A defined customer who has the need, desire, and ability to buy a retailer's products is known as what?

The chosen answer, "Target Market," accurately describes a defined customer who possesses the need, desire, and ability to purchase a retailer's products. A target market is essentially a specific group of consumers that a business aims to reach with its marketing efforts and product offerings. This concept is fundamental in retail and marketing because it helps retailers identify and focus their strategies on those consumers most likely to buy their products.

The target market is characterized by shared traits such as demographics, interests, and buying behaviors, which make them more responsive to the retailer's offering. Understanding the target market allows retailers to tailor their marketing campaigns, product development, and customer service initiatives, ultimately increasing the chances of sales and customer loyalty.

Other options, while related, do not encapsulate the full definition as clearly. For example, a "Market Segment" refers to a subgroup within the larger market based on shared characteristics but does not specifically focus on the ability to buy. "Consumer Base" generally refers to the total number of consumers who regularly purchase goods or services from a retailer, but it doesn't highlight their specific needs and buying capabilities. "Potential Customer" describes someone who could become a customer in the future but may not yet have the definitive characteristics of a target market. Therefore, the concept