Is this just a matter of semantics? Decide for yourself – read on!

The Oxford English Dictionary defines a shopper as one who is shopping. It also defines a buyer as a person who buys!

Rather simplistic don’t you think?!

Looking at these definitions from a shopper research perspective, we think a shopper is a person who is in shopping mode – searching, browsing, comparing, seeking out value in whatever form it matters and going through a rather elaborate dance with the brands available.

On the other hand, a buyer comes across more as someone on a mission, buying what he needs/wants, picking up brands that are important to him or ones used for years, not browsing but leaving the store in an attempt to break the speed shopping record on each visit.

Agree? No?? Either way, here are some interesting findings.

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