As the economy softens, consumer products companies are seeking to hang on their market share through a number of strategies. In the computer industry, as well as shading prices, Dell is giving free upgrades, shipping, and Internet service to on-line customers.
Some models come with a printer, a scanner, or a digital camera.
Automakers are giving more incentives. Some household products are coming down in price. Clorox reduced the prices of select cleaning goods, such as disinfecting wipes and Formula 409, by 10 percent. Cruise operators are also reducing their prices to try and fill their expanding fleets. Likewise, the hotel industry has been increasing capacity, and is facing falling occupancy rates.