Why Your Store's Playlist Matters (More Than You Think)

The lights dim, the last customer leaves, and you finally sit down. Your mind runs through the

usual checklist: daily sales, foot traffic, and pricing strategy.

But there’s another, often underestimated, factor that quietly influences shopper behavior and brand perception: your store’s playlist.

A store playlist is made up of the music and announcements customers hear while they shop.

You might think of it as just background noise—but it's a powerful psychological tool that can enhance the shopping experience, influence customer behavior, and strengthen your brand identity.

Here’s why curating the right playlist matters more than you might think

1. Music Influences Buying Decisions

According to research done by Gant, <https://www.soundtrack.io/research> playing music in-store can significantly impact shopper behavior. Customers tend to linger up to 42% longer when music is present, and when the music aligns with the brand’s identity, sales can rise by as much as 37%.

For retailers like you who want to enhance customer experience and boost performance,

investing in the right soundscape may be just as important as product placement or pricing

strategy.

In today’s competitive market, the soundtrack of your store could be the silent partner driving your success.

2. Shapes and Reinforces Brand Perception

Imagine having a space where it’s all about your brand—no competing messages, no off-brand ads interrupting the vibe. Just your story, told your way, with a soundtrack that sets the perfect tone for your audience.

Whether your goal is to inspire, energize, or connect, this is your chance to create a vibe your audience won’t forget.

Fun fact: In the study done by Ben Paul Gutierrez, entitled “In-Store Media: How Effective Are They? Evidence from the Philippines,” research showed that by curating audio content that aligns with a brand’s values and messaging, retailers can create a cohesive sensory experience that resonates with customers.

This auditory branding has the potential to enhance customer engagement, foster brand loyalty, and influence purchasing decisions.

3. Enhances Employee Experience

Happy employees mean better customer service. A well-thought-out playlist doesn't just serve your customers—it sets the tone for your staff, too.

Music that’s energizing but not distracting can boost morale and productivity, helping create a positive atmosphere that customers can feel.

For employees, the right soundtrack can reduce stress, improve focus, and even make repetitive tasks more enjoyable. When staff feel more upbeat and engaged, that energy naturally carries over into better service and a more welcoming environment.

Nolan J. McNulty's thesis 2015 <https://ecommons.udayton.edu/uhp_theses/65/> took a deep dive into how music influences employee mood, using a student café setting as the stage. The results were like a playlist of positivity—turns out, background tunes made a huge difference!

The mood boost led to a more enjoyable work experience, and when employees are in a good mood, everything just flows better.

4. Other Successful Brands are Doing It

Several popular brands from the retail sectors and coffeehouse chains have leveraged in-store radio advertising to connect with customers and enhance their shopping experiences.

These companies effectively use in-store radio to promote products, create a specific atmosphere, and provide relevant information that drives sales.

It helps create an engaging atmosphere, provides valuable information, and encourages customers to take action, whether it’s making a purchase or participating in a special promotion.

Conclusion

Curate the perfect playlist that reflects your brand, enhances customer satisfaction, and drives sales. Start using music and announcements strategically to create an atmosphere that resonates with your shoppers.

At Marico Advertising, we can transform your store into space customers love. Contact us

today.