Chapter 5: Targeting and Positioning
Example of the importance of target marketing to a company or brand.
Efficient Resource Allocation:
Real-life Example: A small artisanal coffee shop in a university town understands the unique patterns of its primary audience: the students. During exam periods, students often pull all-nighters, require study spaces, and consume more caffeine to stay alert. Recognizing this behavior, the coffee shop can allocate resources smartly by:
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Extending operating hours to cater to late-night study sessions.
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Offering promotions like "Buy one, get one free after 10 PM" to attract more customers during off-peak hours.
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Partnering with local study groups or student organizations for special discounts.
This approach ensures maximum resource utilization and optimal return on investment during peak seasons.
Tailored Marketing Mix:
Real-life Example: Rolex, an iconic luxury watch brand, knows its audience doesn't just want a timepiece; they want a symbol. The brand:
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Features advertisements in high-end magazines and exclusive events where the elite gather.
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Collaborates with icons from various fields, reinforcing the idea that wearing a Rolex is synonymous with success.
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Ensures that the product quality, from the craftsmanship to the materials used, meets the highest standards.
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Their distribution channels are exclusive, with flagship stores in prime locations or in luxury department stores.
The comprehensive, tailored marketing approach ensures that Rolex remains an aspirational brand.
Competitive Advantage:
Real-life Example: LUSH Cosmetics doesn't just sell beauty products; they sell an ethos. By targeting a niche audience that aligns with their values:
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They source ethically, ensuring suppliers adhere to cruelty-free testing methods and sustainable farming.
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Their in-store experience emphasizes the freshness of products, with manufacturing dates clearly displayed.
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Marketing campaigns focus on environmental consciousness, often highlighting global issues and championing eco-friendly causes.
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They've also introduced "naked" products without packaging to reduce waste.
By being more than just a cosmetics brand, LUSH has carved a unique space for itself in the industry.
Higher Customer Satisfaction:
Real-life Example: Amazon, the e-commerce behemoth, excels at personalization. By using advanced algorithms:
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They analyze user behavior and preferences, down to the time spent looking at a product or reviews read.
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Their homepage is dynamically generated based on user interests, showcasing products they're likely to buy.
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Email campaigns and notifications are tailored, alerting users about price drops or availability of items in their wish list.
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They also use this data to optimize their supply chain, ensuring popular products are in stock and delivered swiftly.
This hyper-personalized approach ensures customers find what they want easily, leading to higher satisfaction and repeat purchases.
Future Growth Opportunities:
Real-life Example: Adidas, traditionally known for sports apparel, recognized the blurred lines between sportswear and daily fashion. Identifying the streetwear trend:
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They collaborated with pop culture icons, like Kanye West, bringing credibility and style to the new line.
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The Yeezy line's limited releases create a sense of exclusivity, leading to significant demand and buzz on social media.
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Pop-up stores, exclusive online releases, and collaborations with high-end fashion stores ensure the product remains aspirational.
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They also expanded their range with streetwear-inspired clothing and accessories.
This strategic move allowed Adidas to tap into a younger, fashion-conscious audience and diversify its product line.