Investigating EWOM and halal product knowledge on gen Z’s halal cosmetics purchase intentions in Pakistan

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to improve the theory of planned behavior (TPB) model by incorporating electronic word of mouth (E-WOM) as a factor influencing attitude (ATT), subjective norms (SN) and perceived behavioral control (PBC). The main goal is to study Generation Z’s intention to purchase halal cosmetics. In addition, the research examines how halal product knowledge (HPK) influences the relationships between ATT, SN, PBC and the purchase intention of halal cosmetics. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected using self-administered questionnaires from two superstores in Karachi, Pakistan, with 265 valid responses. Convergent and discriminant validity analyses were performed to ensure validity and reliability, and variable relationships were assessed using structural equation modeling. Findings The results revealed that EWOM significantly influences ATT, SN and PBC. ATT and PBC both significantly affect purchase intention (PI), while SN has a nonsignificant influence on PI. In addition, the study found HPK only moderates the association between ATT and PI, while moderating influence HPK does not exist in the relationship between (SN and PI) and (PBC and PI). Research limitations/implications This study focuses on the Halal cosmetics industry in Pakistan and explicitly targets Generation Z individuals in a particular cultural environment. The aim is to examine how applying the same research design in different sectors and countries can lead to different results. In addition, the study primarily includes Gen Z consumers of halal cosmetics. Collecting data from other generational groups for future studies, such as generations X and Y, would be interesting. Originality/value This research contributes to the existing literature on halal consumption by introducing the concept of E-WOM as a factor within the TPB model. This study is particularly groundbreaking as it examines how Gen Z Pakistani Muslim consumers’ behavioral intentions toward halal cosmetic products are influenced by their HPK using the TPB model. Additionally, the paper presents an extended TPB modeling framework that could be valuable to researchers, marketers and halal experts.