Where to Look for a Consumer Monopoly

Warren Buffett has discovered that there are basically four types of consumer monopolies:

1. Businesses that make products that wear out fast or are used up quickly, that have brand name appeal, and that merchants have to carry or use to stay in business.

2. Communications businesses that provide a repetitive service that manufacturers must use to persuade the public to buy their products.

3. Businesses that provide repetitive consumer services that people and business are consistently in need of.

4. Retail stores that have acquired a quasi-monopoly position selling such items as jewelry and furniture.