Which term describes a customer who tends to make spontaneous purchases of low-cost items?

Impulse buyers are characterized by their tendency to make spontaneous purchases, often driven by emotions or immediate gratification rather than careful planning or need. This behavior frequently manifests in situations where a consumer encounters attractive displays or promotions that prompt them to buy low-cost items on a whim, without prior intent.

For example, while shopping in a grocery store, an impulse buyer might pick up a candy bar or a magazine simply because it's conveniently placed at the checkout line, showcasing how external stimuli can heavily influence their purchasing decisions. This type of buyer contrasts sharply with individuals who engage in planned buying, where consumers typically take time to research and decide ahead of time what they need. Similarly, strategic buyers prioritize longer-term purchases based on extensive planning and consideration, often in relation to high-cost items, while discount buyers focus primarily on seeking bargains, usually on items they have already decided to purchase. Understanding these distinctions emphasizes the unique behaviors that characterize different types of shoppers in the retail environment.