Modeling the Competitiveness of a Store Brand based on the pattern of Environmental Estimuli in Chain Stores: A mixed approach

The purpose of this study is to develop a store brand competitiveness model for chain stores through customerschr responses to store environmental stimuli. The research is applied in terms of purpose and uses a mixed or combined method in terms of data type. For data collection, the semi-structured in-depth interview approach along with library studies was considered. The statistical population of this study was organizational experts and senior managers in the chain store industry. Purposeful sampling was used to identify experts and senior managers, during which 10 experts were interviewed due to the adequacy of the data. In the next step, 58 basic conceptual propositions of open coding, 21 categorical propositions of axial coding and 7 main categories of selective coding were obtained. Also, in the quantitative section, 160 questionnaires were distributed. According to the research results, using the qualitative method and the opinions of experts and managers in the quantitative method, led to the creation of a framework for competitiveness of the store brand of chain stores and the necessary steps to achieve a strong store brand were identified. Creating external and internal environmental stimuli in the store through an enjoyble shopping experience can create the authenticity, attachment and image of the store brand, which results in increasing market share, creating a strong brand and competitive advantage, and ultimately making the store brand competitive.