Geographic Segmentation Essay

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1. Geographic segmentation This corresponds to organisations operating only in certain chosen markets or offering a differentiated marketing mix based on local factors of countries served. These location factors, also called geographic segmentation variables, are the contry/region/city size, its population density, its climate, its population growth, its economy, its culture, its politics, its natural ressources, which all influence customers lifestyle, needs and buying behaviors. 1a. Benefits of geographic segmentation Analyzing markets by location helps in determining paramount information for marketing strategy, such as current and potential market density, available distribution channels and competitive elements within a particular area. Small local organisations that sell common goods easily imitable can use geographic segmentation to serve markets where these kinds of products are not readily available. A jeweller or an esthetician might decide to set up a retail outlet in a wealthy or middle-class shopping street where there is no competition yet installed. Organisations with limited resources, trading areas and distribution channels, also have more incentive to concentrate their business in certain areas. Geographic segmentation can also be encouraged through “free-trade zones” such as the European Union or the North American Free Trade Association that reduce barriers between member countries. 1b. Drawbacks of geographic segmentation The fact that the approach is widely used by organisations to shape their marketing strategy and determine their positioning does not give a true competitive advantage to businesses. Global brand image can be altered through excessive geographic diffentiation to adapt to local customs and needs. Even within a geographic market, customers can vary widely, on the other dimensions of customer segmentation such as

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