Consumer Ethnocentrism on the Market for Local Products: Determinants of Consumer Behaviors

Abstract

Abstract The aim of the study was to determine the attitudes and ethnocentric behaviors of consumers on the local food market. The survey also included consumers’ purchasing channels, which helped determine the specifics of local product distribution. The criterion for classifying the respondent into the research sample was to indicate the economic motives of consumer ethnocentrism as a factor in the purchase decision. 1,009 correctly completed questionnaires were accepted for analysis. Descriptive statistics and the U Mann–Whitney test were used in the analyses. The results made it possible to determine the products appreciated by respondents, such as eggs, dairy products, and groats. Local alcoholic beverages in the categories “local wines” and “craft beers” were appreciated more by men. The respondents had the lowest interest in oils produced locally. Among the features with which consumers associate local food are producer identification, freshness, good taste, and affordability. Consumers take advantage of short supply chains such as direct sales by the producer or take the opportunity to buy products at local events or thematic trips such as the culinary trail. Consumers are able to accept a price increase of 10–15%, with larger increases they start looking for cheaper substitutes. In conclusion it was stated that the market for local products is a source of support for the local economy, therefore the authorities should create conditions for its development through undertaking appropriate measures promoting local products.