Exploring the Impact of Supermarket Store Layout and Atmospheric Elements on Consumer Behavior: A Field Research Study in Greece

Abstract

The highly competitive retail industry pushes retailers to seek strategies like creating atmospheric in-store experiences to boost consumer satisfaction and encourage return visits. Store atmosphere and layout design influence consumer decision-making, perception, and satisfaction. Factors such as building design, customer patterns, merchandise mix, and proximity requirements impact consumer perception and store layout. This article investigates the effect of supermarket chains’ layouts on consumer behavior, focusing on atmospheric elements. A Greek field study involving 205 participants assessed perceptions and attitudes toward supermarket layouts and design elements. Results suggest that retail environment characteristics impact emotional reactions, which in turn influence impulse buying behavior. Emphasizing the importance of a superior customer experience throughout the purchasing process, the study identifies key atmospheric elements affecting consumer behavior in supermarkets. The article concludes by discussing implications for retail marketers and suggesting future research directions.