Uncertain product availability in search markets

In many markets buyers are poorly informed about which firms sell the product (product availability) and prices, therefore have to spend time obtain this information. contrast, sellers typically a better idea rivals offer product. Information asymmetry between on availability, rather than just has not been scrutinized in literature consumer search. We propose theoretical model that incorporates kind of information into simultaneous search model. Our key finding is greater availability may harm by mitigating their willingness and, thus, softening competition.