Browsing by Author "Costa, Maria Pena Gouveia Salgueiro"
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- Bulk is the new black : consumer attitudes, perceptions and purchase intentions towards Bulk Food Groceries in PortugalPublication . Costa, Maria Pena Gouveia Salgueiro; Rita, Miguel Fontes Casegas CorreiaPurchasing food in bulk has become a growing practise among grocery shoppers in recent years. No longer a dated tradition from the 19th century, bulk is now seen as a modern alternative to package-loaded products. Besides a more sustainable nature of transactions, bulk offers several advantages, from lower prices to the chance of portion customization and reduced food waste. However, literature identifies many setbacks for businesses invested in selling unpackaged food. Hygiene regulation in self-service systems is challenging and negatively perceived by many shoppers. Plus, a high rate of spillage, theft and losses undermines retailers' cash flows. This study focused on the market of bulk food groceries in Portugal. Prices of bulk foods were analysed and compared with the corresponding packaged alternatives, in order to assert price competitiveness. Prior literature on the subject was consulted to conceive a framework for research methods. Six interviews to storeowners operating in the Portuguese bulk foods market served as valuable insights for the investigation. Finally, an online survey with a sample of 309 bulk consumers and non-consumers presented main barriers and advantages of bulk, as well as the attitudes and perceptions that have an influence on purchase intentions. Grocery shoppers in Portugal showed a favourable inclination towards purchasing bulk. Additionally, bulk consumers are concerned about sustainability, portion control and consider price the main driver for store choice.