Can refurbished products feel like antiques? The role of the neoretro design style on consumers' evaluation of refurbished products

Theresa Wallner, Lise Magnier, Ruth Mugge

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceedings/Edited volumeConference contributionScientificpeer-review

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Abstract

This research explores a new pathway to improve consumer acceptance of refurbished products that is inspired by the positive evocations of other used products, such as antique products. Currently, the
prior use and age of refurbished products make them a less desirable option because they are perceived to be of lower quality, to have a reduced performance and to be out of fashion more quickly
than new products. In contrast, antiques are associated with durability, uniqueness and timelessness despite their prior use and considerable age.
In 21 in-depth interviews with consumers, we compared refurbished products with antiques and explored whether refurbished products with a design style evoking the past – the neo-retro style – can
lead to more positive associations than refurbished products with a prototypical design style. Our findings provided preliminary support for the value of a neo-retro design style for improving
consumers' evaluations of refurbished products. Refurbished products and antiques differ in age, technology and the purpose of having them. Antiques have an emotional value and are kept because
of the story and historic values, the appearance and/or durability; refurbished products are kept for purely functional reasons. Similar to antiques, refurbished products following a neo-retro design style
do not only evoke more positive associations with old products, such as feelings of nostalgia but can also decrease risks associated with refurbished products as they are perceived to be of higher quality
and more durable than refurbished products following a prototypical design style
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication3rd PLATE 2019 Conference Berlin, Germany
EditorsNils F. Nissen, Melanie Jaeger-Erben
Pages825-834
ISBN (Electronic)978-3-7983-3125-9
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2019
EventPLATE 2019 - Berlin, Germany
Duration: 18 Sept 201920 Sept 2019
https://www.plateconference.org/

Conference

ConferencePLATE 2019
Abbreviated titlePLATE
Country/TerritoryGermany
CityBerlin
Period18/09/1920/09/19
Internet address

Keywords

  • Refurbishment
  • Neo-retro design style
  • Antiques
  • Consumer response
  • Circular economy

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