99 pence

[shifty_uk]

Could anyone tell me why 99 pence has always been so widely used in the pricing of goods? For example "Computer - £350.99".

Is it still used simply to make prices seem more attractive to consumers? As it's better to say £3.99 then £4, I suppose... Or, is it used for some other reason like perhaps to keep 1 pence coins in circulation or something...I don't know!

 

[shifty_uk]

It's a psychological trick, which arguably doesn't work these days.

Yeah, I agree. It's a bit silly to still be using this method especially with todays price conscious consumers. Surely MOST people nowadays will know that there's only a 1 pence difference between £3.99 and £4.

 

[shifty_uk]

That's even more annoying!

Having worked in a pub I used to hate people who would try and buy a pint or 2 with a card. Having to explain it has to be over a 5er. Then having to find something that will make it over a 5er by the minimum amount. Then waiting 2 minutes for the card machine to sort itself out.....

Haven't most places started accepting <£5 on cards now?

Could be worse...I get students asking for their discount on £1 pieces of sale jewellery, takes ages sorting it out on the tills. Women....

 

[shifty_uk]

Isn't it the Flake that's the '99' part?