Marketers play tricks on consumers, and they work way too well. These marketing tricks make us spend more money on expensive products even though we think we’re getting a deal.
For instance, are you surprised that most stores place toys near the bottom of the shelf (exactly where your kids will see them)? Or why soft drinks and candy bars are conveniently placed at the register, encouraging impulse buys?
Ever wonder why so many products end with $.99 or $.95? Humans mainly focus on the left digit when we evaluate pricing. This is also called “Charm Pricing.”
Instead of $5.00, it's $4.99.
Marketers use the decoy pricing strategy to influence consumer decisions by introducing a third, less attractive option alongside the main two. The decoy option is strategically priced to make the main option appear more appealing and create a sense of value.
Creating a sense of urgency, such as “Limited Time Sale,” “Today Only,” or “Act Now,” prompts consumers to make a quick decision to avoid losing the opportunity.
We tend to lean toward the one in the middle when presented with three different pricing plans. This works so well that many businesses will highlight the center plan knowing most customers will choose it.