Effects of color-typeface congruence on product evaluation

Abstract

Product packaging is important for attracting consumer attention and creating expectations regarding a product, both of which can influence product evaluation. A key issue in package design is the coordinated selection of multiple package elements. This study investigates whether and when congruence between color and typeface in a product package can improve product evaluation. To this end, we analyze color and typeface on product packages based on semiotics and marketing, propose a conceptual model for the role of color-typeface congruence, and conduct three empirical studies that test the hypotheses implied from our model. Study 1 shows that color-typeface congruence is positively related to product evaluation. In Study 2, processing fluency is identified as a link between color-typeface congruence and product evaluation. Finally, Study 3 establishes the moderating role of design sensitivity in the relationship between processing fluency and product evaluation. Our findings contribute to more effective marketing communication for marketers and retailers through packaging.