What is the difference between Everyday Low Price (EDLP) retailers and High-Low retailers?
Consider two companies – Walmart and Walgreens. How do these two companies differ from each other in their pricing strategies?
(Which one is an EDLP and which one is a High-Low retailer between the two companies?) (Principles of Marketing course)
The correct answer and explanation is :
Answer:
Walmart follows an Everyday Low Price (EDLP) strategy, while Walgreens follows a High-Low pricing strategy.
Explanation:
Retailers generally follow one of two pricing strategies: Everyday Low Pricing (EDLP) or High-Low Pricing.
- Everyday Low Pricing (EDLP) – This strategy involves keeping prices consistently low without frequent discounts or promotions. EDLP retailers minimize price fluctuations, making shopping more predictable for customers. Walmart is a prime example of an EDLP retailer. It maintains low prices year-round, allowing customers to shop with confidence, knowing they are getting a good deal without waiting for sales. Walmart achieves this by leveraging economies of scale, supply chain efficiencies, and negotiating lower prices with suppliers.
- High-Low Pricing – This strategy involves setting higher regular prices and then offering frequent promotions, discounts, or sales events. Walgreens follows this model by pricing many products at higher regular prices but frequently offering discounts, coupons, and “Buy One, Get One Free” deals. This strategy appeals to price-sensitive customers who actively seek discounts and promotions. While Walgreens may initially price products higher than Walmart, customers can take advantage of significant discounts during sales.
Key Differences Between Walmart and Walgreens:
| Feature | Walmart (EDLP) | Walgreens (High-Low) |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Approach | Consistently low prices | Higher base prices with frequent discounts |
| Promotions | Minimal promotions | Frequent sales and promotions |
| Customer Behavior | Attracts value-focused customers | Attracts deal-seeking customers |
| Inventory Management | Large volume, efficient supply chain | Higher margins, relies on promotions |
Walmart’s EDLP strategy ensures price consistency and customer trust, while Walgreens’ High-Low strategy maximizes profits by attracting customers with promotions.
