Service encounter and repurchase intention in fitness centers: perceived value as a mediator and service innovativeness as a moderator

Purpose: This study examined the relationships between service encounter, perceived value, and repurchase intention in the fitness service sector through the theoretical lens of service-dominant logic. In addition, the mediating role of perceived value and the moderating role of service innovativeness were examined. Design/methodology/approach: Participants (n = 806) were drawn from fitness center customers in Taiwan using a convenience sampling technique. Partial least square structural equation modeling was used to test the hypotheses in the research model. Findings: The results showed that service encounter had a positive impact on perceived value, which in turn affected repurchase intention. Moreover, the full mediating effect of perceived value was identified in the relationship between service encounter and repurchase intention. In addition, service innovativeness positively moderated the effect of service encounter on repurchase intention. Originality/value: This study provides empirical evidence on the impact of staff-customer interactions (i.e. service encounter) on customers' perceptions and behaviors and identifies the critical role of perceived value as a mediating mechanism as well as a facilitating role of service innovativeness in enhancing repurchase intention.