Online companies charging different amounts for different people

RosiPossum

Hi, I don't know if this is the right place!
I just read this on the BBC website - it's a bit horrible to think, but it does make sense.
Basically some companies collect information about what you buy (I'm sure everyone has seen ads on sites that are similar to previous searches) and increase the price.

Here is the article: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-20396091

kermitfrog

So if I'm in the habit of buying only discounted goods, I can look forward to being offered even more discounts in the future?

Sounds good to me.

missile

Scaremongering rubbish. I expect better from BBC

shaun_from_Africa

RosiPossum wrote: »

Basically some companies collect information about what you buy and increase the price.

That's not quite what the article states.

The regulator says that there is no evidence, but a lot of concern, that this information allows retailers to charge a higher price to certain customers

Concerns have been raised about flights or hotel rates. It is alleged that in some cases, when a potential customer has looked once, then taken a few minutes to compare the cost elsewhere, they return to find the price may have risen. However, there has been no firm proof of this.

It would be far more newsworthy if some proof was obtained before they published the story.
It shouldn't take too long for a couple of people with computers to go online and find a few examples of this practice if it really exists.

qetu1357

Happens offline so wouldn't be surprised if it happens online too.

A business will charge/quote what they think they can get - see, for example, how garages charge women more for car servicing/repairs than men.