CAIE A-Level Business AS 3.3.2 Product Questions
Practise analysing product differentiation, product development and unique selling points.
- Syllabus
- 2026–2028
- Course
- Business 9609
- Level
- AS
Practise analysing product differentiation, product development and unique selling points.
Fizzy Drinks (FD)
FD is a private sector business that manufactures an international brand of carbonated drinks. Its slogan was 'A premium drink for premium customers'. The market for FD's drinks is very competitive, with 7 national and 12 international brands all competing in the same market. Recently FD lost the title of market leader to TR, one of its largest competitors. TR is a multinational public limited company.
Table 2.1 FD financial data 2023
Employee morale has dropped as a result of the negative feedback. Key employees have left to work for FD's competitors. The lack of experienced employees has led to a drop in the productivity of the production process.
Explain one intangible attribute of FD's products.
Explain one intangible attribute of FD's products
Indicative content
Responses may include:
AO1 Knowledge and understanding
- Types of intangible attribute, e.g. brand name, customer loyalty, quality, satisfies thirst, taste, reliability, image
2(b)(ii)
AO2 Application
Explanation of the identified intangible attribute
- Brand name;
because it can't be touched
- Brand name;
which contributes to the reputation of the business
- Quality;
how the customer perceives the drink
Context applied to FD of an intangible attribute
- 'A premium drink for premium customers' reputation/helps become market leader
- Marketing budget reduced/erodes brand awareness
- 'High customer loyalty' ensures market leader status
Application must be made to FD and not generic.
Accept all valid responses.
Guidance in awarding marks
Knowledge & understanding & Knowledge of an intangible attribute & 1 mark
Explanation & Explanation of an intangible attribute & 1 mark
Context &
Applied to a business context/ business
environment
1 mark
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