Pricing objectives are essential strategies that firms adopt to articulate their pricing framework around their broader business goals. Based on the information you've provided regarding the cost of cooking oil (k7.40 at Papindo and k7.20 at Istana), let's discuss the various pricing objectives that could apply to this field research:
1. Profit Objective
Description: The primary goal of pricing is often to maximize profits. This can involve setting prices high enough to cover costs while generating a desirable profit margin.
Application to Research: If the pricing of cooking oil at Papindo (k7.40) represents a higher price point, this could indicate a strategy focused on profit maximization, possibly due to perceived quality or brand positioning. They may believe customers are willing to pay more for the product.
Reference: Kotler, P., & Keller, K. L. (2016). Marketing Management. Pearson.
2. Survival Objective
Description: In tough economic times or highly competitive markets, some businesses may prioritize survival over profit. This typically involves setting prices low enough to attract customers and keep sales volume up, even if it means sacrificing profit margins temporarily.
Application to Research: If Istana (k7.20) is positioned lower than Papindo, they might be using a survival pricing strategy, possibly to capture market share, remain competitive, or respond to pressures from lower-cost competitors.
Reference: Nagle, T. T., & Holden, R. K. (2002). The Strategy and Tactics of Pricing: A Guide to Growing More Profitably. Prentice Hall.
3. Sales Objective
Description: This strategy focuses on increasing the sales volume, regardless of the profit per unit sold. Companies may implement aggressive discounting strategies to boost sales and market share.
Application to Research: If Istana is using a lower price (k7.20) to motivate higher sales volumes, they might be utilizing this objective. The lower price can lead to an increased number of units sold, appealing to price-sensitive consumers.
Reference: Anderson, E. T., & Narus, J. A. (1990). A Model of Distributor Firm and Manufacturer Firm Working Relationships. Journal of Marketing, 54(1), 42-58.
4. Status Quo Objective
Description: In this approach, companies may choose to maintain current pricing levels or follow competitors' prices as a way of maintaining market stability and minimizing risks.
Application to Research: Both Papindo and Istana may be employing status quo pricing if the price differences are marginal and reflective of regional pricing norms. This approach is often seen in highly competitive markets where companies avoid aggressive pricing changes to maintain customer loyalty and avoid price wars.
Reference: Kotler, P., & Armstrong, G. (2018). Principles of Marketing. Pearson.
Conclusion
All these pricing objectives serve distinct strategic roles within a firm's broader marketing and operational framework. The context of surviving and thriving amidst competition can influence whether an organization emphasizes profit, survival, sales volume, or maintaining the status quo in its pricing strategy.
For further reading and a comprehensive understanding of pricing strategies and objectives, consider the references provided, which offer foundational marketing concepts.