Marketing Differences in Japan
I’ve noticed a small difference in sale signs here in Japan. It is an interesting reversal of what I consider a normal sale sign, and it stands out like a sore thumb each time I see one.
Sale signs in Japan that tout some range of percentages off always start with the highest number first. This is completely opposite of what you would see in the USA. In the USA you would see “Everything 50 to 80% OFF!”.
I have to wonder which one is more effective. To me the signs I am used to (low number to high number) seem effective because the last number is the freshest number in your brain after reading it… and it makes your brain think “oh, good discount … oh, a Great discount!” when you read it.
However, by starting with the high number first, I wonder if you can actually attract more glances and snag attention quicker using the Japanese method. Interesting…
August 4th, 2009 at 5:48 pm
In Colombia, it works like it works in The US. I think it looks weird that way too (80-50% off) but I think that it catches my attention easier, and I’d go for that one. Cool fact to know about Japan though!
August 4th, 2009 at 6:49 pm
Thanks for input!
I wonder if marketing is like driving a car… many island countries drive on the opposite side of the road compared to places like the US or China.