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The determinants of product lines

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Listed:
  • Justin P. Johnson
  • David P. Myatt

Abstract

We study product line choice allowing for cost asymmetries but ruling out strategic motivations such as a desire to soften competition. We identify two forces that interact with asymmetric competition to shape equilibrium product lines. Possible outcomes range from head‐to‐head competition to complete separation of product lines and include the intermediate case of partial separation. In an international trade context, we predict which qualities a disadvantaged foreign producer will specialize in. If cost factors drive quality‐based discrimination then foreign firms sell only lower qualities. However, if demand factors are the main drivers then foreign firms sell only high qualities.

Suggested Citation

  • Justin P. Johnson & David P. Myatt, 2018. "The determinants of product lines," RAND Journal of Economics, RAND Corporation, vol. 49(3), pages 541-573, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:randje:v:49:y:2018:i:3:p:541-573
    DOI: 10.1111/1756-2171.12244
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Schäfers, Sebastian, 2022. "Product Lotteries and Loss Aversion," Working papers 2022/06, Faculty of Business and Economics - University of Basel.
    3. Tetsuya Shinkai & Ryoma Kitamura, 2021. "How Do the Relative Superiority of a High-quality Good and Cost Inefficiency between Firms Affect Product Lines in Multiproduct Firms?," Discussion Paper Series 230, School of Economics, Kwansei Gakuin University.
    4. Laussel, Didier & Long, Ngo Van & Resende, Joana, 2020. "Quality and price personalization under customer recognition: A dynamic monopoly model with contrasting equilibria," Journal of Economic Dynamics and Control, Elsevier, vol. 114(C).
    5. Didier Laussel & Ngo Long & Joana Resende, 2022. "Asymmetric Information and Differentiated Durable Goods Monopoly: Intra-Period Versus Intertemporal Discrimination," Dynamic Games and Applications, Springer, vol. 12(2), pages 574-607, June.

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