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How Curvilinear Designs in Retailing Attract and Influence Shoppers

Joseph M. Matthes & Brian I. Spaid

International Journal of Market Research2026https://doi.org/10.1177/14707853261434268article
AJG 2ABDC A
Weight
0.50

Abstract

This manuscript investigates how curvilinear (organically curved) retail designs influence consumer behavior, extending traditional views of retail performance beyond brand strategy, pricing, and operations to include environmental psychology. Grounded in the Stimulus-Organism-Response (SOR) model, biophilic design theory, and store atmospherics, this research demonstrates that curved store layouts, fixtures, and point-of-purchase containers enhance store and product attractiveness, elevate expected product cost, and increase purchase intent. Overall, curvilinear elements act as subconscious biophilic cues, eliciting positive affect and approach behaviors that drive consumer engagement. Experimental findings across multiple retail settings indicate that curved designs can increase perceived value, enhance perceived cost, and improve the likelihood of purchasing a given product, thereby creating opportunities for premium positioning. However, implementation must consider product compatibility and operational challenges. By spanning atmospheric dimensions from architectural layout to display design, this research offers actionable insights and theoretical contributions, highlighting the strategic potential of curvilinear aesthetics in retail environments.

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https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1177/14707853261434268

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@article{joseph2026,
  title        = {{How Curvilinear Designs in Retailing Attract and Influence Shoppers}},
  author       = {Joseph M. Matthes & Brian I. Spaid},
  journal      = {International Journal of Market Research},
  year         = {2026},
  doi          = {https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1177/14707853261434268},
}

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How Curvilinear Designs in Retailing Attract and Influence Shoppers

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Evidence weight

0.50

Balanced mode · F 0.40 / M 0.15 / V 0.05 / R 0.40

F · citation impact0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20
M · momentum0.50 × 0.15 = 0.07
V · venue signal0.50 × 0.05 = 0.03
R · text relevance †0.50 × 0.4 = 0.20

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