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PurposeThe North American fresh potato market has been in decline for over ten years, yet little consumer research has penetrated beyond the factors influencing the purchase decision. The purpose of this study is to provide a deeper understanding of the purchase decision for the fresh potato by exploring the linkages between the choice tactics employed in the store, post‐purchase evaluations in the home and the value orientations motivating consumption.Design/methodology/approachFor this study, semi‐structured focus groups were conducted and analyzed using framework analysis.FindingsThis study presents a choice tactic formation and refinement model for the fresh potato that illustrates a feedback process between in‐home evaluations of the fresh potato and the four choice tactics employed at the point of purchase (potato size, color, shape and size uniformity). Each evaluative outcome related back to one of three value orientations (taste, health and lifestyle). Only two of the value orientations (taste and lifestyle) were found to be influencing the formation and refinement of these choice tactics. Positive and negative evaluative outcomes were also found to be dependent on whether participants thought of the potato as either fresh or prepared.Originality/valueDetailed insights into a feedback process between in‐home evaluations of the fresh potato and the choice tactics employed at the point of purchase.

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