Discussion 1

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BA 637

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Marketing

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Nov 24, 2024

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Differentiation strategy A firm that uses a differentiation strategy aims to set itself apart from its rivals' offerings by providing distinctive features, higher quality, outstanding customer service, or other noteworthy traits that appeal to consumers (Knight & Madsen, 2020). The intention is to get a competitive edge in the market by charging more for these unique services. Benefits of the Differentiation Approach according to Navaia & Ribau, (2023). Premium Pricing: Increasing profit margins by charging more for distinctive or premium items is one of the main benefits. Brand Loyalty: Customers who appreciate unique qualities in goods or services are more likely to remain loyal to the brand, which encourages repeat business. Decreased Price Sensitivity: When a product or service is seen to be distinctive, customers may be less price-sensitive, enabling businesses to charge more. Entry Barriers: Because it may be difficult and expensive to replicate distinctive qualities, successful differentiation poses a barrier to entry for new competitors. Perceived Value: By fostering a favorable connection in customers' thoughts, differentiation may raise the perceived value of the brand. The Differentiation Strategy's Drawbacks according to Domingues et al., (2022) Costs: Creating and keeping distinctive characteristics may be costly, which may affect overall profitability, particularly if clients aren't ready to pay a higher price. Imitation Risk: Over time, the differentiator may become less significant as rivals try to imitate distinctive qualities. Niche Market: This tactic might reduce the size of the market overall by limiting the target audience to a certain group that is prepared to pay more for distinctive products. Quick Shifts in Customer Preferences: It might be difficult to maintain distinctiveness over time when customer preferences are subject to rapid change. When Would a Differentiation Strategy Benefit the Company the Most?
The differentiation approach may work best for a business in sectors where consumers place a high value on distinctive features, innovative products, design, or brand image (Wang et al., 2022). It is especially appropriate when there is a demonstrable market for high-end goods or services and the business can consistently innovate to keep one step ahead of rivals. Companies That Have Successfully Employed Differentiation Strategy Examples: Apple: A leader in the consumer electronics sector, Apple is renowned for its cutting-edge design and high-end technology. Mercedes-Benz: A standout brand in the automobile business, Mercedes-Benz is renowned for its elegance and superior engineering. Starbucks: Starbucks sets itself apart in the market for coffee shops by emphasising premium coffee and a distinctive café experience. Rolex: With superior workmanship, accuracy, and a powerful brand, this upscale watchmaker sets itself apart and commands high pricing. References Knight, G., Moen, Ø., & Madsen, T. K. (2020). Antecedents to differentiation strategy in the exporting SME. International Business Review , 29 (6), 101740. Navaia, E., Moreira, A., & Ribau, C. (2023). Differentiation Strategy and Export Performance in Emerging Countries: Mediating Effects of Positional Advantage among Mozambican Firms. Economies , 11 (2), 44. Domingues, A., Rossi, E., Bujko, K., Detriche, G., Richez, U., Blandinieres, A., ... & Ratajczak, M. Z. (2022). Human CD34+ very small embryonic-like stem cells can give rise to endothelial colony-forming cells with a multistep differentiation strategy using UM171 and nicotinamide acid. Leukemia , 36 (5), 1440-1443. Wang, M., Chen, X., Tan, P., Wang, Y., Pan, X., Lin, T., ... & Chen, C. (2022). Acquired semi-squamatization during chemotherapy suggests differentiation as a therapeutic strategy for bladder cancer. Cancer Cell , 40 (9), 1044-1059.
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