Consumer Shopping Habits

Studies find that it is part of our psychological makeup to do the same things repeatedly. Humans are predictable and stores take advantage of that to get us to buy more; like a shopper touches or picks up merchandise, they are more likely to buy it. (That’s why certain items are in easy reach.)

Research Discoveries

Here are some other shopping habits that Paco Underhill (author of The Science of Shopping) uncovered through his research:

• The higher the “interception rate” (contacts with employees), the higher the chance of purchase.
• Placement of key merchandise in a “transition zone” near the door – but not too close (within 5 meter) – is advised.
• The “boomerang rate” (the percentage of shoppers who failed to walk down the full aisle), determines the “capture rate” (the percentage of customers who actually “see” a given product on the shelf).

What shoppers like and don't like:

Types of Shoppers

The way you shop can influence how much you spend. If you have ever come home after shopping and wondered, “why in the world did I buy that?” the answer might have to do with your shopping personality type.