Which of the following is the best example of impulse buying in a supermarket?

• A. A customer adds a chocolate bar to their cart at the checkout counter without planning to buy it beforehand.
• B. A shopper compares prices of different brands of cereal before choosing the cheapest option.
• C. A customer makes a grocery list at home and purchases only the items on the list.
• D. A shopper waits for a sale before buying a bulk package of paper towels.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of impulse buying: it refers to unplanned, spontaneous purchases made without prior intention or careful consideration.
2. Analyze each option to see if the purchase was planned or unplanned:
3. Option 1: A customer adds a chocolate bar at the checkout without planning—this is a classic example of impulse buying because the purchase is spontaneous.
4. Option 2: Comparing prices before choosing the cheapest cereal involves planning and deliberate decision-making, so it is not impulse buying.
5. Option 3: Making a grocery list and sticking to it shows planned purchasing behavior, not impulse buying.
6. Option 4: Waiting for a sale to buy in bulk is a strategic, planned purchase, not an impulse buy.