The price-matching dilemma

B-Tier
Journal: International Journal of Industrial Organization
Year: 2018
Volume: 59
Issue: C
Pages: 97-113

Authors (2)

Constantinou, Evangelos (not in RePEc) Bernhardt, Dan (University of Illinois at Urba...)

Score contribution per author:

1.005 = (α=2.01 / 2 authors) × 1.0x B-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

We characterize when strategic considerations of stores to match prices set by rivals on branded goods devolve into a prisoner’s dilemma. We consider a setting where stores also offer generic products, creating incentives to raise prices for branded goods that compete with generics—to shift consumer purchases toward more profitable generics. Price-matching guarantees commit stores not to set high prices for branded goods, thereby attracting more shoppers. When shopping price-elasticities are sufficiently high, a prisoner’s dilemma results.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:eee:indorg:v:59:y:2018:i:c:p:97-113
Journal Field
Industrial Organization
Author Count
2
Added to Database
2026-01-24