An empirical analysis of consumer resistance to smart-lighting products

Abstract

Considering the low market penetration of smart-lighting technology, this study investigates the drivers and consequences of consumer resistance to these innovative lighting products. The paper builds on research on passive and active consumer resistance and on the technology acceptance theory to analyse individuals’ inclination to adopt or reject smart-lighting products. Moreover, the paper evaluates the moderating effects of gender and age. In addition to the influence of passive and active innovation resistance and based on a representative survey of German consumers ( N = 653), the empirical results identify performance expectancy, social pressure and compatibility and health concerns as major determinants of consumer behaviour. Furthermore, the results vary among consumers of different ages and genders. A follow-up study ( N = 115) investigates consumers’ health concerns more deeply. This study provides practical implications and avenues for future research.