B2B vs B2C: Why They’re More Similar Than You Think

Marketing has no shortage of acronyms, and B2B and B2C are two of the most important. These represent two large business categories, however, they’re not as different as you might think. Listen in as we compare and contrast these two types of companies (plus a few more).

What are the biggest differences between B2B & B2C marketing?

• In case of acronym confusion, “business to business” and “business to consumer”.
• B2B would be the company trying to sell cups to Starbucks.
• B2C is Starbucks marketing to consumers.

Why is it helpful to distinguish between the two?

• They’re in a very different state.
• B2B generally has specific goals, budgets and timelines.
• B2C is often more spontaneous. You may have a budget, like for a new laptop, but often it’s low-ticket items.

How are these similar?

• At the end of the day, they’re all humans.
• If we’re “working with Starbucks”, it’s not a faceless company. We might be working with Jennifer or Steve, not with “Starbucks”.

Why do we focus more on B2B?

• It’s a different area of expertise, and simply what we’ve chosen.
• We know how to make a difference for B2B firms.
• Solid B2C marketing is crucial (see: every TV ad), but is a very different approach.

Are there other options beyond B2B & B2C?

• D2C - Direct to Consumer, like Warby Parker
• C2C - Customer to Customer, like Etsy
• B2G - Business to Government, like some construction firms
• B2E - Business to Employee, like some online insurance companies.
• Probably many others as well.