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58 pages 1 hour read

Paco Underhill

Why We Buy: The Science of Shopping

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1999

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In Why We Buy: The Science of Shopping, Paco Underhill examines the psychological and environmental factors influencing customer purchasing behaviors. Focusing on retail layouts, signage, and diverse consumer demographics, Underhill uses insights from his market research company to highlight how seemingly minor details can significantly impact sales. Through observations and case studies, he explains the shopping habits of different groups and the global similarities in consumer actions, offering retailers strategies to enhance the shopping experience and confront the challenges posed by e-commerce.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Paco Underhill's Why We Buy offers fascinating insights into consumer behavior, praised for accessible language and practical examples. Reviewers laud its utility for retailers, but some note repetition and outdated case studies. Overall, it's a valuable read for understanding shopping habits, despite some dated content.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Why We Buy?

Readers of Why We Buy by Paco Underhill are professionals in retail, marketing, and business, as well as curious consumers fascinated by shopping behaviors and decision-making processes. Comparable to Malcolm Gladwell's The Tipping Point, this book appeals to those interested in the psychology of consumerism and practical applications for boosting sales.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details