Grocery Sanitation - Poor Odor Control Is a Deal Breaker for Most Consumers

We all know what happens when we go grocery shopping while hungry. Chances are we end up spending more money and purchasing things that we hadn't intended to buy. The tendency to purchase more when the grocery store is clean, and especially if we smell fresh fruit, flowers, or baked goods, is universal. Of course, the opposite is also true.

1.  Individuals Have Varying Levels of Odor Awareness

Certain individuals are more sensitive to odors than others. Moreover, studies have shown that individuals with higher levels of odor awareness are more likely to suffer physical reactions to odors. This is an essential factor to consider, primarily because while you may not be sensitive to a particular odor in your grocery store, your customers might. It is important to thoroughly investigate any customer complaint or employee suggestion of an unpleasant odor.

2.  Good Smells Increase Purchasing

The effect of smell on hunger is well documented. More recently, however, studies have been conducted to examine the impact that smell has on consumer mood and behavior. In May of 2019, the Journal of Retailing and Consumer Services published a study that analyzed the effect of ambient scent on the spirit of shoppers in a sample grocery store. The study's abstract includes the following findings where a pleasant scent was present at high intensity:

·         Significant positive effect on shopper's store evaluations

·         Significant positive impact on time spent in-store

·         Significant positive effect on store sales

·         Significant positive impact on shopper's perception of time spent in-store

·         Significant positive impact on the mood of shoppers especially hurried shoppers

Undoubtedly, the assumption can be made from these findings that the opposite would then be true.

3.  Bad Smells Indicate Improperly Stored Food

While an unfortunate odor in a grocery store could be emanating from a myriad of sources unrelated to food safety, the perception can still be damaging. Spills, not adequately removed, and fresh food storage areas, not properly cleaned and sanitized, can cause odors without necessarily being a health-risk. For instance, off-putting smells can often originate in a floral department where organic matter can collect in the flower buckets causing no potential harm. Regardless, consumers might associate the bad smell with a lack of sufficient food safety solutions, or improper storage or care of produce.

4.  Bad Smells Indicate Improper Use of Chemicals

Occasionally, even if a grocery store is using quality cleaning and sanitizing products, or antimicrobial wash for produce, smells happen. Often, if a grocery store is not dealing with a chemical provider that doesn't offer training, monitoring, and support, chemicals may be misused. Not only is it necessary for store employees to use the right chemicals for the right task, but chemical use in the right concentration is also crucial. Many cleaning and sanitizing chemicals should never be mixed, and doing so can cause sickening odors. Providing adequate training for your employees in the use of chemicals is paramount to safety and customer satisfaction.

5.  Regardless of Cause, Bad Smells Can Hurt Your Reputation

Last year, a grocery store in the UK had an unfortunate experience caused by a leaking clean water pipe. Due to the leak, standing water beneath the floor caused an unpleasant smell throughout the store. At no time was the quality of the product that they were selling compromised, but the perception was terrible, and some customers were unforgiving.

It is best to be proactive in preventing odors and the appearance of uncleanliness or potential food safety issues. A reputable company like Chemstar can provide you with cleaning and sanitizing chemicals, as well as training and monitoring. Using Florafresh products and Sterilox Produce Maxx will help you maintain the look, smell, and reputation of your store.

For More Info:- Sanitation Solutions For Retail