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Marketing Dictionary

Market Segmentation

Definition

The process of dividing a market of potential customers into groups, or segments, based on different characteristics.

Deep Dive

Market segmentation is a fundamental marketing strategy that involves dividing a broad market of potential customers into smaller, more manageable groups or "segments" based on shared characteristics. The rationale behind this process is that consumers within each segment tend to have similar needs, desires, behaviors, and responses to marketing efforts. By identifying these distinct groups, businesses can move away from a one-size-fits-all marketing approach and instead develop highly targeted, relevant, and effective strategies that resonate deeply with specific segments.

Examples & Use Cases

  • 1A car manufacturer offering different models (e.g., fuel-efficient compacts for urban commuters vs. luxury SUVs for high-income families) based on demographic and psychographic segmentation.
  • 2A coffee shop chain tailoring its menu and marketing promotions to local tastes and preferences in different neighborhoods or cities (geographic segmentation).
  • 3An online streaming service creating personalized recommendations and targeted ad campaigns based on viewers' past watch history and genre preferences (behavioral segmentation).

Related Terms

Target MarketCustomer ProfilingNiche MarketingPersonalization

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