Background music in retail and its effect on employees

How the choice of music at the point of sale can influence employee performance

16.04.2025

by Sven Reck

A close-up of an illuminated mixing console with controls and sliders; Copyright: Unsplash / Panagiotis Falcos

Music is played in many retail outlets, but also in shopping malls and restaurants. This is intended to have a positive effect on customers' mood, length of stay and willingness to buy. Something that is often forgotten: Around 13.5 million people work to this background music every day. What effect does this have on employees?

The figure is an estimate from a recent study by Ohio State University, which sheds light on the effects of background music at the point of sale (POS) on employee performance and satisfaction. The researchers found that not only customers but also employees are influenced by the choice of music.

In-store music: impact on employees & companies

If the in-store audio program does not meet the needs of employees, this can lead to increased fatigue, difficulty concentrating and reduced enjoyment of work. Negative emotions and mental exhaustion can also be consequences, the results of the study show. People who have difficulty blocking out background noise are particularly affected.

The effects of inappropriate background music go beyond individual well-being. Employees who feel disturbed by the music are more likely to engage in behaviors that can harm the company, such as reduced productivity or negative communication about the workplace.

Conversely, suitable background music promotes positive actions and increases job satisfaction.

How were the effects of music at the point of sale examined in the study?

In two studies, researchers investigated how music affects work performance and mood.

Study 1: 166 full-time employees listened to one of two specific playlists during a creativity task. The first list contained lively pop music, while the second offered slower, more somber music at a low volume. After the task, participants gave feedback on the extent to which the music met their needs.

Study 2: 68 employees in retail, healthcare and canteens worked with daily background music. Participants completed surveys for three weeks about their music needs, mood and cognitive fatigue.

Acoustic in-store strategy in harmony with employee satisfaction

A speaker stands on a table in a fashion shop; Copyright: Adobe Express, AI-generated

For companies, this means that the choice of background music should not only be tailored to the clientele, but also to the needs of the employees. Employers can also make sure that there are quiet places in the workplace where employees can escape the music during breaks. Another option is to invest in earplugs with filters that are equipped with smart technology. This allows employees to continue to hear customer conversations while blocking out some of the background noise, including music.

A balanced in-store audio concept can significantly increase employee satisfaction and performance, contributing to the success of the business.

Attention, emotion, conversion! Promotional and marketing activities can have a major impact. To do so, they must be applied in a targeted manner and implemented with the best tools. You will find inspiration for this in our Retail Marketing dimension at EuroShop!

Source: Ohio State University Press release