Which term best describes a person who buys goods and services?

• A. Customer
• B. Purchaser
• C. Shopper
• D. Consumer

Answer: (D)

When we talk about the person who buys goods and services for personal use, the best label is consumer. This term covers both buying and using products or services for oneself, which is exactly what the scenario describes. A shopper focuses on browsing or comparing items and isn’t guaranteed to buy or to use the item. A purchaser is simply someone who buys, without implying how the item will be used. A customer describes the buyer in the transaction with a seller, but it doesn’t necessarily indicate consumption or personal use. So, consumer best captures the full idea of someone who buys for personal use and will ultimately consume the good or service.