BRAND PERCEPTION AS A DRIVER OF CONSUMER PATRONAGE: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF CONSUMER CONTENTMENT IN NIGERIA'S FASHION INDUSTRY
Abstract
In today's rapidly evolving commercial environment, a brand has transformed from a simple identifier into a strategic pillar for value creation and sustained competitive advantage. For Nigerian businesses, a robust brand not only cultivates consumer trust but also facilitates easier identification and connection with the company's offerings. Central to this dynamic is brand perception, which represents the consumer's holistic understanding and evaluation of a product or service, thereby influencing the organization's public standing. This consumer perception is intrinsically linked to consumer contentment, a cornerstone of effective marketing strategy. This study investigates the nexus between brand perception and customer loyalty, specifically examining the mediating influence of consumer satisfaction within the vibrant Nigerian fashion sector. The objective is to ascertain how positive brand perception fosters enduring customer relationships and to what extent satisfaction acts as a pivotal force in this process. The findings contribute to the growing body of marketing literature within the Sub-Saharan African context and offer practical insights for businesses seeking to build resilient brand equity in Nigeria.