Ask Freddy: Why Do Some Websites Still Show Sold-Out Products?

by Freddy Tran Nager, Founder of Atomic Tango + Marketing Communication Professor…

Q: Dear Freddy:

I noticed that this particular company sometimes leaves sold-out items on its website, and I was wondering what its tactic might be.

– S.F. in L.A.

A: Dear S.F.:

That could simply be temporary until they get more in stock. On a more strategic level, they could be sending a few signals here…

1. To consumers, if you like something on this site, buy it now, and don’t wait for a sale!
2. To manufacturers and suppliers, we can sell your products better and faster than our competitors can.
3. To everyone, from influencers to investors to prospective employees, we’re the popular kids with the hottest merchandise. Don’t you want to hang with us?

Doing this might also drive consumers to buy a less popular substitute — something that they might have not considered. Car dealers do this all the time: the vehicles pictured in their ads are almost never available when you show up. That’s a crafty way to move unpopular merchandise without cutting prices.

All this makes me wonder how many retailers promote products they never even had in stock as “SOLD OUT”?

And on another note, I wonder if I can do the same thing with my consulting services…

— Cheers! Freddy

If you have a marketing question you’d like to ask Freddy,
just drop him a memo.