Comparative analysis of impulse buying behaviour across retail channels: A study of physical stores, e-commerce websites and mobile shopping apps

The nuanced dynamics of impulse buying behaviour across diverse retail channels unveil a fascinating interplay between consumer psychology and the unique attributes of physical stores, e-commerce platforms, and mobile shopping apps. Delving into the intricate landscape of impulse buying behaviour across three prominent retail channels, namely physical brick-and-mortar stores, e-commerce websites, and mobile shopping applications, sheds light on how retail environments shape and influence impulsive buying behaviours. Employing a comprehensive research framework that encompasses the realms of behavioural psychology, astute marketing strategies and the nuanced analysis of digital interfaces unveils the underpinnings that drive impulsive purchases in each distinct retail environment. By means of meticulous data collection and rigorous scrutiny, this research discerns the unique determinants of impulsive buying behaviour, encompassing consumer motivations, environmental cues and the pivotal role of technology becomes apparent. The comparative analysis not only enriches understanding of the impulse buying phenomenon but also provides actionable insights for retailers and marketers keen on creating bespoke strategies tailored to the specific attributes of each retail channel. Presenting realistic implications for businesses seeking to optimize consumer engagement and bolster sales in today’s multifaceted retail landscape, the recognition of the varied triggers behind impulse buying across different platforms empowers retailers to cultivate precision-targeted approaches that deeply resonate with their intended audience, thereby amplifying the efficacy of their marketing endeavours. Undertaking an exhaustive comparative analysis of impulsive buying behaviour within the realms of physical stores, e-commerce websites and mobile shopping applications, this research aspires to illuminate the catalysts that prompt impulsive buying and explore the variations across these diverse retail avenues. The findings underscore the significant impact of emotional and situational factors on impulsive buying across all channels while highlighting the varying degrees of influence. This underscores the notion that the shopping context, user interface, and retail environment each play pivotal roles in shaping consumers’ impulsive buying tendencies. Furthermore, delving into the pivotal role of technology, user experience and convenience in shaping impulsive buying behaviours, mobile shopping applications emerge as distinctive platforms that offer retailers opportunities to stimulate impulsive purchases through personalized recommendations, location-based incentives, and streamlined checkout processes. Imparting worthy insights for retailers and marketers eager to comprehend and harness the dynamics of impulse buying across diverse retail channels, the study contributes to the evolving understanding of consumer behaviour in an increasingly digitized world by pinpointing nuanced triggers and providing actionable insights.

⓿ Impulse buying, characterized by spontaneous and unplanned purchases, is recognized as a focal point of interest in the ever-evolving retail landscape.

⓿ Emotional and situational factors are identified as significant determinants of impulsive buying across all channels, with varying degrees of influence.

⓿ Mobile shopping applications are highlighted as distinctive platforms offering unique opportunities for stimulating impulsive purchases through personalized recommendations, location-based incentives and streamlined checkout processes.

⓿ The ultimate goal is to provide actionable insights for businesses to understand and harness the dynamics of impulse buying across diverse retail channels, contributing to a more profound comprehension of consumer behaviour in the digital and diverse retail environment.