Used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, this compound serves in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals due to its reactive bromo and ester functional groups. The presence of the bromine atom at the alpha position makes it suitable for substitution reactions, enabling the construction of more complex molecules. It is also employed in the synthesis of flavor and fragrance compounds, where controlled ester modifications are required. Its volatility and ester nature allow for use in controlled release systems and as a building block in specialty chemicals.