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Product Life Cycle and Pricing Strategies

The document discusses two topics: product life cycles and pricing strategies. Regarding product life cycles, it describes the four main stages (introduction, growth, maturity, decline) that most products go through. It notes that not all products follow this exact pattern and that companies may employ strategies to extend the cycle. For pricing strategies, it outlines seven common approaches (cost-plus, market-oriented, skimming, penetration, dynamic, bundle, psychological) and provides examples to illustrate how each strategy is implemented.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
49 views14 pages

Product Life Cycle and Pricing Strategies

The document discusses two topics: product life cycles and pricing strategies. Regarding product life cycles, it describes the four main stages (introduction, growth, maturity, decline) that most products go through. It notes that not all products follow this exact pattern and that companies may employ strategies to extend the cycle. For pricing strategies, it outlines seven common approaches (cost-plus, market-oriented, skimming, penetration, dynamic, bundle, psychological) and provides examples to illustrate how each strategy is implemented.

Uploaded by

anupareek1301
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

1.

Product Life cycle


The product life cycle (PLC) is a concept that describes the various stages a product goes through
from its introduction to the market until its eventual decline and withdrawal. The PLC is a valuable
tool for marketers and product managers to understand and plan for the challenges and
opportunities associated with each stage. The typical product life cycle consists of four main stages:
1. Introduction: (A period of slow sales growth as the product is introduced in the market.
Profits are non-existent because of the heavy expenses of product introduction.)
 Characteristics: This is the stage when a new product is introduced to the market.
 Sales: Sales are initially slow as consumers become aware of the product and its
benefits.
 Profits: Profits are usually low or negative due to high initial development and
marketing costs.
 Marketing Focus: Marketing efforts are focused on creating awareness and
promoting the unique features of the product.

2. Growth☹(A period of rapid market acceptance and substantial profit improvement)


 Characteristics: During this stage, the product gains acceptance in the market, and
sales and profits start to increase.
 Sales: Sales grow at an accelerating rate as more customers adopt the product.
 Profits: Profits increase as economies of scale are realized, and marketing efforts
continue to drive demand.
 Marketing Focus: Competition increases, and marketing efforts focus on building
brand loyalty and market share.
3. Maturity:( A slow down in sales growth because the product has achieved acceptance by
most potential buyer. Profits stabilized or decline because of increased competition)
 Characteristics: The product reaches its peak level of acceptance, and sales growth
begins to slow.
 Sales: Sales continue but at a decreasing rate as the market becomes saturated.
 Profits: Profits may stabilize or decline due to increased competition and marketing
expenses.
 Marketing Focus: Marketing efforts shift to maintaining market share, cost control,
and potentially extending the product's life through product modifications or finding
new uses.
4. Decline: ( sales how a downward drift, and profits erode)
 Characteristics: Sales and profits decline as the product faces increased competition,
changing consumer preferences, or technological advancements.
 Sales: Sales decrease, and the product becomes less popular in the market.
 Profits: Profits decline or may become negative as companies may consider
discontinuing the product.
 Marketing Focus: Companies may decide to phase out the product or reposition it in
the market. Efforts may also focus on cost-cutting and managing the decline
gracefully.

It's important to note that not all products follow this exact life cycle, and the duration of each stage
can vary significantly depending on factors such as industry, competition, and technological
advancements. Additionally, companies may employ strategies to extend the life cycle of a product,
such as introducing product variations, finding new markets, or investing in product innovation.
2.Pricing Strategies
Pricing strategies refer to the methods and approaches businesses use to set the price of their
products or services. The choice of a pricing strategy can significantly impact a company's
profitability, market positioning, and overall success. Here are some common pricing strategies,
along with examples:
1. Cost-Plus Pricing:
 Definition: Set the price based on the cost of production plus a markup for profit.
Cost plus pricing is a straightforward method where you calculate the total cost of
producing a product or delivering a service, and then add a markup or profit margin
on top of that cost. The markup is usually a percentage of the cost, and it allows
businesses to cover their expenses and make a profit. This pricing strategy is often
used when the costs involved in producing or delivering a product/service are
known and stable. It's a simple and transparent approach that helps businesses
ensure they are adequately compensated for their efforts
 Example: If it costs a company $20 to produce a product, and they want a 50%
markup, the selling price would be $30 ($20 cost + $10 markup).
2. Market-Oriented Pricing:
 Definition: Set the price based on market conditions, taking into account customer
demand, competitor prices, and overall market dynamics. Market-oriented pricing,
also known as customer-oriented pricing or value-based pricing, is a pricing strategy
that focuses on setting prices based on the perceived value of a product or service
from the customer's perspective. In other words, it considers what customers are
willing to pay for the benefits and value they receive rather than focusing solely on
production costs or competitor prices.
 Key elements: customer value perception, market research and analysis,
differentiation and positioning, flexible pricing model
 Example: If a new smartphone enters the market and is priced similarly to other
smartphones with similar features and capabilities, it follows a market-oriented
pricing strategy.
3. Skimming Pricing:
 Definition: Skimming pricing is a pricing strategy where a company sets a high initial
price for a product or service and then gradually lowers it over time. This strategy is
often employed when a company introduces a new and innovative product to the
market and aims to capitalize on the willingness of early adopters to pay a premium
Set a high initial price to maximize revenue from the segment willing to pay a
premium. Over time, the price is lowered to attract more price-sensitive customers.
 Key element: High initial pricing, targeting early adopter, maximizing profit
 Example: When a new gaming console is launched, the initial price might be high to
attract early adopters who are willing to pay a premium. As the product matures,
the price is reduced to reach a broader customer base.
4. Penetration Pricing:
 Definition: Penetration pricing is a pricing strategy where a company sets a
relatively low initial price for a product or service with the intention of quickly
gaining market share. The goal is to attract a large number of customers by offering a
competitive price, often below the production cost, and then gradually increasing
the price as the product gains acceptance in the market. Set a low initial price to
quickly capture market share. The price may be increased later.
 Key elements: low initial price, competitive advantage, gradual price increase,
 Example: A new streaming service may offer a low subscription fee initially to attract
a large customer base quickly. Once a substantial market share is attained, prices
might be increased.
5. Dynamic Pricing:
 Definition: Dynamic pricing, also known as surge pricing or time-based
pricing, is a flexible pricing strategy where the cost of a product or service is
adjusted in real-time based on various factors such as demand, supply,
competitor pricing, and market conditions. This approach allows businesses to
optimize prices dynamically to maximize revenue and adapt to changing
circumstances. Adjust prices in real-time based on various factors such as demand,
time of day, customer demographics, and competitor pricing.
 Key elements: real time adjustment, factor influencing , personalization ,
ecommerce and travel industry adoption
 Example: Airlines and hotels often use dynamic pricing, where the cost of a ticket or
room can vary based on the time of booking, demand, and other factors.
6. Bundle Pricing:
 Definition: Bundle pricing is a pricing strategy in which multiple products or
services are combined and offered as a package at a single, reduced price
compared to the total cost of purchasing each item individually. This strategy
aims to encourage customers to buy more by providing them with a
perceived value and cost savings when purchasing items together. Combine
multiple products or services into a package and sell them at a lower price than the
sum of their individual prices.
 Element: Single Price, Combining Products or Services
 Example: Fast-food restaurants often offer combo meals, where customers can buy
a burger, fries, and a drink together at a lower price than if they purchased each
item separately.
7. Psychological Pricing:
 Definition: Psychological pricing is a pricing strategy that focuses on setting
prices to influence consumer perceptions and behaviour. This strategy
recognizes the psychological factors that impact how customers perceive the
value of a product or service and aims to leverage these factors to encourage
buying decisions. Psychological pricing involves setting prices that create a
certain perception in the minds of consumers, influencing their judgment and
willingness to make a purchase. Set prices to influence customers' perceptions of
the product, using techniques such as charm pricing (ending prices in 99 cents) or
prestige pricing (setting high prices to convey quality or exclusivity).
 Element: Pricing Endings, Reference Pricing Limited-Time Offers
 Example: Selling a product for $9.99 instead of $10.00 to create the perception that
the price is in the single digits.
8. Value-Based Pricing:
 Definition: value-based pricing is a pricing strategy where the price of a
product or service is determined by the perceived value it provides to the
customer. Instead of setting prices based solely on production costs or
competitor prices, value-based pricing takes into account the value that
customers place on the benefits and features of the offering. This approach
aligns the price with the customer's willingness to pay for the unique value
proposition. Set prices based on the perceived value of the product or service to
the customer.
 Key: Focus on Benefits and Feature, Willingness to Pay Segmentation
 Example: Luxury brands often use value-based pricing. The price of a high-end
handbag is determined not just by production costs but by the perceived value of
the brand and its exclusivity.
9. Premium Pricing:
 Definition: Premium pricing is a pricing strategy where a business sets the
price of its product or service higher than the prices of competing products or
services. This strategy is employed when a company wants to position itself as
offering a higher-quality, more exclusive, or uniquely valuable product, and it
believes that customers are willing to pay a premium for these perceived
advantages Set a high price to reflect the perceived quality, exclusivity, or unique
features of a product or service.
 Key: Higher Price Point, Brand Image, Limited Distribution, Luxury and
Exclusivity
 Example: Apple's iPhone is often priced at a premium compared to other
smartphones in the market. The higher price is justified by the brand's reputation for
quality, design, and innovation.
10. Discount Pricing:
 Definition: Discount pricing is a pricing strategy in which a business sets the
price of its products or services below the regular or standard market price.
This strategy involves offering price reductions or discounts to customers, and
it can be used for various purposes such as increasing sales, attracting new
customers, clearing inventory, or responding to market competition. Set a
lower price than usual to stimulate sales or attract price-sensitive customers.
 Key: Reduced Price Points Bulk Purchase Discounts, Customer Loyalty
Programs
 Example: During holiday sales or clearance events, retailers often use discount
pricing. For instance, a clothing store may offer a 20% discount on winter coats to
encourage quick sales before the end of the season.
11. Going Rate Pricing:
 Definition: Going rate pricing is a pricing strategy in which a business sets
the price of its product or service based on the prevailing market prices. In
this approach, the business aligns its pricing with the prices charged by
competitors or the overall market average. Going rate pricing is particularly
common in industries where products or services are relatively standardized,
and customers have well-established expectations regarding pricing. Set prices
in line with competitors in the market, often based on the average or prevailing
prices.
 Key: Competitive Pricing, Industry Norms, Price Leadership or
Followership
 Example: In the airline industry, many carriers offer similar routes, and their ticket
prices are often competitive. One airline may set its prices in line with what other
airlines are charging for similar flights.
12. Break Even Pricing:
 Definition: Break-even pricing is a pricing strategy where a business sets the
price of its product or service at a level that covers all its costs, resulting in
neither a profit nor a loss. The goal of break-even pricing is to determine the
minimum price at which the business can cover its total costs, including both
fixed and variable costs. Set prices to cover all costs and reach the break-even
point where total revenue equals total costs.
 Key: Break-Even Point, variable and fixed cost, no profit no loss, short
term focus
 Example: A software company that has incurred significant development costs for a
new application may set the initial price to cover these costs and reach the break-
even point within a certain timeframe.
13. Target Pricing:
 Definition: Target pricing is a pricing strategy where a business sets the price
of its product or service based on a predetermined target profit margin.
Unlike break-even pricing, which aims to cover all costs without generating a
profit, target pricing involves establishing a specific profit margin that the
business aims to achieve and then determining the price accordingly. Set prices
based on a specific target, such as a desired profit margin or a particular market
share.
 Key: Profit Margin as a Goal, Cost-Plus Approach, Customer Value
Proposition
 Example: A company may decide that it wants to achieve a 20% profit margin on a
new product. The pricing strategy would involve setting the product price to achieve
this specific profit goal.
14. Marginal Cost Pricing:
 Definition: Marginal cost pricing is a pricing strategy where a business sets
the price of its product or service based on the marginal cost of producing
one additional unit. The marginal cost is the additional cost incurred when
producing one more unit, taking into account variable costs but not fixed
costs. This pricing strategy is often associated with short-term decision-
making and aims to maximize contribution margin. Set prices based on the
variable costs associated with producing an additional unit of a product.
 Key: Flexible Pricing, Temporary Cost Recovery, Short-Term Decision
Making
 Example: In the manufacturing industry, if producing an additional unit of a product
incurs only variable costs (direct materials, direct labor, and variable overhead), the
company might use marginal cost pricing to determine the price for that unit.

Companies may use a combination of these pricing strategies depending on their business goals, the
characteristics of their products or services, and the competitive landscape in which they operate.
The choice of a pricing strategy should align with the overall marketing and business strategy of the
company.
2. Different concept of marketing:
1. Ans: Production Concept:
 Focus: The production concept focuses on the efficiency of manufacturing processes
and affordability of the product. It assumes that consumers will favor products that
are widely available and inexpensive . The primary goal is to achieve high production
and wide distribution, which should in turn lower costs and make the product
accessible to a large number of consumers. Production concept might overlook the
importance of meeting specific customer needs and preference Emphasizes
efficiency in production and distribution, assuming that consumers prioritize
products that are widely available and affordable.
 Example: In the early days of the automotive industry, Henry Ford's production line
for the Model T epitomized the production concept. The goal was to produce cars in
large quantities at a low cost, making them accessible to the masses.
2. Product Concept:
 Focus: The product concept emphasizes on creating highquality products that offer
unique features or benefits. This concept believes that customers will prefer
products that have exceptional features, performance, or innovation. This concept
focuses on continuous product improvement and innovation. This concept may lead
to high production costs and possibly overengineering. Centers around the belief
that consumers favor products with superior features, quality, or innovation.
 Example: Apple is known for its product concept approach. The company
consistently introduces innovative and high-quality products, such as the iPhone,
MacBook, and iPad, with a focus on design and cutting-edge technology.
3. Selling Concept:
 Focus: Believers of selling concept advocates that consumers will not buy enough of
a product unless brands does not put significant promotional efforts and sales
techniques are used. Businesses adopting this concept typically have a more
aggressive and persuasive approach to marketing. They prioritize sales transactions
and aim to convince customers to buy through intensive advertising and sales
promotions. While this approach can generate short-term sales, it might not build
strong customer relationships and loyalty if the focus is solely on pushing products
onto customer. Assumes that consumers won't buy enough of a product unless it is
actively promoted and sold to them.
 Example: Timeshare companies often rely on the selling concept, employing
aggressive sales tactics to convince potential customers to purchase vacation
ownership during sales presentations.
4. Marketing Concept:
 Focus: The marketing concept focuses on understanding and satisfying customer
needs by creating, communicating & delivering value for them. Businesses which
follow this concept focus on creating & delivering products and services that meet
their needs and preferences. The concept involves market research, segmentation,
targeting, and positioning to tailor products and marketing efforts to specific
customer segments. By placing the customer at the centre of decision-making,
businesses can build long-term customer relationships and loyalty. Centers on
understanding and satisfying customer needs and wants. The key to success is
identifying and fulfilling customer needs better than the competition.
 Example: Procter & Gamble (P&G) is known for its marketing concept approach.
P&G conducts extensive market research to understand consumer preferences and
uses this information to develop and market products that meet those needs.
5. Societal Marketing Concept:
 Focus: The societal marketing concept builds upon the marketing concept by also
considering the well-being of society and the environment. It emphasizes not only
satisfying customer needs but also ensuring that the company's actions have a
positive impact on society as a whole. This concept takes into account ethical
considerations, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility when making
marketing decisions Balances customer satisfaction with the best interests of
society, considering ethical and environmental factors.
 Example: TOMS Shoes operates on the societal marketing concept. For every pair of
shoes sold, TOMS donates a pair to a child in need. This not only satisfies customer
needs but also contributes to societal well-being.

These marketing concepts represent different approaches to how companies view and interact with
their markets. Over time, the marketing concept and societal marketing concept have gained
prominence as businesses recognize the importance of customer satisfaction, long-term
relationships, and social responsibility. Companies often integrate aspects of multiple concepts into
their overall marketing strategies, adapting to changing consumer preferences and societal values.

3. Environment:
Ans: The marketing environment refers to the external factors and forces that affect a company's
ability to develop and maintain successful relationships with its target customers. Understanding the
marketing environment is crucial for making informed business decisions and adapting to changes in
the external environment. The marketing environment can be broadly classified into two categories:
the microenvironment and the macroenvironment.
1. Microenvironment:
 Definition: The microenvironment consists of factors close to the company that directly
impact its ability to serve its customers The microenvironment includes factors that are
closer to the company and have a direct impact on its operations and relationships. These
factors are generally within the company's control or influence.
 Examples:
 Customers: Understanding customer needs and preferences is essential. For
example, a smartphone company might conduct surveys and gather feedback to
align product features with customer expectations.
 Suppliers: Dependable and cost-effective suppliers contribute to a company's
efficiency. If a restaurant relies on local farmers for fresh produce, the availability
and quality of these supplies become crucial.
 Intermediaries: Channels such as retailers, distributors, and wholesalers play a role
in getting products to customers. A manufacturer may need to collaborate with
distributors to reach various markets effectively.
 Competitors: competitors' actions and strategies, competition level etc
 Stakeholders: as investors, employees, and local communities etc
2. Macroenvironment:
 Definition: The macroenvironment comprises broader societal forces that impact the
company indirectly. The macroenvironment comprises broader societal and external factors
that are beyond a company's direct control but have a significant impact on its operations
and marketing strategies
 Examples:
 Demographic Factors: Population characteristics such as age, gender, income, and
education can influence consumer behaviour. A company producing luxury goods
may target a demographic with higher disposable income.
 Economic Factors: Economic conditions, such as inflation, unemployment, and
interest rates, affect consumer spending. During an economic downturn, consumers
may be more price-sensitive, impacting purchasing decisions.
 Technological Factors: Advances in technology can create new opportunities or
disrupt existing industries. A tech company that stays abreast of technological trends
can gain a competitive advantage.
 Social and Cultural Factors: Societal values, customs, and cultural trends impact
consumer preferences. For instance, a clothing brand may need to consider cultural
sensitivities when entering a new international market.
 Political and Legal Factors: Government policies, regulations, and political stability
can influence business operations. Changes in tax laws or import/export regulations
may impact international businesses.
 Environmental Factors: Growing environmental awareness influences consumer
choices. Companies adopting eco-friendly practices may attract environmentally
conscious consumers.

Example:Consider a company in the electric vehicle (EV) industry:


 Microenvironment:
 Customers: Understanding consumer preferences for features, range, and
affordability in EVs is crucial for product development.
 Suppliers: Reliable suppliers of batteries and other components are essential for
manufacturing quality electric vehicles.
 Intermediaries: Collaborating with dealerships, charging station providers, and
online sales platforms to effectively reach and serve customers.
 Macroenvironment:
 Demographic Factors: Targeting demographics with an interest in sustainability and
technology, such as environmentally conscious urban dwellers or tech enthusiasts.
 Technological Factors: Keeping pace with advancements in battery technology and
connectivity to offer competitive and innovative EV models.
 Political and Legal Factors: Adhering to government regulations on emissions, safety
standards, and incentives for electric vehicles.
 Environmental Factors: Addressing environmental concerns and promoting the eco-
friendly aspects of electric vehicles in marketing campaigns.

By analyzing and adapting to these micro- and macroenvironmental factors, the EV company can
better position itself in the market and respond to changing conditions. This illustrates the dynamic
nature of the marketing environment and the importance of staying attuned to external influences.

4. Market Segmentation
Ans: Market segmentation is the process of dividing a market into distinct groups of buyers with
similar needs, characteristics, or behaviors. This allows companies to tailor their marketing strategies
and offerings to specific segments, improving the effectiveness of their campaigns. Here are
explanations and examples of four common segmentation bases:
1. Geographic Segmentation:
 Definition: Dividing a market based on geographical criteria such as location,
climate, region, or population density.
 Example: An ice cream company might use geographic segmentation to offer
different flavors based on climate. For instance, they might promote tropical flavors
in warmer regions and focus on warm, comforting flavors in colder areas.
2. Demographic Segmentation:
 Definition: Dividing a market based on demographic factors like age, gender,
income, education, marital status, or occupation.
 Example: A life insurance company might use demographic segmentation to target a
specific age group, such as individuals aged 50 and above, with products tailored to
their financial and coverage needs.
3. Psychographic Segmentation:
 Definition: Dividing a market based on lifestyle, values, interests, personality traits,
or psychological characteristics.
 Example: A fitness apparel brand might use psychographic segmentation to target
health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers who value sustainability.
Their marketing messages and products would align with these consumers' values
and interests.
4. Behavioral Segmentation:
 Definition: Dividing a market based on consumer behavior, such as usage patterns,
brand loyalty, benefits sought, or response to marketing stimuli.
 Example: A smartphone company might use behavioral segmentation to target
heavy users who frequently upgrade their devices. They may offer loyalty programs,
exclusive features, or early access to new models to retain and attract this segment.

Combining Segmentation Bases (Example):


 Example: An upscale fitness club might use a combination of segmentation bases.
 Geographic: Located in affluent neighborhoods or business districts.
 Demographic: Targets individuals with high incomes, aged 25-50, with a college
education.
 Psychographic: Appeals to health-conscious individuals who prioritize premium
facilities, personalized training, and a sense of exclusivity.
 Behavioral: Offers tiered memberships based on usage patterns, with exclusive
perks for long-term members.

By employing multiple segmentation bases, companies can create more nuanced and targeted
marketing strategies. It's important to note that the effectiveness of segmentation depends on the
relevance of the chosen criteria to the specific product or service and the unique characteristics of
the target market.

5. Market segementation:
Marketing segmentation is the process of dividing a broad target market into smaller, more
manageable segments based on similar characteristics, needs, or behaviors. The goal is to better
understand and cater to the distinct preferences of different customer groups. Market segmentation
is the process of dividing a market of potential customer into groups, or segments , based in the
different characteristics. The segments created are composed of consumers who will respond
similarly to marketing strategies and who share traits such as similar interest , needs and location.
Role of Marketing Segmentation in Business:
1. Targeted Marketing:
 Benefit: Enables businesses to tailor their marketing efforts to specific customer
segments.
 Example: A company can create personalized advertisements, promotions, and
product features that resonate with the preferences of a particular segment.
2. Improved Customer Satisfaction:
 Benefit: By understanding and meeting the unique needs of different segments,
businesses can enhance customer satisfaction.
 Example: A mobile phone manufacturer offering different models for various
segments, such as budget-friendly options for price-sensitive customers and high-
end models for tech enthusiasts.
3. Resource Allocation Efficiency:
 Benefit: Helps allocate resources more efficiently by focusing on segments with the
greatest potential for profitability.
 Example: Instead of using a one-size-fits-all approach, a clothing retailer might stock
different inventory in stores located in urban areas versus suburban areas based on
the preferences of each segment.
4. Market Expansion:
 Benefit: Allows businesses to identify new and underserved segments, leading to
opportunities for market expansion.
 Example: A beverage company may discover a growing demand for healthier drinks
among a specific demographic and introduce a new product to cater to this
segment.
5. Competitive Advantage:
 Benefit: Provides a competitive edge by offering products and services that are
more aligned with the needs of specific segments.
 Example: A hotel chain may differentiate itself by catering to different segments,
such as business travelers, families, and luxury seekers, with customized amenities
and services.
6. Brand Loyalty:
 Benefit: Building stronger connections with customers in specific segments can
foster brand loyalty.
 Example: A skincare brand offering products tailored to different skin types and
concerns can create a loyal customer base by addressing diverse skincare needs.
7. Adaptation to Market Changes:
 Benefit: Allows businesses to adapt quickly to changing market conditions by
understanding the evolving needs and preferences of various segments.
 Example: A technology company staying responsive to changing consumer
behaviors by adjusting product features and marketing strategies for different user
segments.

In essence, marketing segmentation helps businesses refine their marketing strategies, enhance
customer relationships, and stay agile in a dynamic marketplace. By recognizing and responding to
the diversity within their target market, businesses can position themselves for long-term success.

6. Market positioning:
Ans: Positioning refers to the process of establishing a distinct and desirable image or perception of a
product, brand, service, or company in the minds of consumers relative to competitors in the market.
It involves defining and communicating a unique selling proposition (USP) or value proposition that
differentiates the offering from others and makes it more appealing to the target audience.
Elements of positioning
Identify the specific group of consumers the product or brand is intended for. ➢ Evaluate the
strengths and weaknesses of competitors to find a unique and unmet need in the market. ➢ Clearly
defining the unique benefits and qualities that make the product or brand stand out. ➢ consistent
and compelling communication that communicates the positioning to the target audience. ➢
appropriate marketing channels and tactics to effectively convey the desired positioning to
consumers
3cs customer, competitor and communication
Different positioning strategies
Positioning is the process of creating an image or identity for a product or brand in the minds of the
target audience. Different positioning strategies help companies establish a distinct and desirable
place in the market. Here are several positioning strategies, each explained with an example:
1. Value-Based Positioning:
 Definition: Emphasizes the value proposition of a product or brand, highlighting the
benefits customers receive for the price paid.
 Example: Walmart positions itself as a value-based retailer, offering everyday low
prices on a wide range of products, appealing to cost-conscious consumers.
2. Price Positioning:
 Definition: Positions the product based on a balance of quality and price, often
comparing favourably with competitors. It focusses on pricing. It involves
emphasizing a product's affordability, luxury, or value for money.
 Example: Toyota positions its vehicles as reliable and well-made, providing good
quality at affordable prices compared to luxury brands.
3. Product Attribute Positioning:
 Definition: Focuses on specific product features or attributes to differentiate from
competitors.
 Example: Subway positions itself with the attribute of customization, allowing
customers to choose ingredients for their sandwiches, highlighting freshness and
individual preferences.
4. Competitor-Based Positioning:
 Definition: Positions the product by comparing it directly to competitors, often
highlighting superiority or unique features.
 Example: Pepsi positions itself as a direct competitor to Coca-Cola, often using
advertising campaigns that compare the two cola brands based on taste preference.
5. Cultural Symbol Positioning:
 Definition: Links the product to cultural symbols or lifestyle, aligning with the values
and aspirations of the target audience.
 Example: Apple positions its products as sleek, innovative, and designed for a
creative and tech-savvy lifestyle, creating a strong cultural association with its brand.
6. Benefit Positioning:
 Definition: Focuses on the unique benefits or solutions a product provides to
consumers.
 Example: Crest toothpaste positions itself with the benefit of "Whiter Teeth in One
Week," appealing to consumers seeking a visible improvement in tooth color.
7. Emotional Positioning:
 Definition: Connects the brand with emotions, feelings, or experiences to create a
strong emotional bond with consumers.
 Example: Nike positions itself with the emotional tagline "Just Do It," inspiring a
sense of empowerment, motivation, and achievement.
8. User Category Positioning:
 Definition: Targets a specific user category or demographic, tailoring the product to
meet the needs and preferences of that group.
 Example: Barbie positions itself as a doll brand primarily for young girls, offering a
range of dolls and accessories that align with the interests of this demographic.
7. Holistic marketing concept:
Ans: Holistic marketing emphasizes a comprehensive and integrated perspective that aligns all
aspects of the organization to create a unified and consistent customer experience. This concept is
especially relevant in today's complex and interconnected business environment. Holistic marketing
is an approach that considers the entire business and all its parts as interconnected and integrated in
the pursuit of marketing activities. It involves recognizing and addressing the interdependencies
between different marketing elements to create a unified and positive customer experience. Holistic
marketing encompasses internal and external stakeholders, emphasizing long-term relationships and
sustainable practices.
1. Internal Marketing:
 Definition: Focuses on aligning and motivating employees with the brand's values
and goals, ensuring they understand and deliver the intended customer experience.
 Example: Zappos, an online shoe and clothing retailer, is known for its strong
internal culture. The company prioritizes employee satisfaction and engagement,
fostering a workplace where employees are aligned with the brand's customer-
centric values. This internal harmony contributes to a positive external customer
experience.
2. Integrated Marketing:
 Definition: Involves coordinating and integrating various marketing elements and
channels to deliver a consistent and unified message to the target audience.
 Example: Coca-Cola's "Share a Coke" campaign is an example of integrated
marketing. The campaign utilized personalized packaging with individual names,
extensive social media engagement, television ads, and even personalized vending
machines. The unified message across diverse channels created a seamless and
memorable customer experience.
3. Relationship Marketing:
 Definition: Focuses on building and maintaining long-term relationships with
customers by understanding and fulfilling their needs over time.
 Example: Starbucks exemplifies relationship marketing by creating a loyalty program
(Starbucks Rewards) that offers personalized rewards, discounts, and free items
based on customer preferences and purchase history. This strategy encourages
repeat business and enhances the overall customer experience.
4. Performance Marketing:
 Definition: Involves using measurable and data-driven marketing strategies to
optimize and demonstrate the performance and effectiveness of marketing
campaigns.
 Example: Amazon's performance marketing is evident through its use of data
analytics to track user behaviour, preferences, and purchase history. Amazon uses
this data to provide personalized recommendations, targeted advertisements, and a
seamless shopping experience, ultimately improving customer satisfaction and
increasing sales.

These types of holistic marketing work together to create a comprehensive and customer-centric
approach. By integrating internal culture, coordinating marketing efforts, building relationships, and
leveraging data-driven strategies, businesses can enhance their overall brand image and deliver a
positive and cohesive experience for customers.
8.Market Segmentation is divided into 4 parts:
1. Geographic: nation, region, states, countries, cities.
2.Demographic: age, gender, family size, family life cycle, income, occupation, education, religion,
race, generation, nationality.
3. Psychographic: Social class, lifestyle or personality traits.
4. Behavioral: Knowledge, attitudes, uses or responses to product

8. Difference between social concept and marketing concept:


The selling concept and the marketing concept are two different approaches to business
philosophy and strategy. Here are the key differences between them:
1. Focus on Customer Needs:
 Selling Concept: The selling concept places a greater emphasis on the
product and its features. The primary focus is on selling what the company
produces rather than understanding and satisfying customer needs.
 Marketing Concept: The marketing concept, in contrast, centers around
understanding and meeting customer needs and wants. It starts with
identifying customer needs and then aligning the company's offerings to
fulfill those needs.
2. Customer Orientation:
 Selling Concept: The selling concept is more company-centric, with an
orientation towards pushing products onto customers. It assumes that
customers need to be persuaded to buy a product.
 Marketing Concept: The marketing concept is customer-centric, with a focus
on building relationships and delivering superior customer value. It believes
that satisfied customers will lead to repeat business and positive word-of-
mouth.
3. Approach to Selling:
 Selling Concept: The approach is transactional, emphasizing the act of selling
and closing deals. The goal is to maximize sales volume, often through
aggressive sales techniques.
 Marketing Concept: The approach is relationship-oriented, aiming to build
long-term relationships with customers. The focus is on creating customer
satisfaction and loyalty.
4. Product vs. Market Focus:
 Selling Concept: The emphasis is on the product and its features. The
assumption is that a good product will sell itself, and marketing efforts
primarily revolve around selling what the company produces.
 Marketing Concept: The emphasis is on the market and customer needs.
Companies seek to understand the target market, tailor products to meet
specific customer needs, and create a value proposition that sets them apart.
5. Profit through Sales Volume vs. Customer Satisfaction:
 Selling Concept: Profit is achieved through maximizing sales volume. The
focus is on pushing as many units as possible, even if it means heavy
promotion or discounting.
 Marketing Concept: Profit is seen as a result of customer satisfaction. By
delivering value to customers and meeting their needs, businesses aim to
build customer loyalty, which leads to repeat business and sustained
profitability.
6. Role of Marketing:
 Selling Concept: Marketing is often viewed as a tool for promoting and selling
products. It involves advertising, personal selling, and other promotional
activities to convince customers to buy.
 Marketing Concept: Marketing is seen as a holistic, customer-oriented
function that involves market research, product development, pricing
strategies, and promotion. It is about creating, communicating, and delivering
value to customers.

In summary, while the selling concept revolves around pushing products to customers
through aggressive sales tactics, the marketing concept is centered on understanding
customer needs, creating customer value, and building long-term relationships. The
marketing concept represents a more modern and customer-focused approach to business.

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