Critical Thinking Penetration pricing is one approach to pricing for a new product launch. It is a helpful tactic to gain initial trials, build market share, discourage competitors, and pursue economies of scale. However, the initial price may set an expectation of value among consumers and essentially position the brand as a low-quality offering. This may result in some consumer resistance to purchasing the new product in the future if prices increase.

In light of this trade-off between benefits and potential risks, to what extent do you think penetration pricing is a suitable approach to helping a new product become successful in the marketplace? Would it be more appropriate to have some form of sales promotion or other incentive to encourage initial sales instead of some form of discounting? Do you think that a low price, even for an introductory period, would result in a negative perception of the brand?