Definition
Shopping Products are consumer goods that require significant effort in terms of time, concentration, and research to make a well-informed purchase decision. Consumers engage in a detailed evaluation and comparative analysis of these products based on their features, quality, price, and other relevant aspects before making a purchase. Such products are typically more expensive, less frequently purchased, and involve a higher level of risk or reward compared to convenience products.
Examples
- Electronics: Items such as smartphones, laptops, and televisions require consumers to compare technical specifications, read reviews, and shop around for the best deals.
- Cars: Purchasing a car involves test drives, comparing different makes and models, assessing fuel efficiency, and considering financing options.
- Home Appliances: Major home appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers are high-involvement purchases, necessitating comparisons in brand reliability, features, warranties, and energy efficiency.
- Furniture: Buying furniture often involves considerations of style, material quality, comfort, and longevity, alongside price.
- Travel Packages: Selecting vacation destinations, hotel accommodations, and travel itineraries typically requires extensive research and comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions
What differentiates shopping products from convenience products?
Convenience products are those that consumers buy frequently and with minimal effort, such as groceries or personal care items. Shopping products, on the other hand, require extensive research, comparison, and time, as they are often higher in cost and have significant implications for the buyer.
Why do consumers spend more time on shopping products?
Because shopping products involve higher costs and more complexity, consumers need to ensure that they get the best value for their money and that the product meets their specific needs and expectations.
Can the same product be a shopping product for one person and a convenience product for another?
Yes, depending on individual priorities and familiarity with the product, what is a shopping product for one consumer might be a convenience product for another. For example, a tech-savvy individual might find purchasing a new smartphone relatively straightforward compared to someone less familiar with technology.
How do consumers typically start their search for shopping products?
Consumers often begin with online research, reading reviews, comparing specs and prices, visiting manufacturer websites, and using online comparison tools. They may also seek recommendations from friends, family, or experts.
What role do brand reputation and previous experience play in purchasing shopping products?
Brand reputation and previous positive experiences heavily influence purchasing decisions for shopping products, as they can add to the perceived reliability and quality of the product, reducing the perceived risk.
Related Terms
- Convenience Products: Items that are purchased frequently and with minimal effort or thought.
- Specialty Products: Unique items that are purchased for their distinctive attributes or brand, requiring a specific buying effort.
- Unsought Products: Goods that consumers do not normally consider buying but may purchase due to unsolicited promotions or sudden needs.
- Product Comparison: The process of evaluating multiple products side by side to determine which best meets the consumer’s criteria.
Online Resources
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- Consumer Behavior: Buying, Having, and Being by Michael R. Solomon
- Marketing Management by Philip Kotler and Kevin Lane Keller
- Consumer Decision Making and Aging: Current Knowledge and Future Directions edited by Thomas M. Hess, Richard D. Sato, and Anne L. Meegan
- Marketing 4.0: Moving from Traditional to Digital by Philip Kotler, Hermawan Kartajaya, and Iwan Setiawan
Fundamentals of Shopping Products: Marketing Basics Quiz
Thank you for exploring the intricate world of shopping products and testing your knowledge with our tailored quiz. Strive to make informed and confident purchasing decisions!
