Which promotional tool includes coupons, rebates, and free samples to encourage product purchases?

• A. Direct marketing
• B. Advertising
• C. Sales promotions
• D. Public relations

Answer: (C)

Sales promotions are designed to prompt immediate action by offering temporary incentives. Coupons reduce the price at purchase, rebates return money after buying, and free samples let customers try the product with little risk. These tactics are aimed at boosting short-term sales and encouraging trial, which is why they’re the defining elements of sales promotions. Direct marketing uses targeted, trackable communications; advertising focuses on broad messaging to build awareness; public relations centers on managing reputation and relationships. So the tool that includes coupons, rebates, and free samples to encourage purchases is sales promotions.