Sales promotions can offer many consumer benefits, the most
obvious being monetary savings, although consumers also
may be motivated by the desire for quality, convenience, value
expression, exploration and entertainment (Babin et al., 1994;
Hirschman and Holbrook, 1982). These benefits are further
classified as either utilitarian or hedonic (see Chandon et al.,
2000, Table I). Utilitarian benefits are primarily functional
and relatively tangible. They enable consumers to maximise
their shopping utility, efficiency and economy. In general, the
benefits of savings, quality and convenience can be classified
as utilitarian benefits. By contrast, hedonic benefits are more
experiential and relatively intangible, associated as they are
with intrinsic stimulation, fun and pleasure. Consistent with
this definition, the benefits of value expression, exploration
and entertainment can be classified as hedonic benefits.