In this equation, a represents the unstandardized path coefficient of a regression of the IV (store image) on the mediator (risk perception), b and c the unstandardized path coefficients of a regression of the mediator and the IV on the DV (consumer attitude). An overview of the Sobel Tests performed to assess the data for mediation is presented in Table 4.
Based on the above, the original conceptual model was adapted. The adapted model is presented in Fig. 2. The new model explains a number of predicted effects. Many terms were found significant and displayed the expected signs. The variables with the largest direct effects on consumers’ attitude towards the store brand were store image and financial risk. A summary of the
propositions and their status is presented in Table 5