Investigating the influence of inherent antisemitic sentiments on engagement in hidden boycotts targeting Israeli goods

This study aims to investigate the relationship between inherent negative sentiments and engagement in ‘hidden’ boycotts. A conceptual framework integrating antisemitic sentiments, consumer animosity, and economic animosity as predictors of hidden boycotts was developed and tested. The study collected data from the UK (N = 305) and Germany (N = 244), confirming that most of the sentiments tested significantly influence intentional behaviour, and highlighting the ‘hidden’ boycott phenomenon. This study contributes to international marketing research by extending the literature on consumer animosity to the context of antisemitism and offering insights into boycott behaviour, with implications, limitations, and future research directions discussed.