What is the difference between push and pull marketing strategies?

The distinction between push and pull marketing strategies is crucial for understanding how products reach consumers and how demand is created. The correct answer highlights that push marketing is primarily concerned with promoting products to intermediaries, such as retailers or wholesalers. This approach aims to "push" the product through the distribution channels so that it is available for consumers to purchase. Tactics often used in push marketing include trade promotions, discount offers for retailers, and personal selling.

In contrast, pull marketing is focused on generating demand directly from consumers. This strategy creates product awareness and encourages consumers to seek out the product, effectively "pulling" the product through the distribution channels as consumers express their interest to retailers. This can be achieved through advertising, social media campaigns, or promotional events that engage consumers directly.

Understanding this distinction allows marketers to strategically choose which approach to utilize based on their goals, target market, and the nature of the product they are promoting. The other options do not accurately capture the fundamental differences between these two strategies, particularly regarding the target audience for each approach and the channels used.