Abstract
Abstract:
Purpose – This paper aims to illustrate the concept of “consumer nationalism”
and its implications for corporate reputation management in China.
Design/methodology/approach – The paper discusses three incidents
involving companies from different countries of origin as cases in
point to explore Chinese consumers' infusion of national identity
into the public discourse concerning multinational businesses in
the Chinese market.
Findings – It is demonstrated that the emotional power of nationalism
is a critical component of the political marketplace in contemporary
China and at times becomes central to Chinese consumers' relationship
with global brands. Consumer nationalism controversies put the involved
companies and brands in the spotlight of confrontation with local
citizenry. The salience of consumer national advocacy underscores
the tensions and contradictions in China's encounter with globalization.
Research limitations/implications – Conceptually, this paper presents
evidence for the necessity to take into account nationalism in understanding
contemporary Chinese consumer behavior.
Practical implications – The paper discusses lessons learned through
the cases and make three general recommendations on communication
strategies for managing consumer nationalism in the Chinese market.
Originality/value of paper – The paper locates the conceptual home
for the social phenomenon of national advocacy in the process of
consumption and its implications for corporate reputation management.
Users
Please
log in to take part in the discussion (add own reviews or comments).