A characteristic of effective prices is that they must be:

Effective prices are essential in a competitive market, and one of their key characteristics is that they must be competitive. In the quick-serve restaurant industry, where numerous options are available to consumers, setting prices that are in line with or better than the competition is crucial in attracting and retaining customers. Competitive pricing ensures that the establishment can appeal to potential patrons who compare offerings and prices across various dining options.

While maximizing profits and maintaining consistency are important, pricing that does not consider the competitive landscape may not be sufficient to draw in customers. Similarly, flexibility in pricing can be beneficial, but it is the competitive aspect that directly impacts a customer's buying decision in this context. Ultimately, competitive pricing reflects an understanding of market conditions and consumer expectations, making it a fundamental feature of effective pricing strategies in a quick-serve restaurant setting.