8+ Dreamy: Ben & Jerry's Sky Ice Cream Flavors!


8+ Dreamy: Ben & Jerry's Sky Ice Cream Flavors!

The topic below dialogue denotes a selected frozen dessert providing from a widely known ice cream producer. This specific product distinguishes itself by way of a singular taste profile and doubtlessly distinctive visible presentation, aligning with the model’s popularity for modern and playful creations. As a named entity, it represents a commercially accessible merchandise throughout the broader class of frozen confections.

Its significance lies in its potential affect on client preferences and market tendencies throughout the dessert business. The attraction of such a product might stem from its novelty, style, or the general model affiliation. The historic context entails the producer’s constant efforts to introduce imaginative and infrequently ethically sourced ice cream varieties, contributing to its model id and market place.

Additional examination will delve into the product’s substances, its advertising technique, client reception, and its general contribution to the ice cream market. Analyzing these elements will present a complete understanding of its position and relevance throughout the aggressive panorama of frozen desserts.

1. Taste Profile

The flavour profile is essentially intertwined with the success, or lack thereof, of Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream. It represents the sensory expertise that immediately influences client notion and buying choices. A poorly conceived taste profile can result in market failure, regardless of different favorable elements corresponding to branding or distribution. Conversely, a well-executed profile, even with shortcomings in different areas, can generate important client demand. The particular components that represent a taste profile, corresponding to sweetness, tartness, texture, and fragrant compounds, should be fastidiously balanced to realize the supposed impact. This stability immediately impacts repeat purchases and general product longevity.

Think about, for instance, Ben and Jerry’s “Cherry Garcia” taste. Its success stems from the harmonious mixture of cherry and chocolate, making a balanced and interesting profile. In distinction, a hypothetical taste combining incompatible components, corresponding to robust licorice with a savory part, would possible face important client resistance. The choice and proportion of substances throughout the Sky Ice Cream formulation thus decide its market viability. Moreover, the flavour profile should align with the general model id, reinforcing the notion of high quality and innovation that Ben and Jerry’s usually conveys.

In abstract, the flavour profile is just not merely a part of the product however its defining attribute. It represents the first interplay between the patron and the ice cream, and due to this fact, immediately dictates its market efficiency. An in depth understanding and cautious orchestration of the flavour parts are important for guaranteeing that Sky Ice Cream meets client expectations and achieves business success. The event of an efficient profile necessitates a rigorous means of testing, refinement, and alignment with model requirements.

2. Ingredient Sourcing

The choice and procurement of uncooked supplies symbolize a essential aspect of the manufacturing course of. It impacts not solely the flavour and high quality of the ultimate product but additionally the moral standing of the corporate. For Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream, ingredient sourcing immediately impacts its positioning throughout the market, influencing client notion and model loyalty. If inferior supplies are used, the standard of product diminish. Moral ingredient procurement, as exemplified by Ben and Jerry’s dedication to truthful commerce practices, can strengthen model picture and create a optimistic affiliation with shoppers who prioritize social duty.

Think about the implications of sourcing vanilla beans, a incessantly used ice cream ingredient. Ben and Jerry’s might go for the lowest-cost choice, doubtlessly from sources with questionable labor practices. Nevertheless, their established apply entails sourcing truthful commerce vanilla, guaranteeing truthful compensation for farmers. This alternative influences the ultimate value of the ice cream however strengthens model credibility and appeals to shoppers who worth moral sourcing. Equally, the choice of dairy farms as suppliers carries moral weight, with shoppers typically favoring corporations that companion with farms using sustainable agricultural practices and demonstrating animal welfare.

In conclusion, ingredient sourcing is just not merely a logistical consideration however a strategic crucial for Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream. It immediately impacts product high quality, model popularity, and client belief. Moral and sustainable sourcing practices can improve the product’s attraction and foster buyer loyalty, whereas cost-cutting measures that compromise high quality or moral requirements can have detrimental penalties. Understanding the interaction between sourcing practices and client values is important for long-term success.

3. Goal Market

The choice of a goal market represents a foundational step within the commercialization of Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream. A clearly outlined goal market dictates quite a few subsequent choices, starting from product formulation and packaging design to advertising methods and distribution channels. With no exact understanding of the supposed client base, efforts to advertise and promote the product are inherently much less efficient and doubtlessly wasteful. For instance, concentrating on health-conscious people with a high-sugar, high-fat ice cream variant would possible show unproductive. Conversely, aiming for shoppers who worth indulgent, novelty flavors and are prepared to pay a premium worth level could also be a extra viable method. The demographic profile, life-style, and buying habits of the goal market immediately affect product attraction.

Think about the sensible software of this understanding. If the goal market consists primarily of younger adults aged 18-25, advertising campaigns may leverage social media platforms corresponding to TikTok and Instagram, using visually partaking content material and influencer collaborations. Packaging could possibly be designed with a contemporary, minimalist aesthetic to attraction to this demographic. Distribution would concentrate on comfort shops and supermarkets frequented by younger adults, in addition to on-line ordering platforms. Conversely, a goal market comprised of households with younger kids would necessitate a distinct method. Advertising and marketing efforts might emphasize the enjoyable, whimsical elements of the ice cream, with packaging that includes colourful designs and child-friendly imagery. Distribution would prioritize supermarkets and family-oriented retail areas. The selection of substances might also shift to cater to parental issues concerning synthetic colours and components.

In abstract, the identification and thorough understanding of the goal market represent a pivotal determinant of the success of Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream. It serves as a guideline for all strategic choices associated to product growth, advertising, and distribution. Failing to precisely outline and cater to the goal market can result in misdirected efforts and in the end, business failure. The challenges lie in precisely figuring out the patron phase almost definitely to buy the product and adapting the product and advertising methods accordingly. This course of requires diligent market analysis, knowledge evaluation, and a complete understanding of client habits.

4. Packaging Design

Packaging design for Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream is greater than mere containment; it represents a essential communication device that influences client notion and buy choices. The packaging features as a silent salesperson, conveying model values, product attributes, and in the end, its market place.

  • Visible Identification and Model Recognition

    The packaging design should align with the established Ben and Jerry’s visible id, using constant fonts, colours, and imagery to make sure model recognition. The design might incorporate playful graphics, reflecting the model’s whimsical persona. An efficient design leverages these components to right away sign that the product originates from Ben and Jerry’s, thus capitalizing on pre-existing model belief and recognition. Failure to keep up consistency with the established model aesthetics may end up in client confusion and a weakened model presence.

  • Info Conveyance and Shopper Training

    Packaging should clearly and precisely talk important product info, together with taste description, substances, dietary info, and allergen warnings. This info ought to be introduced in a legible and accessible format, adhering to regulatory labeling necessities. The design may also spotlight key product attributes, corresponding to ethically sourced substances or sustainable packaging supplies, interesting to client values. Offering clear and concise info builds client confidence and reinforces the model’s dedication to transparency.

  • Purposeful Design and Preservation

    Past aesthetics and data, packaging should fulfill a sensible perform: preserving the ice cream’s high quality and integrity throughout storage and transportation. The design ought to present an hermetic seal to forestall freezer burn and preserve the product’s texture and taste. The container materials should be sturdy sufficient to face up to temperature fluctuations and bodily dealing with. A failure on this useful side can result in product spoilage and adverse client experiences, regardless of the product’s intrinsic qualities.

  • Sustainability and Environmental Affect

    More and more, shoppers prioritize environmentally accountable packaging. Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream packaging design might incorporate sustainable supplies, corresponding to recycled paperboard or biodegradable plastics, minimizing its environmental affect. The packaging might also characteristic messaging that promotes recycling or composting. Adopting sustainable packaging practices aligns with rising client preferences for eco-friendly merchandise and reinforces the model’s dedication to environmental stewardship. Nevertheless, the environmental advantages of the packaging should be real and verifiable to keep away from accusations of greenwashing.

The effectiveness of the packaging design in the end contributes to the general success of Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream. It bridges the hole between the product and the patron, influencing buy choices and shaping model perceptions. A well-executed design balances aesthetics, performance, info conveyance, and sustainability, contributing to a optimistic client expertise and a strengthened model popularity.

5. Distribution Channels

Distribution channels are integral to the business viability of Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream, serving because the conduits by way of which the product reaches its supposed shoppers. The choice and administration of those channels immediately affect product availability, market penetration, and general profitability.

  • Retail Partnerships

    Establishing partnerships with established retailers, corresponding to supermarkets, comfort shops, and specialty meals retailers, constitutes a major distribution technique. These partnerships present entry to a broad client base and leverage the prevailing infrastructure of the retailer. The particular phrases of those partnerships, together with shelf house allocation, promotional actions, and income sharing preparations, considerably affect product visibility and gross sales quantity. Securing outstanding placement inside retail areas enhances the chance of client buy.

  • Direct-to-Shopper Gross sales

    Direct-to-consumer gross sales, encompassing on-line ordering platforms and company-owned retail areas (Ben and Jerry’s Scoop Retailers), present higher management over the model expertise and permit for direct engagement with shoppers. On-line channels allow entry to geographically dispersed prospects and facilitate customized advertising efforts. Scoop Retailers, however, provide a curated setting that reinforces model id and permits for sampling and direct suggestions. The profitability of direct-to-consumer gross sales is contingent on efficient logistics, stock administration, and customer support.

  • Meals Service Trade

    Penetrating the meals service business, together with eating places, cafes, and catering companies, represents a further avenue for distribution. These retailers can function worthwhile factors of consumption, significantly in settings the place shoppers could also be extra inclined to take pleasure in dessert choices. Securing contracts with meals service suppliers requires aggressive pricing, constant product high quality, and dependable provide chain administration. The visibility gained by way of these channels can improve model consciousness and drive retail gross sales.

  • Specialty Channels

    Exploring specialty distribution channels, corresponding to cinemas, amusement parks, and sporting venues, can provide focused entry to particular client segments. These channels typically cater to people in leisure or leisure settings, the place the acquisition of ice cream could also be seen as an impulse purchase. The effectiveness of those channels hinges on aligning the product providing with the demographics and preferences of the target market. As an illustration, a family-friendly amusement park could also be a super venue for selling novelty ice cream flavors.

The optimum distribution technique for Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream entails a multifaceted method, encompassing a mix of retail partnerships, direct-to-consumer gross sales, meals service placements, and specialty channels. The particular weighting of every channel is contingent on elements corresponding to goal market demographics, geographic location, and general enterprise goals. Efficient administration of those channels requires meticulous planning, environment friendly logistics, and powerful relationships with distribution companions.

6. Model Affiliation

Model affiliation represents a vital component within the advertising and client notion of any product, significantly throughout the aggressive meals and beverage business. For Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream, model affiliation extends past mere product identification; it encompasses the totality of perceptions, emotions, and recollections that customers hyperlink to the product and its mother or father firm. This intricate net of associations considerably influences buy choices, model loyalty, and general market success.

  • Moral Sourcing and Social Duty

    Ben and Jerry’s has cultivated a robust model affiliation with moral sourcing and social duty. Shoppers typically affiliate the model with truthful commerce practices, environmental sustainability, and lively engagement in social and political causes. This affiliation is usually a key differentiator, attracting shoppers who prioritize moral issues when making buying choices. For Sky Ice Cream, emphasizing ethically sourced substances and sustainable packaging can reinforce these optimistic model associations, resonating with shoppers who align with these values. Conversely, any perceived deviation from these moral requirements might injury the model’s popularity and erode client belief.

  • Innovation and Distinctive Flavors

    The model is understood for modern and strange taste mixtures, typically incorporating distinctive substances and playful names. This affiliation with creativity and experimentation can drive client curiosity and encourage trial purchases of latest merchandise. Sky Ice Cream, with its doubtlessly novel taste profile and imaginative branding, can capitalize on this pre-existing affiliation. By positioning the product as a daring and modern providing, Ben and Jerry’s can appeal to shoppers looking for unconventional and thrilling style experiences. Nevertheless, the flavour should ship on the promise of innovation, aligning with client expectations for a singular and memorable product.

  • Premium High quality and Indulgence

    Ben and Jerry’s typically tasks a picture of premium high quality and indulgence, utilizing high-quality substances and providing wealthy, decadent taste experiences. This affiliation can justify the next worth level and place the product as a deal with or special day buy. Sky Ice Cream should ship on this promise of premium high quality, utilizing high-quality substances and sustaining constant manufacturing requirements. Failure to fulfill these expectations might disappoint shoppers and injury the model’s popularity for high quality and indulgence.

  • Playful Model Persona and Group Engagement

    The model cultivates a playful and irreverent model persona, typically partaking with shoppers by way of humorous advertising campaigns and neighborhood occasions. This affiliation with enjoyable and social interplay can foster a way of connection and loyalty amongst shoppers. Sky Ice Cream can leverage this model persona by way of partaking social media campaigns and interactive advertising initiatives. By creating a way of neighborhood and enjoyable across the product, Ben and Jerry’s can improve client engagement and drive model loyalty.

In abstract, model affiliation is a multifaceted phenomenon that considerably influences the patron notion and market efficiency of Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream. By reinforcing optimistic model associations, corresponding to moral sourcing, innovation, premium high quality, and playful model persona, Ben and Jerry’s can improve the product’s attraction and construct a loyal buyer base. Nevertheless, it’s essential to keep up consistency between the product and the model’s established values to keep away from disappointing shoppers and damaging the model’s popularity. Sky Ice Cream success rely on how precisely join these values.

7. Shopper Notion

Shopper notion kinds the bedrock upon which the business success of any product, together with Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream, is constructed. It encompasses how shoppers interpret, perceive, and in the end really feel in regards to the product based mostly on a mess of things, immediately impacting buy choices and model loyalty.

  • Taste Expectations and Actuality

    Shopper notion is intrinsically tied to expectations concerning the flavour profile of Sky Ice Cream. Shoppers might anticipate sure style notes or textural experiences based mostly on the product’s title, packaging, and prior experiences with the Ben and Jerry’s model. If the precise taste deviates considerably from these expectations, it might probably result in disappointment and adverse critiques. For instance, if the title “Sky Ice Cream” evokes a light-weight, ethereal, and subtly flavored expertise, a wealthy and intensely flavored product could possibly be perceived unfavorably. Conversely, exceeding expectations can generate optimistic word-of-mouth and drive repeat purchases. This component underscores the essential significance of aligning the product’s taste profile with its branding and advertising message.

  • Worth-High quality Relationship

    Shoppers typically correlate worth with perceived high quality. If Sky Ice Cream is priced at a premium stage, shoppers will possible anticipate a commensurate stage of high quality when it comes to substances, style, and general expertise. Components corresponding to using ethically sourced substances or distinctive taste mixtures can justify the next worth level within the eyes of the patron. If the product fails to ship on this perceived worth, it could be deemed overpriced and shoppers might go for competing manufacturers providing a greater price-quality stability. Due to this fact, pricing methods should fastidiously think about client perceptions of worth and high quality.

  • Model Popularity and Belief

    Ben and Jerry’s has cultivated a popularity for social duty, moral sourcing, and distinctive taste improvements. Shopper notion of Sky Ice Cream is closely influenced by this established model picture. If shoppers belief Ben and Jerry’s to ship high-quality, ethically produced ice cream, they’re extra possible to provide Sky Ice Cream a strive. Nevertheless, any perceived inconsistencies with the model’s values, corresponding to utilizing lower-quality substances or partaking in deceptive advertising practices, can erode client belief and negatively affect the product’s success. Sustaining transparency and upholding the model’s values are essential for sustaining optimistic client notion.

  • Social Affect and Phrase-of-Mouth

    Shopper notion is considerably formed by social affect and word-of-mouth referrals. Optimistic critiques and proposals from pals, household, and on-line influencers can considerably enhance a product’s attraction. Conversely, adverse critiques and social media backlash can rapidly injury its popularity. Sky Ice Cream’s success hinges on producing optimistic buzz and inspiring shoppers to share their optimistic experiences with others. Social media campaigns and influencer advertising will be efficient instruments for shaping client notion and driving word-of-mouth advertising, however authenticity and transparency are important for constructing belief and credibility.

Finally, client notion is a dynamic and multifaceted assemble that shapes the future of Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream. Understanding and actively managing client perceptions by way of considerate product growth, clear advertising practices, and a dedication to model values are essential for reaching long-term success within the aggressive ice cream market.

8. Market Competitors

The panorama of frozen desserts is characterised by intense competitors, an element of paramount significance within the strategic positioning and potential success of Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream. Navigating this aggressive setting requires a nuanced understanding of rival manufacturers, pricing methods, and evolving client preferences.

  • Aggressive Product Panorama

    The ice cream market incorporates a various vary of rivals, from giant multinational companies providing mass-market merchandise to smaller artisanal manufacturers specializing in area of interest segments. Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream should deal with established flavors from its personal model, in addition to comparable choices from rivals like Hagen-Dazs, and regional manufacturers. Efficiently differentiating Sky Ice Cream requires a singular promoting proposition (USP), whether or not by way of modern flavors, moral sourcing, or distinctive advertising campaigns. Failing to ascertain a transparent USP dangers the product being misplaced amongst a sea of indistinguishable alternate options.

  • Pricing Methods and Worth Proposition

    Pricing methods play a vital position in aggressive dynamics. Ben and Jerry’s usually operates within the premium ice cream phase, commanding greater costs than mass-market rivals. The success of Sky Ice Cream hinges on justifying this worth premium by way of perceived worth. This worth might stem from superior substances, distinctive taste mixtures, or the model’s dedication to social duty. Competitor pricing, promotional provides, and client worth sensitivity immediately affect Sky Ice Cream’s aggressive place. A misjudged pricing technique might alienate potential prospects or erode revenue margins.

  • Distribution Channel Rivalry

    Competitors extends past the product itself to the distribution channels by way of which it reaches shoppers. Securing prime shelf house in supermarkets and comfort shops is a continuing battle, with manufacturers vying for visibility and accessibility. Direct-to-consumer channels, corresponding to on-line ordering and company-owned scoop retailers, provide higher management however require important funding. Aggressive pressures additionally come up in securing partnerships with eating places, cafes, and different foodservice institutions. The effectiveness of distribution channels immediately impacts Sky Ice Cream’s market penetration and general gross sales quantity.

  • Advertising and marketing and Model Differentiation

    Advertising and marketing and branding are important instruments for differentiating Sky Ice Cream in a aggressive market. Artistic promoting campaigns, social media engagement, and influencer collaborations can construct model consciousness and generate client curiosity. Nevertheless, these efforts should resonate with the target market and successfully talk the product’s distinctive worth proposition. Opponents’ advertising methods, promotional actions, and model messaging immediately affect Sky Ice Cream’s capability to seize market share. A weak or ineffective advertising marketing campaign may end up in the product being neglected amidst the noise of rivals.

The market dynamics spotlight that Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream’s prospects are closely reliant on navigating a difficult aggressive panorama. Every elementproduct differentiation, pricing, distribution, and marketingrequires meticulous planning and execution. The power to distinguish the brand new product providing is paramount to make sure success in an setting that’s populated by many decisions.

Ceaselessly Requested Questions

This part addresses frequent inquiries concerning Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream, offering factual info to help shoppers in making knowledgeable choices.

Query 1: What are the first substances in Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream?

The entire ingredient checklist is out there on the product packaging and the official Ben and Jerry’s web site. Core substances usually embody cream, skim milk, sugar, and egg yolks, together with flavor-specific additions corresponding to cookie dough, chocolate chunks, or fruit purees. Shoppers with allergic reactions ought to fastidiously overview the total ingredient assertion to determine potential allergens.

Query 2: Does Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream comprise any genetically modified organisms (GMOs)?

Ben and Jerry’s has said its dedication to sourcing non-GMO substances each time potential. Info concerning the precise GMO standing of substances in Sky Ice Cream will be discovered on the product packaging or by contacting Ben and Jerry’s client help.

Query 3: What’s the shelf lifetime of Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream?

The advisable shelf life for Sky Ice Cream is often indicated by a “finest by” date printed on the packaging. Correct storage, maintained at a constant freezer temperature, is essential to protect the product’s high quality and forestall freezer burn. Consumption past the “finest by” date is just not advisable.

Query 4: Is Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream appropriate for people with lactose intolerance?

Sky Ice Cream comprises dairy substances and is usually not appropriate for people with lactose intolerance. Lactose-free alternate options could also be accessible throughout the Ben and Jerry’s product line, however shoppers ought to seek the advice of the ingredient statements for affirmation.

Query 5: The place can Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream be bought?

Availability might differ relying on geographic location and retailer partnerships. Sky Ice Cream is often bought in supermarkets, comfort shops, and Ben and Jerry’s scoop retailers. Shoppers can even verify the Ben and Jerry’s web site for a retailer locator or on-line ordering choices.

Query 6: Does Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream help truthful commerce practices?

Ben and Jerry’s has a long-standing dedication to truthful commerce sourcing for sure substances, corresponding to cocoa, vanilla, and occasional. The particular substances sourced by way of truthful commerce channels in Sky Ice Cream are indicated on the product packaging and the Ben and Jerry’s web site. Shoppers who prioritize truthful commerce merchandise might discover this info related.

In abstract, shoppers are inspired to fastidiously overview the product packaging and seek the advice of the Ben and Jerry’s web site for full and up-to-date info concerning substances, dietary info, and moral sourcing practices. Making knowledgeable decisions is a vital step when buying meals merchandise.

The next part will look at potential advertising methods.

Strategic Advertising and marketing Ideas Impressed by “Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream”

The next suggestions distill advertising ideas exemplified by profitable product launches, taking “Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream” as a conceptual start line. These insights goal to supply actionable steering relevant throughout varied industries.

Tip 1: Craft a Compelling Narrative Across the Product. A profitable product transcends mere performance; it tells a narrative. If “Sky Ice Cream” existed, it ought to accomplish that by linking to one thing larger. Its narrative might concentrate on substances, origins, or the client expertise.

Tip 2: Prioritize Visible Enchantment and Model Consistency. The visible components are central to capturing consideration. All promotional supplies ought to adhere to strict model requirements to extend familiarity. “Sky Ice Cream” packaging ought to convey a way of what to anticipate when it comes to the flavour and texture.

Tip 3: Leverage Social Media for Engagement and Suggestions. Actively have interaction in conversations about associated matters. Social listening can reveal what shoppers like about current merchandise and what enhancements they’re on the lookout for. The discharge of “Sky Ice Cream” is an opportunity to gauge public opinion.

Tip 4: Implement a Strong Influencer Advertising and marketing Technique. Partnering with related influencers gives social proof. Search people whose viewers aligns with the product’s goal demographic and values. Authenticity ought to be prioritized over attain.

Tip 5: Give attention to Creating Memorable Buyer Experiences. Each interplay should mirror model’s id. From ordering to consumption, every touchpoint ought to really feel particular. If “Sky Ice Cream” can be launched, the acquisition ought to be simply nearly as good because the style.

Tip 6: Collect and Analyze Information for Steady Enchancment. After launching a product like “Sky Ice Cream,” observe knowledge to know what works and does not. The suggestions ought to be analyzed to iterate rapidly and effectively on the following launch.

By integrating narrative growth, constant visible branding, dynamic social media engagement, influencer advertising, excellent buyer experiences, and data-driven optimizations, organizations can considerably improve the chance of a product success in a aggressive market.

The ultimate part explores abstract.

Conclusion

The previous evaluation has dissected key sides related to Ben and Jerry’s Sky Ice Cream, encompassing taste profiles, ingredient sourcing, goal market identification, packaging design, distribution channels, model associations, client notion, and market competitors. These components collectively form the product’s viability and potential for business success. A complete technique addresses every side to maximise its possibilities of resonating with shoppers and reaching a sustainable market presence.

The success of such a hypothetical product, like another, hinges on a meticulous understanding of its target market, coupled with a dedication to upholding the model’s core values and delivering a constantly high-quality product. The insights gained present a framework for knowledgeable decision-making throughout the context of product growth, advertising, and distribution, in the end guiding a strategic method to navigating the complexities of the patron market.