What is a bakers dozen?

A Baker’s Dozen – Securing Your Bakeries Quality and Profits

Introduction
For centuries, bakers have found ways to ensure customers get full value for their money. The “Baker’s Dozen” is one of the oldest marketing tactics and still in effect today. The principles of a baker’s dozen can be applied to any occupation or industry for great success.

What is a Baker’s Dozen?
Stemming from the 13th century, a baker’s dozen referred to the practice of providing 13 items instead of the usual 12. This extra given item was referred to as the “inrolment” and was predominately given to customers of bread. The motive behind this was to avoid any fines or punishments provided they were found out selling loaves that were underweight.

Successful Application of a Baker’s Dozen
The standard extra item given in a baker’s dozen, excluded the baker from any obligations regarding any potential fines related to misrepresentation of their goods. Thus, the baker’s dozen strategy was vital in allowing bakers to be successful in the 13th century. This tactic has grown to be in effect in almost every industry today.

Today, a baker’s dozen is known as a way to ensure customer satisfaction and quality assurance. Any publisher, manufacturer, retailer, or service provider who gives a gift, sample, special deal, or additional feature for customers can consider using a baker’s dozen tactic. This strategy is often used in the marketing world to attract more customers and keep current customers engaged.

Conclusion
The baker’s dozen remains a popular concept in the marketing arena. Customers like to be rewarded and don’t mind when businesses provide a little something extra. Whether it’s a free cupcake or a special discount, the extra incentive consistently resonates within the marketplace. Thanks to the strategic benefits of the baker’s dozen, organizations and businesses now have the freedom to benefit both their customers as well as their bottom lines.