Market analysis suggests a growing consumer preference for sustainably designed furniture. However, sales of furniture explicitly marketed as “sustainable” remain relatively low. Some analysts argue that this discrepancy indicates that consumers are not truly motivated by sustainability concerns. Other analysts counter that the higher cost of sustainable materials and production processes makes such furniture less accessible, hindering wider adoption despite consumer interest.
Which of the following, if true, most strengthens the argument of the analysts who believe that cost is the primary barrier to wider adoption of sustainably designed furniture?
Answer: