Consumption Patterns of Chinese Elders: Evidence from a Survey in Wuhan, China

Ying, B. & Yao, R. (2006). Consumption patterns of Chinese elders: Evidence from a survey in Wuhan, China. Journal of Family and Economic Issues, 27(4), 702-714.

13 Pages Posted: 3 Mar 2016

See all articles by Bin Ying

Bin Ying

Zhongnan University of Economics and Law-Business Administration School

Rui Yao

University of Missouri at Columbia - Department of Personal Finance Planning

Date Written: 2006

Abstract

The elderly population in China has grown since 1999. Many Chinese businesses have noticed this trend and began to focus on the Gray Market. The behavior of older Chinese consumers has significantly changed. Descriptions of their behavior in previous research need to be updated. This paper uses data from a survey conducted by the authors in China to investigate the current behavior of older consumers. Results show that older Chinese consumers (1) have similar consumption needs as younger adults; (2) display more mature consumption attitudes; (3) play a less important role in the family; and (4) have strong desire for compensatory consumption. These findings call for further research into the behavior of older Chinese consumers as a major marketing focus.

Keywords: Aging, China, Consumer behavior, Gray market, Older consumers

Suggested Citation

Ying, Bin and Yao, Rui, Consumption Patterns of Chinese Elders: Evidence from a Survey in Wuhan, China (2006). Ying, B. & Yao, R. (2006). Consumption patterns of Chinese elders: Evidence from a survey in Wuhan, China. Journal of Family and Economic Issues, 27(4), 702-714., Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2740152

Bin Ying (Contact Author)

Zhongnan University of Economics and Law-Business Administration School ( email )

No.143, Wuluo Road
Wuhan, Hubei 430060
China
86-27-6266-5086 (Phone)
86-27-8838-8518 (Fax)

Rui Yao

University of Missouri at Columbia - Department of Personal Finance Planning ( email )

239 Stanley Hall
Columbia, MO 65211-7700
United States
573-882-9343 (Phone)
573-884-8389 (Fax)

HOME PAGE: http://pfp.missouri.edu/faculty_yao.html

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