Marketing B2b Vs. B2c

Abstract

The Author will discuss and explain the differences in Marketing between a Business-to-Business (B2B) site and a Business-to-Consumer (B2C) site.

Introduction

In today's marketplace, customers have more power than ever before, which is why marketing has become the center of business plans and one of the most important tools used to achieve success. When it comes to marketing, there are a variety of definitions and that's mainly because of the different strategies and tools that are used to meet the targeted outcomes. Marketing refers to all activities involved in the movement of goods and services from producer to consumer. Business' sometimes view marketing as the creation of utility, referring to the ability to satisfy the consumers desires. Although nations have been involved in e-commerce since ancient times, the impact of such business has never been as significant as it is today. Business' are no longer limiting their markets to the traditional brick and mortar stores, and are venturing into the online nation of eBusiness. Two terms were established to differentiate those eBusiness' that primarily sell to consumers (Business-to-Consumer (B2C)) and those whose markets are other business'(Business-to-Business (B2B)). Although marketing functions are primarily the same for each type of business, the execution of those functions and the outcomes differ.

Business-to-Consumer

The goal of B2C marketing is attract your targeted consumers with product driven strategies that will lead to a simple buying process. A variety of merchandising activities are often used to attract those targeted consumers, such as internet specials, coupons, or free shipping offers that can entice consumers to buy. With on-line marketing, e-mail is one campaign method that is often used to deploy those merchandising activities. Consumers receive an e-mail with a special product offer, the email usually will contain a direct link to the business site that is designed to sell products. Once the consumers are ready to purchase an item, many sites have integrated a shopping cart or shopping bag function to complete the buying process in a few, short and simple steps. Many business' also incorporate product education into their websites, in an effort to build consumer loyalty. Best Buy is an example of one on-line business that really caters to the consumer by offering not only product information but information about the many services that Best Buy has to offer. These services, such as the "GeekSquad" or Computer services, are what Best Buy is also known for and has helped create consumer loyalty to their store.

Business-to-Business

The goal of B2B marketing is more relationship based as your consumer is another business, and building a strong relationship is what the marketing plan is focusing on. Education plays a big part in creating these marketing plans as there are