Business Quote by Greg Thain
““Discounters’ profits came and still come from buying competitively while handling financial operations, logistics and property business more astutely than other retailers can. The high-volume, low-operating-cost model allowed them to offer lower prices and more choice, while maintaining acceptable service levels; their goal was to move a lot of product and make small percentage profits on high volumes, which improves efficiency and gives them the power to negotiate with manufacturers.””
About This Quote
Source Business analysis article, Retail strategy, 2015
Discount retailers succeed by buying in bulk, keeping costs low, and selling many items at small margins, which gives them bargaining power.
In simple terms: Low prices come from high volume and low costs.
Key Takeaway
Focus on volume and efficiency to stay competitive.
Themes
efficiency
pricing
volume
competition
negotiation
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
explanatory
informative
When to use this quote
- grocery shopping
- online retail
- warehouse operations
- price wars
Key Concepts
economics
business model
cost leadership
Questions to Reflect On
- Can low margins sustain long‑term growth?
- How does volume affect supplier relationships?
A Different Perspective
May overlook quality or employee welfare.
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