Final answer:
The concept being described is 'Accessory bundling,' which is when multiple related products are sold together, often for a special price. This strategy can be beneficial for both consumers, who may get a better deal, and businesses, which can increase sales volume and customer satisfaction.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student is asking about merchandising strategies related to offering additional products with a primary purchase. Specifically, when a coffee pot is being purchased and items like coffee, a mug, and coffee filters are offered to go with it, this scenario is best described by Option 1: Accessory bundling. Accessory bundling is a marketing strategy where multiple related products are sold together, often at a special combined price, which can be more appealing to customers than purchasing items separately. This contrasts with Option 3: Impulse buying, which refers to unplanned purchases made by consumers, Option 4: Indirect sales, which involves selling products not directly to consumers but through an intermediary, and Option 2: Complimentary package, which could refer to additional items given for free with a purchase, but isn't a defined marketing term like bundling.
Bundling can provide various advantages to customers, such as cost savings and convenience. It can also benefit businesses by increasing sales volumes and customer satisfaction. Cable companies, computer manufacturers, and sports teams often use bundling strategies to sell their products or services. However, when it comes to sales strategies like tying sales, which require the purchase of an additional product, this can be less advantageous and even controversial if the consumer is forced to buy something they do not need or want.