In a Sluggish Economy,consumers Will Buy Even the Most Modest

In a sluggish economy,consumers will buy even the most modest of products with the same discretion once shown only to big-ticket items,such as computers,air fares,and designer clothes.The result is a growing popularity of cheaper private-label products,and the likelihood that price wars among consumer goods could lead to the same kind of consolidation that occurred in the airline and electronics industries.Moreover,analysts say changing buying habits will force premium brand marketers to lower their prices to protect their positions.These companies may also upgrade products to distinguish them from private labels and promote their brands more aggressively than ever.
One analyst says that consumers are forcing product innovation.Products have to be sold on merit.As a result,there will be fewer brands of significance,but the significant brands will be stronger.Brand loyalty is believed to exist only when,or if,value is provided.How do the significant brands compete? One analyst says that a combination of sensible pricing and innovation with a strong brand name can stabilize market share.Reformulated or repackaged products are typical examples of innovative attempts to solidify market share.
-Refer to Consumer Buying Habits.To compete against the private labels,the significant brands can upgrade products to distinguish them from private labels and advertise their brands more aggressively than ever.Most of the ads will feature cents-off coupons.This pricing strategy clearly involves manipulation of which of the following?

A) distribution strategy
B) promotion strategy
C) product mix strategy
D) credence qualities