Price skimming
Price skimming sets a relatively high initial price to capture value from buyers willing to pay more, often followed by lower prices as market conditions change. It may suit differentiated innovation, limited early capacity or high willingness to pay, but depends on competition, demand and the durability of the advantage. Evaluate revenue, volume and customer response rather than assume a high launch price automatically maximises life-cycle profit.
Worked example
A novel specialist device launches at a premium to early adopters, then the business considers lower prices as alternatives and broader demand emerge.
Common mistake
Skimming is a pricing strategy, not reducing product quality or taking unrecorded cash from sales.
Where it appears in your exams
| Qualification | Exam | Relationship | Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACCA | PM | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |
| ACCA | SBL | Direct | September 2026–June 2027 |
