Experiencing the sense of the brand: the mining, processing and application of brand data through sensory brand experiences

Purpose This paper aims to develop an integrative framework based on a convergence of embodiment, ecological and phenomenological theoretical perspectives to explain the multiple processes involved in the consumers' mining, processing and application of brand-related sensory data through a sensory brand experience (SBE). Design/methodology/approach This research adopts a qualitative method by using face-to-face in-depth interviews (retail managers and customers) and focus group interviews (actual customers) with 34 respondents to investigate SBEs in the context of Chinese shopping malls. Findings Results show that the brand data mined through multisensory cues (visual, auditory, olfactory, tactile and taste) in a brand setting are processed internally as SBEs (involving sensory impressions, fun, interesting, extraordinary, comforting, caring, innovative, pleasant, appealing and convenient), which influence key variables in customer-brand relationships including customer satisfaction, brand attachment and customer lovemarks. Originality/value This study has implications for current theory on experiential marketing, branding, consumer-brand relationships, consumer psychology and customer experience management.