Final answer:
Retail sales are most influenced by temperature because consumer purchasing at physical stores is impacted by immediate environmental conditions. Companies like L.L. Bean, which operate largely online or via mail and phone, may be less affected but adapt through quality guarantees and reputation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of sales most clearly influenced by temperature would be Retail sales. This is because retail sales often involve physical stores where consumers make purchases based on immediate needs and impulses which can be affected by the weather.
For instance, on a hot day, stores selling air conditioners or cold beverages may see a spike in sales. Conversely, during colder temperatures, stores that sell warm clothing or heaters may experience increased sales.
Companies like L.L. Bean, which primarily sell through mail, telephone, or online, may not be as directly affected by temperature changes on a day-to-day basis. However, the overall season could impact the types of products customers are interested in, such as warmer clothing during the winter.
To address the issue of imperfect information, since customers can't see or touch products, companies like L.L. Bean offer a money-back guarantee and rely on their reputation for quality to encourage consumers to buy.