many business organizations still in behind the need of the eco friendly society. The authors suggest business organizations to follow strategies in order to get benefits from the environmentally friendly approach as green marketing offers business incentives and growth opportunities while it may involve start-up costs, it will save money in the long term. Therefore, in the product strategy, marketers can identify customers’ environmental needs and develop products to address this issue, produce more environmentally responsible packages. (Recycle, biodegradable, reuse), and ensure that products meet or exceed the quality expectations of customers. In addition to that marketer can charge high price with highlighting eco friendliness of the products. In the case of distribution, obtaining dealer support to green marketing practice is essential. And also, the location must differentiate from competitors and it can achieve by in-store promotions and displays by using recycled materials to emphasize the environmental and other benefits. Finally, organization can reinforce environmental credibility by using sustainable marketing and communications such as public relations and creative advertising associated with green issues in Sri Lanka. REFERENCES
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