Your behavior in stores is no accident. Retail stores are masters of psychology, subtly (and not-so subtly) suggesting and directing you to make certain choices. Knowing these “tricks” can help stop them from influencing your spending. Here are six examples of things stores do that they hope you never figure out.
Endcaps Are for High-Margin Items, Not Sales
Endcaps are the big, beautiful displays you see at the end of every aisle. They’re prime real estate, and every store uses them to either showcase a new product or push one of their more profitable items. This isn’t necessarily bad, but many people think these are “sale” items, but you shouldn’t assume that something’s a good price just because it’s somewhere more visible.
They Use Sensory Tricks To Keep You Shopping
Between the perfect lighting, playlist, and in some cases scents (looking at you, Cinnabon), stores hope to create a sensory experience that puts you in a better mood.
If you’re enjoying yourself, you’re more likely to linger and buy more stuff. Again, this isn’t inherently bad; it’d be weird if stores did the opposite. But know that your senses are at play when you’re in stores to keep spending under control.
They Purposely Hide Staples in the Back of the Store
Isn’t it annoying that you have to go all the way to the back of the store for milk? This is on purpose. It’s so you have to walk by more things or aisles where there are temptations just waiting to be found. It’s part of why grocery lists are so crucial: they’re the best defense against these kinds of strategic layouts, provided you stick to them (and maybe keep your head down).
“Limited Time Only” Is Meant To Create (Sometimes False) Urgency
Bright, shiny sales are everywhere because they work. You pay attention to them, and many will suggest that you don’t have much time before the deal is gone. But here’s the deal: most of the time, a similar or identical item will be on sale again soon, so take a deep breath and ignore the pressure, especially if this item wasn’t something you intended to buy.
The Checkout Lane Is All About Impulse Buys
The checkout lane is another excellent place to keep your head down and mind your business.
That’s because the store is shaking you down for one last purchase before checkout. They’re usually small, low-cost temptations that feel harmless in the moment compared to whatever else you’re buying. But resist the urge to put it on the conveyor belt. They’re trying to catch you in a moment of low willpower — don’t let them.
Loyalty Programs Are About Data AND Discounts
Loyalty programs are excellent for stores you frequent. But the store loyalty cards or apps are doing much more than just saving you money. Many of them use your spending data to send you targeted sales or coupons.
This is honestly useful in some circumstances, like when it was something you already planned on buying. Just don’t assume it’s a coincidence; chances are, they’re just suggesting something they know you’re more likely to buy.
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