If a significant portion of our users are in lower-income regions, should we create a special pricing tier or plan for those countries to make the product accessible, or would that reduce revenue too much?

Based on the principles outlined in our pricing strategy book, Price to Scale, you can indeed create a special pricing tier for users in lower-income regions—but with a strategic approach that avoids simply undercutting your revenue.

Here are the key points to consider:

• Segment Your Customer Base:
The book emphasizes the importance of segmenting your customers and tailoring product offerings accordingly. Instead of slapping on a simple discount, you would design a distinct tier that meets the unique needs and price sensitivity of those markets while preserving the value proposition of your higher-priced plans.

• Offer Alternative Value Propositions:
As noted on page 245, it’s effective to offer alternatives that aren’t just cheaper but may include conditions (like longer-term commitments or specific add-ons) that maintain revenue integrity. This approach helps balance accessibility with profitability.

• Avoid Direct Cannibalization:
The idea is to structure your tiers so that customers accessing the lower-priced option aren’t simply shifting away from core revenue streams. Instead, you create a lineup where each segment—whether premium or cost-sensitive—receives a product tailored to its willingness to pay, reducing the risk of price comparison that might pressure your premium offerings.

• Practical Application:
By differentiating the product’s features or adding specific terms to the lower-priced option, you can enhance accessibility without significantly reducing overall revenue. Essentially, the lower-income segment becomes a separate cohort with its own pricing logic, which, if designed well, can open up new markets without eroding premium revenue.

In summary, creating a special pricing tier for lower-income regions can be a smart strategy if executed with clear segmentation and differentiated value. This way, the product remains accessible for cost-sensitive customers while protecting and even potentially boosting revenue from other segments.