A critical evaluation of the congruence between brand image and brand identity within the green marketing space

Abstract

Globally, the market for green products and services is worth billions of dollars and is growing year on year at an increasing rate. The following study investigated the congruence between brand image and brand identity within the green marketing space, focusing specifically on Pick ‘n Pay’s Green Line of environmentally friendly household cleaning products.Through interviewing Pick ‘n Pay’s brand manager for their Green Line and one hundred shoppers at Pick ‘n Pay’s on Nicol store in Bryanston, Johannesburg, South Africa, the brand identity and brand image were both respectively characterised. Data was also gathered from the shoppers to allow the brand loyalty and brand equity generated to be determined.This research identified that for Pick ‘n Pay’s Green Line to generate positive brand loyalty and brand equity:<ul><li> A strong alignment between brand image and brand identity must be achieved;</li><li> There must be a strong believability of the green claims made; and</li><li> The credibility (trustworthiness) of the green claims must be sound.</il></ul>A model designed specifically to illustrate and summarise the findings of the research is later presented with the aim of providing brand managers who oversee products with green credentials a quick and simple guide to ensure all is being done to ensure that brand loyalty and brand equity for their products may be maximized.