Retailer : How does social classes influence a person's purchasing behavior?

Sociologist :Lower-class consumers have limited information sources and seek local ,friendly retailers. Middle class consumers utilize media information and extensive search. They are willing to shop out of their neighborhoods. Upper-class consumers use media information and shop at prestige stores. For products or services that are conspicuous ,reference groups have an important role in the purchasing process. Those reference groups that are face-to-face have the most impact on the
purchasing process. The different types and uses of reference groups need to be understood , As an example ,one's neighbours are a membership reference group. However ,a retailer must distinguish between the use of neighbours as a reference group by suburbanites and the use by city dwellers. The suburbanite will follow his or her neighbours and know them much better. City dwellers are more independent and know little about their neighbours.

Retailer :Don't you think motives are very important in purchasing behavior?

Sociologist : Yes. Personality , motives , and performance are individual dimensions of life style that have an impact on purchasing behavior. A consumer's personality traits affect the purchase process. For an impatient person, the process is short. For someone with little selfconfidence, the process is long. Post purchase satisfaction is very important to a statusseeker. Consumers have different motives (reasons) when they buy products. Motives are critical when the consumer ranks alternatives and makes a final decision. Motives do change in different situations. A person's performance in various roles determines his or her social acceptance and influences the purchasing process.

Retailer ,Thank you very much. I think I've learned about the importance of life style.