Mass Markets & Niche Markets (Cambridge International IGCSE Business)
Mass markets
Spec point — "concepts of mass markets and niche markets advantages and disadvantages of mass markets and niche markets"
Mass markets
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In mass markets, products are aimed at broad market segments
- Mass marketing occurs when businesses sell their products to most of the available market
- Production usually happens on a large scale
- Products are generally standardised with little differentiation
Examples of mass market brands
Mass market products are aimed at large groups of customers with similar needs
Evaluating mass markets
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| - Mass production allows the business to benefit from economies of scale, reducing average costs - Lower prices make products more affordable, leading to higher sales volumes - The business can target a large customer base, increasing the chance of strong demand - Mass marketing methods (e.g. TV, social media) allow efficient promotion to a wide audience | - Products are often less unique, as they are designed to appeal to a wide audience - High levels of competition can make it difficult to stand out and often force prices down - Profit margins are lower, as prices are often kept low to attract mass market buyers |
Niche markets
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In niche markets, products are aimed at a small subset of the larger market, e.g. gluten-free products
- Niche marketing occurs when businesses identify and satisfy the demands of a small group of consumers within the wider market
- Production usually happens on a small scale
- Products may be made to order or produced with very specific customer needs in mind
Examples of niche market brands
Niche product include specialist haircare, adapted technology such as phones and gluten-free food
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Some niche markets become mass markets as large businesses start to realise the potential for growth
- For example, energy drinks started out as ‘niche products’ aimed at fitness enthusiasts, but as prices have fallen and more choices are available, they have become mass-market products
Evaluating niche markets
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| - Products are highly specialised and unique, meeting the specific needs of a smaller customer group - The business can develop expert knowledge and a strong reputation within its chosen market - Customers are often willing to pay premium prices, leading to higher profit margins - Less direct competition means it's easier to build customer loyalty and brand recognition | - Higher production costs due to smaller scale and limited demand - Businesses do not benefit from economies of scale, which can make pricing less competitive - Sales volumes are lower, as products may be less affordable and appeal to fewer people - The business may become too dependent on one product or market, increasing risk |
Exam Hint Avoid vague definitions – show understanding by linking each to advantages and disadvantages, e.g. mass markets spread risk but face intense competition, while niche markets face less competition but limited demand
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