Sound Sells: Boosting Sales with In-Store Radio Ads

“Hello, shoppers, happy 10.10! Enjoy 10% off all gadgets starting today!”

Sounds familiar? That cheerful voice over the speakers isn't just setting the mood—it’s also a powerful marketing tool. In-store radio ad marketing allows retailers to go beyond background music by weaving in strategic audio promotions that highlight your latest deals, loyalty rewards, and exclusive perks—right when customers are ready to buy.

With in-store radio ads, you can drive sales and bring in more customers. Here’s how it works:

1. Promote Loyalty Programs

·       You can use the ads to remind customers about loyalty cards, points, exclusive member benefits, or app downloads.

·       Repetition increases awareness and sign-ups.

2. Highlight Personalized or Local Content

·       Ads that mention local events, store staff, or community involvement feel more personal, increasing emotional connection and trust.

3. Encourage Repeat Visits

·       Promoting upcoming sales, limited-time offers, or exclusive in-store discounts gives customers a reason to return.

4. Create a Positive Shopping Experience

·       A well-curated radio mix with relevant ads makes the store atmosphere more enjoyable, which boosts customer satisfaction—a major driver of loyalty.

Client Success Stories

1.     QSIC x 7-Eleven Partnership

Qsic, a global leader in intelligent in-store audio, has raised $25 million in Series B funding to expand its AI-powered platform and grow its presence across North America. They create high-impact ads in minutes with AI technology that sounds human.

The company powers audio and retail media for major brands like 7-Eleven, Coles Express, and McDonald's, reaching over 100 million shoppers monthly. Qsic recently partnered with 7-Eleven to launch Gulp Radio in more than 5,000 stores by the end of 2024, with the goal of full deployment across 12,000 stores nationwide by 2025. This will create one of North America’s largest commercial radio networks, reaching 13 million daily shoppers.

CEO Matt Elsley highlights that retailers using Qsic’s technology have seen average sales lifts of up to 14%. Despite most shopping happening in-store, the adoption of retail media has been slow due to cost and measurement challenges. Qsic overcomes these barriers with dynamic, behavior-driven audio content, simple setup, scalable deployment, and advanced analytics, helping retailers boost sales and enhance the customer experience.

2.   Marico Advertising x Ace Hardware Partnership

On the other hand, here in the Philippines, the Ace Hardware in-store radio campaign produced by Marico Advertising delivered impressive results. A survey found that 95% of customers recalled hearing a brand advertised via the in-store radio, and 69% of those listeners made a purchase based on the ads. This demonstrated strong brand recall and a direct impact on customer buying behavior, showing the effectiveness of in-store radio advertising in driving sales for Ace Hardware.

Final Thoughts

In-store audio is no longer just about music—it’s a dynamic, measurable marketing channel. By spotlighting your loyalty program’s rewards, discounts, and exclusive perks, you not only drive engagement but also turn everyday shoppers into brand advocates.

Pro tip: Rotate your audio messages weekly and test different calls-to-action to see what resonates most.

Catch attention. Spark action with in-store radio ads. Boost customer engagement with Marico Advertising’s targeted radio solutions. Book your appointment now!