What is the definition of a customer in the context of business?

• A. A person who buys goods and services from a store
• B. A person who analyzes market trends
• C. A supplier of goods
• D. A financial investor

Answer: (A)

In the context of business, a customer is defined as a person who buys goods and services from a store. This definition captures the core function of a customer within the commercial environment: they are the end users or consumers who engage with a business by purchasing its offerings.

Customers play a crucial role in economic activity; their purchasing decisions drive demand, influence prices, and ultimately contribute to a company's revenue. Understanding who a customer is helps businesses tailor their products and marketing strategies effectively to meet consumer needs and preferences.

While market analysts, suppliers, and financial investors may interact with a business, they do not fit within the same category as customers. Market analysts focus on understanding and forecasting market dynamics, suppliers provide goods to businesses, and financial investors seek returns from their investments, but all these roles do not involve directly purchasing goods and services for personal use. Thus, the essential activity of buying goods and services clearly defines a customer within a business context.