Oct 30, 2019

How makers of packaged goods are also trying to make a fool out of you

When competing brands come in different-sized bottles, it's hard to compare prices. And maybe that's the point. Marielle Segarra/Marketplace

The Fed is ready to cut interest rates again. The NCAA says nothing has changed with new rules allowing student athletes to profit off their own images. Fiat Chrysler talks merger with Peugeot. Why packaged goods come in weird sizes.

Segments From this episode

The marketing tactics behind those odd weights and sizes you see at the supermarket

by Marielle Segarra

Oct 30, 2019

Eleven and a half ounces of coffee in a package, 19.4 ounces of dish soap in a bottle. Could it be the "difficult comparison effect" at play?

When competing brands come in different-sized bottles, it's hard to compare prices. And maybe that's the point.

Marielle Segarra/Marketplace

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David Brancaccio Host

Victoria Craig Host, BBC

Stephen Ryan Senior Producer, BBC

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Erika Soderstrom Producer

Rose Conlon Producer

Brian Allison Technical Director

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