Sales suggestions go beyond good marketing

To the editor:

Marketing has its place in our society as much as products themselves, but there are times when promotions discredit the intelligence of consumers to the point of being annoying and insulting.

Respectable marketing informs consumers of discounts, new products or changes in existing products. Businesses, however, often overstep respectable boundaries.

Foremost is suggestive selling. Recently at a local drive-through, the polite voice in the speaker asked if I wanted a gigantic nacho meal. I said no, as I already knew I wanted only two tacos. Upon placing my order, I said, "And that's all." She replied, "Would you like sour cream with that?" Again, I said no. At the window, we politely conversed about the suggestions, and she said employees were to suggest two menu choices per car. My thought was, as always: Can we not think for ourselves?

Then there's a convenience store where clerks constantly ask if we want a slice of pizza. Again, no. I don't want a slice with my chewing gum.

This past Tuesday I was at a local grocery store and saw a loaf of bread tagged "2 for $1.00." The one loaf I bought rang up at 50 cents. Is that not a type of deception -- to suggest that we buy more than we really need?

Marketing does have its place in our society, but those selling the products ought to realize they are often annoying and insulting consumers with their practices.

STEVEN BENDER

Cape Girardeau