Retail Background Music, Done Properly
Music played in shops and showrooms, including licensing, volume and playlist design.
Tomas Lindqvist
At a glance
- Licensing commercial playback requires appropriate licenses
- Volume loud music interferes with conversation and accessibility
- Playlists tempo and style affect the atmosphere
- Staff employees hear the playlist all day
Why it matters
Why it matters: Music affects dwell time and brand feel, but it also needs licensing and must not block communication.
Best practice
- Use a licensed commercial music service
- Set volume that allows easy conversation
- Vary playlists by time of day
- Consider staff experience in playlist length
- Check volume at customer service points
Common pitfalls
Watch out for:
- Personal streaming accounts in store
- Volumes that force raised voices
- Short loops repeated all day
- Music that masks announcements
When to call in a specialist
Bottom line Bring in help when retail chains standardize in-store audio.
Where this comes from
- U.S. Copyright Office — The Music Modernization Act
- ADA.gov — 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design
The figures and practices above come from the sources listed.
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