When identical or similar products are priced differently, the product marketed to females costs more. 

This is gender discrimination in retail. 

Two weeks ago we spoke about Shrinkflation and recommended comparing products using unit cost. Comparing prices is important in this case too.

Identical and similar items can be found in the same aisle or separately. An example used in the article below is painkillers labelled as a treatment for menstrual cramps and near-identical painkillers marketed for headaches and other pain. The first one is found in the feminine hygiene aisle beside the pads and tampons. The other is shelved in the painkiller aisle. Despite being near-identical, the one marketed for menstrual cramps was noticeably more expensive. 

Some other commonly ‘pink-taxed’ products and services include:

• razors and razor blades

• haircuts

• drycleaning

• deodorant

• kids toys

• clothing, both adult and children

The marketing, package, displays, and location of products and services is very deliberate and made to maximize profits. It is an individual choice of which products to buy and which services to use; making an informed decision will help you make the right decision for yourself. 

https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/marketplace-pink-tax-1.6787778

With warm regards,

Caroline Araujo Abbotts (She/Her)
Financial Literacy Program Coordinator
advice@unitedwaybg.com
519-378-4773 work cellphone (Mon-Fri 8:30 am – 4:30 pm)