EBSJ
Vol. 10 No. 2 (2026): Economics and Business Solutions Journal

Influencer Marketing and MSME Product Purchase Decisions: The Role of Consumer Trust

Nanto Purnomo (State University of Malang)
Sudarmiatin (State University of Malang)
Wening Patmi Rahayu (State University of Malang)
Naswan Harsono (State University of Malang)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 Oct 2026

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between influencer marketing and consumers’ purchase decisions regarding micro, small, and medium-sized enterprise (MSME) products, with consumer trust in the promoted product as a mediator. Survey data were obtained from 160 consumers in Lamongan Regency, Indonesia, who had purchased an MSME product after encountering influencer-generated promotional content. The data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Influencer marketing was positively associated with product trust (β = 0.704, p < 0.001), and trust was positively associated with purchase decision (β = 0.415, p < 0.001). Influencer marketing also retained a significant direct relationship with purchase decision (β = 0.382, p < 0.001). The indirect effect through trust was significant (β = 0.292, p < 0.001), supporting partial mediation. By distinguishing trust in the promoted MSME product from trust in the influencer, this study clarifies one pathway through which influencer communication is associated with consumers’ purchase decisions in a local MSME context. The findings suggest that influencer content should be credible, relevant, and informative, while product performance should substantiate the claims communicated.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ebsj

Publisher

Subject

Economics, Econometrics & Finance

Description

Economics and Business Solutions Journal is an International Scientific Journal, published by Fakultas Ekonomi Universitas Semarang (USM), Central Java, Indonesia. Economics and Business Solutions Journal is intended to the national and international scholarly community. The aim of this journal is ...