A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal

Unpacking account-based marketing: Conceptualization, key activities, and performance outcomes




AuthorsSeverini, Simone; Terho, Harri; Mero, Joel; Cardinali, Silvio

PublisherElsevier

Publication year2026

Journal: Industrial Marketing Management

Volume133

First page 148

Last page161

ISSN0019-8501

eISSN1873-2062

DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.indmarman.2026.02.006

Publication's open availability at the time of reportingNo Open Access

Publication channel's open availability Partially Open Access publication channel

Web address https://doi.org/10.1016/j.indmarman.2026.02.006

Self-archived copy’s web addresshttps://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/515819032

Self-archived copy's licenceCC BY NC ND

Self-archived copy's versionFinal draft


Abstract

Account-Based Marketing (ABM) is gaining momentum in business-to-business (B2B) markets, but academic research on the topic remains embryonic. Most existing knowledge on ABM originates from practitioner sources, which often lack theoretical grounding and fail to clearly distinguish ABM from other marketing approaches. Consequently, ambiguity persists regarding the defining characteristics of ABM, the specific activities it entails across the sales process, and the outcomes it is expected to deliver. To address these gaps, this study aims to conceptualize ABM processes by leveraging existing literature and a qualitative Theories-in-Use (TIU) approach across diverse B2B industries. The empirical findings offer three novel contributions: (1) a clear conceptualization of the ABM process and its core activities, (2) structured insights into how these activities vary across different stages of the sales cycle, and (3) ABM framework that explains how ABM can create value for KAM sales process and improve organizational performance. These insights also provide actionable guidance for practitioners seeking to develop and improve ABM within their organizations.


Funding information in the publication
This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.


Last updated on 18/03/2026 09:12:27 AM