The Nonsensical Mad Method of Marketing Math: Deciphering Toilet Paper Math and Beyond
Have you ever found yourself strolling down the grocery store aisles, surrounded by a plethora of toilet paper brands and sizes? As you gaze upon the myriad options, you may wonder: What exactly do all these toilet paper metrics mean?
Welcome to the world of “toilet paper math” – a strange concept that sheds light on consumer behavior and marketing strategies in the realm of bathroom essentials. But where do these toilet paper metrics come from, and who benefits from their mystique?
At its core, toilet paper math is a product of marketing ingenuity and consumer psychology. Yup – it’s all made up! Manufacturers utilize various metrics like ply count, square footage, and roll size to distinguish their products and cater to diverse consumer preferences but the kicker is, that everyone’s product is tailored differently. What Cottonelle measures for their ply count, differs from Charmin and so forth. There is no current legal standard for how these metrics are measured, leading consumers to find themselves lost in the fog of marketing math, struggling to discern the true value of each option.
But toilet paper math is not confined to the bathroom aisle alone. Similar marketing tactics permeate various sectors of the consumer goods industry, from cleaning products to packaged foods. Consider the detergent bottle that promises “50% more washes” or the cereal box boasting “25% extra free.” These enticing offers may seem advantageous, yet beneath the surface lies a web of marketing math designed to sway consumer perception.
Shrinkflation, a practice where the size or quantity of a product is reduced while maintaining its price, further complicates the consumer landscape. Unfortunately, this practice became commonplace during the pandemic, with manufacturers citing “supply chain issues” as justification.
So, how can consumers navigate this perplexing terrain and combat the effects of shrinkflation? One approach is to become vigilant label readers, scrutinizing product sizes and quantities to ensure they’re getting the best value for their money. Here’s how you can do it:
- Compare Unit Prices: Instead of solely looking at the price tag, compare the cost per unit across different brands and package sizes to make a more accurate assessment of value.
- Check for Changes: Keep an eye out for subtle reductions in product size or quantity, as these may indicate shrinkflation.
- Stay Informed: Follow consumer advocacy groups and stay updated on industry news to learn about any trends or patterns affecting your favorite products.
- Voice Your Concerns: Don’t hesitate to reach out to companies to express your dissatisfaction with shrinkflation and your desire for transparent pricing practices.
- Support Transparent Brands: Seek out brands that prioritize transparency and ethical business practices, as your purchasing decisions can influence market trends.
In conclusion, toilet paper math and the phenomenon of shrinkflation underscore the complexities of consumer behavior and marketing strategies. By deciphering the metrics and scrutinizing pricing practices, consumers can make more informed choices and reclaim control over their purchasing decisions in a world where perception often outweighs reality.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shrinkflation
https://money.usnews.com/money/personal-finance/spending/articles/how-to-beat-shrinkflation