This document discusses private label brands versus national brands. It begins by defining what a brand is, noting that a brand is defined by people's gut feelings rather than what a company says it is. It then defines private label brands as those owned by the retailer where they are sold, such as Kirkland or Alfani, while national brands are well-known brands. Private labels exist to differentiate themselves through value pricing or innovative premium products. Private labels have advantages like being able to closely target consumer segments and customize products at lower advertising and placement costs. National brands have advantages like strong brand loyalty and higher perceived quality and aspirational value. The document concludes that for low involvement categories, private labels are best while national brands work better for