GT Writing Task 2 / Essay Sample # 152
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Many people believe that people’s shopping habits depend more on the age group they belong to than any other factors.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer:
Shopping is the mainstay of our consumer culture, and some people think that shopping preference of people is determined primarily by their age. In this case, while I embrace the notion, I believe that apart from age, there are other important factors in shaping shopping habits.
It goes without saying that age is a major determinant of consumer behaviour. The purchasing preferences of youth significantly differ from that of middle-aged or old people. A recent study carried out in this field has revealed that 57 per cent of those aged 16-36 think organic products to be crucial compared to 32 per cent of those aged over 50. The study has also shown that young people are bold enough to try new fashion items while old people prirotise comfort over style. Thus, age does influence shopping habits.
However, there are several other factors, which are as important as age groups while determining shopping habits. First of all, most men consumers and women consumers view shopping differently as an activity. According to Bloomberg, women would rather continue to shop in hope of searching for a perfect solution, while men would rather like to get in, get what they require, and get out fast. Secondly, lifestyle is another key factor to consider. Lifestyle is a view, and a way in which people remain in society. The shopping habit is highly influenced by the lifestyle of a consumer. For instance, when an individual adopts a healthy lifestyle, then the food he or she purchases will relate to healthy alternatives to engineered food. Last but not least, occupation of an individual also influences consumer behavior. Consumers tend to buy products that are appropriate to their profession. For example, an architect would buy clothes according to his profession while a labor will have a different purchase pattern.
To recapitulate, it proves to be logical to assume that shopping habits are influenced by age, gender, lifestyle, occupation, and many other factors. To put emphasis on any one of these factors as the most important determinant would be exaggerated.