Faced with the prospect of declining sales, which approach may extend the life cycle?

• A. Ceasing all marketing and ending product
• B. Doubling price to appear premium
• C. Reducing quality to cut costs
• D. Extending the life cycle by improving the product, updating the packaging, or seeking new markets

Answer: (D)

When sales are slipping, the goal is to renew interest in the product and reach new or renewed audiences. Extending the life cycle by improving the product, updating packaging, or seeking new markets does this by delivering added value, refreshing shelf presence, and opening demand in different segments. Product improvements can restore performance and meet evolving consumer preferences; packaging updates can attract attention and convey renewed quality; exploring new markets or uses broadens the customer base beyond the existing one, delaying the onset of decline. In contrast, ceasing marketing and ending the product ends its life cycle outright; doubling the price can reduce demand and alienate buyers; reducing quality undermines value and brand perception, making further decline more likely.