Final answer:
In reality, value can be created through quality, service, or customer experience, not just by being the cheapest. (Options a, c, and d)
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the provided options regarding positioning strategies, the one that is inaccurately described is option b: To succeed with value positioning, a company must offer the lowest price. Value positioning can indeed pertain to offering a low price but is not exclusively about having the lowest price in the market. Value can also be delivered through superior quality, service, or customer experience, which may justify a higher price point relative to competitors. Therefore, a company can succeed with value positioning without offering the lowest price, as they might compete on value-added features or benefits that resonate with consumers.
Competitive factors refer to the unique advantages or benefits a business offers to differentiate itself from competitors. As described in option a, a hospital advertising a natural birthing center is positioning itself against competitors by highlighting a unique service it provides, which is a valid form of competitive positioning.
Option c accurately describes positioning based on product attributes, where a car maker focuses on advertising the best warranty, distinguishing its product based on a specific characteristic it offers.
Finally, option d accurately states that a company can succeed with value positioning without needing to be the price leader. This shows that value is a broader concept than just price and can encompass other aspects important to consumers.