Question

Read the passage below and identify which of the following statements (I, II, and II

Q: Answer-Read the passage below and identify which of the following statements (I, II, and III) would weaken...

Analysis of the Argument The passage asserts that luxury retail is recession-proof and that physical boutiques are the primary driver of success because affluent consumers prefer in-store experiences. To weaken this, we need evidence that the physical model is struggling or that consumer preference is shifting away from stores. Statement I follows This weakens the argument by showing that the in-store experience preference is declining. If foot traffic is dropping because buyers are moving to digital platforms, the assertion that physical boutiques are the core of the sectors strength is undermined. Statement II follows This weakens the argument by showing that even if profits are currently high, the physical model is not recession-proof or sustainable, as brands are being forced to close flagship stores due to costs. Statement III is incorrect This describes a surge in the resale market in physical shops. This actually tends to strengthen or at least support the idea that physical retail is still relevant to luxury consumers, rather than weakening the argument.

I would weaken the assertion made. Select the correct combination from the options provided. Passage: Despite the rise of e-commerce, traditional brick-and-mortar luxury retail outlets are reporting record-high quarterly profits and expansion plans. Analysts argue that the high-end retail sector is currently recession-proof, as affluent consumers continue to prioritize the personalized, in-store experience over digital convenience, and luxury brands have successfully maintained their "exclusivity" through physical boutiques. Which of the following, if true, would weaken the argument made in the above passage? I. Foot traffic in luxury shopping districts has declined by 25% compared to the previous quarter, as high-end buyers shift toward private, invite-only digital platforms. II. While profits are high, several major luxury brands have recently shuttered their flagship physical stores in key international hubs due to rising overhead costs. III. The resale market for luxury goods, which operates primarily through physical consignment shops, has seen a surge in first-time buyers this year.

A Only I

B Only II

C Only I and II

D Only II and III

E All I, II, and III

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