International Journal of Tourism and Hospitality in Asia Pasific
Vol 9, No 2 (2026): June 2026

The Impact of In-Store Dining Experience on Brand Attraction and Customer Loyalty: Evidence from IKEA

Gan Kia Hui (INTI International College Penang)
Oh Zi Jian (Kolej Vokasional Batu Lanchang)
Kiara Wong Mann Mann (Universiti Sains Malaysia)
Khor Yong Wen (Universiti Sains Malaysia)
Kong Yi Wen (Universiti Sains Malaysia)
Kua Zi Jian (Universiti Sains Malaysia)
Pratibha Vishnoi (IMS Ghaziabad)
Daisy Mui Hung Kee (Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia)



Article Info

Publish Date
20 Jun 2026

Abstract

This study investigates how in-store dining experience influences brand attraction and customer loyalty in a non-food-dominant retail context, using IKEA as a case study. Grounded in the Stimulus–Organism–Response (SOR) model and Experiential Marketing Theory, the study examines the role of dining experience as a stimulus that shapes brand attraction and subsequent loyalty. A quantitative survey was conducted among 204 IKEA customers in Malaysia, and the data were analysed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. The findings reveal that dining experience has a significant positive effect on brand attraction, while brand attraction strongly predicts customer loyalty. The regression model explains 63.5% of the variance in customer loyalty, with brand attraction emerging as the dominant predictor. These results demonstrate that in-store dining functions as a strategic experiential touchpoint that enhances emotional brand connection and strengthens long-term loyalty. The study provides managerial insights for retailers seeking to leverage dining services to reinforce brand engagement and customer retention.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

IJTHAP

Publisher

Subject

Humanities

Description

IJTHAP aims to enhance theoretical development in the field of hospitality and tourism. In order to promote those innovations and fresh ideas, the journal alsso accepts conceptual research, book review, as well as essays of experience belongs to hospitality practitioners. The mission of IJTHAP is to ...