Question

Most manufactured materials and parts are sold directly to ________. Price and service are the major marketing factors; branding and advertising tend to be less important.

A) consumers
B) industrial users
C) brand extensions
D) co-branders
E) wholesalers

Answer 1

Manufactured materials and parts are primarily sold directly to industrial users, where the focus is on practical attributes like price and service rather than branding or advertising. The location of a firm can also offer strategic advantages, such as increased sales due to higher traffic or proximity to other businesses.

Step-by-step explanation:

Most manufactured materials and parts are sold directly to industrial users. In this context, factors such as price and service reign supreme as the most significant elements influencing marketing decisions in comparison to branding and advertising, which hold a subordinate role. This is largely due to the B2B (business-to-business) nature of these transactions wherein the demands and requirements of industrial users differ greatly from those of individual consumers.

Physical aspects of a product, such as an unbreakable bottle, nonstick surface, freezer-to-microwave compatibility, and similarly practical features, are of utmost importance. Additionally, the location of a firm can be a critical competitive advantage. For instance, a gas station situated at a busy intersection is likely to sell more fuel, and a supplier positioned near an automobile factory can benefit from reduced transportation costs and enhanced collaboration with the manufacturer.