Business | Economy
Know more about what you buy as a rule
'Let the buyer beware' has become a consumer mantra that readers say begins by reading the product's label.
- By Rabab Khan, Community Interactivity Editor
- Published: 23:03 July 20, 2009
Dubai: Walk into a store and pick up the most exquisite piece of clothing on the shelf. What is the first thing you look at?
Gulf News readers say they look at the tag or label, for different reasons.
Fatima Chaudhry, a Pakistani, said: "I always check the tag. If it is made in some specific countries, I try to avoid purchasing it, unless it's absolutely necessary."
Some brands are altering their product lines to cater to regional needs, with reduced prices to attract customers. Whereas others continue to produce and sell at a standard price.
A 24-year-old Montessori teacher, Fatima believes that a brand tailored to regional specifications is smart.
She said: "Producing items according to the region's need means more sales. We obviously cannot wear everything we want. Moreover, in this part of the world it is quite hot and I think clothing should be modified based on the weather."
Ali Yousuf, a Canadian, too, makes it a point to look at the tag of every product he purchases. However, it is to find out how much it would cost him.
"I don't think I care about where a product is made. It is the name that goes on top that matters, not where it is produced. The only time it might make a difference is when you're looking for a designer outfit of some sort. Clothes made in Europe, for example, generally seem to have a lasting impression on people."
Yousuf would like to see brands catering to regional demands.
He said: "I think it's a good idea for brands to modify products based on the region. Every place has a different culture and a unique sense of style. Minor alterations in design and price will make the product more appealing to the consumers of that area."
Omair Zahid, a 21-year-old Indian, is not affected by a product's country of origin.
"I do check the labels on clothing items, but not to see where it's made. To me, it doesn't matter," he said.
Zahid is convinced that a company does not need to modify its products based on the region it is targeting. "I don't think a company needs to make customised products, as long as they are acceptable by the social and cultural norms of the country. In case they are not, a company could either make an exception or not bother attempting to penetrate the market," he said.
Zeus Azusa Shiraki, Japanese, agrees.
"It doesn't matter to me where the item is made. I am not really brand conscious either. Thus, I look at the item itself," she said.
Shiraki is influenced by her taste and carries her own sense of style.
"I love shopping for books. But, in terms of clothing, I will buy something only if it appeals to me, regardless of where I shop," she said.
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