10 Ways Stores Make You Spend More During the Holidays

They Play Relaxing Music

If a crying baby and crowded theater can get you to bow out of a movie, chances are you won’t enjoy venturing to a crowded mall for your holiday shopping — or spend very long in stores. Queue the calming music.

Research reported by the Association for Psychological Science shows that when you go into a store with relaxing music, you’re much more likely to spend more time there. If you’re already in a buying mood, chances are you might end up with an extra item or two in your basket.

People who hear classical music while shopping, for example, might spend more money than they planned because the genre is connected to the perception of affluence. This tactic is used more frequently during the holiday season, said retail specialist Mari Corella, who has worked with large national retailers such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Williams-Sonoma and Sears.

“Retailers pump Christmas songs through their stores to invoke emotions of nostalgia and generosity, all leading to a greater basket size,” Corella said.