RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Marketing cigarettes when all else is unavailable: evidence of discounting in price-sensitive neighbourhoods
JF Tobacco Control
JO Tob Control
FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd
SP e24
OP e29
DO 10.1136/tobaccocontrol-2013-051286
VO 23
IS e1
A1 Suzan Burton
A1 Kelly Williams
A1 Rae Fry
A1 Kathy Chapman
A1 Greg Soulos
A1 Anita Tang
A1 Scott Walsberger
A1 Sam Egger
YR 2014
UL http://tobaccocontrol.bmj.com/content/23/e1/e24.abstract
AB Objective Since price is both a key determinant of smoking and one of the few remaining marketing strategies available in countries without point-of-sale tobacco display, this study examines cigarette price variations in the Australian market and assesses whether those variations are consistent with price being used to increase or maintain smoking among price-sensitive groups. Method An audit of 1739 tobacco retailers was used to collect variations in the price of the best-selling Australian cigarette brand, as well as record retailer compliance with tobacco retailing legislation. We examined variation in pricing across outlet type, demographic variations (socioeconomic level, % in the area under 18 and % born in Australia), remoteness and retailer compliance with tobacco retailing legislation. Results Multipacks were offered by 27.8% of retailers, with the average pack price in a twin pack $1.32 (or 7.3%) cheaper than a single pack. Prices were significantly lower in some outlet types, in lower socioeconomic postcodes and in those with a higher percentage of people under 18. In contrast with other consumer goods, prices were lower (although not significantly so) outside major cities. Conclusions The provision of substantial multi-pack discounts and lower prices in postcodes with a higher proportion of price-sensitive smokers (young people and those from lower socioeconomic groups) is consistent with targeted discounts being used as a tobacco marketing strategy. The results support policy interventions to counter selective discounts and to require disclosure of trade-based discounts.