“19 Grocery Splurges You Won’t Believe You’ve Been Adding to Your Cart — And How to Finally Stop!”
Take your time and carefully examine the unit price labels, often found on the shelf below the product. For the most accurate assessment, always compare like with like—price per ounce to ounce or per pound to pound. There are many smartphone calculator apps to help with quick conversions.
13. Playing on Emotions: Music & Lighting
Grocery stores carefully curate a calming atmosphere. Slower-tempo music and soft lighting are designed to relax us, encouraging us to linger longer and increasing the likelihood of unplanned purchases. Studies have proven the impact of music tempo on consumer behavior, finding slower music results in shoppers spending more time in stores.
While a bit more difficult to combat, awareness is power. Be mindful that the store’s ambiance is designed to keep you browsing. Use your shopping list as a shield against lingering too long, and if possible, consider wearing earbuds to play your own upbeat music as a countermeasure to the store’s influence.
14. The Milk in the Back Placement
Milk, eggs, and bread are common staples for most households. Knowing this, grocery stores strategically place these essentials towards the back. The idea is that you’ll have to walk by numerous tempting displays and products on the way to these basics, increasing the chance of impulsive additions to your cart.
If your goal is a quick in-and-out trip for the essentials, locate these items on your first visit and plan a route that minimizes browsing the entire store. A targeted approach limits exposure to non-essential temptations.
