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  • March 1987 (Revised April 1987)
  • Background Note
  • HBS Case Collection

Specialties vs. Commodities: The Battle for Profit Margins

By: Benson P. Shapiro
  • Format:Print
  • | Pages:18
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Abstract

Explains the differences between commodities and specialties and defines four different types of specialty products. The analysis is customer oriented. Special attention is given to the distinctions between functions (product- ) and relationship (vendor-oriented) specialties and to the degradation of those specialty markets to commodities.

Keywords

Goods and Commodities

Citation

Shapiro, Benson P. "Specialties vs. Commodities: The Battle for Profit Margins." Harvard Business School Background Note 587-120, March 1987. (Revised April 1987.)
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About The Author

Benson P. Shapiro

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More from the Author
  • Can AI Really Help You Sell? By: Jim Dickie, Boris Groysberg, Benson P. Shapiro and Barry Trailer
  • Macy's: Evolution in the Sunshine State By: Boris Groysberg, Das Narayandas, Benson P. Shapiro and Olivia Hull
  • Wiikano Orchards, Spreadsheet for Instructors (Brief Case) By: Benson P. Shapiro and Katherine B. Hartman
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