The cleanliness of supermarkets is just as important as price for consumers and poor hygiene could lead to a loss of custom, a new report has revealed.
According to Ecolab, stores that do not maintain basic cleanliness will see shoppers avoiding certain areas of the shop or the store itself.
However, the report found stores that are too clean may also alienate consumers who are made to feel “dirty” in comparison.
Retail business manager Wendy Britten said: “The price war will continue but retailers need to be aware of other basic factors that could give their stores the competitive edge.
“The study shows that consumers don’t just choose where they shop on price; the general conditions within a store can be just as important and often influence their decision.”
She added: “Retailers can make their stores more appealing by re-dividing and furnishing floor space, reviewing shelf systems, analysing cleaning systems and most importantly training their staff appropriately.”
