Who hasn't pulled out their smartphone in a restaurant to "shazam" a tune they liked? Music has a direct positive effect on customers, and is as much an integral part of a restaurant's ambience as decoration or service quality. Much more than just background music, it can transform the customer experience, reinforce your brand identity and even influence customer behavior! Zoom in on the superpowers of music in fast food.
Music acts as a real stimulant for the brain. As Le Point points out, it triggers the release of dopamine, the pleasure and motivation hormone. This chemical reaction is even more intense when customers recognize or appreciate the music being played. But that's not all: according to the Polyclinique de l'Oreille, music also reduces stress and anxiety, plunging customers into a state of well-being conducive to positive emotions. These sensations have a direct influence on the customer experience.
In a noisy environment like a fast-food restaurant, a well thought-out playlist can also mask ambient noise and calm the atmosphere, promoting a feeling of comfort and conviviality.
According to Professor Richard C. Delerins, author of the Understanding the Food Consumer course at ESSEC, "there is a profound influence between hearing and tasting. Our senses communicate to create perception". This means that a customer's taste experience is partly influenced by the soundscape. Well-chosen music can sublimate the tasting experience, making dishes more delicious.
A warm, dynamic soundscape creates a positive effect, keeping customers coming back for more. The right playlist can even have a direct impact on your customer flow: fast music can encourage faster turnover at peak times, while softer music invites customers to prolong the experience in off-peak periods.
Every fast food restaurant has a unique personality, and music helps to reflect this. A playlist consistent with your values and target clientele reinforcesyour brand identity. If your restaurant caters to a young, urban clientele, modern, upbeat tunes will be ideal. Conversely, a family-run establishment will prefer more classic, accessible tracks.
Music should therefore be seen as a communication tool that expresses your brand values. It conveys a subtle yet powerful message, consolidating the emotional bond between your brand and your customers. In short, it's an effective tool for building customer loyalty!
Music programming is a bit like a restaurant menu: it's a matter of choice. A well-thought-out playlist must adapt to your clientele while reflecting your brand's values. Here are a few suggestions of musical styles suitable for fast food outlets:
👉 To find out more: What background music should you choose for your restaurant?
In the morning, a calmer ambience can gently welcome guests. At lunchtime, dynamic tunes maintain an energetic rhythm. Finally, in the late evening, a more relaxing selection can accompany customers who come to spend a convivial moment.
It's essential to think of music as a subtle but perceptible backdrop. It should never be omnipresent or aggressive, but audible enough to set the mood. Volume, sound quality and clarity must be optimized so that customers perceive music as a pleasant experience.
Specialized solutions for restaurants :
Please note: to play music in a fast-food outlet, you need to obtain authorization from Sacem, which manages artists' rights. You can apply online via the Sacem website, or at your regional office (this does not apply to royalty-free music!).
"Levitating" - Dua Lipa
With its lively rhythm and energetic melody, it's perfect for creating a cheerful, dynamic atmosphere.
Ideal moment: diffuse during lunch hours to maintain a lively atmosphere and encourage a rapid flow of customers.
"Blinding Lights" - The Weeknd
With its fast tempo and retro influences, this track is familiar and appreciated by a wide audience.
Perfect timing: ideal at the end of the day to capture customers' attention and add a touch of modern nostalgia.
"Uptown Funk" - Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
This modern, dynamic and festive classic brings an infectious energy that enhances the atmosphere.
Ideal timing: perfect for peak times, when the restaurant is full and you need to keep the atmosphere lively.
"Stay" - The Kid LAROI, Justin Bieber
Popular with young people, this accessible, engaging track with a steady beat is well suited to a fast-food atmosphere.
Ideal timing: broadcast in the afternoon, especially if your clientele is predominantly young.
"Djadja" - Aya Nakamura
A must-have, catchy hit, this track is ideal for attracting attention and maintaining a festive mood.
Ideal timing: broadcast during busy periods to energize the space.
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