An advertisement that I received prompted me to think about the term “Limited Edition”. As consumers we are conditioned to believe that if something is called “limited edition” that it must be more valuable. After all, it is “limited”, which implies that it is scarce. It implies that the supply of the item has a limit. It also implies that you really should buy it now since it won’t be available after all of the current “limited edition” are sold.
However, in truth, it’s most likely not all that “limited”. It’s just propaganda, folks. A sales tactic designed to make you not only buy the item, but also pay more for it than you should.
If you really, truly, think about it, anything that is being made can be called a “limited edition”. Every model of car that rolls off of the production line is limited. They only make so many a year. Get yours now! This article is a limited edition. At some point I will stop writing articles. There won’t be any more. The supply is limited! Which is why you should pay me now! Just kidding. Kinda.
Shane Ede is a business teacher and personal finance blogger. He holds dual Bachelors degrees in education and computer sciences, as well as a Masters Degree in educational technology. Shane is passionate about personal finance, literacy and helping others master their money. When he isn’t enjoying live music, Shane likes spending time with family, barbeque and meteorology.