Redefining the Power of Consumer Segments
The Market Research Society of Sri Lanka (MRSSL) Set to Launch Better Reflective Measurement of Socio-Economic Classification (SEC)
It is evident that the social, economic and the cultural fabric is changing in Sri Lanka and our consumer is rapidly changing. The gradual upgradation in the standard of living, the evolving urban and rural consumer mindset and increasing purchasing power have given rise to a new breed of Sri Lankan consumer. These undercurrents pose an important question — how can marketers seize the unique opportunities offered by the emergence of these new consumer groups?
For the last two decades, consumer segments were broadly classified by the education and occupation of the chief wage earner (the individual who makes the largest contribution to the running of the household). This method of definition was limited in reflecting the lifestyle changes that have taken place among the consumer over the years.
The most impactful factors of the change we are seeing can be attributed to the access to tertiary education, fast growing involvement with digitalization, the innovative mindset of the millennials leading them to explore entrepreneurial efforts as opposed to traditional livelihoods. Furthermore, rising income and access to services and infrastructure continue to have a notable impact on consumer lifestyles.
Creating a reliable means to bringing in the facets of consumer lifestyle decisions to consumer segmentation has been a challenge. Consumer behavior is also dependent on the household’s social position within a population which is a key influencer when making choices based on taste and values towards life in general. The variables that define the socio-economic status of a household varies from country to country.
The proposed classification is multi-dimensional; capturing ownership of durables along with the existing two parameters of education and occupation of the chief wage earner.
Adding durable ownership to the existing system establishes a socio aspect of measurement. This new classification is an evolved approach that focuses towards a socio-economics perspective in ascertaining people’s propensity to consume.
The Market Research Society of Sri Lanka (MRSSL) embarked on this challenging project several years ago. The challenge was to ensure that the new classification is simpler for data collection purposes yet discerning in how consumers are portrayed.
The new classification will deliver a more realistic reflection of the existing socio-economic status of the consumer, thus help marketers formulate more focused strategy through a richer understanding of consumer segments and the consumption power that our consumers hold. On the 13th of August 2019, the new SEC classification will be launched. Visit our website mrssl.org for updates.
About MRSSL
Market Research Society of Sri Lanka (MRSSL) is a professional membership body, dedicated to uplifting the knowledge and standards of Market Research in Sri Lanka. The Society is managed by a committee drawn from the leading research agencies.
By
Himalee Madurasinghe
Immediate Past President – MRSSL
CEO – Kantar Sri Lanka
