Core Viewpoint - The article discusses consumer complaints regarding pricing strategies during the Double 11 shopping festival, highlighting issues such as pre-sale prices exceeding direct purchase prices and the prevalence of "algorithmic price discrimination" [3][5][7]. Pricing Issues - Consumers have reported that pre-sale prices for certain products are higher than the prices available for direct purchase, leading to dissatisfaction [5][7]. - The phenomenon of "algorithmic price discrimination" is prevalent, with consumers noticing significant price fluctuations within short time frames, sometimes seeing price increases of up to 200 yuan for items in their shopping carts [5][6]. - A specific case is mentioned where a consumer found that the total price of a humidifier, including a deposit, was 1753.92 yuan, while the direct purchase price fluctuated from 1522 yuan to 1691 yuan within an hour [6][7]. Consumer Experience - Many consumers expressed frustration over the complexity of promotional mechanisms, including the use of limited-time coupons and the challenge of maximizing discounts [7][8]. - A survey indicated that consumers are increasingly facing higher prices during the Double 11 event compared to regular prices, with some products being more expensive than their historical prices [8][9]. Merchant Responses - Merchants claim that Double 11 prices are the lowest of the year, with some stating they will refund any price differences reported by consumers [11][12]. - Merchants are shifting their focus from maximizing sales volume to ensuring profitability after discounts and promotional costs [12][13]. Market Trends - The article notes a shift in consumer behavior, with a growing demand for quality and sensitivity to pricing, leading to a more rational approach to purchasing [13][14]. - The perception of Double 11 as a unique low-price event is diminishing due to the increase in regular promotional activities throughout the year [14].

Core Insights - Consumers reported issues during this year's Double 11 shopping event, including pre-sale prices being higher than direct purchase prices, frequent price fluctuations, and complex discount mechanisms [1][2][3] Pricing Issues - Many consumers experienced situations where the total price of pre-sale items exceeded the direct purchase price, leading to complaints about the effectiveness of paying deposits [1][3] - The phenomenon of "algorithmic price discrimination" emerged, with consumers noticing significant price differences for the same product based on timing and user profiles [2][3] - A specific case highlighted a consumer who found that the price of a humidifier fluctuated from 1522 yuan to 1691 yuan within an hour, indicating a lack of price stability during the event [3] Consumer Experience - Consumers expressed frustration over the complexity of promotional rules, including the use of limited-time coupons and the risk of missing out on additional discounts or gifts if they attempted to cancel and reorder [4][6] - Reports indicated that some products were priced higher during Double 11 compared to regular prices, raising questions about the transparency of pricing mechanisms [5][6] Merchant Strategies - Merchants claimed that Double 11 prices were the lowest of the year, with some offering refunds for price differences [7][8] - There was a shift in merchant focus from maximizing sales volume to ensuring profitability after discounts and promotions [8][9] Market Trends - The perception of Double 11 as a unique low-price event has diminished due to the prevalence of regular promotions throughout the year, leading to more discerning consumer behavior [9] - Consumers are increasingly prioritizing product quality and are less tolerant of complex pricing strategies, indicating a shift in market dynamics [9]