Societal marketing

Share This
« Back to Glossary Index

Societal marketing is a concept that combines traditional marketing practices with an emphasis on social responsibility, aiming to make a positive impact on society. This approach, introduced by Philip Kotler in the 1970s, takes into account non-economic criteria and focuses on the long-term interests of society. It involves promoting ethical consumption habits, improving moral conduct, and emphasizing societal and individual welfare, alongside business profit. Societal marketing can be seen in action through initiatives like Avon’s breast cancer awareness campaign or The Body Shop’s ethical practices. This strategy has evolved over time, now incorporating sustainable, ethical, and ecological considerations, and is expected to continue developing in the future. Companies often use societal marketing as part of their corporate social responsibility[1] efforts, aiming to improve their public image and build a strong fire[5]. However, consumer[4] suspicions about companies’ motives and criticisms regarding the implementation of public interests can pose challenges. Related concepts include sustainability marketing, social marketing[2], and green marketing[3].

Terms definitions
1. corporate social responsibility.
1 Corporate Social Responsibility, commonly referred to as CSR, is a business model that encourages companies to consider their impact on society and the environment in all aspects of their operation. It is a concept that has evolved and matured since the 1960s, encompassing not only economic and legal considerations but also ethical and philanthropic ones. CSR involves businesses voluntarily going beyond what the law requires to improve their social and environmental performance. This can range from reducing their carbon footprint to engaging in charitable work. However, CSR is more than just charity; it involves integrating these considerations into the business model. The implementation of CSR can lead to enhanced consumer loyalty, improved reputation, and potentially increased long-term profits. It's essential to note that CSR initiatives vary globally due to regional consumer preferences and different governmental regulations. Despite criticisms about its effectiveness and concerns of it being used as a smokescreen, CSR remains a significant aspect of modern business practices. It's verified through various industry resources and often forms part of the company's reporting to stakeholders.
2 Corporate Social Responsibility, commonly referred to as CSR, is a business model that encourages companies to consider their impact on society and the environment in all aspects of their operation. It is a concept that has evolved and matured since the 1960s, encompassing not only economic and legal considerations but also ethical and philanthropic ones. CSR involves businesses voluntarily going beyond what the law requires to improve their social and environmental performance. This can range from reducing their carbon footprint to engaging in charitable work. However, CSR is more than just charity; it involves integrating these considerations into the business model. The implementation of CSR can lead to enhanced consumer loyalty, improved reputation, and potentially increased long-term profits. It's essential to note that CSR initiatives vary globally due to regional consumer preferences and different governmental regulations. Despite criticisms about its effectiveness and concerns of it being used as a smokescreen, CSR remains a significant aspect of modern business practices. It's verified through various industry resources and often forms part of the company's reporting to stakeholders.
2. social marketing. Social marketing is a strategic approach that applies traditional marketing principles and techniques to promote beneficial social changes. It focuses on influencing behavior to achieve a greater good and extends beyond financial gains. Social marketing emerged in the 1950s and has grown to include initiatives by global organizations such as the World Health Organization. Key figures like Philip Kotler and Craig Lefebvre have significantly contributed to its development. It is commonly used in public health campaigns, where it has proven successful in raising awareness and promoting behavior change. As a tool for social change, social marketing can sometimes spark debates and controversy. It also includes community-based strategies aimed at promoting sustainable behavior in communities. Renowned publications and resources provide extensive knowledge and guidance on social marketing strategies.
Societal marketing (Wikipedia)

Societal responsibility of marketing is a marketing concept that holds that a company should make marketing decisions not only by considering consumers' wants, the company's requirements, but also society's long-term interests.

The societal marketing concept holds that the organization's task is to determine the needs, wants, and interests of a target market and to deliver the desired satisfactions more effectively and efficiently than competitors in a way that preserves or enhances the well-being of both the individual consumer and society in general. Therefore, marketers must endeavor to satisfy the needs and wants of their target markets in ways that preserve and enhance the well-being of consumers and society as a whole. It is closely linked with the principles of corporate social responsibility and of sustainable development.

« Back to Glossary Index
en_USEN
Scroll to Top