Strategic Marketing Mix: Applying the 4Ps for Business Growth

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Marketing Mix Fundamentals

The Marketing Mix integrates and combines the decisions a company should take regarding the attributes of its products, setting prices for each, selecting the chosen distribution channel to reach the end customer, and finally, the communication or promotion efforts conducted to be known and appreciated by the market. To define your marketing plan, the company has four key instruments to consider, known as the 4Ps of the marketing mix: product, price, place, and promotion. By effectively combining these elements, businesses can create diverse commercial strategies.

The Four Ps of Marketing

  1. Product Strategy

    Decide the features the product must have to attract demand from potential customers, including design, quality, and manufacturing. This also involves decisions on how and when to modify existing products or introduce new ones.

  2. Pricing Decisions

    To establish prices, companies study product costs, consumer sensitivity to price changes, and the pricing policies of competitors.

  3. Distribution Channels (Place)

    Decisions and activities companies undertake to bring their products to consumer centers, ensuring they are available at the place and time consumers need them. This involves deciding whether distribution is direct or through intermediaries, such as large supermarkets or specialty stores.

  4. Promotion and Communication

    Raise awareness of the product and motivate consumers through adequate communication about product characteristics and advantages over competitors' products. Examples include advertising campaigns.

Understanding the Product Element

Product Definition & Dimensions

A Product is any good or service offered in the market to satisfy a need. Its dimensions include:

  • Basic Product: Tangible and observable attributes of the good or service (e.g., design, packaging).
  • Expanded Product: The basic product plus a series of added values that accompany it (e.g., warranty, financing).
  • Generic or Symbolic Product: The symbolic or psychological satisfaction the consumer expects to gain, along with tangible attributes. This depends on factors like brand prestige or new technology.

Product Portfolio Terminology

Range or Product Portfolio

The complete set or assortment of products that a company sells.

Product Line

Within the range, products that are homogeneous or meet similar needs.

Breadth of the Range

Measured by the number of different product lines within the overall range.

Depth of the Line

The number of versions (models, sizes, and varieties) within a specific product line.

Length of the Range

The total number of products manufactured or sold by the company. It is the sum of all products across all lines.

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