International companies are aware that buyers have different attitudes and beliefs about brands and products from different countries. These perceptions about the country of origin decisions affect both directly and indirectly. Perceptions can be included as an attribute in the decision making process, or as a factor influencing other attributes ("if the product is French, has to have style"). The mere fact that a sign is perceived as successful in the international arena generates credibility and respect. Studies have shown the following. The impact of country of origin varies with the type of product. Consumers want to know where it was made a car, but do not mind the country of origin of the lubricant. Some countries have a reputation as manufacturers of specific items: Japan cars and electronics, the United States for technological innovation, soft drinks, toys, cigarettes and jeans, and France for wine, perfume and articles luxury. At times, perceptions of the country of origin encompass all products from that country. One study found that Hong Kong consumers perceive U. S. products as items of prestige and innovative Japanese and Chinese as cheap. Perceptions about the country of origin should take into account both national perspective and from a foreign perspective. In the domestic market, perceptions about the country of origin could awaken the patriotic sentiments of consumers and remind them of their past. As international trade increases, consumers conceive of certain brands as important symbols of their heritage and cultural identity. Patriotic themes have been used in marketing strategies around the world, although it may lack the exclusivity and often falls into excess. For example, during the Reagan administration in the 80's, a series of marks of a wide range of categories (such as automobiles, beer and clothing, to name a few examples) used pre-American themes in their advertising, but perhaps only managed to dilute their marketing efforts. A company can choose from several options when your product is competitively priced, but their country of origin discourages consumers. The company may consider co-production with a foreign company with the most renowned South Korea may make a fine leather jacket sent to Italy after finishing, or the company prodrĂa adopt a strategy to achieve international recognition quality in its sector industry, such as Belgian chocolate, ham, Polish and Colombian coffee. Companies have the option to target niches for use with a springboard to new markets. The leading Chinese company in refrigerators, washing machines and air conditioners, Haier, is making headway in the U. S. among college students who acquire their mini refrigerators for sale in Wal-Mart and other stores. haier wine coolers plans to introduce long-term innovative products like flat-screen televisions and minibars, in other areas. Tags: Marketing, Interactive Marketing, Kevin Lane Keller, Interactive Marketing, Online Marketing, Online Marketing, consumer perceptions of country of origin, Philip Kotler. . . .