Syllabus Edition
First teaching 2025
First exams 2027
Mass Markets & Niche Markets (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Business): Revision Note
Exam code: 0450, 0986 & 0264, 0774
Mass markets
In mass markets, products are aimed at broad market segments
Mass marketing occurs when businesses sell their products to most of the available market
Production usually happens on a large scale
Products are generally standardised with little differentiation
Examples of mass market brands

Evaluating mass markets
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Niche markets
In niche markets, products are aimed at a small subset of the larger market, e.g. gluten-free products
Niche marketing occurs when businesses identify and satisfy the demands of a small group of consumers within the wider market
Production usually happens on a small scale
Products may be made to order or produced with very specific customer needs in mind
Examples of niche market brands

Some niche markets become mass markets as large businesses start to realise the potential for growth
For example, energy drinks started out as ‘niche products’ aimed at fitness enthusiasts, but as prices have fallen and more choices are available, they have become mass-market products
Evaluating niche markets
Advantages | Disadvantages |
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Examiner Tips and Tricks
Avoid vague definitions – show understanding by linking each to advantages and disadvantages, e.g. mass markets spread risk but face intense competition, while niche markets face less competition but limited demand
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