Consumer demand as a driver of improved working conditions: the 'Ergo-Brand' proposition

Ergonomics. 2014;57(8):1113-26. doi: 10.1080/00140139.2014.917203. Epub 2014 May 20.

Abstract

This article develops and explores the 'Ergo-Brand' proposition, which posits that consumers may prefer to buy goods that are made under good working conditions (GWCs). This preference would enhance a differentiation strategy for companies, thereby fostering the application of ergonomics in production. This proposition is developed in the context of a narrative review of the literature on 'ethical consumerism'. This is supplemented with a survey study, conducted in both Canada and Sweden (n = 141) to explore this proposition. Results indicate that consumers would prefer goods made under GWCs, but not unconditionally as quality and price concerns were ranked higher. Access to information on the working conditions in production was seen as a barrier. Nevertheless, the Ergo-Brand concept may be a viable avenue in promoting attention towards ergonomics in companies - particularly if consumer habits are subject to intervention by advertising. Further research on this strategy is warranted.

Keywords: consumer attitudes; ergonomics; ethical consumerism; healthy work conditions; human factors.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Attitude
  • Choice Behavior / ethics*
  • Consumer Behavior*
  • Economic Competition
  • Ergonomics
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Marketing
  • Middle Aged
  • Occupational Health*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Workplace*
  • Young Adult