Speed of movement of the consumer

Milliman, 1982

The speed at which the consumer moves in the store can be influenced by the tempo of the instrumental background music. Movements are clearly slower when a low tempo is played (72 BPM) and faster when music with a higher tempo is used (>= 92 BPM). This research links an increase in sales to a selection of music with a slow tempo, while the sales are lower when music with a high tempo is used. When consumers move through the store at a slower pace, they show an increased intention to buy.

Milliman, R. E. (1982). Using Background Music to Affect the Behavior of Supermarket Shoppers. Journal of Marketing 46, 86–91.