Consumer perceptions of cleanliness affect retail buying decisions, according to a M/A/R/C® Research study. The study found 46 percent of consumers consider shopping in a clean environment to be extremely important. Grocery stores could see the largest impact on sales, where 18 percent of shoppers will stop shopping at a particular store if it is perceived as an unclean environment.

“A positive shopping experience is what consumers want and is what keeps them coming back to particular retailers,” said Nicole Kusha with M/A/R/C Research. “A store's cleanliness plays a major role in their overall experience and should not be taken lightly, as it essentially influences the bottom line.”

Because in-store bakeries often have production spaces in full view of customers, it's important for bakery managers to be aware of customer perceptions.