Organic consumers' personal values research: Testing and validating the list of values (LOV) scale and implementing a value-based segmentation task

The list of values (LOV) typology, which has been extensively used in personal values research, makes the distinction between external (relations-oriented or interpersonal) and internal (self-directed-or personal-and a personal) values. The present survey employs confirmatory factor analysis to test and validate the LOV scale in an organic food consumers' context in Greece. The structure of the LOV scale (external and internal values) is proven to repeat itself in this context. Internal values, such as self-respect and enjoyment of life (personal and apersonal respectively), are found to be the main motivators behind the purchase of organic products in Greece, corresponding to the motives of healthiness and better taste of the organic products. Simultaneously, external (interpersonal) values, such as belonging, corresponding to the motive of environmental protection through organic cultivation, are deemed of lesser importance. Additionally, a value-based segmentation task identified a number of organic-consumer clusters with clear-cut LOV structure, which possibly explains their diversified attitudinal and socio-demographic profile. Finally, valuable insights are offered regarding organic consumers' exploratory food buying behaviour. (c) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.