Which term describes a customer eager to be the first to purchase new products?

The term that best describes a customer eager to be the first to purchase new products is "innovative customer." This type of consumer is characterized by their enthusiasm for new offerings and their willingness to try products that are just entering the market. Innovative customers often seek out the latest trends and technologies, positioning themselves as early adopters.

These customers play a crucial role in the retail ecosystem because their purchasing behavior can influence broader market trends and set the stage for how new products perform. They often provide valuable feedback that can shape further product development and marketing strategies.

In contrast, other options describe different shopping behaviors. An impulse buyer is typically someone who makes spontaneous purchases without prior planning. A follower tends to wait until others have adopted a product before making a purchase decision, and a diverse shopper refers to someone who seeks out a variety of choices without necessarily prioritizing newness. Therefore, innovative customer is the term that correctly captures the eagerness to be the first to purchase new products.