There is a reason why the store you are shopping in may be loud. Store owners are pumping noise because it sparks creative thinking and that can lead to sales. Moderate noise — around 70 decibels — is enough to distract us from our normal thought patterns, and once we’re distracted, we tend to think in broader and more creative ways, which apparently allows us to better appreciate the value of their products. Well that explains why Hollister has such loud music playing, and why teens will gladly spend $38 for a t-shirt!

What I don’t understand, is why Hollister pumps in a such a super-strong scent in their stores, maybe there is a ‘sales’ reason for that too! I personally find it a bit nauseating…but maybe it’s just me!

High end retail stores do a lot of research, and it seems it is paying off big time! Do you shop in stores that are super noisy, or with super strong scents?