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The role of consumers in competition and competition policy

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Waterson, Michael (2001) The role of consumers in competition and competition policy. Discussion Paper. Coventry: University of Warwick, Department of Economics. Warwick economic research papers (No.607).

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Abstract

This paper develops the idea that consumers’ behaviour matters significantly from the viewpoint of industry performance. This is examined through some theoretical propositions, but then at greater length by means of some case study examples. These examples demonstrate how, even in potentially competitive industries, reluctance on the part of consumers to search or to switch suppliers can lead to a sub-competitive outcome. The
significance of non-traditional competition policy remedies in changing the outcome is drawn out.

Item Type:

Working or Discussion Paper (Discussion Paper)

Subjects:

H Social Sciences > HC Economic History and Conditions

Divisions:

Faculty of Social Sciences > Economics

Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):

Consumer behavior, Competition -- Great Britain, Public utilities -- Deregulation -- Great Britain

Series Name:

Warwick economic research papers

Publisher:

University of Warwick, Department of Economics

Place of Publication:

Coventry

Official Date:

July 2001

Dates:

Date	Event
July 2001	Published

Number:

No.607

Number of Pages:

Institution:

University of Warwick

Status:

Not Peer Reviewed

Access rights to Published version:

Open Access

Version or Related Resource:

Waterson, M. (2003) The role of consumers in competition and competition policy. International Journal of Industrial Organisation, 21, pp. 129-150.

References:

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