This is how they ‘cheat’ us at the supermarket: here are all the ways to make us spend more (and which always work)

This is how they always make us spend a lot at the supermarket: all the manipulative techniques that always work even if we know them.

Stroll through the aisles of a supermarket It may seem like a harmless activity, but in reality every aspect of the shopping experience is designed to encourage customers to spend more. From the lights to the arrangement of the products, every detail is designed to influence purchasing behavior. As an economics expert, we explore the top tricks supermarkets use to increase customer spending.

A first fundamental trick is the disposition of the products. Essential items, such as milk and bread, are often placed in the back of the store. This forces customers to walk the entire floor of the supermarket, exposing them to a variety of products they hadn’t planned to buy. During the journey, strategically placed attractive offers and products attract attention and encourage impulse purchases.

The height of the shelves is another crucial element. The supermarket’s most profitable or own-label products are often positioned at eye level, where customers are most likely to notice and reach for them. Products aimed at children, such as sugary cereals, are placed at a lower height, so that little ones can easily see them and ask their parents to buy them.

Promotions are another powerful tactic. Offers like “3×2” or discounts on multiple purchases create the illusion of savings, encouraging customers to buy more than they had planned. Temporary promotions, often announced with flashy signs, create a sense of urgency, prompting consumers to stock up for fear of missing out.

Supermarket, so they always make us spend a lot

Also the environment of the supermarket plays an important role. Lighting, music and even scent are used to create a pleasant atmosphere that makes you want to spend more time in the store. Studies have shown that warm light and relaxing music can reduce stress and increase the propensity to spend. Scents, such as freshly baked bread or fresh flowers, stimulate the senses and can evoke positive emotions, making the shopping experience more rewarding.

Another often used trick is the disposition from the speakers. Shelves near the registers are filled with small items like snacks, drinks and sundries, which customers can add to their cart while waiting in line. These impulse purchases, often inexpensive individually, can add up quickly, increasing your total spending.

Technology has introduced new tools to increase sales. The loyalty cards and apps of supermarkets collect data on purchasing behaviour, allowing them to personalize offers and promotions. These tools incentivize customers to return and spend more to accumulate points or obtain future discounts.

Last but not least, the use of trolleys Of large dimensions It’s a subtle but effective psychological strategy. Large carts give the impression of having fewer items, encouraging customers to fill them further. Furthermore, the arrangement of the most expensive products at the entrance level and the use of promotional signs inside the store guide purchasing decisions.