from wallstreetmojo.com
Definition
Bait (or bait-and-switch) advertising is an alluring but deceptive and insincere offer whereby the advertiser does not intend to sell the advertised product or service at the unusually low advertised price.
The intention is to increase traffic, and then switch the customer to a higher priced item when the customer comes to the store. This is often accomplished by inducing customers to buy higher priced models by disparaging the less-expensive product.
This practice is illegal if customers find it difficult or impossible to buy the advertised item.
See Also
Advertising
Unfair competition
References
- American Marketing Association, AMA Dictionary.