I've never really paid attention to the music selection at grocery stores. Why would I? It's generally not something very catchy or fun. Usually it's closer to elevator music. As it turns out, there's science behind that decision.
Money and shopping expert Matt Gresia shared the scientific explanation why on his TikTok. He said that thematic is "played intentionally to make you spend more money." How does that work? Gresia continued, "The elevator music is purposefully slower than the human heartbeat which literally gets you to relax and show down. That makes you spend more time in the store and ultimately you'll spend more money."
Gresia's not the only one making this claim. There have been studies done that have actually proved this to be true. A 1982 study by marketing professor Ronald Millman found that a grocery stores sales volume was 38% higher on days that they played slow-tempo music. Because you're pursuing the aisles more leisurely, you end up shopping longer which causes you to buy more. Maybe that's why I can never spend under $100 at the grocery store anymore 😭