Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between store type and tobacco industry efforts to create "tobacco friendly" sales environments through aggressive point-of-sale techniques. Methods: 3,505 retailers were observed within nationally representative communities (12.2% convenience, 34% convenience/gas, 7.7% gas, 3.3% mom/pop, 9.1% grocery, 9.1% supermarket, 9.6% drug, 8.8% liquor, 2.0% tobacco, and 4.1% other). Observation activities included density of interior/exterior advertising levels, product placement (self- or clerk-assist), promotions (multi-pack discounts, gift-with-purchase, cents-off) and number of functional objects. Additionally, 2,226 managers were interviewed on type of ownership and tobacco sales training methodologies. The relationship between store type and point-of-sale effort was assessed in a logistic regression model controlling for the effects of state/county ordinances, store size, population density and various socio-economic variables. Results: Preliminary analyses indicate store type is strongly related to a range of point-of-sale activities. In general, the most tobacco friendly stores (other than tobacco stores) were convenience/gas stores, while the least were gas stations and mom/pop stores. Convenience/gas stores were most likely to have gift-with-purchase and cents-off promotions, as well as one or more promotions, and second most likely to have 2-for-one promotions and cigarette packs available via self-service placement. The highest levels of both interior and exterior advertising were found in convenience stores. Conclusions: These data may provide helpful information for tobacco control advocates seeking to influence point of sale marketing through retailer associations, and researchers interested in studying the relationship between ease of youth access to tobacco and point-of-sale activities.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to: 1. Describe the possible point of sale techniques utilized by the tobacco industry to increase sales. 2. Assess the various tobacco training sales methodologies utilized in a broad spectrum of retailers. 3. Evaluate the impact of store type on a community regarding the creation of tobacco friendly environments
Keywords: Tobacco Policy, Tobacco Industry
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.