Chocolate cake Quote by Herb Sorensen
““Fader: There is a sequence in how people buy things. One important driver of this sequencing may be “licensing” behavior. If shoppers buy a virtue product—something good for them—then it gives them license to buy a vice product—something that they might enjoy but is probably not good for them. If they pick up broccoli or tofu in the produce section, they can buy the ice cream or chocolate cake or cigarettes.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Marketing insights by Herb Sorensen, 2023
People often justify indulgent purchases after buying something healthy, feeling entitled to reward themselves.
In simple terms: Buying healthy lets people feel they can splurge later.
Recognize and manage licensing bias in shopping.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- grocery shopping
- online retail
- food service
- personal budgeting
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this bias affect your spending?
- Can you set rules to avoid it?
The effect may vary across cultures and personal values.