Signaling theory and quality cues: the willingness-to-pay for high and low involvement sustainable attributes

Authors

  • Maria Sylvia Macchione Saes University of São Paulo. School of Economics, Management, Accounting and Actuarial Sciences https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6344-0113
  • Eduardo Eugênio Spers University of Sao Paulo, Department of Economy, Administration and Sociology https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8057-3460
  • Elis Regina Monte Feitosa University of Sao Paulo, School of Economics, Management, Accounting and Actuarial Science
  • Lilian Maluf de Lima University of Sao Paulo, Luiz de Queiroz College of Agriculture
  • Giovana Zamith University of Sao Paulo. School of Economics, Management, Accounting and Actuarial Sciences
  • Jacques Marcovitch University of Sao Paulo. School of Economics, Management, Accounting and Actuarial Sciences

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1108/REGE-08-2024-0129

Keywords:

Signaling theory, Quality cues, Sustainability, Discrete choice, Consumer decision

Abstract

Purpose

With the support of signaling theory the paper investigates the impact of quality cues related to environmental and social sustainability concerns on the purchase intention and willingness to pay for low-involvement products (fresh pirarucu) and high-involvement products (leather from this fish).

Design/methodology/approach

A survey with 483 potential consumers of pirarucu fish in Brazil. Discrete choice analysis to understand preferences and choices from alternatives attributes of pirarucu fish.

Findings

Signaling and quality cues related to environmental and social concerns influence consumer decision differently for high- and low-involvement exotic food.

Originality/value

The link between signaling theory and quality cues explains the preference for different involvement exotic products.

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References

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2026-01-06

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How to Cite

Signaling theory and quality cues: the willingness-to-pay for high and low involvement sustainable attributes. (2026). REGE Revista De Gestão, 32(4). https://doi.org/10.1108/REGE-08-2024-0129