Study reveals store music influences UK consumer's buying habits

A new study has revealed that two-thirds (66%) of UK adults think that the type of music in a store or business will influence what they purchase.

The study was conducted by music licensing company PPL PRS with more than 2,000 UK adults. It also revealed that pop music was the most liked music genre in stores, with 35% of customers saying they would be more inclined to buy extravagant clothes and accessories if the genre was played.

Pop-music was also ranked as the most popular genre in hair salons, with 37% saying it would encourage them to try a new hairstyle. For 21% of consumers music was the highest priority in salons, more so than "fragrance" and "lighting".

The survey further showed that nearly two-thirds of participants (63%) said that different types of music affect their mood, and for 67% a lack of music in a venue has made them leave.

Marianne Rizkallah, Music Therapist for PPL PRS, commented: “Music has mood-enhancing powers. When customers — whether pubgoers or shoppers — enter an environment that’s sound-tracked by a catchy beat or familiar tune, they may feel happier. If we feel good, we’re more inclined to treat ourselves. It’s fascinating to see that pop is recurringly popular across sectors, perhaps due to the upbeat tempo and memorable lyrics that characterise this genre. Plus, pop has evolved greatly over the decades; it often draws on influences from other genres so is more diverse than ever, driving mass appeal.”