Abstract:

This presentation is based on a study designed to follow people as they made an important purchase decision - their next new car. The presenters found very different approaches and behaviours, and were able to track the real effect of ads (greater), influence of test drives (less, but with huge potential), importance of word of mouth, dealers and online research. New buyer typologies emerged, and the purchase funnel model was finally discredited. This project has wider implications for anyone conducting purchase process research or planning to target buyers of higher ticket goods.